NewzIntel.com

Category: Farming

  • MIL-OSI USA: Americans Celebrate the One Big Beautiful Bill’s Transformational Policies

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    A week after President Donald J. Trump signed the historic One Big Beautiful Bill into law, Americans across the country are celebrating its many benefits. From farmers securing their family legacies to service workers gaining financial breathing room, the bill’s bold policies will make a real difference in Americans’ lives.
    In Iowa, fifth-generation farmer Dennis Friest says it “feels like a weight has been lifted from his shoulders” now that the One Big Beautiful Bill prevents the death tax from hitting his farm: “One of my goals when I started farming was to be able to pass this farm onto the next generation, and I’m doing that. I feel very good about that.”
    In Georgia, a restaurant worker says No Tax on Tips will have countless benefits: “I believe it’s going to generate more spending around the town and maybe even travel in the future, or people can start saving and make bigger purchases along the way. I think it’s great.”
    In California, a waitress says No Tax on Tips will help her save for the future: “Over the previous years, I’ve owed quite a bit — so hopefully this can go into a college fund instead.”
    In South Carolina, Greenville County Coroner Mike Ellis says No Tax on Overtime will help his deputies better plan how to spend their money: “They work extremely hard and have an extremely tragic job — every one of them.”
    In Hawaii, a restaurant owner says No Tax on Tips will be a boon for his employees: “I think any amount of money saved will have great impact … that would affect absolutely every non-manager in the house. Everybody’s tipped here.”
    In Nevada, a service worker says No Tax on Tips will make a huge difference for hardworking people like her: “It definitely will be a couple of hundred dollars in our paychecks — which it goes far.”
    In Texas, a fourth-generation farmer says the pro-agriculture provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill will be difference-maker: “We definitely need a strong safety net for America’s farmers.”
    In Michigan, a waitress says the extra money as a result of No Tax on Tips will help care for her four children: “It would either go towards them or towards my house bills.”
    In Wisconsin, the vice president of the state’s restaurant association says No Tax on Tips will have a direct impact on peoples’ lives: “Many of our folks are part-time, either supplemental income to the family or are students putting themselves through school … this will help them achieve their goals.”
    In Florida, a Miami bartender says No Tax on Tips will be a big help since tips are 90% of his income: “A little bit more money in the working people’s pocket, and that just allows us the opportunity to get to enjoy our cities a little bit more.”
    In Minnesota, a bartender praises No Tax on Tips: “Any more money on our checks is going to be better — that we don’t have to give to the government.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: On Senate Floor, Murray Slams Rescissions Package, Warning Against Senselessly Abandoning Communities at Home and Leadership Abroad

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    FACT SHEET: Trump’s Rescission Package Would Gut Bipartisan Foreign Policy Investments

    FACT SHEET: Trump’s Rescission Package Would Devastate Local Public Radio, TV Stations Across America

    ICYMI: Vought Refuses to Rule Out More Illegal End-Runs Around Congress & Refuses to Detail How Trump Will Execute Cuts If Rescissions Bill Passes—Murray Urges Congress to Reject Package in its Entirety

    Murray on claims passing the bill is about fiscal responsibility: “You could cut the equivalent of this bill every single day, for an entire year, and it still would not match the cost of the billionaire tax cuts Republicans passed last week.”

    ***WATCH: Senator Murray’s floor remarks***

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, delivered the following remarks on the Senate floor laying out the devastation President Trump’s rescission package would cause for local news stations nationwide and their emergency preparedness systems and underscoring how it will gut bipartisan foreign policy investments, ceding America’s global leadership—all while doing nothing to get our “fiscal house in order.”

    Senator Murray’s remarks, as delivered, are below:

    [HYPOCRISY ON DEBTS, DEFICITS, AND “FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY”]

    “Mr. President, last week Republicans made the wrong kind of history. That is because, last week, they passed what may well be the single most expensive piece of legislation in the history of our country—all to help the rich and hurt the poor. This should go in the Guinness Book of World Records.

    “And let’s not forget, the history doesn’t end there. Because they passed the biggest bill in the history of the Senate with the biggest gimmick in the history of the Senate—basically saying that trillions of dollars in tax cuts for billionaires are free.

    “This farce is only getting worse—because do you know what Republicans are turning to now? Do you know what the next order of business in the Senate is? They are going to take up President Trump’s request to slash local news and bipartisan foreign policy investments, in order to ‘balance the debt.’

    “That is a serious case of amnesia. Republicans just saddled the national credit card with a $4 trillion in debt—that’s trillions with a ‘T’—so they could give massive tax breaks to the richest people in the country. And they would have added even more to that debt if they didn’t cut over a trillion in health care and nutrition assistance for millions of Americans.

    “But now that it is passed, now that they’ve saddled the next generation with loads of debt to help billionaire donors, many Republicans want to return to talking now about ‘getting the nation’s fiscal house in order.’

    “Are you kidding me? Do you really think we don’t remember what just happened last week? Well thank goodness for C-SPAN, and we all should review the tape.

    “One week ago, Republicans were pretending trillions in debt for tax giveaways to their corporate buddies and mega donors was nothing—literally nothing.

    “And now, these same Republicans say local news, which provides crucial information in emergencies, is just too expensive to support.

    “Now, these same Republicans say we just can’t afford to continue lifesaving aid that prevents famine and epidemics.

    “Even though—keep in mind—we are talking about a sum total of less than 0.14 percent of our overall federal budget.

    “The irony is almost as rich as the corporate CEOs who made out like bandits in that big, awful, mess Republicans passed last week.

    [DEVASTATING CUTS TO PUBLIC BROADCASTING]

    “And this rescissions package is not just bad because many Republicans are trying to have it both ways on deficits and debt now. It’s just plain ole bad on the substance. These cuts would hurt our communities, and they hurt our country. 

    “Let’s start with local news. Republicans are trying to rip away investments that support over 1,500 local public TV and radio stations. These are stations that serve rural areas, and they give them local news you simply can’t find anywhere else.

    “Coverage that matters to people like what community events are coming up, how the school board is preparing for next year, weather and market reports for our farmers, not to mention emergency alerts when a disaster strikes.

    “You do not have to look hard to find an example of how important it is we get disaster warnings right. When the devastating wildfires hit southern California earlier this year, public radio broadcasts let millions of people know how to stay safe. When Hurricane Helene battered North Carolina, a local public radio station was the only source of information for many people. And, of course, the recent tragedy in Texas, and the flooding in New Mexico.

    “These were incredibly deadly floods—my heart goes out to all the families who are affected, especially those who lost loved ones. And my deep gratitude goes out to the first responders. I’m committed to helping these communities recover. To coming together like we always do as a nation after tragedy.

    “And while we learn more about what they needed, one thing all of our communities need, is strong emergency response systems. And one thing I can tell you, when dangers arise cutting local news stations, silencing trusted sources that can push out important warnings when cell towers fail, and your home internet connection goes out—that won’t make anything better.

    “And Mr. President, don’t even get me started on how this rescissions bill will hurt free, educational programming for countless kids. We’re talking about shows kids and parents love. But after saddling our country with trillions in debt for billionaires, many Republicans are saying there’s just not a penny left for our kids.

    “‘Sorry—we’re going to feed Big Bird to the Fat Cats.’

    “That’s the message Republicans are sending. This isn’t quite how they’d put it on Sesame Street, but America knows that message is brought to you by the letters BS. And it is so dangerously short sighted.

    “Talk to any parent, they will warn you: If Republican cuts end up canceling free, high-quality programming that is thoughtfully developed to get kids thinking and grow their curiosity, there’s an alarming amount of low-quality junk to fill that void. Content that is instead, carefully engineered to keep kids watching, and shorten their attention spans. 

    “Actually, you know what? It makes sense. Maybe getting our kids hooked on brain-rot TV is part of the Republican plan. After all, if our children are watching PBS, they might learn to count. And if our kids learn to count how will Republicans ever convince anyone that trillions of dollars in tax cuts are free?

    [GUTTING BIPARTISAN FOREIGN POLICY INVESTMENTS]

    “I know, let’s not forget President Trump wants Senate Republicans to rip up investments they themselves—they themselves—helped secure to advance America’s global leadership. Apparently being the leader of the free world is now just too expensive.

    “The reality of the matter is that these are investments are investments that pay off for our own country. From supporting American farmers and companies who provide the food assistance that saves lives; to stopping dangerous viruses and epidemics while they are still far overseas before they have a chance to threaten American lives; to preventing conflict, avoiding chaos and crisis that can cause a dangerous spiral; to strengthening our ties with key partners and defending our interests in international organizations.

    “We don’t just make these investments because they are the right thing to do, we do it because it is the smart thing to do for America.

    “But it’s worth saying Mr. President, it’s the right thing to do as well. And it is unthinkably wrong that this president is willing to shell out trillions for some of the richest people in the world, only to turn around and say that less than a penny a day is too expensive to protect hundreds of thousands of little girls from HIV.

    “It is wrong for Republicans to say, ‘oh we’ve got to get those corporate executives a big bonus,’ only to turn around and say: ‘oh we don’t really have to worry about the work our farmers do to help those starving kids.’

    “It is also foolish to think this is just a luxury, or charitable work. Our farmers know better. Americans who contract infectious diseases abroad know better. The companies in our states who work overseas to stabilize conflict-affected communities alongside DOD, they know better. It is bad strategy and a surefire way to hand China the upper hand.

    “But we cannot lose sight of the fact that it is just plain wrong.

    “Let’s be clear, if they cut this funding Republicans will not just be turning America away from the world, they will be turning the world away from America.

    “Do Republicans really want to cause needless suffering, or slash bipartisan funding, and break commitments we already made together to save a quick buck? Is America’s credibility so cheap to them?

    “They talk about peace through strength as if they are carrying on Ronald Reagan’s legacy. Reagan spent about half-a-percent of our GDP on foreign assistance. Today we spend less than half that. 

    “And keep in mind, the cuts proposed here are really, they are a drop in the bucket compared to the tsunami of spending and tax giveaways Republicans just passed. I mean, you could cut every single penny the U.S. has spent of foreign assistance since World War II and it would not add up to the cost of the tax cuts Republicans passed last week.

    [UNDERMINING BIPARTISAN APPROPRIATIONS PROCESS]

    “And that’s all saying nothing about how pushing this through won’t just cut bipartisan investments, it will cut out the heart of the basic principles that make bipartisan deals possible.

    “How are we supposed to negotiate a bipartisan deal if Republicans will turn around and put it through the shredder in a partisan vote. This entire package next week should be rejected outright. There is nothing about it that is serious—except for the threat it poses to our communities.

    “To suggest, even for a second, Republicans are doing this to address the debt is laughable. And I encourage the American people to laugh at anyone who pretends as much. Because you could cut the equivalent of this bill every single day, for an entire year, and it still would not match the cost of the billionaire tax cuts Republicans passed last week.

    “So, to my Republican colleagues, instead of doing Trump’s dirty work, instead of doing Russell Vought’s bidding, let’s do our jobs. Reject these partisan cuts to bipartisan funding, turn our focus squarely to the job ahead—writing bipartisan full funding appropriations bills.

    “And you know what? If there’s a discrete pot of funding that is not being spent well, if there are cuts that makes sense to include, if there are things that need to be updated, things that need to be reformed, let’s a have a conversation about what makes sense to rescind and improve as we write those bills in committee—the way we’ve always done.

    “My Democratic colleagues and I have said for months we are willing to discuss rescissions in our bipartisan spending bills. We have done this in a bipartisan fashion for years—no matter who is in the White House, or which party has had the majority in either chamber. 

    “My commitment to Chair Collins and my colleagues on other side of the aisle remains the same. I’m willing to work with you to include rescissions in our bipartisan spending bills as we continue to work on the fiscal year 2026 process. 

    “Instead of moving forward with this partisan rescission package, let’s reject that package and have these discussions and work together. Let’s move forward on the bipartisan appropriations process and address all of those decision there.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hawley Reintroduces Bill Banning Chinese Ownership of American Land, Homes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo)

    Thursday, July 10, 2025

    Today, U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) reintroduced legislation to ban Chinese corporations and individuals associated with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) from owning American agricultural land and homes. The Senator’s introduction of the Protecting Our Farms and Homes from China Act comes after the Trump Administration recently unveiled its National Farm Security Action Plan, a comprehensive strategy to respond to this challenge and protect our farmland and food supply chains.
    “China’s ownership of U.S. farmland poses a direct threat to American interests,”said Senator Hawley. “We should never let our nation’s greatest adversary have access to our vital resources, including our housing supply. That’s why I’m reintroducing legislation to protect American assets from the CCP once and for all.”
    According to the USDA, Chinese entities own around 278,000 acres of agricultural land across the country, a total that has spiked 350 percent since 2010. The ownership of so much acreage by our nation’s greatest geopolitical adversary undermines the integrity of our food supply and creates unacceptable national security risks, particularly given the proximity of much of this land to sensitive military installations.
    The Protecting Our Farms and Homes from China Act would:
    Prohibit Chinese corporations and individuals affiliated with the CCP from acquiring or leasing United States’ agricultural land;
    Prohibit Chinese corporations and individuals associated with the CCP from purchasing residential real estate in the United States for a period of at least two years, with an option for the President to renew the prohibition biennially;
    Require Chinese corporations and individuals affiliated with the CCP to divest ownership of United States’ agricultural land and residential real estate within one year;
    Establish civil fines and criminal penalties for noncompliance, including forfeiture.
    Read the full bill here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Desperate Afghan refugees return to an unfamiliar home

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    The agency is calling for calm and cooperation to provide a dignified path forward for millions of displaced Afghans.

    More than 1.6 million Afghans have returned from both neighbouring countries in 2024 alone, according to UNHCR – a figure that has already surpassed earlier forecasts for the entire year.

    ‘From Afghanistan – not of Afghanistan’

    The scale and speed of these returns are placing enormous pressure on border provinces ill-equipped to absorb them, exacerbating poverty, insecurity and humanitarian need in a country still reeling from economic collapse and widespread human rights abuses.

    Complicating the situation further is the fact that many returnees – especially women and children – are coming back to a country they barely know.

    “They are from Afghanistan [but] not of Afghanistan – often born abroad with better education and different cultural norms. Their outlook is different from and often at odds with present day Afghanistan,” says Arafat Jamal, UNHCR Representative in the country.

    Women and girls in particular face a jarring shift: from relative autonomy in host countries to a context where their rights are severely restricted by edicts from Taliban authorities.

    © UNICEF/Shehzad Noorani

    Women’s rights in Afghanistan continue to face severe setbacks, with restrictions deepening across education, employment and public life

    Disorientated and disorganised

    He reported conditions that he had seen for himself recently in Islam Qala, a key border crossing with Iran.

    Daily arrivals have surged to around 50,000 people, many of them disoriented and exhausted after arduous journeys. UN officials described scenes of desperation at reception centres.

    “Many of these returnees have been abruptly uprooted and have undergone arduous, exhausting and degrading journeys – they arrive tired, disoriented, brutalised and often in despair, and they sprawl throughout a crowded centre in often 40°C (104°F) heat,” Mr. Jamal said.

    While some returns are voluntary, he added that many are occurring under duress or without proper protections in place. Those returning include both officially registered refugees and people in “refugee-like” situations who may face serious risks upon arrival.

    Funding crisis

    The UN and humanitarian partners have mounted a broad-based response along the borders, providing food, water, health services, protection and onward transportation.

    However, funding shortfalls are critically hampering operations. UNHCR’s response is just 28 per cent funded as of July, forcing aid agencies to ration supplies and make painful choices.

    “We are living on borrowed funds,” Mr. Jamal said. “Daily, we are asking ourselves – should we give one blanket instead of four? One meal instead of three? These are heartbreaking, soul-destroying decisions.”

    The situation is equally dire for other agencies: the wider, UN-led 2025 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan for Afghanistan – which seeks $2.4 billion to assist nearly 17 million people across the country – is only 22 per cent funded.

    Poverty and drought

    Recent UN assessments have also warned of deteriorating conditions and deepening poverty within Afghanistan.

    The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) issued alerts over worsening drought across much of the country, while the UN Development Programme (UNDP) reports that 70 per cent of Afghans already live at subsistence levels, as the collapse of public services and ongoing rights violations leaves millions in despair.

    As returnees cross the border, often without notice or resources, local populations are being stretched to the limit.

    Mr. Jamal noted that this “precarity layered upon poverty” risks fuelling frustration, competition over limited resources and new forms of social tension.

    “Afghanistan may be welcoming, but it is wholly unprepared to receive this volume of returnees,” he said. “The communities who are taking people in are doing so with great generosity, but they are themselves in crisis.”

    Global attention

    The growing emergency comes just days after the UN General Assembly overwhelmingly adopted a resolution expressing “deep concern” over deteriorating conditions facing Afghans.

    The resolution, passed with 116 votes in favour and only two against, urged the Taliban to reverse repressive policies and called for renewed international cooperation to support Afghan civilians.

    The resolution highlighted the need for “coherent approaches” that bridge humanitarian, development and political efforts. It also called on donor countries to maintain or increase support.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Desperate Afghan refugees return to an unfamiliar home

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI

    The agency is calling for calm and cooperation to provide a dignified path forward for millions of displaced Afghans.

    More than 1.6 million Afghans have returned from both neighbouring countries in 2024 alone, according to UNHCR – a figure that has already surpassed earlier forecasts for the entire year.

    ‘From Afghanistan – not of Afghanistan’

    The scale and speed of these returns are placing enormous pressure on border provinces ill-equipped to absorb them, exacerbating poverty, insecurity and humanitarian need in a country still reeling from economic collapse and widespread human rights abuses.

    Complicating the situation further is the fact that many returnees – especially women and children – are coming back to a country they barely know.

    “They are from Afghanistan [but] not of Afghanistan – often born abroad with better education and different cultural norms. Their outlook is different from and often at odds with present day Afghanistan,” says Arafat Jamal, UNHCR Representative in the country.

    Women and girls in particular face a jarring shift: from relative autonomy in host countries to a context where their rights are severely restricted by edicts from Taliban authorities.

    © UNICEF/Shehzad Noorani

    Women’s rights in Afghanistan continue to face severe setbacks, with restrictions deepening across education, employment and public life

    Disorientated and disorganised

    He reported conditions that he had seen for himself recently in Islam Qala, a key border crossing with Iran.

    Daily arrivals have surged to around 50,000 people, many of them disoriented and exhausted after arduous journeys. UN officials described scenes of desperation at reception centres.

    “Many of these returnees have been abruptly uprooted and have undergone arduous, exhausting and degrading journeys – they arrive tired, disoriented, brutalised and often in despair, and they sprawl throughout a crowded centre in often 40°C (104°F) heat,” Mr. Jamal said.

    While some returns are voluntary, he added that many are occurring under duress or without proper protections in place. Those returning include both officially registered refugees and people in “refugee-like” situations who may face serious risks upon arrival.

    Funding crisis

    The UN and humanitarian partners have mounted a broad-based response along the borders, providing food, water, health services, protection and onward transportation.

    However, funding shortfalls are critically hampering operations. UNHCR’s response is just 28 per cent funded as of July, forcing aid agencies to ration supplies and make painful choices.

    “We are living on borrowed funds,” Mr. Jamal said. “Daily, we are asking ourselves – should we give one blanket instead of four? One meal instead of three? These are heartbreaking, soul-destroying decisions.”

    The situation is equally dire for other agencies: the wider, UN-led 2025 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan for Afghanistan – which seeks $2.4 billion to assist nearly 17 million people across the country – is only 22 per cent funded.

    Poverty and drought

    Recent UN assessments have also warned of deteriorating conditions and deepening poverty within Afghanistan.

    The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) issued alerts over worsening drought across much of the country, while the UN Development Programme (UNDP) reports that 70 per cent of Afghans already live at subsistence levels, as the collapse of public services and ongoing rights violations leaves millions in despair.

    As returnees cross the border, often without notice or resources, local populations are being stretched to the limit.

    Mr. Jamal noted that this “precarity layered upon poverty” risks fuelling frustration, competition over limited resources and new forms of social tension.

    “Afghanistan may be welcoming, but it is wholly unprepared to receive this volume of returnees,” he said. “The communities who are taking people in are doing so with great generosity, but they are themselves in crisis.”

    Global attention

    The growing emergency comes just days after the UN General Assembly overwhelmingly adopted a resolution expressing “deep concern” over deteriorating conditions facing Afghans.

    The resolution, passed with 116 votes in favour and only two against, urged the Taliban to reverse repressive policies and called for renewed international cooperation to support Afghan civilians.

    The resolution highlighted the need for “coherent approaches” that bridge humanitarian, development and political efforts. It also called on donor countries to maintain or increase support.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Risch Introduce Bill to Codify Trump EO on Defunding Radical Gender Ideology in Schools

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-ID) in introducing the Say No to Indoctrination Act to codify President Trump’s executive order preventing taxpayer dollars from funding radical gender ideology in K-12 schools.
     “Our children go to school to be educated, not indoctrinated,” said Sen. Tuberville. “I’ve always said that education is the key to unlocking opportunity. But under Joe Biden, Democrats turned our children’s classrooms into woke propaganda HQ. Schools should focus on teaching kids to read, write, and do math. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Say No to Indoctrination Act to get woke politics out of the classroom.”
    “Schools should prepare our children for the future, not promote radical gender ideology,” said Sen. Risch.“The Say No to Indoctrination Act puts an end to woke education practices in K-12 schools and makes President Trump’s common-sense policy permanent.”
    Sens. Tuberville and Risch were joined by Sens. Ted Budd (R-NC), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Roger Marshall (R-KS), and Eric Schmitt (R-MO) in cosponsoring this legislation. 
    Concerned Women for American and the American Principles Project endorsed this legislation.
    Read full text of the bill here.
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Risch Introduce Bill to Codify Trump EO on Defunding Radical Gender Ideology in Schools

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-ID) in introducing the Say No to Indoctrination Act to codify President Trump’s executive order preventing taxpayer dollars from funding radical gender ideology in K-12 schools.
     “Our children go to school to be educated, not indoctrinated,” said Sen. Tuberville. “I’ve always said that education is the key to unlocking opportunity. But under Joe Biden, Democrats turned our children’s classrooms into woke propaganda HQ. Schools should focus on teaching kids to read, write, and do math. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Say No to Indoctrination Act to get woke politics out of the classroom.”
    “Schools should prepare our children for the future, not promote radical gender ideology,” said Sen. Risch.“The Say No to Indoctrination Act puts an end to woke education practices in K-12 schools and makes President Trump’s common-sense policy permanent.”
    Sens. Tuberville and Risch were joined by Sens. Ted Budd (R-NC), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Roger Marshall (R-KS), and Eric Schmitt (R-MO) in cosponsoring this legislation. 
    Concerned Women for American and the American Principles Project endorsed this legislation.
    Read full text of the bill here.
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Risch Introduce Bill to Codify Trump EO on Defunding Radical Gender Ideology in Schools

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-ID) in introducing the Say No to Indoctrination Act to codify President Trump’s executive order preventing taxpayer dollars from funding radical gender ideology in K-12 schools.
     “Our children go to school to be educated, not indoctrinated,” said Sen. Tuberville. “I’ve always said that education is the key to unlocking opportunity. But under Joe Biden, Democrats turned our children’s classrooms into woke propaganda HQ. Schools should focus on teaching kids to read, write, and do math. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Say No to Indoctrination Act to get woke politics out of the classroom.”
    “Schools should prepare our children for the future, not promote radical gender ideology,” said Sen. Risch.“The Say No to Indoctrination Act puts an end to woke education practices in K-12 schools and makes President Trump’s common-sense policy permanent.”
    Sens. Tuberville and Risch were joined by Sens. Ted Budd (R-NC), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Roger Marshall (R-KS), and Eric Schmitt (R-MO) in cosponsoring this legislation. 
    Concerned Women for American and the American Principles Project endorsed this legislation.
    Read full text of the bill here.
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Risch Introduce Bill to Codify Trump EO on Defunding Radical Gender Ideology in Schools

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-ID) in introducing the Say No to Indoctrination Act to codify President Trump’s executive order preventing taxpayer dollars from funding radical gender ideology in K-12 schools.
     “Our children go to school to be educated, not indoctrinated,” said Sen. Tuberville. “I’ve always said that education is the key to unlocking opportunity. But under Joe Biden, Democrats turned our children’s classrooms into woke propaganda HQ. Schools should focus on teaching kids to read, write, and do math. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Say No to Indoctrination Act to get woke politics out of the classroom.”
    “Schools should prepare our children for the future, not promote radical gender ideology,” said Sen. Risch.“The Say No to Indoctrination Act puts an end to woke education practices in K-12 schools and makes President Trump’s common-sense policy permanent.”
    Sens. Tuberville and Risch were joined by Sens. Ted Budd (R-NC), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Roger Marshall (R-KS), and Eric Schmitt (R-MO) in cosponsoring this legislation. 
    Concerned Women for American and the American Principles Project endorsed this legislation.
    Read full text of the bill here.
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Opens Business Recovery Center in Kerrville to Help Businesses Impacted by July Storms and Flooding

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today the opening of an SBA Business Recovery Center (BRC) in Kerr County to assist small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and flooding beginning July 2.

    Beginning Friday, July 11, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the Business Recovery Center in Kerrville to answer questions and assist with the disaster loan application process. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Those who prefer to schedule an in-person appointment in advance can do so at appointment.sba.gov.

    The center’s hours of operation are as follows:

    KERR COUNTY

    Business Recovery Center

    The YES Center at First Presbyterian Church

    823 North St.

    Kerrville, TX  78028

    Opens at 11 a.m. Friday, July 11

    Mondays – Fridays, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

    Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

    “SBA’s Business Recovery Centers have consistently proven their value to business owners following a disaster,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “Business owners can visit these centers to meet face‑to‑face with specialists who will guide them through the disaster loan application process and connect them with resources to support their recovery.”

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to these disasters. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

    SBA representatives will also provide help to business owners and residents at disaster recovery centers when they are opened in the impacted area.

    Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.813% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines eligibility and sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is Sept. 4, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is April 6, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Opens Business Recovery Center in Kerrville to Help Businesses Impacted by July Storms and Flooding

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today the opening of an SBA Business Recovery Center (BRC) in Kerr County to assist small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and flooding beginning July 2.

    Beginning Friday, July 11, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the Business Recovery Center in Kerrville to answer questions and assist with the disaster loan application process. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Those who prefer to schedule an in-person appointment in advance can do so at appointment.sba.gov.

    The center’s hours of operation are as follows:

    KERR COUNTY

    Business Recovery Center

    The YES Center at First Presbyterian Church

    823 North St.

    Kerrville, TX  78028

    Opens at 11 a.m. Friday, July 11

    Mondays – Fridays, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

    Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

    “SBA’s Business Recovery Centers have consistently proven their value to business owners following a disaster,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “Business owners can visit these centers to meet face‑to‑face with specialists who will guide them through the disaster loan application process and connect them with resources to support their recovery.”

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to these disasters. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

    SBA representatives will also provide help to business owners and residents at disaster recovery centers when they are opened in the impacted area.

    Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.813% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines eligibility and sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is Sept. 4, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is April 6, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Announces Expedited Assistance for Vermont Farmers Impacted by Natural Disasters 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    BURLINGTON, VT – Today, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) announced that Vermont farmers and producers affected by crop losses from natural disasters in 2023 and 2024 can now submit applications for assistance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Supplemental Disaster Relief Program. More than $16 billion in aid, made possible by the American Relief Act, 2025, will support farmers across the U.S., including in Vermont, who suffered agricultural and revenue losses due to natural disasters. This funding for farmers was a priority championed by Senator Welch. 
    Vermont producers impacted by natural disasters in 2023 and 2024 can learn more about applying for USDA disaster relief payments here. 
    “After brutal flooding wreaked havoc across Vermont in 2023 and again in 2024, I promised our farmers the federal government would be there to help. This funding will provide more than $16 billion to producers across the country who were victim to natural disasters—including those hit hard by flooding in the Green Mountain State. I’ll keep working with USDA to get more disaster aid to Vermont’s impacted farms,” said Senator Welch. 
    This funding is currently only open to those who received assistance through crop insurance or the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance program in 2023 and 2024. Sign-ups are happening in-person at the county offices of the Farm Service Agency, and pre-filled applications were mailed out to eligible producers earlier this week. USDA will share additional information on how producers that suffered shallow or uncovered losses can apply for assistance later this year. 
    Further USDA disaster assistance information can be found on farmers.gov, including the Disaster Assistance Discovery Tool, Disaster-at-a-Glance fact sheet, Loan Assistance Tool, and the FarmRaise online FSA education hub. Payment details will be updated here weekly. For more information, Vermont farmers can contact their local USDA Service Center. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Statement on Trump’s Escalation of Trade War with Canada

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    BURLINGTON, VT—U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today released the following reaction to President Trump’s threat to impose a 35% tariff on Canada, beginning August 1, 2025: 
    “The president’s unnecessary trade war with Canada has already hurt Vermont’s businesses, farmers, and manufacturers—this escalation will only throw fuel on the fire.  
    “Canada is Vermont’s top trading partner, and the same is true of 34 states. Canada is our friend and our neighbor. This uncertainty is disruptive and detrimental to our economy. Tourism in Vermont from Canada has dramatically decreased as a result of the president’s careless rhetoric, hurting hotels, restaurants, and downtowns. Manufacturers are cutting their workforce. Farmers are paying more for fertilizer. Tariffs are taxes, and the president is threatening to raise taxes on American consumers.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Patrushev: Agricultural lands will be protected from unjustified withdrawal from circulation

    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.

    Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev held a meeting of the Government Commission on Agro-Industrial, Fishing Complexes and Sustainable Development of Rural Territories. The meeting was attended by the management of relevant departments and companies. The main topic was measures aimed at increasing the efficiency of agricultural production.

    Dmitry Patrushev noted that in the first months of this year, agricultural production grew by 1.5% compared to the same period in 2024. To support the agro-industrial and fisheries complexes, as well as the development of rural areas, the Government has already allocated more than 560 billion rubles in 2025.

    “Right now, one of the most important stages of the year for the industry is the harvesting campaign. Work has started in 22 regions. The Russian Ministry of Agriculture maintains its forecast expectations for the main crops, including plans to harvest about 135 million tons of grain,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

    Dmitry Patrushev emphasized that the development of agricultural production relies largely on the rational use of land resources. For this purpose, the relevant mechanisms are systematically improved.

    “A separate state program of the Ministry of Agriculture of Russia is aimed at involving agricultural lands into circulation and increasing their fertility. Thanks to its activities, more than 2 million hectares have been brought into use in three years. Together with the Federal Assembly, we are developing the regulatory framework. Since 2022, six federal laws have been adopted for this purpose. This year, the so-called law on two keys was approved, which assumes that the opinion of the Ministry of Agriculture is taken into account when making decisions on transferring agricultural lands to other categories. The inclusion of agricultural lands in the boundaries of populated areas must also be agreed upon with the Ministry of Agriculture. Thus, the most valuable lands will be protected from unjustified disposal,” said Dmitry Patrushev.

    The law will come into force in March 2026. The Deputy Prime Minister instructed the Ministry of Agriculture to promptly complete the preparation of legal acts for its implementation.

    In crop production, an important tool for increasing efficiency is the use of modern agricultural machinery. The meeting discussed the implementation of the preferential leasing program. Dmitry Patrushev noted that this is one of the most popular support measures, allowing the fleet to be updated.

    In 2024, Rosagroleasing delivered almost 19 thousand units of agricultural machinery and equipment to farmers – this is a record since the launch of the instrument in 2019. This year, the volume of subsidies for preferential leasing has increased by more than 40%.

    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.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Castro, Foster, Johnson Introduce the Strengthening Science Through Diplomacy Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joaquin Castro (20th District of Texas)

    July 11, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Yesterday, Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Congressman Bill Foster (IL-11), the co-chair of the Research and Development Caucus and only Ph.D. physicist in Congress, and Congressman Dusty Johnson (SD-AL), a senior member of the Agriculture Committee, introduced the Strengthening Science Through Diplomacy Act, legislation that would strengthen U.S. science and research partnerships by extending appropriate privileges and immunities to CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research. 

    “Strengthening international partnerships between European and U.S.-based scientists will pave the way for ground-breaking advances in the coming years,” said Congressman Castro. “The Strengthening Science Through Diplomacy Act will reduce barriers between the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) and American research institutions while maintaining our leadership in physics and nuclear research. I’m proud to introduce this bill with Congressmen Foster and Johnson, and I look forward to our continued collaboration and advancement within the global scientific community.” 

    “The exchange of knowledge and ideas across borders not only promotes peace, but also serves as a powerful instrument to address urgent global challenges. As a physicist, I spent more than two decades working with colleagues from around the globe at Fermilab in Illinois, where scientific collaboration transcended national boundaries and helped us better understand the world around us,” said Congressman Foster. “I’m proud to join Reps. Castro and Johnson in introducing this bipartisan legislation, which is an important step in solidifying our partnership with CERN and maintaining our nation’s role as a leader in scientific research.”  

    BACKGROUND

    The International Organization Immunities Act, enacted in 1945, governs how the United States extends the rights and treaties to international organizations like CERN. The U.S. typically extends automatic privileges and immunities to international organizations to which it belongs (e.g. the UN, NATO), but a special act of Congress is needed to extend recognition to international organizations where the United States is not a member. The Strengthening Science Through Diplomacy Act would amend the International Organizations Immunities Act to extend necessary privileges and immunities to CERN. If passed, the legislation would protect the independence of CERN researchers, ease travel to the United States for CERN officials, and support research and development cooperation between CERN and U.S.-based scientists.

    CERN currently partners with six U.S. National Laboratories, including Argonne National Laboratory and Fermilab in Illinois, Brookhaven National Laboratory in New York, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory and Lawrence Berkley National Laboratory in California, and Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee. The partnership, which is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, the National Science Foundation, and CERN, enables researchers employed by American universities and national laboratories to work on the international high energy physics experiments hosted at CERN. These experiments contribute to innovations in computing, medicine, radiation sensing, cryogenic cooling, superconducting materials, and other fields that are critical to U.S. security, technological capability, and economic development.

    Congressman Castro previously reintroduced the PARTNER with ASEAN Act and Strengthening U.S.-Caribbean Partnership Act, similar legislation to extend diplomatic privileges and immunities to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), respectively. 

    The full text of the Strengthening Science Through Diplomacy Act can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Peters Secures Funding for Michigan Priorities in Agriculture Appropriations Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) helped the Senate Appropriations Committee pass the Fiscal Year 2026 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. This bipartisan legislation would fund critical federal agencies and programs that support rural communities, food safety, and America’s robust agricultural economy. The bill also supports Michigan’s agriculture priorities as well as high-impact local projects across Michigan. The bill now advances to the full Senate. 

    “This bill makes investments that matter to Michigan, like strengthening local emergency response efforts, supporting our robust agricultural economy, and improving access to affordable food,” said Senator Peters. “It also delivers resources for food safety initiatives that will help keep all Americans healthy. I’ll keep advocating for these key priorities as this bill moves to the full Senate.” 

    Meanwhile, the House of Representatives is considering their own funding bills. The Senate and House will then need to reach an agreement on a final funding bill and have it pass both chambers before being sent to the President to be signed into law.

    The bill includes numerous measures led and supported by Peters, including: 

    Funding to Support Communities in Michigan:

    New Fire Truck for City of Alpena: Peters secured $1,105,000 in the bill for the City of Alpena to replace an essential aerial ladder fire truck to help ensure safe and efficient operations.

    Improving Public Safety in Bad Axe: The bill includes $850,000 to support the construction of a new public safety building for the City of Bad Axe. The project would help ensure that first responders have the resources they need to efficiently and effectively respond to emergencies.

    New Fire Engine for the City of Berkley: The bill would provide $385,000 to replace the City of Berkley’s primary front-line fire engine responsible for responding to fire and vehicle extraction emergencies.

    Upgrading Emergency Communications Infrastructure in Big Creek Township: Peters secured $74,000 for the Big Creek Township Fire Department to upgrade its radio system. The new system will ensure department staff can efficiently and effectively communicate when responding to emergencies. 

    New Fire Truck for City of Big Rapids: The bill includes $378,000 for the City of Big Rapids to purchase a new fire truck, which will improve community safety and be used to better protect both people and property. 

    New Aerial Ladder Truck for Escanaba: The bill would provide $700,000 for the Escanaba Public Safety Department to replace an aerial ladder fire truck essential to providing safe and efficient emergency and fire services for the community.

    Training First Responders in Grand Traverse County: Peters secured $80,000 in the bill to support the construction of a new training facility for the Northwest Regional Fire Training Center Authority. The facility would support education and training needs for fire, EMS, local and state law enforcement, and maritime professionals. 

    Improving Wildfire Response in Montcalm: The bill would provide $245,000 for the Lakeview District Fire Department in Montcalm to purchase equipment needed to adequately protect the community and property from growing threats of wildfires. 

    Expanding Access to Child Care in Stanton: Peters secured $225,000 to expand the Central Montcalm Public School’s Early Childhood Center to provide more childcare and educational services for the community. 

    New Plow Truck for Village of Ontonagon: The bill includes $169,000 for the Village of Ontonagon to purchase a new plow truck, which will help keep streets and alleyways clear of snow and ice for the safety of both residents and visitors to the nearby Porcupine Mountains State Park.

    New Fire Engine for the City of Rockwood: The bill would provide $765,000 for the City of Rockwood to purchase a new fire engine to help strengthen its fire response for the community. 

    Improving Library Access in Caro: The bill includes $200,000 secured by Peters, which will be used to modernize a 46-year-old elevator currently in use at the Caro Area District Library.

    Supporting Farmers & Michigan’s Agricultural Sector:

    Funding for Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS): This bill includes funding for APHIS, which helps farmers combat specialty crop pests. This funding would support Peters’ Spotted Wing Abatement Trust (SWAT) Act, legislation that aims to reduce the spread of, and advance research on, the spotted wing drosophila (SWD). SWD an invasive insect that harms fruit growers and their crops in Michigan and across the country.  

    Research to Advance Technology in Agriculture: Peters supported a provision in the bill to provide funding for the Agricultural Research Service Crop Production Program, which would allow researchers to identify and develop new methods for increasing crop production sustainably using emerging technologies. These methods include satellites, geospatial systems, and artificial intelligence. 

    Promoting Urban Farming and Indoor Agriculture Sector: The bill includes funding for the Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production Program, which seeks to promote urban, indoor, and other innovative agricultural practices that have been adopted for use in both urban and rural areas to bolster local food systems and extend short growing seasons. 

    Boosting Agricultural Research: The bill includes funding for the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), which provides funding for key research projects that can contribute to substantial breakthroughs in food, agriculture, natural resources, and human sciences. Investments from NIFA help ensure that farmers, ranchers, and foresters have access to fair and competitive markets, while supporting resilient growing practices that produce nutritious and affordable foods for American families.

    Strengthen Public Health & Expand Nutrition Assistance:

    Funding to Protect Domestic Violence Survivors and Their Pets: Peters secured $3 million in funding for the Emergency and Transitional Pet Shelter and Housing Assistance Grant Program, which provides funding to facilities who harbor survivors of domestic violence, along with their pets, as well as animal shelters that partner with domestic violence service providers. This program was established by Peters’ PAWS Act, which was signed into law in 2018. 

    Funding to Improve Food Safety: The bill includes funding for the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Human Foods Program, which aims to ensure the food we consume is safe and nutritious, including baby food and infant formula. The bill’s report language will begin the work to support FDA’s oversight of baby formula production and update food labeling and consumer guidance. This language was inspired by Peters’ Protect Infant Formula from Contamination Act, which would strengthen FDA’s oversight of infant formula manufacturing and improve the security of our nation’s infant formula supply, ensuring American families have access to safe, affordable formula.

    Language Requiring the FDA to Develop Monitoring Guidelines for Human Cell and Tissue Products (HCT/P): The bill includes language Peters secured that would require the FDA to examine the feasibility of implementing tissue-tracking protocols for HCT/Ps, similar to those required for solid organs and blood products. The bill also requests that the FDA works with other federal agencies to develop routine post HCT/P implant monitoring guidelines similar to current practices for all tissue allograft recipients. This provision builds on Senator Peters’ previous efforts to prevent tuberculosis contaminations in HCT/Ps, including introduction last Congress of the Shandra Eisenga Human Cell and Tissue Products Safety Act, which would establish an education campaign to prevent tuberculosis (TB) outbreaks from infected HCTP donations. 

    Supporting Nutrition Assistance: The bill funds critical programs that help meet the nutrition needs of American families across the country. The bill funds the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), which provides nutrition assistance to millions of women and children nationwide and includes funding to support fruit and vegetable benefits. 

    The bill also funds the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) which assists millions of Americans every month. Additionally, the bill funds vital nutrition programs aimed at supporting children in school, such as the federal school lunch and breakfast programs, and the Summer EBT program. The funding provided by this bill will support approximately 5 billion lunches and 2.7 billion breakfasts to children across the country. 

    Improving Food Safety: The bill provides funding for the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), a vital agency that helps protect the safety and resiliency of America’s food supply. 

    Improving Transparency in FDA Oversight: Peters secured language in the bill that would prevent the FDA from using funds for activities that are non-compliant with the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA), which governs the establishment, operation, and termination of advisory committees within the executive branch of the federal government. FACA’s main purpose is to ensure transparency and improve public access to the guidance provided by these committees.

    Improving Public Infrastructure:

    Strengthening Dam Infrastructure: The bill includes $1 million for the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Watershed Rehabilitation Program. This program provides technical and financial assistance to communities seeking to extend the service life of aging dam infrastructure and bring dams into compliance with current safety and performance standards. 

    Rental Assistance in Rural Communities: The bill provides funding for rental assistance for Americans living in rural areas to help expand access to safe and affordable housing options.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Ricketts Fights for a Prosperous America

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, during his weekly press call with Nebraska media, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) discussed the One Big Beautiful Bill and his work to secure American prosperity.

    Watch the video here.

    ”It’s rare to have the opportunity to set an entire nation on a better course for generations.  The One Big Beautiful Bill does just that,” said Ricketts.  ”It prevents a $2,443 tax increase on the average Nebraska family.  It gives Nebraska families and businesses financial freedom and the ability to grow.  It avoids a $4 trillion tax increase on all Americans.”

    TRANSCRIPT:

    Senator Ricketts: “It’s rare to have the opportunity to set an entire nation on a better course for generations. 

    “The One Big Beautiful Bill does just that. 

    “It is truly a win for America and Nebraska. 

    “It preserves, protects, and fosters growth. 

    “It strengthens what makes America great. 

    “It reforms and reduces the waste and inefficiencies that weaken us. 

    “One of the most important parts of this bill is lowering taxes. 

    “It extends and makes permanent the 2017 Trump tax cuts. 

    “It leaves more money in the wallets of Nebraskans.  

    “It prevents a $2,443 tax increase on the average Nebraska family. 

    “It gives Nebraska families and businesses financial freedom and the ability to grow. 

    “It avoids a $4 trillion tax increase on all Americans. 

    “Across the country, the average family of four would have seen a $1,700 tax increase without the One Big Beautiful Bill. 

    “In the bill, the highest percentage of tax cuts goes to people making less than $50,000 a year. 

    “Firefighters, nurses, factory workers, and servers who make money on tips or overtime will be the biggest benefactors. 

    “Now, these workers won’t be taxed on the tips and overtime pay that they work extra hard to earn. 

    “Their employers—whether corporations or small businesses—receive incentives to provide workers with childcare. 

    “That’s in addition to a child tax credit that’s being raised to $2,200 per child. 

    “It’s combined with enhancement of the dependent care assistance program, which excludes up $7,500 of dependent care assistance each year. 

    “And topped off with the child and dependent care tax credit which increases the maximum credit rate from 35% to 50% of care costs. 

    “This means that families are supported as they raise their children and other dependents. 

    “More money for Nebraska families and their needs is a win for America’s future. 

    “Supporting small business and expanding job opportunity is another win for Nebraska’s future. 

    “The One Big Beautiful Bill also permanently extends the immediate deduction of research and development costs. 

    “It allows business owners to fully expense heavy machinery and equipment while increasing the dollar limits of expensing for business assets. 

    “These enhancements for investments toward innovation, equipment, and tools will help American manufacturers remain the world leaders. 

    “It also permanently raises the death tax exemption, allowing ranches and farms to stay in the family. 

    “These changes make it easier for Nebraska businesses to reinvest in their companies and pass them on to the next generation. 

    “This helps everyone from farmers and ranchers to manufacturers and restaurant owners. 

    “The One Big Beautiful Bill encourages investment, so America stays the leading innovator.  

    “This creates jobs and innovation. 

    “It rewards ingenuity and entrepreneurship. 

    “And it makes Nebraska companies more competitive on the global stage. 

    “The One Big Beautiful Bill will increase the take-home pay for all Nebraska families. 

    “According to the Council of Economic Advisers, average take-home pay will increase $9,050 per worker in the first four years of the law’s implementation. 

    “For the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the CEA estimated a $4,000 increase in average household wage and salary income. 

    “It will ensure that money stays with Nebraska taxpayers. 

    “It unleashes American dynamism. 

    “It helps Nebraska families and the American worker.  

    “It is indeed One Big Beautiful Bill.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Devastating Impacts of Republicans’ ‘Big Ugly Bill’

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today released new data showing the devastating impacts of the Republicans’ “Big Ugly Bill” on New York State. The data show the enormous scale of the recently-enacted law, including draconian cuts to Medicaid, hospitals and SNAP benefits, and the impact of those cuts on the millions of New Yorkers who rely on these lifeline programs and services.

    “I’ve been very clear: no state can fully undo the damage in this bill or backfill cuts of this scale,” Governor Hochul said. “I’m working with the Legislature to brace for the impact and protect as many New Yorkers as possible because your family is my fight. I will never turn my back on New Yorkers or the values that we share.”

    Essential Plan/Medicaid Cuts
    Republicans’ cuts to health care and other benefits will hurt all New Yorkers. The changes will eliminate insurance coverage for millions of New Yorkers, destabilize health insurance programs statewide, and have an overall fiscal impact on the State and the New York health care system of almost $13 billion per year. These changes will make it harder for providers statewide to keep operating, making it more difficult for all New Yorkers to find care when they need it.

    • More than 2 million New Yorkers will lose their current insurance coverage, including approximately 730,000 lawfully-present non-citizens who could lose Essential Plan (EP) coverage as over half of EP’s budget — $7.5 billion in federal funding — is eliminated, and a further 1.3 million New Yorkers who will lose Medicaid coverage due to new eligibility and verification hurdles.
    • Of these 2 million people, 1.5 million New Yorkers are anticipated to become uninsured, with uncompensated care costs to hospitals and providers estimated to rise to over $3 billion annually — which means less access to care and higher medical bills for New Yorkers.
    • Analysis from the Greater New York Hospital Association (GNYHA) and the Healthcare Association of New York State (HANYS) estimates a total $8 billion in annual cuts to New York’s hospitals and health systems, which could force hospitals to curtail critically needed services such as maternity care and psychiatric treatment, not to mention to downsize operations, and even close entirely. These consequences will not only affect Medicaid enrollees, but also harm everyone who requires hospital care, leading to longer wait times and less access to critical services.

    The size and scope of the Rural Transformation Fund included in the law — an average of $10 billion annually for 5 years for rural hospitals nationwide — is wholly inadequate to meet the needs of our State. Adding insult to injury, none of these funds are guaranteed to reach any New York State hospital.

    SNAP and Nutrition Assistance
    Since the inception of SNAP, the federal government has funded these benefits 100 percent, receiving bipartisan support from presidents of both parties and in Congress.

    For the first time in history, the Republicans’ enacted law requires states to contribute to the cost of benefits, or risk having to end their SNAP programs entirely — jeopardizing a program that nearly 3 million New Yorkers rely on to put food on the table. New York State will be required to fund 15 percent of all SNAP benefits starting as early as October 1, 2027, at an estimated cost to the State of $1.2 billion per year. It further cuts the federal share of SNAP administrative costs from 50 percent to 25 percent which will increase costs for the State by roughly $36 million annually, and increase costs for counties and New York City by roughly $168 million annually. Counties will have to begin incorporating this fiscal hit into their 2026 budgets due this fall. In total, New York and local governments are facing up to $1.4 billion in new costs annually.

    The law also imposes more punitive administratively complex work requirements on SNAP recipients, which will make it harder to qualify for assistance. As a result, 300,000 households are projected to lose some or all of their SNAP benefits, with an average loss of $220/month, devastating low-income families’ grocery budgets.

    The law also cuts funds for the SNAP-Ed New York Program, which promotes healthy eating and efficient use of already modest SNAP benefits by teaching SNAP beneficiaries how to shop for and cook wholesome, healthy meals on a limited budget. As a result, New York will lose $29 million annually that funded this work by 18 community-based organizations throughout the entire State including Cornell Cooperative Extensions in Albany, Allegany, Erie, Wayne, Oneida, Onondaga, Orange, St. Lawrence, Steuben and Suffolk counties.

    Beyond worsening food insecurity and malnutrition, cuts to the program will hurt local businesses and weaken SNAP’s ability to boost local economies in every state. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) own research has shown that SNAP benefits have a multiplier effect, with every $1 spent on SNAP benefits generating $1.54 in economic activity as recipients spend their benefits at local businesses in their communities. For New York, where a total of approximately $7.4 billion in SNAP benefits are issued every year, that means $11.5 billion in economic activity is generated annually across urban, suburban, and rural areas alike.

    Slashing families’ grocery budgets would reduce revenue for thousands of businesses, with ripple effects throughout the food supply chain. If states are forced to end their SNAP programs, in addition to increasing hunger and poverty, grocery stores in rural areas will struggle to stay open, people in agriculture and the food industry will lose jobs, and State and local economies will suffer:

    • Lost SNAP sales and matching dollars will have a critical impact on local economies and the more than 18,000 retailers that accept SNAP in New York State, including grocery stores, local shops and more than 400 SNAP-authorized local farmers’ markets and farm stands that can be found in every county in New York selling New York agricultural products to the people in their local community.
    • SNAP sales in the farming community have dramatically increased since 2019, providing New York consumers access to healthy, farm fresh foods and providing our farm communities additional economic development dollars.
    • As the State matches SNAP dollars spent at farm markets through the Fresh2You FreshConnect program, the hit to farms of decreased SNAP funding is doubled.

    New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “This bill undermines health care for millions of New Yorkers, dismantles vital services, and places our most vulnerable families in jeopardy. With the support of Governor Hochul, we remain unwavering in our commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of all New Yorkers, ensuring they continue to receive the care and support they rightfully deserve.”

    New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Barbara C. Guinn said, “The historic cuts and cost shifts related to SNAP enacted last week will take food off the tables of hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers and shift billions of dollars in costs onto the backs of the State and local governments in New York, while weakening the very safety net families rely on when times are hard. As the State agency tasked with administering SNAP and other essential support programs, we are deeply concerned, not only for the immediate harm to individuals and families, but for the continued erosion of the social safety net that has helped support low-income New Yorkers across the state. At a time when so many households are struggling with the high cost of food, rent, and energy – we should not be reducing access to vital economic supports.”

    State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said, “By passing this bill, House Republicans have rubber-stamped Donald Trump’s cruel and dangerous agenda, one that rips Medicaid away from 1.5 million New Yorkers, slashes $13 billion from our healthcare system, and raises costs for working families. As we continue to assess the full scope of these devastating cuts, it’s clear that the damage will leave our state deeply vulnerable. All of the progress we’ve made is under threat. No state can fully fill the hole this bill has blown open but we are committed to doing everything in our power to protect New Yorkers and keep our communities thriving.”

    Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie said, “This bill will devastate the lives of countless families across our state, especially our most vulnerable neighbors. By cutting vital programs like SNAP and Medicaid, the administration has indicated that they care more about the pockets of their billionaire friends than they do about the families, children and people with disabilities that rely on this funding to survive day to day. I am truly disgusted by the public servants – especially New York’s seven Republican members of Congress – who voted for this and continue to lie about the impact this will have on their communities. They should be honest about the fact that they stood by their billionaire donors at a cost of their neighbors’ access to food, healthcare and essential services.”

    State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky said, “Our NY GOP Congressmembers have sold out millions of New Yorkers in fear of retribution from Donald Trump. This disgraceful bill continues a non-stop assault on our nation’s universities and seeks to destroy our educational institutions. I have worked hand-in-hand with Governor Hochul to keep our colleges affordable, accessible and of high quality and will continue to do so. These actions will ultimately hurt poor and middle class families, especially those in upstate and rural areas where our universities are the top economic driver. It’s an utter and complete betrayal of the people of New York State.”

    State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud said, “The cuts in this bill represent real harm to real people,” said Senator Roxanne J. Persaud. “Cutting essential programs like Medicaid and SNAP will hurt vulnerable individuals and families, increase hunger, and destabilize our health care system. These changes not only put over a million New Yorkers at risk of losing health coverage, but they also shift unsustainable costs to our state and local governments. This is a direct attack on the most underserved members in our communities, and it will leave our families, hospitals, and small businesses struggling.”

    State Senator Samra Brouk said, “The federal administration’s “Big Ugly Bill” betrays Americans by depriving them of health care coverage and raising healthcare costs across the board. It also enacts the largest SNAP cuts in American history. In New York State, many residents will lose healthcare coverage, hospitals will shoulder costs of uncompensated care, and increased medical bills will place a strain on anyone seeking care. Millions of New Yorkers will also be impacted by worsening food insecurity, loss of jobs in the food industry, and decreased SNAP funding for local farmers’ markets. This bill will cause irreparable harm to hardworking families and deepen inequity between working people and the ultra wealthy. New Yorkers deserve better–I will continue to fight for investments in our state, especially for children and working families, and prioritize the welfare of my neighbors.”

    Assemblymember Amy Paulin said, “As Chair of the Assembly Health Committee, I am deeply alarmed by the catastrophic impacts of the federal bill. Slashing Medicaid and Essential Plan funding will strip health care coverage from over 1.5 million New Yorkers and devastate our hospitals and providers — all while driving up costs for everyone else. These cruel and short-sighted cuts, combined with the gutting of SNAP benefits, will worsen health outcomes, increase hunger, and punish all of us.”

    Assemblymember Andrew Hevesi said, “This bill is the most devastating legislative assault on food assistance, healthcare, human services and Americans that we’ve seen in a generation. $13 billion in Medicaid cuts will put 1.5 million New Yorkers at risk of losing their healthcare. Nearly 300,000 New Yorkers — our constituents — are projected to lose SNAP benefits; including cuts in benefits to families with children, seniors, people with disabilities; domestic violence survivors, human trafficking survivors and veterans. Everyone involved in this bill — from the President to the 7 New York GOP Congressional Representatives who voted for it — have sold out their constituents and should be ashamed for callously tossing aside those who trusted them to represent their interests.”

    Assemblymember Maritza Dávila said, “The so-called ‘Big Ugly Bill’ is nothing short of a direct attack on low-income families, immigrants, seniors, and working people across New York. By slashing Medicaid, SNAP, and Essential Plan funding, Congressional Republicans have chosen cruelty over compassion — ripping food from the tables of nearly 3 million New Yorkers and jeopardizing health care for over 1.5 million people. These cuts will only deepen poverty and hunger. As Chair of the Assembly Social Services Committee, I stand firmly with Governor Hochul in opposing this devastating legislation, and I urge every New Yorker to hold their federal representatives accountable. We must fight back to protect the services our communities depend on — because the cost of doing nothing is far too high.”

    Assemblymember Alicia L. Hyndman said, “This so-called ‘Big Ugly Bill’ is a direct assault on the most vulnerable New Yorkers—gutting essential health care, food assistance, and educational opportunity in one fell swoop. The harm is staggering: millions of people could lose health coverage, families will struggle to put food on the table, and students will face higher barriers to higher education. These are not just numbers—they’re lives. We in New York refuse to sit idle while Washington plays politics with our communities’ survival. I stand with Governor Hochul in fighting to protect every New Yorker’s basic dignity, health, and future.”

    Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon said, “This bill is a betrayal of the people we are meant to serve. It turns its back on our most vulnerable, gutting the support they need to stay healthy, fed, and secure. At its core, this bill is a giveaway to the wealthy, sacrificing the needs of hard-working families for billionaires’ gain. As a result, everyday New Yorkers are left with impossible choices and an uncertain future. New York will keep fighting to protect our communities and build a future rooted in care, dignity, and justice.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Opens Disaster Loan Outreach Centers in Rio Grande City and Sebastian

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today the opening of Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOCs) in Starr and Willacy counties to assist small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents affected by severe storms and flooding occurring March 26‑28.

    Beginning Monday, July 14, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the DLOCs in Rio Grande City and Sebastian to answer questions and assist with the disaster loan application process. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Those who prefer to schedule an in-person appointment in advance can do so at appointment.sba.gov.

    The centers’ hours of operation are as follows:

    STARR COUNTY

    WILLACY COUNTY

    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Starr County Courthouse Annex
    100 N. FM 3167
    Rio Grande City, TX  78582

    Opens at 8 a.m., Monday, July 14
    Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Sebastian Community Center
    434 W. Eighth St.
    Sebastian, TX  78594

    Opens at 8 a.m. Monday July 14
    Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

    The following BRC locations are open and continue to serve survivors:

    CAMERON COUNTY

    HIDALGO COUNTY

    Business Recovery Center
    Harlingen Chamber of Commerce
    311 E. Tyler Ave.
    Harlingen, TX  78550

    Mondays – Thursdays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
    Fridays, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

    Business Recovery Center
    Valley Metro Transit Center
    Boardroom
    510 S. Pleasantview Dr.
    Weslaco, TX  78596

    Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

    “When disasters strike, SBA’s Disaster Loan Outreach Centers perform an important role by assisting small businesses and their communities,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the U.S. Small Business Administration. “At these centers, our SBA specialists help business owners and residents apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to support their recovery.”

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

    Applicants may be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.

    The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to these disasters. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.75% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines eligibility and sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The deadline to return applications for physical property damage is July 22, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 23, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Opens Disaster Loan Outreach Centers in Rio Grande City and Sebastian

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today the opening of Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOCs) in Starr and Willacy counties to assist small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents affected by severe storms and flooding occurring March 26‑28.

    Beginning Monday, July 14, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the DLOCs in Rio Grande City and Sebastian to answer questions and assist with the disaster loan application process. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Those who prefer to schedule an in-person appointment in advance can do so at appointment.sba.gov.

    The centers’ hours of operation are as follows:

    STARR COUNTY

    WILLACY COUNTY

    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Starr County Courthouse Annex
    100 N. FM 3167
    Rio Grande City, TX  78582

    Opens at 8 a.m., Monday, July 14
    Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Sebastian Community Center
    434 W. Eighth St.
    Sebastian, TX  78594

    Opens at 8 a.m. Monday July 14
    Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

    The following BRC locations are open and continue to serve survivors:

    CAMERON COUNTY

    HIDALGO COUNTY

    Business Recovery Center
    Harlingen Chamber of Commerce
    311 E. Tyler Ave.
    Harlingen, TX  78550

    Mondays – Thursdays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
    Fridays, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

    Business Recovery Center
    Valley Metro Transit Center
    Boardroom
    510 S. Pleasantview Dr.
    Weslaco, TX  78596

    Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

    “When disasters strike, SBA’s Disaster Loan Outreach Centers perform an important role by assisting small businesses and their communities,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the U.S. Small Business Administration. “At these centers, our SBA specialists help business owners and residents apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to support their recovery.”

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

    Applicants may be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.

    The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to these disasters. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.75% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines eligibility and sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The deadline to return applications for physical property damage is July 22, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 23, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Opens Disaster Loan Outreach Centers in Rio Grande City and Sebastian

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today the opening of Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOCs) in Starr and Willacy counties to assist small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents affected by severe storms and flooding occurring March 26‑28.

    Beginning Monday, July 14, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the DLOCs in Rio Grande City and Sebastian to answer questions and assist with the disaster loan application process. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Those who prefer to schedule an in-person appointment in advance can do so at appointment.sba.gov.

    The centers’ hours of operation are as follows:

    STARR COUNTY

    WILLACY COUNTY

    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Starr County Courthouse Annex
    100 N. FM 3167
    Rio Grande City, TX  78582

    Opens at 8 a.m., Monday, July 14
    Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Sebastian Community Center
    434 W. Eighth St.
    Sebastian, TX  78594

    Opens at 8 a.m. Monday July 14
    Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

    The following BRC locations are open and continue to serve survivors:

    CAMERON COUNTY

    HIDALGO COUNTY

    Business Recovery Center
    Harlingen Chamber of Commerce
    311 E. Tyler Ave.
    Harlingen, TX  78550

    Mondays – Thursdays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
    Fridays, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

    Business Recovery Center
    Valley Metro Transit Center
    Boardroom
    510 S. Pleasantview Dr.
    Weslaco, TX  78596

    Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

    “When disasters strike, SBA’s Disaster Loan Outreach Centers perform an important role by assisting small businesses and their communities,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the U.S. Small Business Administration. “At these centers, our SBA specialists help business owners and residents apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to support their recovery.”

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

    Applicants may be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.

    The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to these disasters. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.75% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines eligibility and sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The deadline to return applications for physical property damage is July 22, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 23, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Opens Disaster Loan Outreach Centers in Rio Grande City and Sebastian

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today the opening of Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOCs) in Starr and Willacy counties to assist small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents affected by severe storms and flooding occurring March 26‑28.

    Beginning Monday, July 14, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the DLOCs in Rio Grande City and Sebastian to answer questions and assist with the disaster loan application process. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Those who prefer to schedule an in-person appointment in advance can do so at appointment.sba.gov.

    The centers’ hours of operation are as follows:

    STARR COUNTY

    WILLACY COUNTY

    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Starr County Courthouse Annex
    100 N. FM 3167
    Rio Grande City, TX  78582

    Opens at 8 a.m., Monday, July 14
    Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Sebastian Community Center
    434 W. Eighth St.
    Sebastian, TX  78594

    Opens at 8 a.m. Monday July 14
    Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

    The following BRC locations are open and continue to serve survivors:

    CAMERON COUNTY

    HIDALGO COUNTY

    Business Recovery Center
    Harlingen Chamber of Commerce
    311 E. Tyler Ave.
    Harlingen, TX  78550

    Mondays – Thursdays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
    Fridays, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

    Business Recovery Center
    Valley Metro Transit Center
    Boardroom
    510 S. Pleasantview Dr.
    Weslaco, TX  78596

    Mondays – Fridays, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

    “When disasters strike, SBA’s Disaster Loan Outreach Centers perform an important role by assisting small businesses and their communities,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the U.S. Small Business Administration. “At these centers, our SBA specialists help business owners and residents apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to support their recovery.”

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

    Applicants may be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.

    The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to these disasters. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.75% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines eligibility and sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The deadline to return applications for physical property damage is July 22, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 23, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New program encourages growth for Prince Edward Island’s horticulture industry

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    July 11, 2025 – Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island – Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

    A new Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP) program is now available to Prince Edward Island horticulture producers to help diversify crops, adapt to changing climates, and increase the supply of Island food products in markets across Canada.

    The Horticulture Diversification Program supports a variety of growth and capacity opportunities, including expanding greenhouses and controlled environment agriculture production, adopting technologies and processes to increase efficiency and productivity, as well as expanding and improving crop storage to extend the marketing season.

    The program will support producers through 4 streams of eligible activities:

    • Season Extension and Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) Expansion
    • Efficiency and Productivity
    • Post-Harvest Cooling, Freezing, and Storage
    • Agronomic Support

    This program is part of a suite of Sustainable CAP initiatives available to Prince Edward Island producers. To learn more about the Horticulture Diversification Program eligibility and guidelines, visit: Horticulture Diversification Program – Prince Edward Island

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Missouri Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Adverse Weather Conditions from

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Missouri counties of the Aug. 11, 2025 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the excessive rain and high winds from Hurricane Helene occurring Sept. 28‑29, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the Missouri counties of Bollinger, Butler, Cape Girardeau, Carter, Dunklin, Madison, Mississippi, New Madrid, Oregon, Pemiscot, Perry, Ripley, Scott, Stoddard and Wayne, as well as the Arkansas counties of Clay, Craighead, Greene, Mississippi and Randolph, the Illinois counties of Alexander and Union, the Kentucky counties of Ballard, Carlisle, Fulton and Hickman, and the Tennessee counties of Dyer and Lake.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs impacted by financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than Aug. 11.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ricketts Helps Advance President Trump’s Nominees, Focuses on Nebraska Agriculture and Indo-Pacific Partners

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, while chairing a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) discussed the role of Americans serving their country through government and the threat of foreign adversaries.  Ricketts highlighted the Committee’s record pace in advancing 43 of President Trump’s nominees to the Senate floor.

    “It’s vital for our foreign policy that we have confirmed ambassadors in positions of importance,” said Ricketts.  “This is something I’ve heard consistently as I visit with partners and allies around the world…  Disappointingly, though, many of these nominees aren’t yet confirmed.  This hurts our ability to advance our interests at a time when we are competing for influence with adversaries like Communist China.  We cannot afford to let partisanship get in the way of what’s best for our country.”

    Ricketts spoke on the role of agriculture in American domestic and foreign policy.

    “Nebraska is the nation’s fifth largest agricultural exporter, with nearly $8 billion in ag exports last year, the third highest total on record,” said Ricketts.  “Simply put, when Nebraska agriculture thrives, so does my state.  Nebraska’s impact just isn’t domestic, though it’s global.  In western Nebraska, cooperatives package and ship dry edible beans used in the World Food Program humanitarian operations, delivering American grown products to save lives in some of the world’s hardest hit regions.”

    Ricketts also discussed the vital importance of partnerships in the Indo-Pacific.

    “Singapore is one of our more vital partners in the Indo-Pacific,” said Ricketts.  “On the security front, it supports rotational US military deployments that enable our patrols throughout the region and hosts thousands of American sailors, airman, and their families.  Singapore is a significant buyer and user of US defense technologies.  It’s also a hub for maritime trade and financial services, a gateway for over 6,000 American businesses operating in Asia, and a leader in emerging technologies.  Oftentimes, an American company’s first step into the Indo-Pacific is in Singapore.  I recently had the pleasure of meeting with Singapore’s Prime Minister Wong, Foreign Minister Balakrishnan, and Defense Minister Chan at the Shangri-La dialogue, and I can confirm Singapore’s desire to not only maintain our strong partnership, but to build upon it.”

    Click here to watch more.

    The hearing considered the nominations of Anjani Sinha, to be Ambassador to the Republic of Singapore; Jeffrey Bartos, to be Representative of the United States of America to the United Nations for U.N. Management and Reform and as an Alternate Representative of the United States of America to the Sessions of the General Assembly of the United Nations; Lynda Blanchard, to be U.S. Representative to the United Nations Agencies for Food and Agriculture; Kimberly Guilfoyle, to be Ambassador of the United States of America to Greece; and Jennifer Locetta, to be Alternate Representative of the United States of America for Special Political Affairs in and the General Assembly of the United Nations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Republic of Korea rice donation provides critical boost to World Food Programme (WFP)’s emergency response for refugees in Kenya

    Source: APO – Report:

    .

    The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) welcomed a contribution of 23,268 metric tons of rice from the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) of the Republic of Korea, valued at US$18 million, to support the food needs of refugees in Kenya.

    This contribution – the largest from the Republic of Korea since it began supporting refugees in Kenya in 2018 – will  support the food needs of 720,000 refugees in Dadaab and Kakuma refugee camps and Kalobeyei settlement for six months.

    “This generous contribution is vital as we work to respond to the needs of an increasing number of refugees in Kenya, while the resources available to support them are decreasing,” said Baimankay Sankoh, WFP’s Deputy Country Director in Kenya. “Most refugees are unable to work or return home and are entirely dependent on humanitarian assistance to survive. This generous rice contribution from the Republic of Korea is more vital than ever for WFP to continue supporting the food needs of hundreds of thousands of refugees. And we sincerely hope that this expanded rice contribution will continue in the future.” 

    Over the past five years, the number of refugees and asylum seekers in Kenya has increased by over 70 percent – from around 500,000 to 843,000 – as people have fled conflict in neighbouring countries like Somalia and South Sudan. But, despite the generous support from many donors, funding shortfalls have forced WFP to reduce food rations for refugees to one-third of a ration.

    Korean rice is known for its high quality, while the reliable delivery from the Republic of Korea on a fixed annual schedule, allows WFP to plan effectively and respond flexibly to shifting needs on the ground. This predictable support contributes to safeguarding the dignity of refugees by ensuring access to sufficient and nutritious food.

    “The Republic of Korea is proud to stand alongside other nations in responding to the rising hunger crisis and providing hope to thousands of families in the eastern Africa region,” said H.E. Kang Hyung-shik, the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Kenya. “Our history is deeply rooted in global solidarity, and we remain committed to standing with those in need.”

    The Republic of Korea is a significant donor to WFP in Kenya, providing annual rice contributions that help WFP maintain consistent humanitarian operations. Between 2018 and 2025, WFP has received rice contributions to the value of US$ 88 million through MAFRA in support of refugees.

    – on behalf of World Food Programme (WFP).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Representatives Sorensen, Moran Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Weather Forecasting in Rural America

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17)

    Congressmen Eric Sorensen (IL-17) and Nathaniel Moran (TX-01) introduced their bipartisan Rural Weather Monitoring Systems Act, which would help strengthen weather forecasting systems in rural America.

    The legislation will require a new study of the nation’s weather monitoring systems to give lawmakers a better picture of the state of our current weather forecasting abilities across the country. This bill is urgently needed amid warnings that weather forecasting at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and National Weather Service (NWS) have been degraded by understaffing, layoffs, and cuts at the agencies.

    “Having access to accurate and reliable weather forecasting is critically important for everyone, whether you’re a farmer trying to plant your harvest or a family determining if you need to shelter in place for a tornado,” said Congressman Sorensen. “During severe weather season, it is critical that we get an accurate picture of the state of our weather monitoring systems across the country. This bipartisan bill will help us ensure that we’re meeting the needs of my neighbors in rural communities who rely on NOAA and the NWS to get their weather forecasts.”

    “In rural communities like ours, a few minutes’ warning can mean the difference between life and death,” said Congressman Moran. “But too often, our families are left without the tools to see danger coming. Every community—no matter how small—deserves the same protection as anywhere else in America. This bill is about closing the radar gap, so no one in East Texas, or rural America, is left in the dark when it matters most.”

    Congressman Sorensen has been a fierce advocate for protecting and strengthening NOAA and the NWS from cuts. Starting last year, he has been warning about the impact of Project 2025’s plans to dismantle and privatize NOAA and the NWS. As the Department of Government Efficiency began making cuts to the agencies, Congressman Sorensen has been speaking out, introducing legislation, and calling on the Administration to bring a stop to the disastrous cuts. 
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Panzhihua develops characteristic agriculture in China’s Sichuan

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Panzhihua develops characteristic agriculture in China’s Sichuan

    Updated: July 11, 2025 20:27 Xinhua
    An aerial drone photo taken on July 9, 2025 shows a view of a high-standard farmland in Salian Township of Miyi County, Panzhihua City, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. Taking advantage of the abundant water resources and fertile soil of Anning River Valley, Panzhihua has developed characteristic agriculture in recent years by building agriculture bases, cultivating industrial parks, processing agriculture products and promoting health care industry and integration development. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A farmer works at a terraced field in Xinshan Village of Miyi County, Panzhihua City, southwest China’s Sichuan Province, July 9, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on July 9, 2025 shows high-standard farmlands in Salian Township of Miyi County, Panzhihua City, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on July 9, 2025 shows high-standard farmlands in Salian Township of Miyi County, Panzhihua City, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on July 9, 2025 shows a terraced field in Xinshan Village of Miyi County, Panzhihua City, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on July 9, 2025 shows a terraced field in Xinshan Village of Miyi County, Panzhihua City, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Panzhihua develops characteristic agriculture in China’s Sichuan

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Panzhihua develops characteristic agriculture in China’s Sichuan

    Updated: July 11, 2025 20:27 Xinhua
    An aerial drone photo taken on July 9, 2025 shows a view of a high-standard farmland in Salian Township of Miyi County, Panzhihua City, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. Taking advantage of the abundant water resources and fertile soil of Anning River Valley, Panzhihua has developed characteristic agriculture in recent years by building agriculture bases, cultivating industrial parks, processing agriculture products and promoting health care industry and integration development. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A farmer works at a terraced field in Xinshan Village of Miyi County, Panzhihua City, southwest China’s Sichuan Province, July 9, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on July 9, 2025 shows high-standard farmlands in Salian Township of Miyi County, Panzhihua City, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on July 9, 2025 shows high-standard farmlands in Salian Township of Miyi County, Panzhihua City, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on July 9, 2025 shows a terraced field in Xinshan Village of Miyi County, Panzhihua City, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo taken on July 9, 2025 shows a terraced field in Xinshan Village of Miyi County, Panzhihua City, southwest China’s Sichuan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Homegrown innovation leads Africa’s agrifood transformation

    Source: APO

    African-led science and innovation are at the heart of efforts to transform agrifood systems across the continent. That was the central message of a dedicated side event held during the Regional Policy Dialogue on Strengthening South-South and Triangular Cooperation (SSTC) in Africa, organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and hosted by the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania.

    The special side event, Scaling Science and Innovation for Resilient Agrifood Systems: African Solutions through South-South and Triangular Cooperation, took place on the second day of the Dialogue and comes in the lead-up to the Science and Innovation Forum during the FAO World Food Forum in October. It brought together African experts, researchers, and policymakers to explore how homegrown innovations can drive agrifood systems transformation across the continent.

    Opening the session, FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for Africa Abebe Haile-Gabriel underlined the power of science and innovation in transforming agrifood systems in Africa. He urged countries to scale up successful practices through strengthened partnerships and better policy alignment.

    “Africa stands today at a defining moment. Our agrifood systems face immense pressure from intensifying climate change, growing scarcity of land and water, frequent pest and disease outbreaks, and persistent post-harvest losses that undermine productivity and incomes. Yet, amidst these challenges, a new generation of African scientists, entrepreneurs, and innovators is reimagining agriculture, its business model, mechanisms of knowledge sharing, and scaling up technologies,” he said.

    In the keynote address, Professor Anthony Egeru of the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM) highlighted Africa’s untapped potential in homegrown scientific knowledge and innovation. He called for stronger collaboration among African research institutions, noting that intra-African cooperation in science remains limited and must be strengthened to support agrifood system transformation and reduce the continent’s growing food import bill.

    Two expert panels followed. The first highlighted scalable technologies already benefiting smallholder farmers. The second explored how science-policy partnerships can create enabling environments for innovation uptake.

    Among the innovation champions featured was Innovative Solutions for Decision Agriculture (ISDA), a pan-African company pioneering digital agricultural tools. Their flagship product, the Virtual Agronomist, is a WhatsApp-based AI chatbot that provides farmers with instant, tailored advice on soil health and fertiliser use. The company has already seen a 60 percent yield increase among farmers who use the tool, and their goal is to reach 10 million farmers over the next five years with this context-specific, science-backed guidance.

    FAO also showcased its innovation in plant protection through the eLocust3, a real-time data transmission tool used by national locust officers to monitor and control desert locust outbreaks. The tool feeds directly into FAO’s global Desert Locust Information Service, which supports early warning and coordinated response systems across affected countries.

    Young innovator Joseph Kawaya from Rwanda (pictured) also presented his work. Initially focused on manufacturing solar-adapted chicken incubators, his business now supports rural cooperatives through a franchised network of hatching stations. “We’re not just selling machines, we’re building rural systems that tackle both malnutrition and lack of access to poultry production,” he said.

    FAO South-South Cooperation Officer Peter Anaadumba underscored the importance of enabling environments to support innovation. He stressed that innovators must be supported by strong policy frameworks, sustained financial commitments, and partnerships. South-South and Triangular cooperation, he noted, offers a platform for exchange, but results will only follow when national systems are ready to absorb and scale innovation.

    The event reinforced FAO’s commitment to advancing African-led solutions and fostering cross-country learning, setting the stage for deeper engagement at the upcoming Science and Innovation Forum later this year. Science and innovation are central themes in the FAO Strategic Framework 2022–2031, which aims to support countries in transforming agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO): Regional Office for Africa.

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa –