Category: Environment

MIL-OSI Australia: Deductible gift recipient reforms
Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

Why DGR reforms were made
The government has announced several reforms to the administration and oversight of organisations with deductible gift recipient (DGR) status.

These changes are designed to:
- strengthen governance arrangements
- reduce administrative complexity
- ensure continued trust and confidence in the not-for-profit sector.
DGRs to be registered as a charity

On 13 September 2021, the Treasury Laws Amendment (2021 Measures No. 2) Act 2021External Link became law.

As a precondition for DGR endorsement, this Act amends the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 to require a fund, authority or institution to be either:
- a registered charity
- an Australian Government agency
- operated by a registered charity or an Australian Government agency.
Before the amendments, a majority of DGR categories required non-government organisations to be registered as charities. The amendments extended this requirement to 11 general DGR categories. This measure doesn’t apply to ancillary funds or DGRs specifically listed in the tax law.

For more information, see:

DGR registers reform

On 28 June 2023, the Treasury Laws Amendment (Refining and Improving our Tax System) Act 2023 became law.

This Act amends the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 to transfer administrative responsibility of 4 unique DGR categories from other government departments to the ATO.

These changes started on 1 January 2024 and repealed provisions that required each of the 4 departments to maintain a separate register.

From 1 January 2024, transitional provisions apply to those organisations that were already DGR endorsed in one of the 4 unique DGR categories before 1 January 2024. These organisations remain endorsed if they continue to meet eligibility criteria.

Transitional provisions also apply to those organisations that had an in-progress application with one of the 4 government departments before 1 January 2024. These applications were transferred to us from 1 January 2024.

For more information, see DGR registers reform transitional provisions.

Before the transition
Before 1 January 2024, the 4 unique DGR categories were administered by other Australian Government departments as follows:
- Register of Cultural Organisations – Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts
- Register of Environmental Organisations – Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water
- Register of Harm Prevention Charities – Department of Social Services
- Overseas Aid Gift Deductibility Scheme – Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
After the transition

From 1 January 2024, the ATO started assessing eligibility for DGR endorsement for:

These changes mean we now administer all 52 DGR categories set out in Division 30 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997.

For more information on the transition, see:

On 28 June 2024, the Treasury Laws Amendment (Support for Small Business and Charities and Other Measures) Act 2024External Link became law.

This Act amends the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 and Taxation Administration Act 1953 to establish:
- 2 new general DGR categories for
  - community charity trust
  - community charity corporations
- a requirement for a Treasury Minister to formulate guidelines for the 2 new DGR categories.
These amendments started on 29 June 2024.

To be eligible for DGR endorsement as a community charity trust or corporation, a trust or company must, among other requirements, be specified in a ministerial declaration in force. Entities seeking to be specified in a ministerial declaration should contact Treasury at dgr@treasury.gov.au.

Guidelines

Treasury opened public consultation on the exposure draft guidelines and accompanying explanatory material on 5 November 2024. The consultation period ended on 3 December 2024. You can refer to the outcomes of Treasury’s consultation at Building Community – ministerial guidelines for community foundationsExternal Link.

The finalised guidelines were registered on 24 February 2025 and are accessible on the Federal Register of Legislation websiteExternal Link.

Background

Originally announced by the previous government in the Budget March 2022–23 – Budget Paper No. 2: Budget MeasuresExternal Link, it was proposed that the tax law be amended to specifically list up to 28 community foundations affiliated with the peak body Community Foundations Australia. The specific listing would be time-limited for 5 years, from 1 July 2022 to 30 June 2027.

A refined model was proposed in the Budget 2023–24– Budget Paper No. 2: Budget MeasuresExternal Link which includes:
- the removal of the 5-year time limit requirement
- DGR endorsement by the Commissioner of Taxation under new ministerial guidelines.
More information

For more information, see:

Subscribe to our newsletter for updates

Subscribe to our monthly not-for-profit newsletter to keep up-to-date with:
- our new and refreshed guidance
- the progress of the proposed amendments
- how to meet your not-for-profit’s tax and super obligations.
MIL OSI News –
July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: About 9 thousand parks have been improved in Russia since 2017

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

City Garden, Omsk

July 8, 2025

Embankment of the park “Berega”, Belgorod

July 8, 2025

Previous news Next news

City Garden, Omsk

The Russian government continues its systematic work aimed at transforming public spaces across the country. These tasks are being addressed within the framework of the federal project “Formation of a Comfortable Urban Environment”, which since 2025 has been part of the national project “Infrastructure for Life”, Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin reported.

“The Russian construction industry faces serious challenges in creating a comfortable urban environment. Improvement of public spaces is an important part of regional development. Thanks to such work, populated areas are transformed, the quality of life of people is improved, spaces for walks, sports, family recreation and communication are created. This work corresponds to the priorities outlined by the President of Russia. And it is especially symbolic to talk about this on the Day of Family, Love and Fidelity, which symbolizes strong family ties. Since 2017, within the framework of the federal project “Formation of a Comfortable Urban Environment” in Russia, about 9 thousand parks have been improved. Each improved park is a concern for families and the future of our children,” said Marat Khusnullin.

During the improvement, a comprehensive approach is used to create modern, functional and aesthetically thought-out public spaces. The needs of all age groups are taken into account, including children, the elderly, and people with disabilities. Recreation areas, playgrounds and sports grounds, bike paths, convenient navigation and landscaping are thought out.

“Since 2025, the federal project “Formation of a Comfortable Urban Environment” by decision of the President of Russia has been retained as part of the national project “Infrastructure for Life”. This year, it is planned to improve 5 thousand public areas, of which over 1.3 thousand are parks. As part of the All-Russian competition of the best projects for creating a comfortable urban environment, work is underway to improve 49 parks,” noted the head of the Ministry of Construction Irek Faizullin.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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MIL OSI Russia News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Patrushev visited Omsk region on a working visit

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Dmitry Patrushev visited Omsk Region on a working visit. With Minister of Natural Resources Alexander Kozlov (left) and the region’s governor Vitaly Khotsenko (right)

July 8, 2025

Dmitry Patrushev, as part of a working visit to Omsk Oblast, took part in the ceremonial launch of a complex of biological treatment facilities. With Minister of Natural Resources Alexander Kozlov (left), regional governor Vitaly Khotsenko and Chairman of the Management Board of PJSC Gazprom Neft Alexander Dyukov (right)

July 8, 2025

As part of his working visit, Dmitry Patrushev met with the Governor of the Omsk Region, Vitaly Khotsenko

July 8, 2025

Previous news Next news

Dmitry Patrushev visited Omsk Region on a working visit. With Minister of Natural Resources Alexander Kozlov (left) and the region’s governor Vitaly Khotsenko (right)

Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev visited Omsk Oblast on a working visit. Together with the region’s governor Vitaly Khotsenko and the chairman of the board of PJSC Gazprom Neft Alexander Dyukov, the deputy prime minister took part in the ceremonial launch of a complex of biological treatment facilities.

“We are launching the Biosphere complex, a system of modern treatment facilities at the Omsk Oil Refinery. This largest environmental project of Gazprom Neft has been implemented as part of the Ecology national project. Investments amounted to about 30 billion rubles. Thanks to innovative technologies, the complex will effectively purify industrial wastewater, significantly reduce the use of river water and reduce the load on the city’s communal infrastructure. I would like to note that Biosphere is an example of effective interaction between Russian developers and manufacturers of technology and equipment. 185 domestic companies participated in the project. This plant is one of the most powerful in Russia in its field,” said Dmitry Patrushev.

The Deputy Prime Minister noted that over 135 billion rubles have been allocated for large-scale modernization of the Omsk Oil Refinery in recent years. As a result, the obligations under the federal project “Clean Air” have been almost completely fulfilled. Work in this area continues within the framework of the national project “Ecological Well-Being”.

As part of his working visit, Dmitry Patrushev also held a meeting with the Governor of Omsk Region, Vitaly Khotsenko.

“Omsk Oblast is an economically strong region of Siberia. Its development traditionally relies on the industrial sector, which accounts for more than 20% of the production structure. This is oil refining with petrochemistry, mechanical engineering, including defense engineering. The transport complex is of great importance. In addition, Omsk Oblast is one of the important agricultural regions of Siberia. The Russian Government allocated more than 2 billion rubles to the region in 2025 for the development of the agro-industrial complex and rural areas. The agricultural production index in Omsk Oblast in 2024 was 117%, which is a very high figure. The region produces significant volumes of grain and oilseeds. Further strengthening of its positions is certainly associated with the activities of the Strategy for the Socioeconomic Development of Siberia, which was approved by the Russian Government. A number of projects are being implemented in Omsk Oblast within its framework, which in the medium term will create more than a thousand jobs,” said Dmitry Patrushev.

The Deputy Prime Minister noted that Omsk Region is actively involved in environmental protection activities. In the previous six years, about 8 billion rubles from the federal budget were allocated for this. This work continues within the framework of the national project “Environmental Well-Being”, the implementation of which began this year. Improvement of water bodies is also planned – for example, construction of a hydroelectric complex on the Irtysh has begun and cleaning of the riverbed is planned.

Dmitry Patrushev paid special attention to monitoring the fulfillment of obligations in the field of solid municipal waste management. As part of his working visit, the Deputy Prime Minister also visited the Sovetskaya landfill reclamation facility in the region.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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MIL OSI Russia News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: OSCE leads regional effort to prevent youth violence across South-Eastern Europe

Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

Headline: OSCE leads regional effort to prevent youth violence across South-Eastern Europe

As peer violence and early criminal behavior among young people become growing concerns, the OSCE held an intensive two-day regional training in Jahorina, Bosnia and Herzegovina, on 2 and 3 July. The event brought together key frontline professionals from across South-Eastern Europe to strengthen efforts to prevent youth violence.
Organized by the OSCE Transnational Threats Department and the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities, the training equipped 23 social workers, educators, youth officers, and law enforcement representatives from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro with practical tools to prevent and de-escalate violence among youth.
The training focused on real-life challenges that professionals face in schools and communities, aiming to building trust, resilience, and supportive environments for young people. Participants explored the root causes of youth violence, from family issues and peer pressure to the influence of social media. Through interactive group work, simulations, and expert-led exercises, they learned how to spot early warning signs, manage conflict, and encourage mutual respect. A key goal of the training was to strengthen regional collaboration and promote shared approaches to preventing youth violence.
“This training on youth violence prevention was a valuable opportunity to exchange experiences with colleagues from the region facing similar challenges,” said Arijana Muzaferovic, Director of the Centre for Social Work in Bosanska Krupa, Bosnia and Herzegovina. “Through practical exercises, we explored concrete ways to identify early signs of risk and provide timely, meaningful support to young people before problems escalate into violence,” she added.
Participants concluded the training with concrete ideas on how to apply the lessons learned in their local contexts and how to enhance co-operation across borders.
The training was part of the OSCE-wide multi-year extrabudgetary project “Enhancing youth crime and drug use prevention through education on legality and awareness campaigns addressing threats of organized crime and corruption”, funded by Italy with additional support from Andorra, Finland, Germany, Norway, Poland and Thailand.

MIL OSI Europe News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Heritage – He Waka Tipua Report offers insights into potential waka origins

Source: Ministry for Culture and Heritage

Manatū Taonga Ministry for Culture and Heritage has released He Waka Tipua, a report providing observations and insights on the potential origins of the partially excavated waka on Rēkohu Wharekauri Chatham Island.

“In consultation with Imi and Iwi, the Matanga Advisory Panel was commissioned to leverage the various areas of expertise to inform and guide background research and documentation. In April, the panel of whakairo, voyaging, waka construction, weaving and tikane/tikanga experts visited the island to view the site and the remains of the waka,” said.Glenis Philip-Barbara, Pou Mataaho o Te Hononga Deputy Secretary Māori Crown Partnerships at the Ministry.

” He Waka Tipua reinforces the views as to the national and international significance of this unique waka discovery and presents more questions. The report says it is likely this waka is from a time before significant cultural separation in the Pacific; from a time before geographic distance and the decrease of long-distance voyaging meant independently developed techniques and artistic styles emerged.

” He Waka Tipua lays down a collective challenge for us all to navigate the next chapter of this work together. The recovery and conservation of the waka will require considerable investment. A unique opportunity exists for the island to work together with others to understand more about our origins, all while balancing the need to uphold the mana and the wairua of the waka,” Phillip-Barbara continues.

“A research plan for the recovered materials is currently being prepared. This includes the dating and provenance of organic materials taken from the waka find site. We expect a progress report in the last quarter of 2025. The Ministry will then present the final Archaeological Report to Imi, Iwi, and Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga in February 2026. It will also be published on the Ministry website.

“There are many unanswered questions about the origin, age and journey of the waka. We are grateful for the funding of $1 million allocated to the waka project as part of Budget 2025 as it will help alleviate cost pressures and also help us to plan ahead for the next stage.

“The Ministry will continue to be guided by Imi and Iwi, and we’ll work closely with the Department of Conservation, the Dix Family and others to ensure the care and conservation of the recovered waka is foremost in our thinking.” Philip-Barbara concludes.

https://www.mch.govt.nz/publications/he-waka-tipua

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Hoyle, Merkley Fight Back Against Trump Funding Cuts with Renewed Effort to Reduce Wildfire Risk, Boost Economic Opportunities in Forest-Dependent Communities

Source: US Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)

July 08, 2025

For Immediate Release: July 8, 2025

EUGENE, OR – As the Trump Administration illegally cuts and withholds funding for wildfire mitigation projects, Oregon’s U.S. Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04) and U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley teamed up to introduce the Wildfire Resilient Communities Act in Congress. This legislation would provide dedicated federal support to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires in Oregon and across the West, while also empowering communities to prepare for wildfires.

“I’m proud to join Senator Merkley in introducing this bill to reduce wildfire risk and strengthen forest-dependent communities,” said Hoyle. “Year after year, wildfires have devastated our towns, economies, and forests. This legislation invests in prevention, resilience, and local jobs—because protecting our communities shouldn’t stop at putting out fires. It starts with smart, proactive stewardship, and that’s exactly what this bill delivers.”

“You can’t get ready after the fire starts,” said Merkley. “Our bill would ensure communities can seize every moment to prepare for and mitigate wildfires by supercharging investments in critical hazardous fuels projects. Increasingly extreme wildfire seasons fueled by climate chaos are not cooling down anytime soon, and we need a considerable increase in federal resources—not cuts—to make our forests, timber economies, and communities healthier and more resilient.”

Merkley and Hoyle’s Wildfire Resilient Communities Act would double down on essential efforts to boost wildfire preparedness by creating a $30 billion fund to allow the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and other land management agencies to increase catastrophic wildfire reduction projects; reauthorize and triple funding up to $3 billion for the Community Wildfire Defense Grant Program; permanently reauthorize the Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration (CFLR) Program, which is critical for the five collaboratives in Oregon; and create a County Stewardship Fund that would provide payments to counties for stewardship contracts on federal land.

As Ranking Member of the Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, which oversees funding for federal land management agencies, Merkley has been leading the charge to sound the alarm over federal funding freezes and cuts to critical wildfire mitigation work ahead of another extreme wildfire season, leading a series of actions to demand the Trump Administration restore funding for critical projects and reverse course on reckless reorganization efforts.

The Wildfire Resilient Communities Act is cosponsored by Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Adam Schiff (D-CA).

The bicameral bill is endorsed by Klamath-Siskiyou Wildlands Center, Sustainable Northwest, Silvix Resources, and Lomakatsi Restoration Project.

“Southern Oregon has been hard hit by the health and economic impacts of smoke and fire,” said Pam Marsh, Oregon State Representative, House District 5. “Senator Merkley’s legislation will help us jumpstart the collaborative forest projects that will protect our communities, while rewarding counties for their support of stewardship agreements. This is how we’ll start the work that will help us respond to changing conditions.”

“The Wildfire Resilient Communities Act supports the critical fuels reduction work that is being done in our communities,” said Paul Anderes, Chair of Union County Board of Commissioners. “This bill will expand upon the progress that has been made in so many landscapes to make our fire prone communities safer.”

“Through focused investments in forest restoration and community protection we can prepare our communities and landscapes for wildfires,” said Michael Dotson, Executive Director of Klamath-Siskiyou Wildlands Center. “Our forests were more adapted to fire before we cut down so many of the large, fire resistant trees. We replaced too many of our old growth forests with flammable second growth forests. We need to fund the kind of work that can restore our forests and help build more fire and climate resilient landscapes and communities, and Sen. Merkley’s bill would help us do that.”

“The need for increased investment in our federal forests and rural communities has never been more urgent,” said Dylan Kruse, President at Sustainable Northwest. “We can’t afford to keep playing catch up. This bill takes immediate action to address the massive management backlog on our forests, and expands effective programs to prepare for the future. We commend Senator Merkley for his bipartisan leadership and introducing legislation that will make a real difference with resources that meet the scale of need.”

“Senator Merkley is to be commended for reintroduction of the Wildfire Resilient Communities Act, which will provide important funding for community preparedness and wildfire risk reduction on federal lands, in addition to reauthorizing the phenomenally successful Collaborative Forest Landscape Restoration Program and providing the funding necessary to continue this important forest health work,” said Susan Jane Brown, Principal, Silvix Resources.

“Under Senator Merkley’s leadership, this Act would provide much needed, long-term funding for collaborative, science-based strategies to reduce wildfire risk while increasing forest health and supporting local economies. It elevates stewardship-based forestry, an ecologically-centered approach to restoration that Lomakatsi has championed and utilized for two decades to build ecosystem and community resilience across the landscape, with agency, tribal, and non-profit partners, in close coordination with the communities we serve,” said Marko Bey, Executive Director, Lomakatsi Restoration Project.

Full text of the Wildfire Resilient Communities Act can be found by clicking here.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: DEQ welcomes EPA adding J.H. Baxter to Superfund list

Source: US State of Oregon

he Oregon Department of Environmental Quality welcomes the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s decision to add the J.H. Baxter site in west Eugene to the Superfund National Priorities List.

“We thank EPA for securing the resources needed to further address the risks to public health and the environment in Eugene created by dioxins from J.H. Baxter,” said DEQ Director Leah Feldon. “The next steps will be comprehensive and time consuming, which is why it was critical for EPA to add this cleanup project to the Superfund NPL.”

EPA is leading the cleanup of the J.H. Baxter site and will work to determine the full extent and scope of contamination. In 2024, DEQ completed cleanup of seven residential yards near the facility in a portion of Eugene’s Bethel neighborhood.

Work on JH Baxter has been an ongoing effort supported by EPA, DEQ, OHA other state and local agencies, and — importantly — the local community.

For more information visit DEQ’s J.H. Baxter web page.

Learn more about EPA’s listing J.H. Baxter on the Superfund National Priorities List.

Media contacts:

DEQ: Lauren Wirtis, Communications Manager, lauren.wirtis@deq.oregon.gov, 503-568-3295

EPA: r10_press_team@epa.gov

MIL OSI USA News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: DEQ welcomes EPA adding J.H. Baxter to Superfund list

Source: US State of Oregon

he Oregon Department of Environmental Quality welcomes the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s decision to add the J.H. Baxter site in west Eugene to the Superfund National Priorities List.

“We thank EPA for securing the resources needed to further address the risks to public health and the environment in Eugene created by dioxins from J.H. Baxter,” said DEQ Director Leah Feldon. “The next steps will be comprehensive and time consuming, which is why it was critical for EPA to add this cleanup project to the Superfund NPL.”

EPA is leading the cleanup of the J.H. Baxter site and will work to determine the full extent and scope of contamination. In 2024, DEQ completed cleanup of seven residential yards near the facility in a portion of Eugene’s Bethel neighborhood.

Work on JH Baxter has been an ongoing effort supported by EPA, DEQ, OHA other state and local agencies, and — importantly — the local community.

For more information visit DEQ’s J.H. Baxter web page.

Learn more about EPA’s listing J.H. Baxter on the Superfund National Priorities List.

Media contacts:

DEQ: Lauren Wirtis, Communications Manager, lauren.wirtis@deq.oregon.gov, 503-568-3295

EPA: r10_press_team@epa.gov

MIL OSI USA News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: RIDOH and DEM Recommend Avoiding Contact with Almy Pond

Source: US State of Rhode Island

The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) and Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) are advising people to avoid contact with Almy Pond in Newport due to harmful algae blooms (HABs). All recreation, including swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking, is high risk to health and recommended to be avoided at this location. This HAB is caused by blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, which are naturally present in bodies of water. HABs can produce toxins which can be harmful to humans and animals. Toxins and/or high cell counts have been detected by the RIDOH State Health Laboratory from water samples collected by DEM at this location.

Use caution in all areas of Almy Pond as HABs can move locations in ponds and lakes. People should not drink untreated water or eat fish from affected waterbodies. Pet owners should not allow pets to drink or swim in this water. This advisory recommendation remains in effect until further notice.

Skin contact with water containing blue-green algae can cause irritation of the skin, nose, eyes, and throat. Symptoms from ingestion of water can include stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. Less common symptoms can include dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage, and nervous system damage. Young children and pets are at higher risk for health effects associated with HABs because they are more likely to swallow water when they are in or around bodies of water. People who have had contact with these ponds and experience those symptoms should contact their healthcare provider.

If you or your pet come into contact with an algal bloom (HAB):

— Rinse your skin with clean water right away. — Shower and wash your cloths when you get home. — If your pet was exposed, wash it with clean water immediately and don’t let it lick algae from its fur. — Call a vet if your pet shows signs of illness like tiredness, no eating, vomiting, diarrhea or other symptoms within a day. — If you feel sick after contact, call a healthcare provider.

Affected waters might look bright to dark green, with thick algae floating on the surface. It may resemble green paint, pea soup, or green cottage cheese. If you see water like this, people and pets should avoid contact with the water.

To report suspected blue-green algae blooms, contact DEM’s Office of Water Resources at 401-222-4700 Press 6 or DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov and if possible, send a photograph of the reported algae bloom.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: RIDOH and DEM Recommend Avoiding Contact with Almy Pond

Source: US State of Rhode Island

The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) and Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) are advising people to avoid contact with Almy Pond in Newport due to harmful algae blooms (HABs). All recreation, including swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking, is high risk to health and recommended to be avoided at this location. This HAB is caused by blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, which are naturally present in bodies of water. HABs can produce toxins which can be harmful to humans and animals. Toxins and/or high cell counts have been detected by the RIDOH State Health Laboratory from water samples collected by DEM at this location.

Use caution in all areas of Almy Pond as HABs can move locations in ponds and lakes. People should not drink untreated water or eat fish from affected waterbodies. Pet owners should not allow pets to drink or swim in this water. This advisory recommendation remains in effect until further notice.

Skin contact with water containing blue-green algae can cause irritation of the skin, nose, eyes, and throat. Symptoms from ingestion of water can include stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. Less common symptoms can include dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage, and nervous system damage. Young children and pets are at higher risk for health effects associated with HABs because they are more likely to swallow water when they are in or around bodies of water. People who have had contact with these ponds and experience those symptoms should contact their healthcare provider.

If you or your pet come into contact with an algal bloom (HAB):

— Rinse your skin with clean water right away. — Shower and wash your cloths when you get home. — If your pet was exposed, wash it with clean water immediately and don’t let it lick algae from its fur. — Call a vet if your pet shows signs of illness like tiredness, no eating, vomiting, diarrhea or other symptoms within a day. — If you feel sick after contact, call a healthcare provider.

Affected waters might look bright to dark green, with thick algae floating on the surface. It may resemble green paint, pea soup, or green cottage cheese. If you see water like this, people and pets should avoid contact with the water.

To report suspected blue-green algae blooms, contact DEM’s Office of Water Resources at 401-222-4700 Press 6 or DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov and if possible, send a photograph of the reported algae bloom.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Doc Antle, Owner of Myrtle Beach Safari, Sentenced for Federal Wildlife Trafficking and Money Laundering Charges

Source: United States Attorneys General 1

Co-Defendants Also Sentenced; Woman Pleads Guilty in Related Case for Unlawfully Selling Chimpanzees to Antle

Bhagavan “Doc” Antle, of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina — who was featured in a popular Netflix documentary — was sentenced today to 12 months in prison after pleading guilty to a conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act and launder more than $500,000 for what he believed to be an operation to smuggle illegal immigrants into the United States across the Mexico border. Antle was also ordered to pay a $55,000 fine, serve three years of supervised release, and forfeit three chimpanzees and more than $197,000 to the government.

Two of Antle’s co-defendants were recently sentenced for their separate involvement in either the Lacey Act or money laundering conspiracy. A defendant in a related case recently pleaded guilty to illegally selling a newborn chimpanzee to Antle.

“Today’s sentence holds Doc Antle and his co-defendants accountable for activity they knew was unlawful and unethical,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “They illegally purchased and sold newborn endangered wildlife even as they laundered more than $500,000 in smuggling money — all while promoting themselves as conservationists.”

“Doc Antle portrayed himself as a conservationist. But in reality, he was a key player in the illegal chimpanzee trade, and he laundered more than half a million dollars through a complex web of deceit,” said U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling for the District of South Carolina. “We are grateful to our law enforcement partners for their work in bringing the defendant to justice for both of these federal crimes.”

“These sentences should send a clear message: the FBI and our partners will not tolerate those who attempt to violate our laws,” said Special Agent in Charge Kevin Moore of the FBI Columbia Field Office. “We remain firmly committed to investigating and holding accountable individuals whose illegal actions threaten our financial systems and put protected species at risk.”

“This case underscores the grave criminal threat posed by wildlife traffickers who not only exploit vulnerable species for profit but also use sophisticated money laundering tactics to conceal their crimes,” said Assistant Director Douglas Ault of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement. “Our special agents uncovered a complex network of illicit activity involving the trafficking of endangered animals — including baby chimpanzees and cheetahs — falsified documentation, and the laundering of hundreds of thousands of dollars through purported nonprofit organizations. These traffickers operated under the false pretense of conservation, betraying both the law and public trust. We remain unwavering in our commitment to dismantling such networks and bringing those responsible to justice.”

The wildlife conspiracy outlined various schemes Antle used to hide his illegal trafficking in endangered species, including requiring payments to be “donations” funneled through his non-profit, The Rare Species Fund; conducting transactions in bulk cash to hide their true nature; and creating false paperwork to hide the illegality of his wildlife transactions. The animals trafficked included baby chimpanzees, cheetahs, lions, and tigers, all of which are protected under both the Endangered Species Act and international treaties. The Lacey Act prohibits trafficking of illegally taken wildlife, fish or plants, including animals protected under the Endangered Species Act.

Antle’s co-defendant in the wildlife conspiracy, Jason Clay, was recently sentenced to four months in prison, four months home confinement, and to pay a $4,000 fine into the Lacey Act Reward Fund. In 2019, Clay illegally sold a juvenile chimpanzee to Antle in exchange for $200,000 in cash and a juvenile gibbon.

As for the money laundering conspiracy, Antle and a co-defendant laundered more than $500,000 in cash between February and April 2022 that were represented to be proceeds from an operation to smuggle illegal immigrants across the Mexican border into the United States. Evidence presented to the court showed that Antle planned to conceal the cash he received by writing checks for what appeared to be construction-related services for Myrtle Beach Safari, which he owned and operated, and which was featured in the Netflix documentary. The Myrtle Beach Safari is a 50-acre for-profit zoo that offers tours and private encounters with exotic wildlife.

Antle’s co-defendant in the money laundering conspiracy, Andrew Sawyer, was recently sentenced to serve two years of probation including eight months of home detention. He also forfeited nearly $185,000 to the government and a chimpanzee.

In a different Lacey Act violation case connected to Antle, Shaylynn Kolwyck-Peterson pleaded guilty last month to illegally selling a chimpanzee to Antle in 2022 for $200,000. The Kolwyck family owns and manages the private Sunshine Zoological Preserve LLC in north Florida. The facility is believed to be the only one in the United States breeding chimpanzees for private or non-scientific purposes.

The FBI and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service investigated the case.

Senior Trial Attorney Patrick M. Duggan of ENRD’s Environmental Crimes Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Bower for the District of South Carolina prosecuted the case.

MIL Security OSI –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Senator Scott Talks Gig Worker Benefits and Bipartisanship on Squawk Box

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott
WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) joined Joe Kernen on Squawk Box to discuss a recently introduced legislation package concerning gig workers in America.
[embedded content]
Click here or on the image above to watch the full interview.
On Creating a Positive Environment for Gig Workers…
“What we need as a country is exactly the opposite of what the Democrats want in California. We want an environment that is conducive to increase our labor participation by giving workers the kind of environment that allows them to choose who they work for, when they work, and how they’re going to be compensated. If we can get there by relaxing the test on the common law with the NLRA, we find ourselves in a position where we can attract more people back to the workforce. And as you know, Joe, with the benefits for businesses and the big beautiful bill, plus deregulation and an environment that attracts more workers back to the workforce, we can have this economy humming.”
On the Needs of Independent Contractors…
“What we want to do as a nation is give people options and choice. Optionality is incredibly important for the 21st century worker. They don’t always want to be an employee. Sometimes they’re better off being a contractor, so they’re working for three or four different companies at the same time. That kind of flexibility allows for folks to meet their needs at home and at work– And frankly, from an educational perspective as well.”
On Bipartisanship in the Senate…
“We continue to work for, look for partners where there’s common ground that makes common sense. If we find that here, and I think we can, we can move it forward. It will not be from California, it won’t be from New York, and it won’t be from Illinois. But there are folks from other states that may work with us.”

MIL OSI USA News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Senator Markey on Trump’s Tariff War, Civil Rights, and Climate on Dan Koh’s People’s Cabinet Podcast

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

Watch: Senator Markey on “The People’s Cabinet”

Washington (July 1, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Top Democrat on the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee and the Primary Health and Retirement Security Subcommittee of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, and a member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, recently spoke with Dan Koh for his podcast “The People’s Cabinet,” discussing his fight to exempt small businesses from Trump’s tariffs, how what Tufts student Rümeysa Öztürk’s case shown a spotlight on the threats to due process in the Trump era, and Donald Trump’s attacks on the Green New Deal, clean energy, and the environment. Below are excerpts from their conversation.

Threats to Small Businesses

“I’m listening to small businesses in Massachusetts and across the country, and uniformly they are terrified by Trump’s tariff regime. A larger business might be able to ride out the uncertainty of the tariffs for a year, but for a small business – they live week to week, or month to month, and they can’t have that kind of cloud over them indefinitely. The most vulnerable businesses in America are small businesses, which is why I have a bill that would exempt small businesses from the tariffs. These tariffs could be an extinction event for small businesses, and they are the ones who are paying the price.”

Threats to Due Process

“Rumeysa [Ozturk] was picked up off the streets right just a couple of miles from my house in Malden, in Somerville, and I knew it was part of a much larger story in our country. Rumeysa Ozturk had not been charged with a crime. People realized that what happened to her could happen to them in the Trump era – that there could be a curtailment of their fifth amendment due process rights and first amendment right to free speech. Trump was weaponizing his government to go after people who he considered to be threats to the country without any evidence.”

Green New Deal

“To a very large extent, the Green New Deal changed the whole discussion in the Democratic party about the issues we should be focusing upon, and to a certain extent, it’s all going to be on the table in 2026. I’m very confident that our vision of talking about a cleaner environment but also housing, education, breaking up monopolies, and making sure there are opportunities for everyone regardless of income and regardless of race is going to be a very powerful and winning message in 2026.”

MIL OSI USA News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Doc Antle, Owner of Myrtle Beach Safari, Sentenced for Federal Wildlife Trafficking and Money Laundering Charges

Source: US State of California

Co-Defendants Also Sentenced; Woman Pleads Guilty in Related Case for Unlawfully Selling Chimpanzees to Antle

Bhagavan “Doc” Antle, of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina — who was featured in a popular Netflix documentary — was sentenced today to 12 months in prison after pleading guilty to a conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act and launder more than $500,000 for what he believed to be an operation to smuggle illegal immigrants into the United States across the Mexico border. Antle was also ordered to pay a $55,000 fine, serve three years of supervised release, and forfeit three chimpanzees and more than $197,000 to the government.

Two of Antle’s co-defendants were recently sentenced for their separate involvement in either the Lacey Act or money laundering conspiracy. A defendant in a related case recently pleaded guilty to illegally selling a newborn chimpanzee to Antle.

“Today’s sentence holds Doc Antle and his co-defendants accountable for activity they knew was unlawful and unethical,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “They illegally purchased and sold newborn endangered wildlife even as they laundered more than $500,000 in smuggling money — all while promoting themselves as conservationists.”

“Doc Antle portrayed himself as a conservationist. But in reality, he was a key player in the illegal chimpanzee trade, and he laundered more than half a million dollars through a complex web of deceit,” said U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling for the District of South Carolina. “We are grateful to our law enforcement partners for their work in bringing the defendant to justice for both of these federal crimes.”

“These sentences should send a clear message: the FBI and our partners will not tolerate those who attempt to violate our laws,” said Special Agent in Charge Kevin Moore of the FBI Columbia Field Office. “We remain firmly committed to investigating and holding accountable individuals whose illegal actions threaten our financial systems and put protected species at risk.”

“This case underscores the grave criminal threat posed by wildlife traffickers who not only exploit vulnerable species for profit but also use sophisticated money laundering tactics to conceal their crimes,” said Assistant Director Douglas Ault of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement. “Our special agents uncovered a complex network of illicit activity involving the trafficking of endangered animals — including baby chimpanzees and cheetahs — falsified documentation, and the laundering of hundreds of thousands of dollars through purported nonprofit organizations. These traffickers operated under the false pretense of conservation, betraying both the law and public trust. We remain unwavering in our commitment to dismantling such networks and bringing those responsible to justice.”

The wildlife conspiracy outlined various schemes Antle used to hide his illegal trafficking in endangered species, including requiring payments to be “donations” funneled through his non-profit, The Rare Species Fund; conducting transactions in bulk cash to hide their true nature; and creating false paperwork to hide the illegality of his wildlife transactions. The animals trafficked included baby chimpanzees, cheetahs, lions, and tigers, all of which are protected under both the Endangered Species Act and international treaties. The Lacey Act prohibits trafficking of illegally taken wildlife, fish or plants, including animals protected under the Endangered Species Act.

Antle’s co-defendant in the wildlife conspiracy, Jason Clay, was recently sentenced to four months in prison, four months home confinement, and to pay a $4,000 fine into the Lacey Act Reward Fund. In 2019, Clay illegally sold a juvenile chimpanzee to Antle in exchange for $200,000 in cash and a juvenile gibbon.

As for the money laundering conspiracy, Antle and a co-defendant laundered more than $500,000 in cash between February and April 2022 that were represented to be proceeds from an operation to smuggle illegal immigrants across the Mexican border into the United States. Evidence presented to the court showed that Antle planned to conceal the cash he received by writing checks for what appeared to be construction-related services for Myrtle Beach Safari, which he owned and operated, and which was featured in the Netflix documentary. The Myrtle Beach Safari is a 50-acre for-profit zoo that offers tours and private encounters with exotic wildlife.

Antle’s co-defendant in the money laundering conspiracy, Andrew Sawyer, was recently sentenced to serve two years of probation including eight months of home detention. He also forfeited nearly $185,000 to the government and a chimpanzee.

In a different Lacey Act violation case connected to Antle, Shaylynn Kolwyck-Peterson pleaded guilty last month to illegally selling a chimpanzee to Antle in 2022 for $200,000. The Kolwyck family owns and manages the private Sunshine Zoological Preserve LLC in north Florida. The facility is believed to be the only one in the United States breeding chimpanzees for private or non-scientific purposes.

The FBI and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service investigated the case.

Senior Trial Attorney Patrick M. Duggan of ENRD’s Environmental Crimes Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Bower for the District of South Carolina prosecuted the case.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Committee highlights active engagement and thematic progress at Trade and Environment Week

Source: WTO

Headline: Committee highlights active engagement and thematic progress at Trade and Environment Week

Trade and Environment Week 2025
The WTO Secretariat report on the event highlighted the active engagement and vibrant discussions that took place throughout Trade and Environment Week as members and stakeholders explored the evolving relationship between trade and the environment. The 15 sessions, organized by WTO members, attracted high levels of participation, both in person and online.
Key topics included agriculture and sustainability, climate resilience, carbon measures, deforestation and the circular economy, and decarbonizing supply chains. In addition, three WTO environmental initiatives – on fossil fuel subsidies, plastic pollution and sustainable development solutions – hosted events emphasizing inclusive approaches and developing country perspectives.
Members hailed the event’s successful conclusion, acknowledging the breadth and depth of its discussions and its value as a platform for sharing experiences, generating new ideas and fostering collaboration among members and diverse stakeholders to better leverage trade policy in support of environmental sustainability and climate goals.
The full programme and video recordings of the 2025 Trade and Environment Week are available here.
Submissions
At the 4 July meeting of the CTE, WTO members reviewed two submissions. The first was a joint submission by Japan and the Republic of Korea titled “Non-Binding Guidance on Methodologies for Measuring Embedded Emissions”, co-sponsored by Australia and the United Kingdom. Japan explained that the proposal aims to enhance transparency and interoperability around requirements for measuring embedded emissions in cross-border goods trade. It stressed that the proposal is intended to promote cooperation and to take on board the development dimension, and does not affect members’ existing WTO rights and obligations.
A large number of delegations provided detailed and constructive comments on the new submission, and it was welcomed by many members who shared similar concerns over the high compliance costs – particularly for small businesses in developing economies and least-developed countries (LDCs) – caused by divergent approaches for measuring emissions. Several members underscored the importance of considering varying levels of development and climate responsibilities, and called for more inclusive consultations during the legislative processes.
While welcoming the increased transparency envisaged in the proposal, some members emphasized that transparency should not replace or duplicate required notifications to relevant WTO bodies, nor place additional burdens on developing members. Many expressed openness to continuing work on the proposal with the co-sponsors.
The second submission, tabled by Russia, was titled “Future Rules of Trade in Plastic Products and the WTO: Potential Conflict”. This paper raised concerns that future rules emerging from the ongoing UN plastics treaty negotiations – led by the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) – could create trade barriers, particularly for polymers and plastic products, and could conflict with WTO disciplines. The next round of INC negotiations is scheduled for August in Geneva.
While some members emphasized the need to ensure that any legally binding treaties are consistent with WTO rules, others expressed support for the ongoing negotiations on plastic pollution and the mutual supportiveness between multilateral environmental agreements and the WTO.
Follow-up to thematic sessions
The Chair of the CTE, Ambassador Erwin Bollinger of Switzerland, reported to the Committee on the outcomes of his recent consultations with members regarding the path forward further to thematic sessions on three key topics: trade-related climate measures (TRCMs), technology transfer and sustainable agriculture. Launched in November 2023 at the request of members, the thematic session series serves as a platform to deepen understanding of specific issues through concrete case studies and the sharing of practical experiences.
The Chair noted that members appreciated the fruitful exchanges in recent thematic sessions and expressed willingness to engage constructively in further discussions. On TRCMs, the exploration in greater depth of three sub-topics – transparency, development and coherence/interoperability – was seen as the right way forward. On the topic of technology transfer, members showed strong interest in continuing discussions to support developing members’ green transition. Regarding sustainable agriculture, members were in favour of organizing a thematic session in October, and Barbados and the United Kingdom were appointed as moderators to help shape the agenda.
Members thanked the Chair for his report and exchanged views on the next steps. Many members underscored the need for further technical work, focused on the three sub-topics identified by the Chair, to better understand the impact of TRCMs. The new joint proposal by Japan, the Republic of Korea, Australia and the United Kingdom was cited as a valuable contribution to advancing work on improving interoperability and transparency.
Members reaffirmed their interest in deepening discussions on technology transfer and proposed various formats for experience-sharing. Broad support was voiced for the upcoming thematic session on sustainable agriculture, with a focus on environmental aspects. Members also highlighted the importance of ensuring that thematic discussions complement rather than duplicate work underway in other WTO committees.
Transparency and information-sharing
At the CTE meeting, members were briefed on developments regarding the Dialogue on Plastics Pollution and Environmentally Sustainable Plastics Trade (DPP), the Trade and Environmental Sustainability Structured Discussions (TESSD), and the Fossil Fuels Subsidy Reform (FFSR).
The WTO Secretariat presented the 2023 report of the WTO Environmental Database, issued on 8 May 2025, with a thematic focus on pollution. It also briefed members on recent and upcoming WTO technical assistance activities tailored to the requests of members, including the 2024 Advanced Thematic Course on Trade and Environment and an initiative by the WTO, World Bank Group and the World Economic Forum titled “Action on Climate and Trade” (ACT). ACT is part of the WTO technical assistance offering, and is designed to support developing economies and LDCs in leveraging trade policy to support their climate change mitigation and adaptation objectives, while also identifying opportunities for green trade-led growth.
The Secretariat of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) provided an update on preparations for the 2025 Climate Change Conference (COP30), scheduled for November 2025 in Brazil. Brazil, which holds the COP30 Presidency, highlighted the COP30 Action Agenda, noting the inclusion of climate and trade as one of its key objectives. The WTO Secretariat briefed members, noting its collaboration with UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the International Trade Centre (ITC) and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) to monitor COP30 developments, explore potential support for Brazil’s priorities in the context of the COP30 Presidency, and provide updates to members as they become available.
Next meeting
The next meeting of the Committee on Trade and Environment is scheduled for the week of 3 November 2025.

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MIL OSI Economics –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: New Permanent Representative of Australia Presents Credentials to the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva

Source: United Nations – Geneva

Clare Monica Walsh, the new Permanent Representative of Australia to the United Nations Office at Geneva, today presented her credentials to Tatiana Valovaya, the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva.

Prior to her appointment to Geneva, Ms. Walsh held the position of Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Secretary, Enabling Services Group, at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Australia, since 2022. Earlier in her career, she held multiple other posts at the Department and posted abroad, including as Chief Operating Officer, Finance (2020–2022); Deputy Secretary, Global Cooperation, Development and Partnerships Group (2018–2020); Deputy Head of Mission, Australian Embassy in Japan (2016–2018); and as First Assistant Secretary, International Policy and Partnerships Division (AusAID) and Multilateral Development and Policy Division (2012–2015). Ms. Walsh also held several positions in the Department of Climate Change and Energy between 2007 and 2012.

Ms. Walsh holds degrees from three Australian universities, including a Master of Management from the Australian National University (2006); a Graduate Diploma in Environmental Sciences from Murdoch University (1992); and a Bachelor of Arts from Curtin University (1989).

__________

Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media;
not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

CR.25.024E

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: New Permanent Representative of Australia Presents Credentials to the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva

Source: United Nations – Geneva

Clare Monica Walsh, the new Permanent Representative of Australia to the United Nations Office at Geneva, today presented her credentials to Tatiana Valovaya, the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva.

Prior to her appointment to Geneva, Ms. Walsh held the position of Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Secretary, Enabling Services Group, at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Australia, since 2022. Earlier in her career, she held multiple other posts at the Department and posted abroad, including as Chief Operating Officer, Finance (2020–2022); Deputy Secretary, Global Cooperation, Development and Partnerships Group (2018–2020); Deputy Head of Mission, Australian Embassy in Japan (2016–2018); and as First Assistant Secretary, International Policy and Partnerships Division (AusAID) and Multilateral Development and Policy Division (2012–2015). Ms. Walsh also held several positions in the Department of Climate Change and Energy between 2007 and 2012.

Ms. Walsh holds degrees from three Australian universities, including a Master of Management from the Australian National University (2006); a Graduate Diploma in Environmental Sciences from Murdoch University (1992); and a Bachelor of Arts from Curtin University (1989).

__________

Produced by the United Nations Information Service in Geneva for use of the media;
not an official record. English and French versions of our releases are different as they are the product of two separate coverage teams that work independently.

CR.25.024E

MIL OSI United Nations News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 496 Status Reports

Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Search by city or zip code. Press enter or select the go button to submit request
Local forecast by”City, St” or “ZIP”

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NCEP Quarterly Newsletter

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MIL OSI USA News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 496 Status Reports

Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Search by city or zip code. Press enter or select the go button to submit request
Local forecast by”City, St” or “ZIP”

SPC on Facebook

@NWSSPC

NCEP Quarterly Newsletter

Home (Classic)SPC Products All SPC Forecasts Current Watches Meso. Discussions Conv. Outlooks Tstm. Outlooks Fire Wx Outlooks RSS Feeds E-Mail AlertsWeather Information Storm Reports Storm Reports Dev. NWS Hazards Map National RADAR Product Archive NOAA Weather RadioResearch Non-op. Products Forecast Tools Svr. Tstm. Events SPC Publications SPC-NSSL HWTEducation & Outreach About the SPC SPC FAQ About Tornadoes About Derechos Video Lecture Series WCM Page Enh. Fujita Page Our History Public ToursMisc. StaffContact Us SPC Feedback

Watch 496 Status Reports

Watch 496 Status Message has not been issued yet.

Top/Watch Issuance Text for Watch 496/All Current Watches/Forecast Products/Home

Weather Topics:Watches, Mesoscale Discussions, Outlooks, Fire Weather, All Products, Contact Us

NOAA / National Weather ServiceNational Centers for Environmental PredictionStorm Prediction Center120 David L. Boren Blvd.Norman, OK 73072 U.S.A.spc.feedback@noaa.govPage last modified: July 08, 2025
DisclaimerInformation QualityHelpGlossary
Privacy PolicyFreedom of Information Act (FOIA)About UsCareer Opportunities

MIL OSI USA News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Ruiz introduces the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act to combat obesity epidemic, improve Americans’ health

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raul Ruiz (36th District of California)

Palm Desert, CA – Today, U.S. Representatives Dr. Raul Ruiz (D-CA), Mike Kelly (R-PA), Mariannette Miller-Meeks, M.D. (R-IA), and Gwen Moore (D-WI) introduced the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act (TROA), bipartisan legislation to combat the obesity crisis in the United States by providing regular screenings.

The bill would also prevent diseases associated with obesity through expanded coverage of new health care specialists and chronic weight management medications for Medicare recipients.

“Obesity is a complex, chronic disease and a growing public health crisis that costs our nation billions each year,” said Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz. “As an emergency physician, I’ve treated countless patients suffering from diabetes, heart disease, and other serious complications linked to obesity. The bipartisan Treat and Reduce Obesity Act would give seniors struggling with obesity access to Medicare coverage for proven medications and behavioral therapies, empowering them to live healthier, longer lives.”

“The Treat and Reduce Obesity Act takes a critical step toward improving patient costs and patient outcomes,” said Rep. Kelly. “This bipartisan legislation would allow seniors struggling with obesity to take a responsible, proactive approach to improve their health and live longer, more active lives. I look forward to working with the Trump administration and the team at CMS, including my friend Dr. Mehmet Oz, to make America healthy again!”

“As a physician and former director of the Iowa Department of Public Health, I have seen firsthand how obesity contributes to serious and preventable health conditions. The Treat and Reduce Obesity Act allows Medicare beneficiaries to access life-changing treatments, including behavioral therapy and FDA-approved medications. This bipartisan legislation improves health outcomes, lowers long-term costs, and helps Americans live longer and healthier lives,” said Dr. Miller-Meeks.

“Obesity poses a growing health risk to millions of Americans, especially older adults. TROA would support critical medical interventions that can help those struggling with obesity, improving the overall health and wellbeing of Medicare beneficiaries,” said Rep. Moore.

You can find the full bill text here.

Senator Bill Cassidy leads companion legislation in the U.S. Senate.

BACKGROUND

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, diseases associated with obesity such as heart disease, stroke, type II diabetes, and certain types of cancer are the leading causes of preventable death in the U.S. TROA would work to directly prevent these comorbidities.

The scientific understanding of obesity has evolved, recognizing it as a complex, chronic, and relapsing disease. Obesity is a public health crisis in the United States. The total economic and societal impact of obesity rose to $1.4 trillion in the United States in 2018, up from $976 billion in 2014.

A recent study found that Medicare beneficiaries with obesity and at least one other chronic illness could significantly reduce healthcare costs through weight management. Annual savings were estimated at up to 38% or nearly $10,000 in medical cost savings. Additionally, the USC Schaeffer Center found coverage of new obesity treatments could generate approximately $175 billion in cost offsets to Medicare in the first 10 years alone, increasing to $700 billion in 30 years. Coverage of medications to treat obesity will enhance human health and reduce federal healthcare costs by lowering the risks and prevalence of costly obesity-related chronic diseases.

The following organizations have endorsed TROA this Congress: Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, American Academy of Pas, American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, American Diabetes Association, American Gastroenterological Association, American Medical Group Association, American Psychological Association, American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery, American Society for Nutrition, Association of Asian Pacific Community Health Organizations, Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists, Black Woman’s Health Imperative, Boehringer-Ingelheim, ConscienHealth, Currax, Diabetes Leadership Council, Diabetes Patient Advocacy Coalition, Eli Lilly and Company, Endocrine Society, Gerontological Society of America, Global Liver Institute, Healthcare Leadership Council, HealthyWomen, Intuitive Surgical, MedTech Coalition for Metabolic Health, National Alliance of Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions, National Consumers League, National Council on Aging, National Hispanic Medical Association, National Kidney Foundation, Novo Nordisk, Obesity Action Coalition, Obesity Medicine Association, Ro, Strategies to Overcome and Prevent (STOP) Obesity Alliance, The Obesity Society, Trust for America’s Health, WW Weight Watchers International, and YMCA of the USA.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Analysis: Golden eagles were reintroduced to Ireland, but without prey they’re now struggling to thrive

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Fiona McAuliffe, Lecturer of Ecology, Scotland’s Rural College

Dennis Jacobsen/Shutterstock

In the early 2000s, golden eagles soared once again over the hills of Donegal in northwest Ireland, for the first time in nearly a century. Their return was celebrated as a landmark in Irish conservation, a hopeful sign that one of the island’s most iconic predators was back.

But two decades on, the reality is sobering. The population remains small with just five territorial pairs and an estimated total population of just 20-25 birds. Breeding success is poor, and the golden eagle’s future in Ireland is uncertain. So what went wrong?

Our research published in the Irish Naturalists’ Journal suggests the problem isn’t with the eagles themselves – it’s with the landscape they were released into. On paper, Donegal’s uplands looked ideal: open terrain, low human disturbance and ample wild prey. But over time, key parts of that ecosystem have quietly unravelled.

Golden eagles rely on a steady supply of prey to thrive and raise chicks – notably red grouse and Irish hares. Yet, during our recent surveys along transects (predetermined lines through an area) and footage from camera traps in and around Glenveagh national park, the uplands seemed eerily quiet. Not just quiet of eagles, but of the smaller animals they prey on for food. The landscape looked wild, but had lost some of its vital living components.

When comparing the available prey biomass, that’s the combined weight of grouse and hares per unit area, Donegal had 74-83% less prey than equivalent areas in the Scottish Highlands where golden eagles are thriving. That’s an enormous shortfall. Without enough food, adult eagles must travel further to hunt and spend more energy – and so are less likely to raise chicks successfully. A few lean years can tip a small population like this into crisis.

Why is prey so scarce? One of the main culprits is overgrazing. Red deer numbers have exploded across Ireland in recent decades. In places such as Donegal, their constant browsing and grazing has severely degraded upland habitats. This damages the heather moorlands that grouse and hares depend on, leaving them with less cover and fewer food sources.

Red deer were the most common species recorded during camera trap surveys.
Queen’s University Belfast

Add to this the growing pressure from medium-sized predators, including foxes and badgers. Without apex predators such as wolves or lynx to keep them in check, these “mesopredators” flourish. This well-documented phenomenon is known as mesopredator release where populations of mid-sized predators increase after the loss of top predators, often leading to greater pressure on prey species, such as ground-nesting birds and young hares, compounding the challenges for these struggling prey species.

And while Ireland’s conservation laws look strong on paper, implementation often lags behind. Some protected areas remain heavily grazed, burned or unmanaged. Management plans are either missing, unenforced or outdated. This weakens the very protections meant to sustain wildlife.

A lesson for rewilding

The reintroduction of golden eagles was based on the best available knowledge at the time. But ecosystems aren’t static. What may have been viable habitat in the 1990s no longer meets the needs of a breeding eagle population today.

Reintroducing a species isn’t enough. The systems that sustain it also need to be restored. The clichéd paradigm that nature-is-good and humans-are-bad isn’t helpful. Instead modern landscapes are often so degraded that they can’t recover if left alone.

Upland areas within Glenveagh national park are overgrazed, leading to exposed peat and erosion.
Fiona McAuliffe

Conservation can facilitate active recovery. Real rewilding is about more than simply “putting animals back” and “letting nature take its course”. It is about putting systems back: predators, prey, plants and the processes that connect them.

Despite the challenges, the golden eagle population has not failed in Ireland – not yet at least. To turn the tide, conservation efforts must go beyond charismatic species and focus on landscape restoration. That means reducing overgrazing, supporting prey recovery, rebalancing predator dynamics and making sure protected areas are actually protected.

Encouragingly, Glenveagh national park has begun some of this work, by reducing deer overgrazing and regenerating native woodlands. If this landscape restoration is sustained and expanded, golden eagles could still thrive in a more balanced, functioning upland ecosystem.

These birds are more than just a symbol of wildness. They are a litmus test of ecosystem health. Right now, they’re telling us something important. Something those calling for the reintroduction of other top predators, including wolves, would do well to consider.

Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. Golden eagles were reintroduced to Ireland, but without prey they’re now struggling to thrive – https://theconversation.com/golden-eagles-were-reintroduced-to-ireland-but-without-prey-theyre-now-struggling-to-thrive-258832

MIL OSI Analysis –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Blasts U.S. EPA for Illegally Terminating Environmental Justice Grants
Source: US State of California Department of Justice

OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today co-led a multistate coalition of 20 attorneys general in submitting an amicus brief supporting Earthjustice, Public Rights Project, and Southern Environmental Law Center in their class action lawsuit against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for unlawfully terminating the Environmental and Climate Justice Block Grant program. The funding, secured through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), was explicitly appropriated by Congress to ensure that communities across the country would have access to clean air, safe water, and healthy homes, with a particular focus on supporting disadvantaged communities nationwide. In today’s amicus brief, the attorneys general argue that the Trump Administration’s actions to terminate the grant program will leave hundreds of local communities nationwide unable to pursue vital environmental justice and public health projects — jeopardizing their fight for clean air, safe water, and climate resilience efforts.

“Congress directed these funds to protect public health and address long-standing environmental injustices in communities that have borne the brunt of pollution for decades,” said Attorney General Bonta. “We are not going to stand by while this administration continues to take illegal action and dismantle environmental justice programs where they are most urgently needed.”

More than 200 grantees of the terminated program within the coalition of states— including non-profits, local and regional governments, Native American tribes, and educational institutions — were slated to receive over $1.38 billion to support frontline communities in combating pollution, improving public health infrastructure, and building climate resilience. Due to the termination of this program, at least 40 grantees within California have lost access to over $301 million in funding from the EPA, which represents the greatest number of EPA grantees and highest amount of EJ funding from EPA flowing to any single state.

In the amicus brief, Attorney General Bonta, alongside the coalition, argues that:
- The termination of the program disproportionately harms marginalized and historically disadvantaged communities — including Native American tribes, non-profits serving low-income neighborhoods, and communities of color — undermining the core purpose of Congress’s instruction to EPA when it passed the IRA.
- By halting critical environmental justice and public health improvement projects, the Trump Administration’s actions put vulnerable populations at increased health risk.
- The Plaintiffs are likely to succeed on the merits in their argument that the EPA acted unlawfully by rescinding grants that were explicitly authorized by Congress under the IRA.
Attorney General Bonta co-led the filing of today’s amicus brief, together with the Attorneys General of New York and Massachusetts, and is joined by the following states and territories: Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Hawai‘i, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington.

A copy of the amicus brief can be found here.

MIL OSI USA News –
July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Update on plans to safeguard heritage assets on Lower Kirkgate

Source: City of Leeds

Senior councillors will next week be updated on efforts to safeguard the future of key heritage assets on an historic street in Leeds city centre.

A row of derelict privately-owned buildings on Lower Kirkgate has been cordoned off for safety reasons – and the road closed to traffic – since one of the properties suffered a partial collapse in April last year.

Leeds City Council is intending to carry out a 16-week programme of stabilisation work on the buildings after their current owners – two linked companies called City Fusion and Kirkgate Land Residential – failed to take the necessary steps to make them safe. It will then seek, as is its legal right, to recover the cost of this work from the companies.

The council is separately seeking to acquire the properties with a view to them being fully restored and brought back into meaningful long-term use, complementing the regeneration activity that has been successfully delivered elsewhere on Lower Kirkgate.

Now a new report – due to be considered at a meeting of the council’s executive board next Wednesday, July 16 – has set out how these parallel courses of action are proceeding.

The report confirms that the council is in continuing negotiations with City Fusion and Kirkgate Land Residential over its proposed purchase of the properties.

It also confirms that a market value offer – based on an independent valuation undertaken in line with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors’ Red Book Global Standards framework – for the buildings has been made by the council but to date this has not been accepted.

As a result, next week’s executive board meeting will be asked to approve the development by the council of a case for the potential compulsory purchase of the buildings.

A compulsory purchase would only be pursued as a tool of last resort if a negotiated sale cannot be agreed and no other options remain available that would enable the full restoration of the properties.

Any formal decision – or resolution – on the use of compulsory purchase powers would be reserved until a future and as-yet unspecified meeting of executive board.

The report also confirms that the council hopes to be in a position to complete its 16-week programme of stabilisation work on the buildings by the end of 2025.

With detailed designs for this work close to being finalised, it is anticipated that a start on site should be possible during August.

An update on plans for the reopening of the road after the work has been completed will be provided in due course.

Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said:

“The situation on Lower Kirkgate is a complex one and clearly remains a major source of frustration and concern for local residents and businesses.

“We are determined to find a solution to the issues affecting this historic street, where important heritage assets have been allowed to fall into a serious state of disrepair.

“It should be stressed that, at the current moment in time, the at-risk buildings are not owned by the council.

“We are, however, acutely aware of the need to protect the 18^th and 19^th-century fabric of Lower Kirkgate.

“It is against this backdrop that we are continuing to pursue the separate but parallel courses of action outlined in the report to next week’s executive board meeting.”

The report also sets out how the council attempted – for more than a decade – to facilitate improvements to the buildings.

Key to these improvements would have been the award of grant support from a council-backed regeneration scheme called the Lower Kirkgate Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI).

Despite its best efforts, however, the council was unable to formally agree terms for this award of THI funding before the scheme came to an end last year.

THI grants helped drive the restoration of a number of other buildings on Lower Kirkgate, including the Grade II-listed First White Cloth Hall, as well as a fundamental redesign of the local street-scene.

The report that will be considered at next week’s executive board meeting can be found in full at item number 16 here.

Notes to editors:

City Fusion and Kirkgate Land Residential were served with an urgent works notice by Leeds City Council in February this year.

This legal document gave the companies 28 days to start a programme of stabilisation work on a number of at-risk buildings owned by them on Lower Kirkgate.

Their failure to meet the deadline for compliance means the council – using statutory powers granted to local authorities by the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 – has the right to carry out the work itself. The drawing up of detailed designs for this work began in March.

Planning regulations required the council to secure permission from the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport before the urgent works notice could be issued.

Approval was granted by the Secretary of State in December following an application made by the council in August 2024.

The buildings currently pose no threat to public safety, with protective hoardings being placed in front of them following last April’s partial collapse. The ‘buffer zone’ created by the hoardings means that Lower Kirkgate is currently closed to traffic.

ENDS

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Takes Action to Block Unlawful Termination of Environmental Justice Grant Program

Source: US State of New York

EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James co-led a coalition of 19 other attorneys general in filing an amicus brief supporting a lawsuit against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for unlawfully terminating the Environmental and Climate Justice Block Grant Program. The grant program, created and funded by Congress through the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, is designed to provide critical support to communities disproportionately impacted by pollution and climate change. Attorney General James and the coalition argue EPA’s abrupt and unlawful termination of the program and cancellation of grants has already caused widespread harm across their states, particularly in low-income communities and communities of color, and are urging the court to block the program termination while the lawsuit continues.

“These climate and environmental justice grants are a lifeline for communities that have been historically left behind,” said Attorney General James. “From Buffalo to Far Rockaway, New Yorkers were counting on these funds to access clean energy, clean up air pollution, and prepare for climate disasters. When the federal government breaks its promises to our most vulnerable communities, the consequences can be devastating, even deadly. My office is fighting to ensure this grant program is restored so that New Yorkers are protected as we combat the climate crisis.”

In the brief filed today in Appalachian Voices v. EPA, Attorney General James and the coalition emphasize that by terminating this grant program, the federal government is inflicting serious, lasting harm on vulnerable communities already grappling with disproportionate pollution burdens and the escalating effects of climate change. These communities, which are often low-income, communities of color, indigenous, or in rural areas, face overlapping environmental and public health crises. The attorneys general explain that these challenges have only been made worse by historical discriminatory policies, including racial segregation, redlining, and a systemic lack of investment in disadvantaged neighborhoods. These communities are under-resourced, have less access to infrastructure like clean drinking water and sanitation, and end up bearing the brunt of the burden from extreme weather disasters, since they are less equipped to recover from devastating events or easily adapt to a changing climate.

In 2022, Congress created the grant program under the Inflation Reduction Act, mandating that EPA distribute $3 billion in funding specifically to help address these disparities. In New York alone, 22 grantees were awarded more than $70 million in funding to carry out projects to protect vulnerable residents from extreme heat, flooding, air pollution, and other environmental hazards. Another grantee, Fordham University in the Bronx, was awarded $50 million to provide as grants to community-based organizations in New York, as well as New Jersey, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and eight Indigenous Nations, for environmental justice projects. Grantees, often in partnership with non-profit organizations, academic institutions, and city agencies, would use the funds to protect residents from extreme weather events in Albany, Rochester, and Buffalo; combat flooding and excess heat in the Bronx and Yonkers; protect the Rockaways from storm surges; and more.

Now, the sudden termination of these grants has forced grantees to lay off staff, halt programming, and freeze hiring. Attorney General James and the coalition argue that EPA’s mass cancellation of the environmental and climate justice grant program violates clear congressional mandates and fundamental constitutional principles. Congress directed the EPA to distribute these funds using mandatory language in the Inflation Reduction Act, leaving the agency no discretion to unilaterally withdraw support. The attorneys general emphasize that the executive branch cannot override Congress’s appropriations decisions based on its own policy preferences, and that in doing so, the administration violated the U.S. Constitution.

Attorney General James and the coalition are urging the court to grant the plaintiffs’ motion for a preliminary injunction and ensure that the environmental justice grants will remain available for the communities that so desperately need them.

Joining Attorney General James in filing this brief, which was co-led with Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell and California Attorney General Rob Bonta, are the attorneys general of Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawai’i, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: The Government of Canada is supporting 13 Indigenous-led clean energy projects through the Low Carbon Economy Fund’s Indigenous Leadership Fund
Source: Government of Canada News

July 8, 2025 – Gatineau, Quebec

As protectors of the land and water, Indigenous peoples have long been leaders in climate action. In addition to advocating for the care of our planet, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis are making significant contributions to lowering greenhouse gas emissions as leaders or key partners in the development of almost 20% of Canada’s clean electricity infrastructure.

To further support this leadership, today, the Honourable Julie Dabrusin, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, announced over $40 million in funding through the Low Carbon Economy Indigenous Leadership Fund to support 13 Indigenous-owned and -led clean energy projects across Canada.

These projects include the installation of solar panels, wind turbines, and heat pumps, as well as building energy retrofits that will help Indigenous communities save on energy costs and increase renewable energy use. They also help create jobs and leverage economic opportunities to further benefit those communities.
- The K’ómoks First Nation in British Columbia will receive nearly $690,000 for its community solar project to install residential solar panels.
- The Kinistin Saulteaux Nation in Saskatchewan will receive over $845,000 for its Kizis–Pimibizaowgamik project to build a charging system to power community EVs for local work and medical transportation.
- The Makivvik Corporation in Quebec will receive approximately $3.5 million to purchase and distribute solar kits throughout Nunavik.
- The Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre in Ontario will receive up to $1 million to install a heat pump system in the Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre’s new building.
- The Sheshatshiu Innu First Nation in Newfoundland and Labrador will receive over $1.6 million to install heat pumps in community-owned homes on Sheshatshiu Indian Reserve No. 3.
- The Gitlaxt’aamiks Village Government in British Columbia will receive over $2.8 million to purchase and install electric heat pumps in community homes.
- The Mushuau Innu First Nation in Newfoundland and Labrador will receive over $5.8 million to purchase and install heat pumps in community-owned homes in the remote community of Natuashish.
- The Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Band in Newfoundland and Labrador will receive nearly $4.3 million to purchase and install heat pumps in homes owned by community members.
- The Hiawatha First Nation 162 in Ontario will receive nearly $3.4 million to make the newly built Rice Lake Elder’s complex and community building net zero.
- The Métis Nation of Alberta will receive over $9.2 million to retrofit approximately 500 citizen-owned homes across Alberta.
- The Seabird Island Band in British Columbia will receive over $5.6 million to improve the energy efficiency of two schools and an administration building.
- The Métis National Council Secretariat Inc. in Ontario will receive up to $150,000 to conduct an audit of the Métis National Council’s operating carbon footprint.
- The Indigenous Clean Energy Social Enterprise in Ontario will receive over $1.2 million for a collaborative impact project responding to federal best practices for Indigenous participation in program advisory and governance.
These investments reaffirm the Government of Canada’s commitment to support reconciliation and integrate Indigenous Knowledge, voices, and perspectives in the work toward a sustainable future for all.

MIL OSI Canada News –
July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Kelly leads introduction of Treat and Reduce Obesity Act to combat obesity epidemic, improve Americans’ health

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representatives Mike Kelly (R-PA), Raul Ruiz, M.D. (D-CA), Mariannette Miller-Meeks, M.D. (R-IA), and Gwen Moore (D-WI) introduced the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act (TROA), bipartisan legislation to combat the obesity crisis in the United States by providing regular screenings.

The bill would also prevent diseases associated with obesity through expanded coverage of new health care specialists and chronic weight management medications for Medicare recipients.

“The Treat and Reduce Obesity Act takes a critical step toward improving patient costs and patient outcomes,” said Rep. Kelly. “This bipartisan legislation would allow seniors struggling with obesity to take a responsible, proactive approach to improve their health and live longer, more active lives. I look forward to working with the Trump administration and the team at CMS, including my friend Dr. Mehmet Oz, to make America healthy again!”

“Obesity is a complex, chronic disease and a growing public health crisis that costs our nation billions each year,” said Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz. “As an emergency physician, I’ve treated countless patients suffering from diabetes, heart disease, and other serious complications linked to obesity. The bipartisan Treat and Reduce Obesity Act would give seniors struggling with obesity access to Medicare coverage for proven medications and behavioral therapies, empowering them to live healthier, longer lives.”

“As a physician and former director of the Iowa Department of Public Health, I have seen firsthand how obesity contributes to serious and preventable health conditions. The Treat and Reduce Obesity Act allows Medicare beneficiaries to access life-changing treatments, including behavioral therapy and FDA-approved medications. This bipartisan legislation improves health outcomes, lowers long-term costs, and helps Americans live longer and healthier lives,” said Dr. Miller-Meeks.

“Obesity poses a growing health risk to millions of Americans, especially older adults. TROA would support critical medical interventions that can help those struggling with obesity, improving the overall health and wellbeing of Medicare beneficiaries,” said Rep. Moore.

You can find the full bill text here.

Senator Bill Cassidy leads companion legislation in the U.S. Senate.

BACKGROUND

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, diseases associated with obesity such as heart disease, stroke, type II diabetes, and certain types of cancer are the leading causes of preventable death in the U.S. TROA would work to directly prevent these comorbidities.

The scientific understanding of obesity has evolved, recognizing it as a complex, chronic, and relapsing disease. Obesity is a public health crisis in the United States. The total economic and societal impact of obesity rose to $1.4 trillion in the United States in 2018, up from $976 billion in 2014.

A recent study found that Medicare beneficiaries with obesity and at least one other chronic illness could significantly reduce healthcare costs through weight management. Annual savings were estimated at up to 38% or nearly $10,000 in medical cost savings. Additionally, the USC Schaeffer Center found coverage of new obesity treatments could generate approximately $175 billion in cost offsets to Medicare in the first 10 years alone, increasing to $700 billion in 30 years. Coverage of medications to treat obesity will enhance human health and reduce federal healthcare costs by lowering the risks and prevalence of costly obesity-related chronic diseases.

The following organizations have endorsed TROA this Congress: Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, American Academy of Pas, American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, American Diabetes Association, American Gastroenterological Association, American Medical Group Association, American Psychological Association, American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery, American Society for Nutrition, Association of Asian Pacific Community Health Organizations, Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists, Black Woman’s Health Imperative, Boehringer-Ingelheim, ConscienHealth, Currax, Diabetes Leadership Council, Diabetes Patient Advocacy Coalition, Eli Lilly and Company, Endocrine Society, Gerontological Society of America, Global Liver Institute, Healthcare Leadership Council, HealthyWomen, Intuitive Surgical, MedTech Coalition for Metabolic Health, National Alliance of Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions, National Consumers League, National Council on Aging, National Hispanic Medical Association, National Kidney Foundation, Novo Nordisk, Obesity Action Coalition, Obesity Medicine Association, Ro, Strategies to Overcome and Prevent (STOP) Obesity Alliance, The Obesity Society, Trust for America’s Health, WW Weight Watchers International, and YMCA of the USA.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Free ‘Skin Check’ Screenings to be Available at Rhode Island Beaches

Source: US State of Rhode Island

Between mid-July and mid-August, the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH), Brown Dermatology, and partners statewide will be making free skin cancer screenings available at select Rhode Island parks and beaches on four dates.

“Along with getting in the shade and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more, getting a skin check is the most important thing you can do to protect against skin cancer,” said Director of Health Jerry Larkin, MD. “Skin cancer can affect people of all skin tones and complexions, which is why all Rhode Islanders should take advantage of these free, convenient skin cancer checks. Cancer screenings have the power to save lives.”

“One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Everyone is at risk, even those with darker skin tones,” said John C. Kawaoka, MD, Associate Professor of Dermatology and Residency Program Director at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University. “Protecting yourself from the sun is incredibly important, as is getting your skin checked. We will once again be at the local beaches and parks doing skin cancer screenings as part of Skin Check. Every year we find a number of skin cancers, including melanoma, many of which people had no idea that they had.”

“Skin Check wouldn’t be possible without the contributions of our volunteers and partners.” said Megan Daniel, Executive Director of the Partnership to Reduce Cancer in Rhode Island. “As Rhode Island’s state cancer coalition, we work diligently to improve cancer care and survivorship, which includes improving access to cancer screening. Skin Check has a long history of providing free screenings to residents in our communities who need it most. It’s inspiring to see individuals and businesses who want to support this service and help reduce the burden of cancer in Rhode Island.”

“Brown University Health is thrilled to partner on another season of Skin Check,” said Carrie Bridges, MPH, Vice President of Community Health and Equity at Brown University Health Community Health Institute. “Many Rhode Islanders look forward to skin cancer screening at local beaches, parks and festivals, and Brown University Health Community Health Institute is honored to be able to help facilitate access to this critical preventive service and appropriate follow-up care. This year, we continue our efforts to reach more diverse audiences of people who will benefit from this free screening.”

All screenings will be private and provided by dermatologists and dermatology residents affiliated with Brown Dermatology. The first 100 people at each event will be screened. People who require follow-up will be referred for dermatology consults. People are asked to wear bathing suits or clothing that can easily be removed to reveal the areas of skin that they would like checked.

NBC10 (WJAR) is the media partner for the Skin Check screening events. Other partners include Brown Dermatology, the Partnership to Reduce Cancer in Rhode Island, Brown University Health Community Health Institute, RIDOH, and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM).

Free Cancer Screenings Dates and Locations:

— Saturday, July 12, 11am-1pm: Scarborough Beach North (Narragansett) — Friday, July 18, 1:30pm-3:30pm: Easton’s Beach (Newport) — Saturday, August 2, 11am-1pm: Scarborough Beach North (Narragansett) — Friday, August 15, 1:30pm-3:30pm: Lincoln Woods State Park (Lincoln)

Prevention and Early Detection

The two ways to stay sun safe this summer are prevention (using sunscreen, wearing protective apparel, and staying out of the direct sun) and early detection (getting screened).

Prevention: — Apply sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or more with both UVA and UVB protection (“broad spectrum” sunscreen). Make sure to put it on all areas of skin exposed to the sun, including ears, neck, nose, eyelids, fingers and toes, and reapply every two hours. — Use water-resistant sunscreen while swimming, boating or exercising; — Seek shade, especially when the sun rays are the strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM; — Wear protective clothing, such as UPF clothing (UV resistant); — Wear a hat with a wide brim to shade the face, head, ears, and neck; — Wear wrap-around sunglasses with UV protection where possible; — Use caution near water, sand and snow because they reflect and intensify the rays of the sun and can increase your chances of sunburn; — Avoid indoor tanning.

Early detection: — Talk with your primary care professional about seeing a dermatologist and getting screened for skin cancer, especially if you have a family history of it. — Watch your moles and skin spots over time. If you see changes in their size, color, number, or thickness, they need to be checked by a primary care professional or a dermatologist. — Get your kids screened. Skin cancer is a growing concern for children, especially among adolescents. Talk with your child’s pediatrician about skin cancer screening. — If you work outdoors, you should be screened annually by a dermatologist.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Free ‘Skin Check’ Screenings to be Available at Rhode Island Beaches

Source: US State of Rhode Island

Between mid-July and mid-August, the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH), Brown Dermatology, and partners statewide will be making free skin cancer screenings available at select Rhode Island parks and beaches on four dates.

“Along with getting in the shade and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more, getting a skin check is the most important thing you can do to protect against skin cancer,” said Director of Health Jerry Larkin, MD. “Skin cancer can affect people of all skin tones and complexions, which is why all Rhode Islanders should take advantage of these free, convenient skin cancer checks. Cancer screenings have the power to save lives.”

“One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Everyone is at risk, even those with darker skin tones,” said John C. Kawaoka, MD, Associate Professor of Dermatology and Residency Program Director at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University. “Protecting yourself from the sun is incredibly important, as is getting your skin checked. We will once again be at the local beaches and parks doing skin cancer screenings as part of Skin Check. Every year we find a number of skin cancers, including melanoma, many of which people had no idea that they had.”

“Skin Check wouldn’t be possible without the contributions of our volunteers and partners.” said Megan Daniel, Executive Director of the Partnership to Reduce Cancer in Rhode Island. “As Rhode Island’s state cancer coalition, we work diligently to improve cancer care and survivorship, which includes improving access to cancer screening. Skin Check has a long history of providing free screenings to residents in our communities who need it most. It’s inspiring to see individuals and businesses who want to support this service and help reduce the burden of cancer in Rhode Island.”

“Brown University Health is thrilled to partner on another season of Skin Check,” said Carrie Bridges, MPH, Vice President of Community Health and Equity at Brown University Health Community Health Institute. “Many Rhode Islanders look forward to skin cancer screening at local beaches, parks and festivals, and Brown University Health Community Health Institute is honored to be able to help facilitate access to this critical preventive service and appropriate follow-up care. This year, we continue our efforts to reach more diverse audiences of people who will benefit from this free screening.”

All screenings will be private and provided by dermatologists and dermatology residents affiliated with Brown Dermatology. The first 100 people at each event will be screened. People who require follow-up will be referred for dermatology consults. People are asked to wear bathing suits or clothing that can easily be removed to reveal the areas of skin that they would like checked.

NBC10 (WJAR) is the media partner for the Skin Check screening events. Other partners include Brown Dermatology, the Partnership to Reduce Cancer in Rhode Island, Brown University Health Community Health Institute, RIDOH, and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM).

Free Cancer Screenings Dates and Locations:

— Saturday, July 12, 11am-1pm: Scarborough Beach North (Narragansett) — Friday, July 18, 1:30pm-3:30pm: Easton’s Beach (Newport) — Saturday, August 2, 11am-1pm: Scarborough Beach North (Narragansett) — Friday, August 15, 1:30pm-3:30pm: Lincoln Woods State Park (Lincoln)

Prevention and Early Detection

The two ways to stay sun safe this summer are prevention (using sunscreen, wearing protective apparel, and staying out of the direct sun) and early detection (getting screened).

Prevention: — Apply sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or more with both UVA and UVB protection (“broad spectrum” sunscreen). Make sure to put it on all areas of skin exposed to the sun, including ears, neck, nose, eyelids, fingers and toes, and reapply every two hours. — Use water-resistant sunscreen while swimming, boating or exercising; — Seek shade, especially when the sun rays are the strongest between 10 AM and 4 PM; — Wear protective clothing, such as UPF clothing (UV resistant); — Wear a hat with a wide brim to shade the face, head, ears, and neck; — Wear wrap-around sunglasses with UV protection where possible; — Use caution near water, sand and snow because they reflect and intensify the rays of the sun and can increase your chances of sunburn; — Avoid indoor tanning.

Early detection: — Talk with your primary care professional about seeing a dermatologist and getting screened for skin cancer, especially if you have a family history of it. — Watch your moles and skin spots over time. If you see changes in their size, color, number, or thickness, they need to be checked by a primary care professional or a dermatologist. — Get your kids screened. Skin cancer is a growing concern for children, especially among adolescents. Talk with your child’s pediatrician about skin cancer screening. — If you work outdoors, you should be screened annually by a dermatologist.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sweeper Hire and Hoses boss Philip Liley gets suspended sentence
Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

Press release

Sweeper Hire and Hoses boss Philip Liley gets suspended sentence

Exeter man tried to hide tons of illegal waste kept on leased land by pushing it into the trees and spreading it across the ground.
Liley and his firm Sweeper Hire and Hoses admitted running a waste site without a permit

Philip Liley attempted to disguise the 15,000 tonnes of waste stored illegally at the site

Environment Agency investigations began when the nearby River Bovey was polluted

Liley, then trading as Sweeper Hire and Hoses Limited, had no environmental permits and ignored all attempts to make his business operate legally.

Philip Liley, of Sidmouth Road, Exeter, was director of the then Sweeper Hire and Hoses Limited business based at Higher Brocks Plantation, Heathfield, Newton Abbot, Devon. He pleaded guilty at Exeter Crown Court on Thursday 3 July.

Liley was sentenced to 15 months’ imprisonment, suspended for 2 years – and 300 hours of unpaid work.

Chris Lawson of the Environment Agency, said:

Environmental permits are in place to protect the public and the environment.

Illegal waste activity such as this undermines legitimate businesses that work hard to operate within the regulations, as well as putting the local environment at risk and impacting on the local community.

I hope today’s verdict sends a clear message to illegal waste operators that we are committed to tackling the blight of waste crime and will use all powers available to us to catch offenders.

Leaking pipe leads to Liley’s site

In March 2023, following a report of a pollution into a tributary of the River Bovey, Environment Agency officers found a pipe discharging a grey/brown liquid into the watercourse.

The source of the discharge was found to be Liley’s site that he leased at Newton Abbot. The ground at the site was churned up and with heavy plant machinery operating on it, causing the runoff to enter the river.

The Environment Agency was informed by a sub-contractor working on the site that approximately 15,000 tonnes of inert waste had been imported onto the premises. Groundworks at the site were stopped immediately to limit harm to the local environment.

Trees used to hide waste

Investigations revealed the site was being leased by a company called Sweeper Hire and Hoses Limited. There were no environmental permits or exemptions covering the waste activities ongoing at the site. Neither were there any outstanding planning permission applications.

During an Environment Agency site inspection, a substantial amount of waste material was present onsite. It appeared that it was being hidden by being pushed and deposited into the trees both at the sides of the premises and in the middle. Work also appeared to be ongoing to level the waste across the site.

The same day, the Environment Agency served a notice requiring the company to produce waste transfer notes for waste imported to the site over the previous 2 years. Liley had originally leased the land for 5 years from September 2021, trading as Sweepers and Hoses Limited.

Liley refuses to explain himself

However, due to issues with the various waste issues at the premises, Liley had been given notice to leave the site by the landowner he leased it from.

From the waste transfer notes provided, a minimum of 2,960 tonnes in total had been imported to the site between 18 May 2022 and 3 February 2023.

Liley resigned as director of the business on 1 March 2023 and refused all attempts by the Environment Agency to be interviewed to explain his actions and the legitimacy of his waste business.

Illegal waste activity can be reported in confidence to the Environment Agency on its 24-hour incident line on 0800 807060 or to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Background

Sweeper Hire and Hoses and Philip Liley were charged with the following offences:

Between 29 September 2021 and 1 March 2023 you, Sweeper Hire and Hoses Limited, on land at Higher Brocks Plantation, Heathfield, Newton Abbot, Devon, did operate a regulated facility, except under and to the extent authorised by an environmental permit, namely a waste depositing operation for which no environmental permit was in force. Contrary to Regulations 12(1)(a) and 38(1)(a) of the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016.

Between 29 September 2021 and 1 March 2023 you, Phillip Liley on land at Higher Brocks Plantation, Heathfield, Newton Abbot, Devon as Director of Sweeper Higher and Hoses Limited, did by consent or connivance, operate a regulated facility, except under and to the extent authorised by an environmental permit, namely a waste depositing operation for which no environmental permit was in force. Contrary to Regulations 12(1)(a), 38(1)(a) and 41(1)(a) of the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016

Between 2 March 2023 and 15 September 2023 you, Phillip Liley on land at Higher Brocks Plantation, Heathfield, Newton Abbot, Devon, did operate a regulated facility, except under and to the extent authorised by an environmental permit, namely a waste depositing operation for which no environmental permit was in force. Contrary to Regulations 12(1)(a) and 38(1)(a) of the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016.

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Updates to this page

Published 8 July 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
July 9, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: Scientific norms shape the behavior of researchers working for the greater good

Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jeffrey A. Lee, Professor of Geography and the Environment, Texas Tech University

Mentors model the ethical pursuit of scientific knowledge. sanjeri/E+ via Getty Images

Over the past 400 years or so, a set of mostly unwritten guidelines has evolved for how science should be properly done. The assumption in the research community is that science advances most effectively when scientists conduct themselves in certain ways.

The first person to write down these attitudes and behaviors was Robert Merton, in 1942. The founder of the sociology of science laid out what he called the “ethos of science,” a set of “values and norms which is held to be binding on the man of science.” (Yes, it’s sexist wording. Yes, it was the 1940s.) These now are referred to as scientific norms.

The point of these norms is that scientists should behave in ways that improve the collective advancement of knowledge. If you’re a cynic, you might be rolling your eyes at such a Pollyannaish ideal. But corny expectations keep the world functioning. Think: Be kind, clean up your mess, return the shopping cart to the cart corral.

I’m a physical geographer who realized long ago that students are taught biology in biology classes and chemistry in chemistry classes, but rarely are they taught about the overarching concepts of science itself. So I wrote a book called “The Scientific Endeavor,” laying out what scientists and other educated people should know about science itself.

Scientists in training are expected to learn the big picture of science after years of observing their mentors, but that doesn’t always happen. And understanding what drives scientists can help nonscientists better understand research findings. These scientific norms are a big part of the scientific endeavor. Here are Merton’s original four, along with a couple I think are worth adding to the list:

Universalism

Scientific knowledge is for everyone – it’s universal – and not the domain of an individual or group. In other words, a scientific claim must be judged on its merits, not the person making it. Characteristics like a scientist’s nationality, gender or favorite sports team should not affect how their work is judged.

Also, the past record of a scientist shouldn’t influence how you judge whatever claim they’re currently making. For instance, Nobel Prize-winning chemist Linus Pauling was not able to convince most scientists that large doses of vitamin C are medically beneficial; his evidence didn’t sufficiently support his claim.

In practice, it’s hard to judge contradictory claims fairly when they come from a “big name” in the field versus an unknown researcher without a reputation. It is, however, easy to point out such breaches of universalism when others let scientific fame sway their opinion one way or another about new work.

When asked about patenting his polio vaccine, Jonas Salk replied, ‘There is no patent. Could you patent the sun?’
Bettmann via Getty Images

Communism

Communism in science is the idea that scientific knowledge is the property of everyone and must be shared.

Jonas Salk, who led the research that resulted in the polio vaccine, provides a classic example of this scientific norm. He published the work and did not patent the vaccine so that it could be freely produced at low cost.

When scientific research doesn’t have direct commercial application, communism is easy to practice. When money is involved, however, things get complicated. Many scientists work for corporations, and they might not publish their findings in order to keep them away from competitors. The same goes for military research and cybersecurity, where publishing findings could help the bad guys.

Disinterestedness

Disinterestedness refers to the expectation that scientists pursue their work mainly for the advancement of knowledge, not to advance an agenda or get rich. The expectation is that a researcher will share the results of their work, regardless of a finding’s implications for their career or economic bottom line.

Research on politically hot topics, like vaccine safety, is where it can be tricky to remain disinterested. Imagine a scientist who is strongly pro-vaccine. If their vaccine research results suggest serious danger to children, the scientist is still obligated to share these findings.

Likewise, if a scientist has invested in a company selling a drug, and the scientist’s research shows that the drug is dangerous, they are morally compelled to publish the work even if that would hurt their income.

In addition, when publishing research, scientists are required to disclose any conflicts of interest related to the work. This step informs others that they may want to be more skeptical in evaluating the work, in case self-interest won out over disinterest.

Disinterestedness also applies to journal editors, who are obligated to decide whether to publish research based on the science, not the political or economic implications.

Organized skepticism

Merton’s last norm is organized skepticism. Skepticism does not mean rejecting ideas because you don’t like them. To be skeptical in science is to be highly critical and look for weaknesses in a piece of research.

By the time new research is published in a reputable journal, it’ has made it past several sets of skeptical eyes.
gorsh13/iStock via Getty Images Plus

This concept is formalized in the peer review process. When a scientist submits an article to a journal, the editor sends it to two or three scientists familiar with the topic and methods used. They read it carefully and point out any problems they find.

The editor then uses the reviewer reports to decide whether to accept as is, reject outright or request revisions. If the decision is revise, the author then makes each change or tries to convince the editor that the reviewer is wrong.

Peer review is not perfect and doesn’t always catch bad research, but in most cases it improves the work, and science benefits. Traditionally, results weren’t made public until after peer review, but that practice has weakened in recent years with the rise of preprints, reducing the reliability of information for nonscientists.

Integrity and humility

I’m adding two norms to Merton’s list.

The first is integrity. It’s so fundamental to good science that it almost seems unnecessary to mention. But I think it’s justified since cheating, stealing and lazy scientists are getting plenty of attention these days.

The second is humility. You may have made a contribution to our understanding of cell division, but don’t tell us that you cured cancer. You may be a leader in quantum mechanics research, but that doesn’t make you an authority on climate change.

Scientific norms are guidelines for how scientists are expected to behave. A researcher who violates one of these norms won’t be carted off to jail or fined an exorbitant fee. But when a norm is not followed, scientists must be prepared to justify their reasons, both to themselves and to others.

Jeffrey A. Lee does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. Scientific norms shape the behavior of researchers working for the greater good – https://theconversation.com/scientific-norms-shape-the-behavior-of-researchers-working-for-the-greater-good-255159

MIL OSI –

July 9, 2025