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Category: Health

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall’s Legislation to Restore Whole Milk in Schools Passes Senate Agriculture Committee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) today released the following statement after the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry voted to advance the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act. This legislation would expand healthy milk options in schools by reversing the Obama-era law that took whole milk out of school cafeterias.
    “Today’s vote was a step to correct a major mistake made during the Obama Administration – and a great start to National Dairy Month,” said Senator Marshall. “Whole and reduced-fat milk should have never been excluded from the National School Lunch Program. Now, 13 years after its removal, nearly 75% of children do not receive their recommended daily dairy intake. By increasing kids’ access to milk in school cafeterias, we will help prevent diseases down the road and encourage nutrient-rich diets for years to come.”
    The Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) reports that nearly 90% of Americans do not meet their daily dairy intake recommendations. Specifically, Americans are lacking enough Calcium and Vitamin D, and whole milk is an excellent source for both vitamins. Leading nutritionistshave found that whole dairy fats have no negative effect on a diet, and may even reduce the risk of heart disease.
    The legislation was first introduced by Senator Marshall in June of 2023 and reintroduced in April of 2025 with numerous bipartisan sponsors and co-sponsors. The bill is scheduled to proceed to the Senate floor for a vote before advancing to the House of Representatives for approval. ClickHERE to learn more.
    Background: 

    In 2010, Congress passed the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act, which amended nutrition standards in the School Lunch Program. Among the changes, the law mandated that flavored milk must be fat-free within the program.
    In May of 2017, the USDA announced a rule that allowed schools to receive waivers for low-fat (1%) flavored milk, rather than only fat-free.
    Last Congress, the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act passed the House of Representatives with overwhelming bipartisan support (330-99). 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Investment to grow number of forensic beds

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government will make more beds and timely services available to people needing mental health and addiction support in the Midland Region, Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey says.

    Budget 2025 has reprioritised almost $51 million over four years to help those with acute mental health and addiction needs to access appropriate specialist forensic services in a timely manner. The investment will also support additional step-down beds.

    “Providing better mental health and addiction services to people in prison, in forensic beds or on remand can help with rehabilitation and reintegration into the community,” Mr Doocey says.

    “We know that people in the Corrections system have higher mental health and addiction needs than the general population. Currently, there are not enough beds to adequately care for those who need them.

    “This investment will improve forensic and prison mental health services throughout the Midland Region and enable greater participation in rehabilitation programmes. It will help in particular at the country’s biggest prison, Waikeria, and has the potential to relieve pressure across the wider forensic mental health system.”

    The funding will support 10 new acute inpatient beds and 8 new step-down beds delivered by Non-Government Organisations in the Midland Region. These new beds will be supported by new community wraparound support teams and funding to attract and retain specialist staff.

    “Ensuring timely access to care has been one of my top priorities. The shortage of forensic beds has caused delays in access to effective care, creating issues throughout the forensic rehabilitation system,” Mr Doocey says.

    “This funding will improve the flow of patients from forensic beds to stepdown beds and should have a positive knock-on effect for other services around the country.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China expands pediatric care in TCM hospitals

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

    An AI robot specialized in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) provides health check service at the service robots exhibition area of the 2020 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) in Beijing, Sept. 7, 2020. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Over 95 percent of China’s top-tier public Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) hospitals have established pediatric departments as part of efforts to enhance healthcare services for children, authorities said Tuesday.

    At a press conference held by the National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, officials revealed that by the end of 2023, over 95 percent of tertiary-level and 72 percent of secondary-level public TCM hospitals nationwide had set up pediatric units.

    They also noted that TCM holds unique advantages in treating common childhood illnesses and delivering preventive healthcare services.

    The administration is carrying out pilot programs that apply TCM approaches to tackle pressing childhood health issues such as obesity, scoliosis and myopia.

    By November 2025, authorities aim to achieve full pediatric department coverage in all tertiary public TCM hospitals and establish pediatric units in over 80 percent of secondary public TCM hospitals.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Drones empower China’s medical emergency systems

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

    Shen Jun (C), vice president of Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, receives emergency blood supply delivered by a drone during a simulated test flight at the hospital’s Binhai branch in Tianjin, north China, May 21, 2025. (Xinhua)

    China is rapidly integrating drone technology into its medical emergency systems, with breakthroughs in multiple cities demonstrating enhanced efficiency in critical care logistics.

    North China’s Tianjin Municipality launched its first medical drone route in late May, marked by a successful simulated emergency blood supply test flight. The flight connected a blood station at the Binhai New Area and the Tianjin Medical University Cancer Hospital’s Binhai branch.

    “The drone route creates an emergency blood lifeline for patients in critical conditions,” said Shen Jun, vice president of the hospital.

    Carrying a 5kg payload, the drone is equipped with a temperature-controlled medical box that allows for temperature, location and flight status monitoring in real-time. Its efficient point-to-point delivery avoids delays caused by road traffic, saving precious time for emergency treatment.

    Amid the rapid growth of China’s low-altitude economy, low-altitude medical services, as a niche sector, are expanding their applications, driving an unprecedented transformation in healthcare.

    In November 2024, the National Healthcare Security Administration added “air medical transport” to the national medical service price catalog, mandating standardized pricing in the country’s provincial areas by the end of May this year. Commercial health insurance providers are also encouraged to explore coverage for these services. The guideline has accelerated the adoption of low-altitude aircraft in medical applications.

    Bolstered by technology and policy support, Chinese provinces like Zhejiang, Guangdong and Fujian are actively exploring the application of drones in their medical systems, transporting test samples, blood, emergency supplies and medicine, which are crucial for saving critical treatment times.

    In the city of Zigong, southwest China’s Sichuan Province, drones have become a routine part of medical services.

    According to the municipal health commission, the city has opened 25 low-altitude routes linking 28 sites for medical transport. As of May 27, drones had completed 5,270 flights for medical use.

    The drones are automated, cloud-controlled models built for urban operations. Cruising at 72km per hour with an 18-km range, they operate 70 percent to 80 percent faster than ground transport.

    “Usually, it takes at least 30 to 40 minutes from the hospital branch of Bancang to the headquarters by ground transportation. Drones cut this to 11 minutes,” said Huang Yuting, transport manager at Zigong First People’s Hospital, referring to a case in which a drone delivered a drug for emergency use last August.

    Hao Jihui, president of Tianjin Medical University Cancer Hospital, said the low-altitude transport system breaks geographical barriers, enhances emergency response, and significantly improves medical resource efficiency by cutting costs and transportation times.

    “We’ll expand drone applications to enhance cross-regional medical resource allocation and meet multi-level health service demands,” Hao added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for June 4, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on June 4, 2025.

    Artist Janenne Eaton’s retrospective is a compelling account of our troubled times
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Julie Shiels, Senior Industry Fellow, RMIT University Janenne Eaton R E E F 2015 enamel paint, vinyl decals, mirror and polymer clay on canvas Geelong Gallery Gift of the artist, 2019. Photographer: Mark Ashkanasy © the artist. With bad news-overload it is easy to conclude it is

    ‘Not available in your region’: what is a VPN and how can I use one safely?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Meena Jha, Head Technology and Pedagogy Cluster CML-NET, CQUniversity Australia Linaimages/Shutterstock “This video is not available in your location”. It’s a message familiar to many people trying to watch global content online. But beneath this frustration lies a deeper question – how do we navigate digital borders

    Just the ticket? The problem with local body candidates aligning with national political parties
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Julienne Molineaux, Senior Lecturer, School of Social Sciences and Humanities, Auckland University of Technology Getty Images With accusations flying thick and fast last year about supposed “dysfunction” and a “shambles” at Wellington City Council, Local Government Minister Simeon Brown stepped in and appointed a Crown Observer. Announcing

    The chicks are alright: what songbirds can teach us about divorce and moving on
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Frigg Janne Daan Speelman, PhD Candidate in Behavioural Ecology, Macquarie University Charli Davies, CC BY-NC-ND In humans, it’s very common for the traditional family structure of two parents raising children to change abruptly. Usually, this happens when the parents decide to separate. Many separated couples are able

    Former Congress staffer allowed to return to New Caledonia
    By Patrick Decloitre, RNZ Pacific correspondent French Pacific desk One of seven people transferred to mainland France almost a year ago, following the May 2024 riots in New Caledonia, has been allowed to return home, a French court has ruled. Frédérique Muliava, a former Congress staffer, was part of a group of six who were

    Ship runs aground in Fiji – then its rescue vessel capsizes
    RNZ Pacific Fiji’s Maritime Safety Authority has launched an investigation into Goundar Shipping Limited following two incidents involving its vessels. Late last month, one vessel ran aground on the reef of Ono-i-Lau, and villagers had to step in to ferry stranded passengers to nearby islands using small boats. On Monday, the Lomaiviti Princess II was

    Curious Kids: can spiders swim?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Leanda Denise Mason, Vice Chancellor Research Fellow in Conservation Ecology, Edith Cowan University A great raft spider (_Dolomedes plantarius_). Salparadis/Shutterstock Can spiders swim? Waubra Preschool students, Victoria, Australia What a great question! Most spiders don’t swim by choice. But they sure can survive in water when they

    A two-state solution is gaining momentum again. Does it have a chance of success?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrew Thomas, Lecturer in Middle East Studies, Deakin University As Israel’s devastating war in Gaza has ground on, the two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was thought to be “dead”. Now, it is showing signs of life again. French President Emmanuel Macron is reportedly pressing other European

    Senior public servants think GenAI will boost productivity – but are worried about the risks
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Helen Dickinson, Professor, Public Service Research, UNSW Sydney Many bold claims have been made about Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) and its capacity to improve productivity and generate workplace efficiencies. A recent Microsoft survey found 24% of private sector leaders have already deployed GenAI across their organisations. Many

    People with severe mental illness are waiting for days in hospital EDs. Here’s how we can do better
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sebastian Rosenberg, Associate Professor, Health Research Institute, University of Canberra, and Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney Matthew Ashmore/Shutterstock On ABC’s 4 Corners this week, psychiatrists and nurses have warned New South Wales’ mental health system is in crisis. They report some patients with severe mental

    With a government review underway, we have to ask why children bully other kids
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Marilyn Campbell, Professor, School of Early Childhood & Inclusive Education, Queensland University of Technology Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock The federal government has launched a “rapid review” to look at what works to prevent bullying in schools. Led by mental health experts, the review will underpin a new national standard to

    In the trade wars, there are lessons for the US from Brexit. Australia and our trading partners should take note
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Draper, Professor, and Executive Director: Institute for International Trade, and Director of the Jean Monnet Centre of Trade and Environment, University of Adelaide General_4530/Getty While the Trump administration’s on-again, off-again trade wars wreak havoc on the business plans of the world’s exporters, the risks to the

    ‘That was rude’: why the new Broadway musical Death Becomes Her was ripe for TikTok memes
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Gregory Camp, Senior Lecturer, School of Music, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau A few snippets of musicalised dialogue from the cast album of the new Broadway musical Death Becomes Her – with music and lyrics by Julia Mattison and Noel Carey, and a book by Marco

    Motarilavoa Hilda Lini, ‘a trailblazer’ for Vanuatu women in politics, dies
    RNZ Pacific Motarilavoa Hilda Lini, a pioneering Ni-Vanuatu politician, has died. Lini passed away at the Port Vila General Hospital on Sunday, according to local news media. Lini was the first woman to be elected to the Vanuatu Parliament in 1987 as a member of the National United Party. Motarilavoa Hilda Lini in 1989 .

    Fiji coup culture and political meddling in media education gets airing
    Pacific Media Watch Taieri MP Ingrid Leary reflected on her years in Fiji as a television journalist and media educator at a Fiji Centre function in Auckland celebrating Fourth Estate values and independence at the weekend. It was a reunion with former journalism professor David Robie — they had worked together as a team at

    Australia’s lowest paid workers just got a 3.5% wage increase. Their next boost could be even better
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Buchanan, Professor, Discipline of Business Information Systems, University of Sydney Business School, University of Sydney Carlos Castilla/Shutterstock A week ago, the Australian Financial Review released this year’s “Rich List”. It reported the number of billionaires in Australia increased from 150 to 166 between 2024 and 2025.

    What’s a ‘Strombolian eruption?’ A volcanologist explains what happened at Mount Etna
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Teresa Ubide, ARC Future Fellow and Associate Professor in Igneous Petrology/Volcanology, The University of Queensland Fabrizio Villa / Getty Images On Monday morning local time, a huge cloud of ash, hot gas and rock fragments began spewing from Italy’s Mount Etna. An enormous plume was seen stretching

    The Queensland government is cancelling renewable energy projects. Can the state still reach net zero?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tony Wood, Program Director, Energy, Grattan Institute Johan Larson/Shutterstock On the surface, Queensland’s new government is doing exactly what it pledged before winning office in October – repealing the state’s ambitious renewable energy targets and cancelling a huge pumped hydro project near Mackay. But since the start

    PNG’s Namah calls for tighter bio controls, patrols on Indonesian border
    By Scholar Kassas in Port Moresby A Papua New Guinea minister has raised concerns about “serious issues” at the PNG-Indonesia border due to a lack of proper security checkpoints. Culture and Tourism Minister Belden Namah, who is also the member for the border electorate Vanimo-Green, voiced these concerns while supporting a new Biosecurity for Plants

    Samoa parliament formally dissolved after months of uncertainty
    RNZ Pacific Samoa’s Parliament has been formally dissolved, and an early election is set to take place within three months. After months of political instability and two motions of no confidence, Prime Minister Fiāme Naomi Mata’afa said she would call for the dissolution of Parliament if cabinet did not support her government’s budget. MPs from

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Baldwin Calls Out Education Secretary for Gutting Funding for Student Mental Health in Wisconsin

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education (LHHS) questioned Department of Education Secretary Linda McMahon on the Trump administration’s decision to cut off funding for grants for school based mental health, including a Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction program that provides mental healthcare for students.

    “Secretary McMahon, the grant you discontinued for the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction was being used to expand access to mental healthcare for students—we’re talking about more counselors and mental health professionals in schools,” Senator Baldwin said in the hearing. “Why did you cut off funding for this grant and take away this help for Wisconsin students and schools?

    During the LHHS hearing, Secretary McMahon refused to answer why funding for Wisconsin was cut off and resources for Wisconsin students and schools were taken away.  In April, the Department of Education discontinued future funding approved for more than 200 grantees of the school based mental health services and mental health service professional development grant programs. According to the Department’s National Center for Education Statistics, less than half of all public schools reported they could effectively provide mental health services to all students who need them.

    A recording of Senator Baldwin’s question is available here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government to protect and enhance Milford Sound Piopiotahi

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government will invest $15.2 million into upgrading infrastructure and enhancing conservation at Milford Sound Piopiotahi to sustainably grow tourism while also protecting the jewel in our conservation crown.

    The first tranche of decisions from the Milford Opportunities Project, announced today, also provide certainty to operators by confirming that cruise ships will continue to access the fjord, and Milford Aerodrome will be retained.

    “This iconic UNESCO World Heritage site in Fiordland attracts more than a million visitors a year and pumps about $200 million into the regional economy, creating jobs and boosting incomes,” Conservation Minister Tama Potaka says.

    “For Ngāi Tahu, Piopiotahi holds special significance as the final masterpiece of atua and land-shaper Tū Te Rakiwhānoa.

    “Visitors accessing the fjord via Milford Road will soon enjoy new and enhanced short stops, including an alpine nature walk in Gertrude Valley. Little Tahiti landfill will also be cleaned up and flood protection at Cleddau River will be improved.

    “There will be improved amenities, including much-needed new facilities at Deepwater Basin where we are replacing the recreational boat ramp.”

    Funding for the improvements will come from the International Visitor Levy ($8.2 million) and the Department of Conservation’s capital works programme ($7m).

    Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston said Milford Sound Piopiotahi had a key role to play in helping the country’s tourism sector bounce back from the Covid hangover.

    “We are supporting the local economy and providing certainty for operators by enabling cruise ships and aircraft to continue to access the fjord, rejecting a previous proposal to ban this.

    “We know Milford Sound Piopiotahi, Mitre Peak Rahotū, the bush, the sea and the wildlife play an integral part in capturing the hearts and minds of millions of tourists dreaming of a visit to this wilderness area.”

    Mr Potaka said the next tranche of work would involve the Department of Conservation – Te Papa Atawhai engaging with Ngāi Tahu, and stakeholders such as local government and the tourism industry on further initiatives.

    “These include collaborating on investment opportunities along Milford corridor, developing a multi-year investment plan for the area, and considering improved planning tools, such as a Special Amenities Area within Fiordland National Park.”

    Note for editor

    The Milford Opportunities Project feasibility business case, supporting reports and Cabinet paper are available on the Department of Conservation – Te Papa Atawhai website: https://www.doc.govt.nz/milford-opportunities

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MENG INTRODUCES COMPREHENSIVE LEGISLATION TO END PERIOD POVERTY AND IMPROVE ACCESS TO MENSTRUAL PRODUCTS

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Grace Meng (6th District of New York)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY) announced that she reintroduced her Menstrual Equity for All Act, a bold, whole-of-government approach to eradicating period poverty and improving access to menstrual products.

    Menstruation is a natural part of life for roughly half of the world’s population at one point or another. Yet, today, millions of people in the United States continue to experience period poverty. In fact, one in three American adults who menstruate report struggling to afford menstrual products, and one-third have missed school or work because they could not access these products. An estimated 86% of people who menstruate use tampons, up to 72% use pads, and 75% use panty liners. Most of them use these products on a monthly basis. It is estimated that an individual will spend over $6,000 on menstrual products in their lifetime. 

    “Period products are essential for millions of people who menstruate,” said Congresswoman Meng. “Access to these products is not only a health care right, but also a human right. It is unacceptable that they are still out of reach for more than half the population. This legislation takes critical steps toward ending period poverty by expanding access to menstrual products for individuals across a range of populations, such as in schools and universities, workplaces, and correctional and detention facilities, and through existing federal programs like the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, and Social Services Block Grants. Without it, women, girls, and menstruators will continue to miss out on educational and career opportunities simply because they cannot afford period products. We must keep fighting for them.”

    Specifically, Meng’s Menstrual Equity for All Act would:

    • Give states the option to use federal grant funds to provide students in elementary and secondary schools with free menstrual products;
    • Incentivize institutions of higher education to create pilot programs that provide free menstrual products to students;
    • Ensure incarcerated individuals and detainees in federal, state, and local facilities (including immigration detention centers), have access to free menstrual products;
    • Allow homeless assistance providers to use grant funds that cover shelter necessities (such as blankets and toothbrushes) to also use those funds to purchase menstrual products;
    • Require Medicaid to cover the cost of menstrual products;
    • Direct large employers (with 100 or more employees) to provide free menstrual products for their employees in the workplace;
    • Require all public federal buildings to provide free menstrual products in the restrooms;
    • Provide states and localities with funds through the Social Services Block Grant program to support free menstrual products programs;
    • Eliminate the federal sales tax on period products; and
    • Create a pilot program within the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program to help families in need access menstrual products.

    “We know that period supplies are basic essentials that all people who menstruate require to participate in daily life – going to work, school, and engaging in everyday events,” said Joanne Goldblum, CEO of the Alliance for Period Supplies. “The Menstrual Equity for All Act ensures equitable access to period supplies so that millions of people can earn, learn, and thrive. We thank Congresswoman Meng for championing the Menstrual Equity for All Act and fully support the bill as it offers a comprehensive solution to a major public health issue. Its passage is long overdue.”

    “The fact of the matter is that nearly 1 in 4 students across the country are unable to afford period products and a quarter of students are unable to do their schoolwork due to a lack of access to these products,” said Michela Bedard, Executive Director of PERIOD. “The Menstrual Equity for All Act will improve student success in and out of the classroom through expanded menstrual health education and period product access.”

    “Women’s Voices for the Earth applauds Congresswoman Meng for her longstanding commitment and leadership on menstrual equity,” said Debra Erenberg, Co-Executive Director, Women’s Voices for the Earth. All people who menstruate need and deserve access to safe and healthy intimate care products. We look forward to working with the Congresswoman to pass this groundbreaking piece of commonsense legislation.”

    Meng originally introduced her Menstrual Equity for All Act in 2017. Since then, she has led numerous efforts to improve access to menstrual products and promote menstrual health. Earlier this month, she introduced a resolution to designate May as “National Menstrual Health Awareness Month.” The resolution recognizes the impact that the stigmatization of menstruation has on the lives of women, girls and people who menstruate.

    This legislation was introduced with 61 cosponsors. It is supported by the Alliance for Period Supplies, The Center for Baby and Adult Hygiene Products, Days for Girls, The Flow Initiative, Helping Women Period, ISSA – The Worldwide Cleaning Industry Association, Mass NOW, Mujeres and Menstruators United, National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Period Education Project, PERIOD., and Period Law.

    The full text of the bill can be found here.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis Signs Bills into Law Supporting Service Members, Veterans, and Military Connected Coloradans and Families

    Source: US State of Colorado

    DENVER – Today, Governor Polis bills into law to support members of the military, veterans, and military connected families. 

    Governor Polis signed the following bills into law: 

    • SB25-279 – Colorado Code of Military Justice Updates, sponsored by Senators Matt Ball Byron Pelton, and Representatives Monica Duran and Andrew Hartsook
    • SB25-282 – Protections for Veterans Seeking Benefits, sponsored by Senators Matt Ball and Byron Pelton, and Representatives Lisa Feret and Ryan Armagost
    • HB25-1083 – Vehicle Transactions Deployed Military Families, sponsored by Representatives Eliza Hamrick and Marry Bradfield, and Senators Lisa Frizell and Dafna Michaelson Jenet 

    “Military families and veterans have long called Colorado home, and we are committed to continuing our work to expand resources for military connected Colordans by protecting veterans benefits, creating more transportation options for military families, and ensuring mission readiness for active military personnel,” said Governor Polis. 

    Governor Polis also signed SB25-304 – Measures to Address Sexual Assault Kit Backlog, sponsored by Representatives Willford and Froelich, and Senator Weissman. 

    “Everyone who has experienced sexual assault deserves justice and this new law moves us closer to ensuring that. I thank the bill sponsors for their work to address this urgent situation and help hold perpetrators accountable,” said Governor Polis. 

    Governor Polis also signed the following bills into law administratively: 

    • HB25-1031 – Law Enforcement Whistleblower Protection, sponsored by Representatives Bacon and Clifford, and Senators Roberts and B. Pelton
    • HB25-1198– Regional Planning Roundtable Commission, sponsored by Representatives Froelich and Brown, and Senator Winter
    • HB25-1313 – Modify Laws Within Purview of the Capital Development Committee, sponsored by Representatives Story and Lindsay, and Senators Mullica and Hinrichsen
    • HB25-1322 – Enforce Insurer Compliance Requests Insurance Policy, sponsored by Representatives Carter and Espenoza, and Senators Exum and Roberts
    • HB25-1329 – Foreign Third-Party Litigation Financing, sponsored by Representatives Mabrey and Soper, and Senators Frizell and Gonzales
    • SB25-083 – Limitations on Restrictive Employment Agreements, sponsored by Senators Daugherty and Frizell, and Representatives Brown and Garcia Sander
    • SB25-142 – Changes to Wildfire Resiliency Code Board, sponsored by Senators Baisley and Cutter, and Representative Velasco
    • SB25-145 – Online Cancellation of Automatic Renewal Contracts, sponsored by Senator Kipp, and Representative Lindsay and Zokaie
    • SB25-147 – Modify Board Management Public Employees’ Retirement Association, sponsored by Senators B. Pelton and Kolker, and Representatives Garcia Sander and Lukens
    • SB25-165 – Licensure of Electricians, sponsored by Senators B. Pelton and Daugherty, and Representatives Lindstedt and Woog
    • SB25-193 – Sunset Primary Care Payment Reform Collaborative, sponsored by Senators Ball and Mullica, and Representatives Garcia Sander and McCormick
    • SB25-214 – Healthy School Meals Program For All, sponsored by Senators Bridges and Amabile, and Representatives Sirota and Taggart
    • SB25-262 – Changes to Money in the Capital Construction Fund, sponsored by Senators Amabile and Kirkmeyer, and Representatives Bird and Taggart
    • SB25-268 – Changes to Money in the Marijuana Tax Cash Fund, sponsored by Senators Bridges and Kirkmeyer, and Representatives Bird and Sirota
    • SB25-271 – Repeal Obsolete Family & Medical Leave Study, sponsored by Senators Ball and Rich, and Representatives Espenoza and Luck
    • SB25-274 – Amend Delivery Requirements Wine Direct Shipping, sponsored by Senators Rodriguez and Lundeen, and Representatives Lindstedt and Hartsook
    • SB25-275 – Nonsubstantive Relocation of Definitions in Colorado Revised Statutes, sponsored by Senators Ball and Catlin, and Representatives Luck and Espenoza
    • SB25-287 – Capitol Building Advisory Committee Modifications, sponsored by Senator Michaelson Jenet and Representative Lindstedt
    • SB25-291 Division Criminal Justice Spending Authority Community Corrections, sponsored by Senators Amabile and Kirkmeyer, and Representatives Sirota and Taggart
    • SB25-293 – Transfers from License Plate Cash Fund, sponsored by Senators Bridges and Kirkmeyer, and Representatives Bird and Sirota
    • SB25-307 – Decarbonization Tax Credits Administration Cash Fund, sponsored by Senators Amabile and Bridges, and Representatives Sirota and Bird
    • SB25-311 – Inactive Cash Funds, sponsored by Senators Amabile and Kirkmeyer, and Representatives Bird and Taggart
    • SB25-314 – Recovery Audit Contractor Program, sponsored by Senators Kirkmeyer and Bridges, and Representatives Bird and Sirota
    • SB25-320 – Commercial Motor Vehicle Transportation, sponsored by Senators Bridges and Kirkmeyer, and Representatives Bird and Taggart
    • SB25-321 – Motor Vehicle Emissions Inspection Facilities, sponsored by Senators Kirkmeyer and Rodriguez, and Representatives Joseph and Gonzalez
    • SB25-317 – Transfer Cash Fund Investment Earnings to General Fund, sponsored by Senators Kirkmeyer and Bridges, and Representatives Bird and Taggart
    • HB25-1038 – Postsecondary Credit Transfer Website, sponsored by Representatives Hamrick and Johnson, and Senators Marchman and Baisley
    • HB25-1121 – Permanent Trailer Registration, sponsored by Representatives Suckla and Lukens, and Senators R. Pelton and Marchman
    • HB25-1189 – Motor Vehicle Registration Reform & Fees, sponsored by Representatives Mauro and Weinberg, and Senator Wallace
    • HB25-1014 – Increasing Efficiency Division of Water Resources, sponsored by Representatives Johnson and Lukens, and Senators Roberts and Simpson
    • HB25-1236 – Residential Tenant Screening, sponsored by Representatives Lindsay and Zokaie, and Senators Weissman and Jodeh
    • HB25-1249 – Tenant Security Deposit Protections, sponsored by Representatives Ricks and Bacon, and Senators Exum and Danielson
    • HB25-1289 – Metropolitan District Leases & Property Tax Exemptions, sponsored by Representatives Zokaie and Richardson, and Senators Weissman and Frizell
    • HB25-1333 – Legislative Human Resources Division, sponsored by Speaker McCluskie and Majority Leader Duran, and Senate President Coleman and Majority Leader Rodriguez
    • HB25-1335 – Tax Credit Availability, sponsored by Representatives Sirota and Taggart, and Senators Bridges and Kirkmeyer
    • SB25-018 – Online Search of Sales & Use Tax, sponsored by Senators Bridges and Kipp, and Representative Taggart
    • SB25-026 – Adjusting Certain Tax Expenditures, sponsored by Senator Mullica, and Representatives Marshall and Joseph
    • SB25-027 – Trauma-Informed School Safety Practices, sponsored by Senators Marchman and Representatives Joseph and Gonzalez
    • SB25-037 – Coal Transition Grants, sponsored by Senators Roberts and Kirkmeyer, and Representatives Taggart and Mauro
    • HB25-1149 – Comprehensive Black History & Culture Education in K-12, sponsored by Representative English, and Senator Exum
    • HB25-1117 – Vehicle Immobilization Company Regulation, sponsored by Representatives Joseph and Boesenecker, and Senators Gonzales and Weissman
    • SB25-297 – Implementation of Colorado Natural Medicine Initiative, sponsored by Senator Ball, and Representative Feret
    • HB25-1209 – Marijuana Regulation Streamline, sponsored by Representatives Lindstedt and Willford, and Senator Gonzales and Majority Leader Rodriguez
    • HB25-1245 – Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning Improvement Projects in Schools, sponsored by Representatives Lieder and Hamrick, and Senators Kipp and Danielson
    • HB25-1130 – Labor Requirements for Government Construction Projects, sponsored by Representative Carter and Majority Leader Monica Duran, and Senators Danielson and Kolker
    • HB25-1284 – Regulating Apprentices in Licensed Trades, sponsored by Majority Leader Duran and Senator Sullivan
    • SB25-048 – Diabetes Prevention & Obesity Treatment Act, sponsored by Senators Michaelson Jenet and Mullica, and Representatives Brown and Mabrey
    • HB25-1208 – Local Governments Tip Offsets for Tipped Employees, sponsored by Representatives Woodrow and Valdez, and Senators Amabile and Daugherty
    • HB25-1330 – Exempting Quantum Computing Equipment Right to Repair, sponsored by Representatives Titone and Soper, and Senators Hinrichsen and Baisley
    • HB25-1274 – Healthy School Meals for All Program, sponsored by Representative Garcia, and Senators Michaelson Jenet and Wallace

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Capito Questions Secretary McMahon on Department of Education’s Budget Request

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
    [embedded content]
    Click here or on the image above to watch Senator Capito’s questions. 
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies (Labor-HHS), questioned U.S. Department of Education Secretary Linda McMahon during a hearing to review the president’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget request. 
    HIGHLIGHTS:
    ON KEEPING JEWISH STUDENTS SAFE ON COLLEGE CAMPUSES: 
    SENATOR CAPITO: “I want to ask about antisemitism. The morning before our education hearing last year, there were protestors at Colombia University. I asked the then-secretary, how many people from the Office of Civil Rights have you actually had on campus to see what’s occurring there, to see what kind of violation of civil rights might be occurring on the Colombia University campus. And, apparently there was nobody there from the Office of Civil Rights…This is not a problem that’s going away on our college campuses…How are you going to make sure that the department is taking to ensure all students and in this particular case, Jewish students, are able to learn an environment free from intimidation?” 
    ON COMBATTING POOR LITERACY RATES: 
    SENATOR CAPITO: “Let’s talk about literacy. As I mentioned at my opening statement, these test scores are very troubling, I think, and you want to try to figure out how do we attribute to this. It’s not like there’s not great teachers everywhere, all around this country, trying to figure out how to get their students achievement moving up in the right direction. I will say this, my state of West Virginia, the state legislature recognizing this, did allocate additional funds for reading teachers in the very early you know what, grades one through three to try to move our scores up because we have traditionally lower scores. We did actually make it. That did make a difference. Having that extra teacher in the classroom. We can pull the child aside, give them that one on one attention really does make a difference.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pfluger Applauds Senate Passage of the ACES Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Today, the Senate unanimously passed Congressman August Pfluger’s (TX-11) bipartisan, bicameral Aviator Cancer Examination Study (ACES) Act, seeking to lower military aviation cancer rates after it passed through the U.S. House of Representatives last month.

    “I am thrilled that the Senate acted with urgency and passed the ACES Act today, which is my top priority in Congress. The ACES Act is in honor of my dear friend and former fighter pilot, Colonel Shurtleff, who recently lost his life in a second battle he never anticipated having to fight. Furthermore, the ACES Act is more than just a bill—it’s a lifeline for those who have already given so much for our freedom, and it’s a message to every pilot who has ever put on the uniform to protect our skies that we will fight to protect them in return. I look forward to moving this through the House once more and joining my colleagues at the White House to witness President Trump sign this vital bill into law,” said Rep. Pfluger.

    Background:

    Pilots and aircrews have been found to have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer and melanoma, with possible links to non-Hodgkin lymphoma and testicular cancer.

    Earlier this year, Congressman Pfluger, a Colonel in the U.S. Air Force Reserve, introduced the ACES Act alongside Congressman Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), a U.S. Navy Veteran, in the House. Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Senator Tom Cotton (R-AK), both veterans and members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, introduced companion legislation in the Senate. The ACES Act was introduced in the 117th and 118th Congresses. 

    The ACES Act directs the Secretary of the VA to study cancer incidences and mortality rates among aviators and aircrews who served in the Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps. This legislation is critical as it would improve our understanding of the link between military service and cancer risks among Veteran aviators. By better understanding the correlation between aviator service and cancer, we can better assist our military and provide more adequate care for our veterans.

    In March, Rep. Pfluger participated in the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs legislative hearing on several bills, including Rep. Pfluger’s ACES Act. Additionally, Rep. Pfluger’s good friend and fellow fighter pilot, Colonel Andy “Pablo” Shurtleff, appeared as a witness to the committee to share his story and explain the need and urgency for the ACES Act. Colonel Shurtleff was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer as a result of his service, and recently lost his life in this second battle he never anticipated having to fight. This bill is dedicated to his life and service.

    Last month, the ACES Act passed the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 376-5. Colonel Shurtleff was able to witness this legislation pass through the House before his passing, and Rep. Pfluger intends to get this legislation across the finish line and signed into law in his honor. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Smacks Down Trump’s Efforts to Cut Education Funding by Over 15 Percent

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WATCH: During key Appropriations Subcommittee hearing, Sen. Reed takes on Trump’s Education Secretary Linda McMahon, bluntly stating: “You are shrinking educational opportunity in the United States for a whole generation and also shrinking our ability to compete internationally and globally.”
    WASHINGTON, DC – A strong public education system is vital to the success of children, families, communities, and our country.
    That is why U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) opposed the nomination of U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon, a professional wrestling magnate with no meaningful education policy experience, who was tapped by President Donald Trump to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education and slash funding for public education. 
    Today, during a hearing of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies to review the President’s FY2026 Budget Request for the U.S. Department of Education, Senator Reed took Secretary McMahon to task over the Trump Administration’s efforts to slash funding for public education and shift federal education responsibilities to states.
    “From banning books to bullying colleges to cancelling grants and slashing money for K-12 and financial aid, the Trump Administration gets an F when it comes to supporting education.  Donald Trump is the first American president to declare war on education and weaponize major civil rights laws to undermine equal opportunity.  We must fight back to protect public schools and ensure every student – regardless of zip code – has the opportunity to learn, grow, and reach their full potential.  Trump’s budget would shortchange today’s students to pay for a bigger tax windfall for the wealthy.  Congress must oppose this budget and pass a strong education funding bill that prioritizes students, supports teachers, and strengthens communities because our economy and our future depends on it,” said Reed. 
    The Trump Administration is recommending a total of $66.7 billion for all U.S. Department of Education activities, down from $79.6 billion that was allocated last year, which would be a nearly $12 billion cut to education, or about 15 percent less than its current funding level.
    The Trump Administration proposes cutting about $6 billion from programs for K-12 schools, with another $4.3 billion in cuts proposed for higher education, according to the Committee for Education Funding, a nonprofit coalition of education advocates.  It also eliminates funding to support English language learners, grants for education research, and preparation programs for teachers and school leaders.
    At the K-12 level, Trump’s proposed cuts would gut evidence-based reading instruction, professional development for educators, supports for English-language learners as well as music, art, STEM, afterschool, and summer learning programs.  It would completely eliminate adult education, cutting off the pathway for millions of working adults who need to improve their literacy skills or earn a high school credential.
    The Trump budget also takes aim at rewriting special education law and targets programs that offer preschool opportunities for students with disabilities; information centers that help parents navigate special education law and policy; and technology tools that support instruction for students with disabilities and learning challenges.
    Federal funds constitute approximately 14 percent of public school budgets nationwide.
    During the hearing, Reed took aim at the Trump Administration’s destructive, partisan budget which could be used to weaponize the U.S. Department of Education against states.  Reed told McMahon directly: “You are shrinking educational opportunity in the United States for a whole generation and also shrinking our ability to compete internationally and globally.”
    When it comes to higher education, Trump aims to lower the maximum Pell Grant by $1,685 for the 2026–27 academic year and takes aim at Federal Work-Study, which provides part-time jobs to students who need help paying for college. Under the program, the federal government covers up to 75 percent of students’ wages.  Trump’s proposal calls for a $980 million reduction in Work-Study funding for the program, which was appropriated $1.23 billion in fiscal year 2024.  Trump is also trying to eliminate TRIO, which helps students in middle school through college navigate academic and financial barriers; GEAR UP, which helps low-income students prepare for postsecondary education; and the Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, which assists undergraduate students who have “exceptional financial need.” The program was allocated $910 million in fiscal 2024 — all of which would be eliminated under Trump’s budget.
    During the hearing, Reed and McMahon had the following exchange about how educations cuts would negatively impact the country:
    Sen. Reed: Well, it is a significant cut. And …
    Sec. McMahon: To be more responsible.
    Sen. Reed: To be more responsible? Your responsibility amounts to just surrendering.
    Sec. McMahon: Sorry, sir?
    Sen. Reed: Surrendering. We have this crisis of education and literacy, all of these factors. What we will do is pull back and let the states do it.
    Sec. McMahon: No, we will spend it more responsibly.
    Sen. Reed: I doubt it seriously.
    Sec. McMahon: Let’s hope we do.
    Sen. Reed: Well, ‘Hope,’ as someone said, is not a plan.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pressed by Murray, McMahon Says “No” Analysis Was Conducted Before Firing Half of the Department of Education’s Staff

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Murray: “You didn’t do an actual analysis to determine what the effects of this would be?”

    McMahon: “No.”

    ***WATCH: Senator Murray’s Q&A with Sec. McMahon***

    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, questioned Department of Education (ED) Secretary Linda McMahon at a Senate Appropriations Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Subcommittee hearing on the president’s fiscal year 2026 budget request for the Department. Senator Murray pressed Secretary McMahon on the indiscriminate mass firings of employees across the Department, the lack of transparency from the Department as it illegally withholds funds that were already appropriated by Congress, and how the Trump administration talks a big game about tackling antisemitism in schools but is actually dismantling the very office charged with investigating it and enforcing federal civil rights laws for students.

    In opening comments, Vice Chair Murray said:

    “Good morning, Secretary McMahon. You know, President Trump has made clear that he wants to abolish the very department that you lead. And we know here that you cannot eliminate the Department of Education without an act of Congress—but I’m afraid that has not stopped you from preventing the Department from actually doing its job.

    “You have indiscriminately shuttered offices and pushed out half of the Department’s staff. And under your leadership, we have seen critical research to improve student outcomes axed overnight—and funding for mental health services and teacher training, among a whole lot, abruptly cut off and discontinued. 

    “Now, today you come before this Committee to request massive funding cuts that do, in my opinion, nothing to help improve opportunities for students in our public schools throughout the country. You are proposing to slash Pell grants and much more.

    “Now, you and the president say this isn’t about cutting education funding but all about ‘returning education to the states.’ But actually, that couldn’t be farther from the truth—because the reality is this administration is actually taking unprecedented steps to extort schools and universities, and hold federal funding hostage if they don’t conform with your agenda.

    “So, it’s pretty clear that ‘returning education to the states’ actually means letting states, colleges, and local communities pick up the tab. And I just don’t believe that’s how things should work in America—I don’t believe that’s good for our students and I don’t believe it is good for our families.”

    [MASS FIRINGS AT ED]

    Senator Murray began by pressing Secretary McMahon on the indiscriminate mass firings across the Department: “Secretary McMahon, as I mentioned, you have set out to eliminate nearly half of your Department’s workforce. And that includes pushing out the door more than half of the staff at the Office for Civil Rights, the entire staff responsible for managing grant operations and contract procurement, and employees who actually prevent students from getting ripped off by predatory colleges. The Department cannot do its basic job to execute the law given how many staff have been pushed out.  And it is our students and our teachers who will suffer the consequences. So, I want to know from you: before you cut that much staff, did you conduct any analysis to assess whether or not it would degrade support and services for students and our schools? Or how the Department would still be able to execute the law after losing so many employees?”

    Secretary McMahon responded, “Yes, we did talk to the Department itself, OCR.”

    “But did you do an actual analysis?” Senator Murray pressed.

    “What we looked at across was, how can we restructure the Department so that we can maximize the use of the people who are there? So, what we did was in, like, training manuals and things of that nature, to look at it and say, okay, we can better operate if we focus on—” SecretaryMcMahon replied.

    “So, this was a conversation. You didn’t do an actual analysis to determine what the effects of this would be?” Senator Murray clarified.

    “No,” replied Secretary McMahon.

    “So, no study was done. They were just fired, and you assumed that it would work?” Senator Murray asked.

    Secretary McMahonreplied, “No, obviously not. I have been in the private sector and done restructuring before in companies, and it’s painful to do.”

    “It is painful, but normally companies look ahead and say: what are our goals and what will be the impact if these employees are gone from this Department? That’s why I asked. But you’ve not done an analysis, and my time is short, so let me continue,” said Senator Murray.

    [REFUSAL TO DETAIL HOW ED IS SPENDING FUNDING]

    Senator Murray turned to the lack of transparency from the Department about how it is spending funding that has already been provided: “You were required—by law—to submit an operating plan 45 days after enactment of the full-year CR detailing exactly how you are spending funding Congress provided this year. You didn’t do that. The purported ‘operating plan’ that you did submit told us virtually nothing about how you are spending taxpayer dollars right now, at this very moment. And that really raises concerns about when—and actually if—you are going get funding that Congress did provide for FY25 out the door. For example: your FY26 budget request zeroes out dedicated funding for literacy education programs, and your operating plan for this year describes this funding as ‘unallocated.’ So, will you allocate the $220 million for literacy programs that Congress appropriated for FY25?”

    Secretary McMahon refused to commit to spending the funding Congress provided for literacy programs, stating: “Well, Senator, as I mentioned earlier, we are looking at the unallocated dollars now to determine which of those programs we can best spend those dollars on. And I would be happy to get back to you. And we want to work with Congress on those unallocated dollars to see where they could be spent the best.”

    Senator Murray pressed on whether ED will release the funds: “Well, what is your plan to make sure that, that funding actually gets to the schools and students is intended to support? We’re running out of time here.”

    “Well, to look at those programs and then to allocate them to the states. If those programs, we believe is the best interests…” said Secretary McMahon.

    “Those funds were appropriated by Congress. Your department was to allocate them, and it really looks to me like the Department is illegally impounding funding that would help our students succeed with plans that don’t exist—and just day after day going by here. And that’s our concern,” saidSenator Murray.

    Secretary McMahon replied, “Well, let us work more with you as we update those allocations, as we did before.”

    “When do you plan to have those funds out by?” pushed Senator Murray.

    “Well, the funds that we are approving will go out in this year,” Secretary McMahon responded.

    Senator Murray replied, “Like in this next month, or..?”

    “In the fiscal year,” saidSecretary McMahon.

    “You’re running out of time. So, we need to see what the plan is if you can provide it,” said Senator Murray.

    Senator Murray and House Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro sent a letter to Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russ Vought last week calling out the Trump administration’s lack of transparency about how it is spending funds provided by Congress for this year—noting the complete inadequacy of the spend plan, required by law, that the Department of Education submitted.

    [DISMANTLING THE OFFICE FOR CIVIL RIGHTS]

    Senator Murray then addressed how the Trump administration has been dismantling the Office for Civil Rights, which is the office charged with enforcing federal civil rights laws in schools and investigating discrimination, noncompliance with federal law and more. Under Secretary McMahon’s leadership, half of OCR’s staff have been eliminated and investigations have been hamstrung, and President Trump has requested a nearly 36% cut to OCR’s budget. She began: “Secretary McMahon, the Administration says that one of its priorities is tackling antisemitism in our schools—that’s correct, right?”

    “Correct,” replied Secretary McMahon.

    “Well, the Office for Civil Rights at your Department takes the leading role in preventing antisemitism and enforcing our nation’s civil rights law. It is really an important mission. But as you hopefully know, that office is under water. What is the current backlog at OCR, can you tell us that?” inquired Senator Murray.

    Secretary McMahon said, “We inherited about a 20,000 backlog from the Biden administration. One of the things that we found is some of those cases were like one-page complaints, and we’ve really been able to get rid of many of them and we are fulfilling…we absolutely are fulfilling all of our statutory requirements—have not failed to do any of those. And not only are we reducing the backlog, but we are keeping up with the current amount with a reduced staff because we are doing it efficiently.”

    “If you don’t have the staff, you can’t do them,” Senator Murray pressed.

    “If you have an efficient staff that has changed programs and you are addressing all of the issues, then you are being successful. So, I am answering your question by completely answering it,” replied Secretary McMahon.

    “Actually, Madam Secretary, my question is what is the current backlog?” asked Senator Murray.

    Secretary McMahon replied, “The current backlog is probably about—let’s see I’m looking at my numbers now—about 2,500 cases.”

    “2,500, and how many are you processing per month? Do you have any sense?” Senator Murray asked.

    “Well, we’re catching up with the backlog. And keeping current on the ones that are coming in,” dodged Secretary McMahon.

    Senator Murray pressed, “But you don’t know how many you are processing every month? You can’t tell us so we can get an idea?”

    “I can get back to you with that,” said Secretary McMahon.

    “Would you? If you could commit to giving us quarterly reports so we can know whether OCR is simply dismissing these cases or doing its job,” replied Senator Murray.

    Secretary McMahon responded in part, “I would be happy to do that.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to observational study on low calorie diets and depressive symptoms

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    An observational study published in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health looks at the mental health consequences of low calorie diets.

    Prof Stella Chan, Charlie Waller Chair in Evidence-based Psychological Treatment, University of Reading, said:

    “This research study contributed to the emerging field of nutritional psychiatry by showing a potential link between dietary habits and mental health in US adults. The study also provided further observations around individual differences by gender and BMI status. However, these findings must be treated with caution because of methodological limitations. Cross-sectional findings can only show an association but cannot identify causal directions. Depressed individuals could be more prone to following a restrictive diet, or that diets and mental health have no direct association but are underpinned by common risk factors. These findings can also only generalised to mainstream U.S. populations, biasing towards those who were able and willing to complete relevant measures. Future research should widen relevant mental health outcomes, such as disordered eating and anxiety which often co-occur with depression, and to use more robust measures than self-reported self-identified measures on dietary habits.”

    Prof Susan Jebb, Professor of Diet and Population Health, University of Oxford:

    “This is an observational study and so the apparent association between reported ‘calorie-restricted’ diets and symptoms of depression is at high risk of confounding from other factors. Higher quality data comes from controlled clinical trials where the consensus of evidence is that weight-loss interventions lead to small improvements in symptoms of depression (e.g. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7116866/, and https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38084632/).

    “It is possible that the benefits of weight loss observed during a trial may also relate to the structured support offered to participants and it maybe that people trying to lose weight alone, without support may experience poorer mental health.  This has not been specifically demonstrated, but if true, it would reinforce the importance of providing access to structured and supportive programmes for people living with obesity and who want to lose weight to improve their health.”

     

    Prof Naveed Sattar, Professor of Cardiometabolic Medicine/Honorary Consultant, University of Glasgow, said:

    “This study is seriously limited as cross-sectional so cannot determine cause and effect, and reverse causality may play a role whereby people having to consider such diets may be doing so for other reasons in their lives that leads them to gain weight.  In low calorie diet randomised trial in people with type 2 diabetes, quality of life improved significantly compared to no intervention (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29221645/) whereas the same low calorie intervention in people living with Long COVID, did not observe any adverse impact on depressive symptoms, but rather a potential benefit in the hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS) score at 6 months (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39779922/).”

    ‘Mental health consequences of dietary restriction: increased depressive symptoms in biological men and populations with elevated BMI’ by Gabriella Menniti et al. will be published in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health at 23:30 UK time on Tuesday 3 June, which is when the embargo will lift.

    DOI: 10.1136/ bmjnph-2025-001167

     

    Declared interests

    Prof Susan Jebb:

    1. The Food Standards Agency is a non-ministerial government department set up in 2000 to represent consumer interests in relation to food;
    2. The Chair, Professor Susan Jebb is also Professor of Diet and Population Health at the University of Oxford, a member of the Public Health England Obesity Programme Board and Chair of the DH Public Health Responsibility Food Network;
    3. Here’s a link to her register of interests from the FSA website : https://www.food.gov.uk/about-us/professor-susan-jebb-obe-phd-frcp-hon-fmedsci-fsa-chair

    Prof Naveed Sattar: “NS has consulted for and/or received speaker honoraria from Abbott Laboratories, AbbVie, Afimmune, Amgen, AstraZeneca, Boehringer Ingelheim, Carmot Therapeutics, Eli Lilly, GlaxoSmithKline, Hanmi Pharmaceuticals, Janssen, Menarini-Ricerche, Merck Sharp & Dohme, Metsera, Novartis, Novo Nordisk, Pfizer, Sanofi, and Roche; and received grant support paid to his University from AstraZeneca, Boehringer Ingelheim, Novartis, and Roche. No shares in any medical areas.”

    For all other experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: LEADER JEFFRIES: “ELON MUSK AND I AGREE WITH EACH OTHER, THE GOP TAX SCAM IS A DISGUSTING ABOMINATION”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)

    Today, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries held a press conference where he emphasized that Congressional Democrats remain united in protecting the American people from Trump’s One Big Ugly Bill, while Rubber Stamp Republicans remain united in doing the bidding of the out-of-control Trump White House.

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Breaking news. Elon Musk and I agree with each other. The GOP tax scam is a disgusting abomination. Every single Republican who voted for the One Big Ugly Bill should be ashamed of themselves. They aren’t helping their constituents. They are hurting their constituents. That’s an objectively verifiable fact.

    The GOP Tax Scam is a disgusting abomination. It rips healthcare away from up to 14 million people, everyday Americans across the country. Hospitals will close, nursing homes will shut down, and yes, people will die if the GOP Tax Scam ever became law. It’s a disgusting abomination. The One Big Ugly Bill would enact the largest cuts in nutritional assistance in American history. That’s also disgusting. Republicans literally want to rip food out of the mouths of children, veterans and seniors. Every single Republican who voted for this bill should be ashamed of themselves. This bill that Republicans narrowly passed, it limped out of the House of Representatives. And we’re going to work hard to make sure it dies in the Senate.

    This One Big Ugly bill, the GOP Tax Scam hurts everyday Americans and rewards their billionaire donors with a massive tax break for the wealthy, the well-off and the well-connected. And to make matters worse, they will saddle our children and grandchildren with more than $5 trillion in additional debt in order to subsidize the lifestyles of the rich and shameless. Elon Musk and I agree with each other on this particular issue. The GOP Tax Scam is a disgusting abomination.

    Full remarks can be watched here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 06.03.2025 Sen. Cruz Leads Resolution Designating June as “Life Month”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) introduced a resolution to designate June as “Life Month” to mark the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade in June 2022.
    Upon introduction Sen. Cruz said, “Every human life is worthy of protection, and it is especially incumbent upon Americans and lawmakers to protect the most vulnerable among us. Designating June as Life Month is a recommitment to the American principle that every life has dignity. I call on my colleagues in the Senate to swiftly pass this resolution.”
    The resolution is cosponsored by Sens. John Cornyn (R-Texas), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), John Kennedy (R-La.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.),  Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Bill Cassidy (R-La), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), and Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.).
    A companion resolution was introduced in the House by Rep. Chris Smith (R-N.J.-04).
    Upon introduction Rep. Smith said, “For decades abortion advocates have gone to extraordinary lengths to ignore, trivialize, and cover up the battered baby victim, fostering a culture of denial, disrespect, and bias against the unborn. This resolution designating June as Life Month highlights our moral imperative to protect innocent children’s lives from extermination. It calls our nation to reject willful blindness to the realities of abortion—brutally dismembering helpless babies with sharp knife-like curettes or poisoning babies with pills that literally starve them to death and often result in their bodies being flushed down a toilet. This resolution affirms that the cruel injustice of abortion need not be forever: instead we must defend the unborn and show love and compassion to both mother and child through meaningful assistance and support.”
    Read the resolution text here.
    This resolution is supported by ADF, Heritage Action, SBA Pro-life, National Right to Life, Human Coalition, Heartbeat International, Family Research Council, Students for Life, Americans United for Life, Family Policy Alliance, Concerned Women for America, Catholic Vote, March for Life, 40 Days for Life, National Pro-Life Alliance, NIFLA, Citizens for Life, Christian Broadcasting Network, Focus on the Family, Liberty Counsel Action, and Eagle Forum.
    Kristen Waggoner, CEO, President, and General Counsel of Alliance Defending Freedom said, “Life is the first and most fundamental human right. Without it, no other right can exist. So it’s fitting to commemorate the historic Supreme Court ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. For nearly half a century, America lived under the shadow of Roe v. Wade, which prevented efforts to protect the unborn and ensure women have the support they need. That shameful era ended on June 24, 2022, when the Court rightly found: ‘The Constitution does not confer a right to abortion.’ America must now take the next step forward. After more than 60 million lives lost to abortion and countless women harmed by the proliferation of dangerous abortion drugs, we must urgently work to restore a deeply rooted reverence for human life and expand access to life-affirming healthcare for women. I’m grateful for congressional leaders who are working toward that goal, and I commend Sen. Ted Cruz and Rep. Chris Smith for their longtime leadership in defending the sanctity of all human life.”
    Janae Stracke, Vice President of Heritage Action said, “Heritage Action commends Senator Ted Cruz for his bold and historic proposition to designate June as “Life Month.” While life is a gift we each get to celebrated daily, designating June as “Life Month” is more than appropriate to honor the thousands of lives saved by the historic Supreme Court Dobbs case decision to reverse decades of legalized abortion under Roe. Overturning Roe v. Wade emphasized that abortion was never a federal right, affirmed that every innocent human being has a right to life, and allowed many pro-life state laws to immediately take effect.
    Hon. Marilyn Musgrave, VP of Government Affairs at SBA Pro-Life America said, “The landmark Dobbs victory rightly restored power to protect unborn children in the law to the people and their elected representatives. Thank you, Sen. Cruz and Rep. Smith, for your resolution that celebrates this pivotal moment and underscores the need to protect every life and support women, children and families across our nation — not only for the June anniversary of Dobbs but year-round.”
    Carol Tobias, President of National Right to Life said, “The U.S. Supreme Court rightfully overturned the horrendous Roe v. Wade decision on June 22. In memory of all the children lost to abortion, it is fitting that June be recognized as Life Month. We are grateful to Sen. Cruz for spearheading this effort.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Update 1: Alberta wildfire update (June 3, 3 p.m.)

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch’s Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act Advances in the Agriculture Committee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Credit, today celebrated the advancement of his bipartisan, bicameral Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, legislation to support America’s students and dairy farmers. This bipartisan bill which is co-led by Senator Roger Marshall, MD (R-Kan.), would allow schools participating in the National School Lunch Program to offer students whole milk, in addition to reduced-fat, low-fat, fat-free, and lactose-free milk.   
    “Milk provides growing kids with key nutrients they need. Dairy is also an important part of Vermont’s culture and local economy, which is why our bipartisan bill to expand access to whole milk in our schools is a win for Vermont’s students and farmers. This bill helps provide our next generation grow stronger and helps dairy farmers do what they love—feed our communities,” said Senator Welch. “I’m thankful for the support of the Agriculture Committee on this bipartisan legislation, and look forward to bringing this bill to the Senate floor.” 
    Senator Welch has led bipartisan efforts to support Vermont’s dairy farmers and strengthen the state’s dairy industry. Senator Welch recently joined Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and 15 of his Democratic colleagues in introducing the Honor Farmer Contracts Act, legislation to release illegally withheld funding for all contracts and agreements previously entered into by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). This bill would require the USDA to pay farmers all past-due payments as quickly as possible to prevent them from having to shut down their operations.   
    In March, Senator Welch and 30 Senators called on Secretary Rollins urging USDA to support local food for schools and local food system grant programs. Senator Welch introduced several bills in the 118th Congress to support Vermont’s dairy, organic, and specialty crop farmers; strengthen rural development and infrastructure; increase energy efficiency and renewable energy adoption; improve access to nutrition; strengthen our local food systems and expand markets; and make our communities more resilient to flooding. These bills were included in Senate Democrats’ draft Farm Bill, the Rural Prosperity and Food Security Act.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Dan Goldman Leads House Democrats in Demanding Federal Budget Fully Fund Public Broadcasting

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    Funding Request Comes Amid Trump Administration’s Continued Attacks on Public Journalism 

     

    Goldman is Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Public Broadcasting Caucus 

     

    Read the Letter Here 

    Washington, D.C – Co-Chair of the Congressional Public Broadcasting Caucus Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10), alongside Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) and Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA–07) led 103 of their House Democratic colleagues in writing to the House Appropriations Committee Chairman Robert Aderholt and Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro to request the federal government’s budget for the 2026 Fiscal Year fully fund public programming, including $535 million for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting’s (CPB) two-year advance, level funding of $31 million for the Department of Education’s Ready To Learn grant program, and level funding of $60 million for public broadcasting Interconnection system. 

    The letter comes as the Trump administration continues to attack public journalism’s editorial independence and crack down on public broadcasting nationwide. This month, the administration issued an unlawful Executive Order directing CPB to cease all funding for NPR and PBS, which support local TV and radio news outlets across the country. Goldman’s letter highlights the critical role that CPB plays not only in ensuring all Americans have access to trusted and reliable news, but also emergency response tools for state and local municipalities and educational programming for kids of all ages. 

    “Without federal support for public broadcasting, many localities would struggle to receive timely, reliable local news and educational content, especially remote and rural communities that commercial newsrooms are increasingly less likely to invest in. In states such as Alaska, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Texas, rural public radio stations are often the only weekly or daily news source in their communities. Even in places with other daily or weekly news sources, those outlets may not be directing resources toward original or locally based stories, leaving it to public stations to fill the gap,” the Members wrote. 

    CPB-funded public media reaches nearly 99.7% percent of the American population, and its funding funds over 1,500 public television and radio stations across the country, supporting approximately 20,000 local jobs. The members also emphasize the load-bearing role that the CPB-funded public broadcasting infrastructure plays in individual states’ emergency response.  

    “Between January 1, 2023, and January 1, 2024, nearly 8,500 Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) were issued by federal, state, and local authorities and transmitted over the PBS Warning, Alert, and Response Network (PBS WARN) system. Additionally, National Public Radio (NPR) and the Public Radio Satellite System enable local public radio stations to issue text and image alerts and other information to mobile phones, “connected car” smart dashboards, HD radios, and online streams. In fact, NPR has been named as a resource in at least 20 states’ emergency plans,” the Members continued. 

    Founded in 1967 as a private, non-profit corporation, the CPB’s structure shields its content decisions from political influence and is compelled by law to uphold “strict adherence to objectivity and balance.” In addition to emergency response systems and local journalism, federal funding for CPB also enables public broadcasting to support educational content that parents nationwide rely on to help their children learn, averaging 16 million monthly users and more than 350 million monthly streams across digital platforms, allowing people at all income levels and from all parts of the country to access consistent, high-quality, educational content for free.  

    “We urge you to continue your support for our nation’s local public broadcasting stations with level funding of $535 million for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting’s two-year advance, level funding of $31 million for the Ready To Learn grant program, and level funding of $60 million for public broadcasting Interconnection,” the Members concluded. 

    Read the letter here or below: 

    Dear Chairman Aderholt and Ranking Member DeLauro:  

    Thank you for the strong bipartisan support that the Labor, Health and Human Services and Education Subcommittee has provided to our local public broadcasting stations through the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), the Ready To Learn program, and public media’s interconnection system. As you craft the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies appropriations bill, we request that you maintain this legacy and continue to support strong funding for these critical programs.  

    Corporation for Public Broadcasting  

    Objectivity and balance and diversity of thought in public broadcasting are essential to serving the public interest and preserving the public’s trust. That’s why in the Public Broadcasting Act of 1967, Congress authorized the creation of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), a private, nonprofit corporation wholly independent of the federal government, to steward the federal government’s investment in public media. This structure shields content decisions from political influence and the statute compels CPB to uphold “strict adherence to objectivity and balance in all programs or series of programs of a controversial nature.”   

    For more than 50 years, Congress has provided funding for the CPB with strong bipartisan support. Since 1976, Congress provides such funding as a two-year advance appropriation, serving as a firewall that protects public media’s independence from politically motivated interference. It makes possible the long-term planning required to ensure public media’s educational and public affairs programming meets the highest academic and journalistic standards and has become the bedrock for CPB’s longstanding public-private partnership in service to all Americans.   

    Federal funding for the CPB is the foundation of public media’s national-local, public-private partnership. Distributed according to a statutory formula, CPB’s administrative expenses are capped at 5% and approximately 70% of all CPB’s two-year advance are distributed to eligible public media stations. CPB funds more than 1,500 public television and radio stations across the country, supporting approximately 20,000 local jobs, and representing the only locally licensed, controlled, and directed media in America. With CPB funding, public media reaches nearly 99.7% percent of the American population living in rural, small town, and urban communities in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and four commonwealths and territories. Every $1 of federal funding contributing to that programming, generates $7 from local sources — a tremendous return on the taxpayer investment.   

    This federal funding is critical to the work of all local public broadcasting stations to provide essential services and programming to local communities; enable local journalism that address current issues in an objective, fair, and balanced manner; facilitate local public safety and emergency alert services, and support educational services to millions of students, teachers, parents and caregivers. Unlike commercial media, public media operates under a unique statutory mandate to serve the public interest, focusing on educational and cultural enrichment and public safety, not profit.   

    Without federal support for public broadcasting, many localities would struggle to receive timely, reliable local news and educational content, especially remote and rural communities that commercial newsrooms are increasingly less likely to invest in. In states such as Alaska, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Texas, rural public radio stations are often the only weekly or daily news source in their communities. Even in places with other daily or weekly news sources, those outlets may not be directing resources toward original or locally based stories, leaving it to public stations to fill the gap.   

    We request level funding of $535 million for CPB’s two-year advance.  

    Public Safety

    Covering nearly 99 percent of the U.S. population, public broadcasting stations play an irreplaceable role as an emergency response tool that states and localities depend on.  

    Public television stations provide critical redundancy through the PBS Warning, Alert, and  Response Network (PBS WARN) which sends geo-targeted Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) messages issued by more than 1,600 local, state, tribal, territorial, and federal authorities from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to cellular carriers, all along public media infrastructure. Between January 1, 2023, and January 1, 2024, nearly 8,500 WEAs were issued by federal, state, and local authorities and transmitted over the PBS WARN system. Additionally, National Public Radio (NPR) and the Public Radio Satellite System enable local public radio stations to issue text and image alerts and other information to mobile phones, “connected car” smart dashboards, HD radios, and online streams. In fact, NPR has been named as a resource in at least 20 states’ emergency plans, for example, in Florida, “The National Test will be relayed to the three Primary Entry Point stations in Florida: WOKV (690 AM) – Jacksonville, WFLF (540 AM) – Orlando, WAQI (710 AM) – Miami.” Natural disasters do not stay within the lines of human-drawn state borders – that is why it’s imperative that federal emergency communications coordinated through the CPB-funded PBS WARN and Public Radio Satellite System are able to get comprehensive information to those at risk in real time.   

    In addition to transmitting emergency alerts, public radio stations provide flexible, live coverage of emergencies and connect lifesaving information to first responders and residents during unfolding events. During Hurricanes Helene and Milton, even as many other news sources lost power and internet, Blue Ridge Public Radio remained online in the Asheville, North Carolina area and delivered hourly local updates and statements from public officials to the more than 500,000 people impacted by power outages in the region. In Florida, a network of 14 public media stations across the state began coverage of Hurricane Helene a week before its major landfall, granting residents direct access to real-time weather alerts and updates across all platforms and apps.  In Texas, Houston Public Media was able to utilize its over-the-air signal to connect first responders and residents in the Gulf Coast region with lifesaving information during the May Derecho and Hurricane Beryl last year.  

    Without public media, the federal and state governments would have to decide between funding replacement emergency alerting systems or forgo ensuring that all residents have access to life-saving information. For rural communities, large expanses and low population density would raise substantial financial barriers.  

    Education  

    Public broadcasting networks also support educational content that parents nationwide rely on to help their children learn, averaging 16 million monthly users and more than 350 million monthly streams across digital platforms. Public media is committed to providing education services to all Americans. Public broadcasting allows people at all income levels and from all parts of the country—rural and urban—to have access to consistent, high-quality, educational content for free.  

    Through a unique partnership among the U.S. Department of Education, CPB, and PBS, the Ready To Learn program funds the development of educational television and digital media targeted at preschool and early elementary school children and their families. More than 100 studies have demonstrated that this program’s research-based content builds and improves the early literacy and math skills for children, ages two to eight. For the majority of American children (60% in 2020) who don’t have the means or opportunity to attend preschool, Ready To Learn content provides an essential “school readiness” experience.  

    We are requesting level funding of $31 million in FY 2026 to continue the impact of Ready to Learn created content and the scope of local station outreach to the kids, families, teachers, and schools that need it most.  

    Community Connection

    Local public broadcasting stations are some of the last locally controlled and locally operated media in the country, especially in more rural and remote areas. The local focus of the stations builds civic leadership, strengthens the fabric of our local communities, and ensures that invaluable culture and unique local voices are preserved for generations to come.   

    For example, West Virginia Public Broadcasting partners with educators and local libraries in Boone County to deliver high-quality early childhood education to area children, setting them up for future success. The station also produces its broadcast music program, Mountain Stage, showcasing local and regional music that is distributed by NPR for a national audience. Across the country, South Dakota Public Broadcasting is streaming state legislative meetings, making state government accessible to every South Dakotan. These services serve state interests, often saving states money by offering higher quality services at lower costs.  

    Interconnection  

    All of these services depend on public broadcasting’s interconnection system – the satellite and digital infrastructure and supporting operations that provide every local public media station across the country with access to programming from national, regional, and independent content providers and the capability to share their local content with others. This system ensures that cellular customers can receive geo-targeted emergency alerts and warnings, enabling public media to be the fail-safe for reliable public safety services, even when power grids and internet services are down.   

    Level funding of $60 million in FY 2026 for the interconnection system is essential to support its system-wide infrastructure while also efficiently address growing needs in the system, including: cybersecurity, content delivery networks, and data management, among others.  

    We urge you to continue your support for our nation’s local public broadcasting stations with level funding of $535 million for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting’s two-year advance, level funding of $31 million for the Ready To Learn grant program, and level funding of $60 million for public broadcasting Interconnection.  

    Thank you for your consideration and attention to this important request. 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai Visits Walter B. Jones Alcohol and Drug Abuse Treatment Center and Longleaf Neuro-Medical Treatment Center

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai Visits Walter B. Jones Alcohol and Drug Abuse Treatment Center and Longleaf Neuro-Medical Treatment Center

    NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai Visits Walter B. Jones Alcohol and Drug Abuse Treatment Center and Longleaf Neuro-Medical Treatment Center
    jawerner

    North Carolina Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai today visited two state operated healthcare facilities, Longleaf Neuro-Medical Treatment Center (NTC) and Walter B. Jones Alcohol and Drug Abuse Treatment Center (ADATC), dedicated to providing critical specialized care to people in eastern North Carolina.  

    Secretary Sangvai’s first stop was Longleaf NTC in Wilson, one of three state operated healthcare facilities which serves adults with chronic and complex medical conditions that co-exist with neurodevelopmental, and/or neurocognitive disorders and/or a diagnosis of severe and persistent mental illness. He was joined by State Health Director and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Lawrence Greenblatt; Deputy Secretary for Licensing and Facilities Karen Burkes; Deputy Chief Medical Officer and Chief Psychiatrist Dr. Carrie Brown; and Longleaf NTC leadership. During the visit, they toured a resident hall and two recently completed renovation projects in the kitchen and outdoor verandah.  

    The facility faces several challenges including staffing shortages and retention, particularly with nursing positions. Currently, the overall staffing vacancy rate is more than 43% with over 200 open positions. Longleaf NTC relies heavily on contract staffing to support staff shortages, and long-term investments are needed to help further support the workforce.

    “The health care workforce in North Carolina is vital to the health of our communities,” said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai. “Together we will work toward solutions, like increased pay and retention efforts, to fill these critical positions and ensure people continue to receive the care they need.”

    Leadership also highlighted successes including the facility’s return to normal operations after taking in residents of Black Mountain Neuro-Medical Treatment Center who were displaced during Hurricane Helene. 

    Secretary Sangvai then toured and met with staff at Walter B. Jones ADATC in Greenville, one of two substance use disorder treatment centers operated by the NCDHHS Division of State Operated Healthcare Facilities (DSOHF). They visited a newly opened residential unit, cafeteria and Opioid Treatment Center at the facility.

    Walter B. Jones ADATC leaders cited hiring and recruitment challenges among their top concerns, including the inability to offer competitive wages. Currently, the staffing vacancy rate is more than 38% with over 55 open positions. These workforce challenges limit the facility’s operating capacity which is currently at 35 beds out of 42 total.  

    “State operated healthcare facilities are the backbone to providing critical and complex services to some of the most vulnerable people in North Carolina,” said Secretary Sangvai. “If we want to create a healthier North Carolina, we must retain positions to attract and maintain staff and providers in these vital facilities.”

    Current North Carolina House and Senate budget proposals eliminate hundreds of NCDHHS positions. Any reductions in the workforce at NCDHHS DSOHF facilities would limit the ability to staff and operate more beds and could permanently reduce the number of patients able to be served if it becomes law.  

    Jun 3, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Says Senate Should Dump House Proposal to Force Millions Off Health Coverage & Endanger Struggling Rural Hospitals

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    06.03.25
    Cantwell Says Senate Should Dump House Proposal to Force Millions Off Health Coverage & Endanger Struggling Rural Hospitals
    In WA, Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” would compromise health coverage for over 270k people
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), senior member of the Senate Finance Committee and ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, joined Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) for a press conference at the Capitol calling on their Republican colleagues to reject the devastating cuts to Medicaid included in the budget bill that barely passed the House of Representatives last month.
    “If this bill is enacted — reversing the gains of the Affordable Care Act — it will increase our uncompensated care cost. One estimate: $42 billion alone in 2026 of uncompensated care, and $278 billion in uncompensated care increases over a 10-year window,” Sen. Cantwell said.
    “The result in declining revenue would have adverse consequences for at-risk hospitals and rural communities. We have all heard from our rural hospitals warning us about this. How is it that our Republican Senate colleagues are not listening to those rural hospitals?”
    She continued: “Do our Republican colleagues not care about delivery of health care in our rural community and the spillover effect it has to their economies? This is not scare tactics. This is a bill, if enacted, [that] will not result in savings. It will result in an increase in the uninsured. It will result in financial stresses on our system, and it will increase costs on all of us. And yes, it will cost lives.”
    Video of today’s press conference is HERE; audio is HERE; and a transcript of Sen. Cantwell’s remarks is HERE.
    Last month, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a reconciliation bill containing over $700 billion in cuts and significant changes to Medicaid, the federal program that insures many low-income adults and children, pregnant people, seniors, and people with disabilities. 
    Medicaid, known as Apple Health in Washington state, covers over 1.9 million Washingtonians. On May 2, Sen. Cantwell released a snapshot report highlighting the impact that Medicaid cuts would have on Washington state’s highly-ranked long-term care system for seniors and people with disabilities. In February, she released a snapshot report that demonstrated how cuts would harm health care access in Washington state, and she followed up with a report in March that dove into impacts on the Puget Sound region.
    Highlights of those snapshot reports include:
    In Washington state, WA-04 (Central Washington) and WA-05 (Eastern Washington) have the highest proportions of adults and total population on Medicaid (Apple Health). In District 4, 70% of children are on Medicaid.
    In the Puget Sound, children in Seattle’s blue-collar strongholds would feel the deepest pain from Medicaid cuts. More than half of children in Burien, SeaTac, Kent, Federal Way, Auburn, Renton, and Rainier Valley depend on Medicaid.
    In an exclusive new survey of 68 WA nursing homes, 67 of 68 would cut services if Medicaid were cut by 5% or more, and 65% would consider closing.
    Over the past three months, Sen. Cantwell also took a tour around the state to hear from folks who would be directly impacted by cuts to Medicare. Doctors, patients, and health care providers in Seattle, Spokane, the Tri-Cities, and Wenatchee warned that such cuts would devastate Washington state’s health care system and limit access to lifesaving care.
    On May 21, Sen. Cantwell joined Washington state health care professionals for a virtual press conference to highlight statewide alarm and opposition to proposed Medicaid cuts. That same day, 23 Republican members of the Washington state legislature sent a letter to the entire Washington state federal Congressional delegation, urging the delegation to “protect Medicaid funding for Washington State.”
    A full timeline of Sen. Cantwell’s actions to defend Medicaid from cuts is HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Diversified Royalty Corp. Announces June 2025 Cash Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, June 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diversified Royalty Corp. (TSX: DIV and DIV.DB.A) (the “Corporation” or “DIV”) is pleased to announce that its board of directors has approved a cash dividend of $0.02083 per common share for the period of June 1, 2025 to June 30, 2025, which is equal to $0.25 per common share on an annualized basis. The dividend will be paid on June 30, 2025 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on June 13, 2025.

    About Diversified Royalty Corp.

    DIV is a multi-royalty corporation, engaged in the business of acquiring top-line royalties from well-managed multi-location businesses and franchisors in North America. DIV’s objective is to acquire predictable, growing royalty streams from a diverse group of multi-location businesses and franchisors.

    DIV currently owns the Mr. Lube + Tires, AIR MILES®, Sutton, Mr. Mikes, Nurse Next Door, Oxford Learning Centres, Stratus Building Solutions and BarBurrito trademarks. Mr. Lube + Tires is the leading quick lube service business in Canada, with locations across Canada. AIR MILES® is Canada’s largest coalition loyalty program. Sutton is among the leading residential real estate brokerage franchisor businesses in Canada. Mr. Mikes operates casual steakhouse restaurants primarily in western Canadian communities. Nurse Next Door is a home care provider with locations across Canada and the United States as well as in Australia. Oxford Learning Centres is one of Canada’s leading franchisee supplemental education services. Stratus Building Solutions is a leading commercial cleaning service franchise company providing comprehensive janitorial, building cleaning, and office cleaning services primarily in the United States. BarBurrito is the largest quick service Mexican restaurant food chain in Canada.

    DIV’s objective is to increase cash flow per share by making accretive royalty purchases and through the growth of purchased royalties. DIV intends to continue to pay a predictable and stable monthly dividend to shareholders and increase the dividend over time, in each case as cash flow per share allows.

    Forward Looking Statements

    Certain statements contained in this news release may constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws that involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. The use of any of the words “anticipate”, “continue”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend”, “may”, “will”, ”project”, “should”, “believe”, “confident”, “plan” and “intends” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking information, although not all forward-looking information contains these identifying words. Specifically, forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, statements made in relation to: the amount and timing of the June 2025 dividend to be paid to DIV’s shareholders; DIV’s objective to continue to pay predictable and stable monthly dividends to shareholders; and DIV’s corporate objectives. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events, performance, or achievements of DIV to differ materially from those anticipated or implied by such forward-looking information. DIV believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information included in this news release are reasonable but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct. In particular there can be no assurance that: DIV will be able to make monthly dividend payments to the holders of its common shares; or DIV will achieve any of its corporate objectives. Given these uncertainties, readers are cautioned that forward-looking information included in this news release are not guarantees of future performance, and such forward-looking information should not be unduly relied upon. More information about the risks and uncertainties affecting DIV’s business and the businesses of its royalty partners can be found in the “Risk Factors” section of its Annual Information Form dated March 24, 2025 and in its most recent Management’s Discussion and Analysis, copies of each of which are available under DIV’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

    In formulating the forward-looking information contained herein, management has assumed that, among other things, DIV will generate sufficient cash flows from its royalties to service its debt and pay dividends to shareholders; the business and economic conditions affecting DIV and its royalty partners will continue substantially in the ordinary course, including without limitation with respect to general industry conditions, general levels of economic activity and regulations. These assumptions, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect.

    All of the forward-looking statements made in this news release are qualified by these cautionary statements and other cautionary statements or factors contained herein, and there can be no assurance that the actual results or developments will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, DIV. The forward-looking information included in this news release is presented as of the date of this news release and DIV assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by applicable law.

    THE TORONTO STOCK EXCHANGE HAS NOT REVIEWED AND DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR THE ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

    Additional Information

    Additional information relating to the Corporation and other public filings, is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

    Contact:
    Sean Morrison, President and Chief Executive Officer
    Diversified Royalty Corp.
    (236) 521-8470

    Greg Gutmanis, Chief Financial Officer and VP Acquisitions
    Diversified Royalty Corp.
    (236) 521-8471

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: People with severe mental illness are waiting for days in hospital EDs. Here’s how we can do better

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Sebastian Rosenberg, Associate Professor, Health Research Institute, University of Canberra, and Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney

    Matthew Ashmore/Shutterstock

    On ABC’s 4 Corners this week, psychiatrists and nurses have warned New South Wales’ mental health system is in crisis. They report some patients with severe mental distress are waiting two to three days in emergency departments for care.

    The program highlighted chronic failures in NSW’s mental health system, but the shortfalls are being felt across the nation.

    Just over 7% of the nation’s health budget is spent on mental health. But together with alcohol and drug issues, mental health accounts for around 15% of the nation’s burden of disease.

    Problems in mental health go beyond under-funding: it’s also about how the resources we do have are spent.

    So how did we get here? And what can we do to fix it?

    It wasn’t supposed to be like this

    Back in the 1980s, psychiatric deinstitutionalisation promised to replace treatment provided in the old psychiatric institutions with mental health services and care in the community. Too often, these institutions failed to promote recovery, and delivered improper care and even abuse.

    Many of these institutions were indeed closed. But the shift in mental health care over the past 40 years has not been from asylums to the community, but rather to the mental health wards of Australia’s general public hospitals and the emergency departments (EDs) which operate in them.

    Hospitals are expensive and often traumatic places to provide mental health care. We know this from frequent statutory inquiries and reports.

    Deinstitutionalisation aimed to treat patients in the community rather than hospital.
    Shutterstock

    For presentations to EDs, all the indicators are heading in the wrong direction. More people are seeking care for their mental health in EDs, they are arriving sicker (according to their triage category) and they wait longer for care.

    Hospitals account for more than 80% of total state and territory spending on mental health. In 2022–23, A$6.5 billion of the states and territories’ total spend of $8bn on mental health was directed towards hospital-based care. Just $1bn was provided outside hospitals.

    Evidence indicates community-based care can reduce reliance on EDs for mental health care.

    Yet community mental health services now often comprise little more than a phone call to check if a client is taking their medication. Of the 9.4 million community mental health service contacts in 2022–3, 4 million lasted less than 15 minutes.

    Mental health clinical staff spend just 20% of their time with consumers.

    What are the solutions?

    The solutions are already at hand, but haven’t been pursued or scaled up. These include:

    • multidisciplinary models such as assertive community treatments, which provide mixed specialist clinical and psychosocial support in the community, in people’s homes

    • service models the Australian College of Emergency Medicine have proposed as alternatives to hospital ED care. These include safe havens, mental health nurse liaison services and dedicated homelessness teams. These services can provide the care required to divert patients away from hectic emergency departments, in calmer, more therapeutic spaces

    • NSW programs such as the Housing and Accommodation Support Initiative provide community based, clinical and psychosocial support to people with severe mental health needs. This program reduced admissions due to mental health by 74% over two years

    • Adelaide’s Urgent Mental Health Care Centre, which operates as an alternative to EDs and is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This clinic was designed in collaboration with the community, including people with a lived experience of a mental health crisis, and offers a welcoming, safe environment

    • Step-Up Step-Down services, which can effectively meet the needs of some of “the missing middle”. These are people whose mental health needs are too complex for primary care but not assessed as a big enough risk to themselves or others to “qualify” for hospital admission.

    Community-based care for mental illness and social support can reduce reliance on EDs.
    Monkey Business Images/Shutterstock

    Funding support for psychosocial services remains tiny. It accounts for about 6% of total spending on mental health care by states and territories.

    As a result, almost half a million Australians with either severe or moderate mental health needs are currently unable to access necessary psychosocial care. This impacts their recovery.

    It also leaves clinical services without a viable “psychosocial partner”. So people needing mental health care might be able to get a prescription, but are much less likely to receive assistance with unstable housing, employment support or help getting back to school.

    Working together

    There is already concern to address identified workforce shortages and psychiatrists’ pay disputes.

    The next round of mental health planning must also discuss and clarify the complementary roles in mental health care, as people with more complex mental health needs typically benefit from multidisciplinary, team-based care. This includes psychiatrists, psychologists, allied health professionals, nurses, peer workers, social service providers, GPs, justice, school and housing services and others such as drug and alcohol services. Who is best placed to plan and coordinate this care?

    Reducing our over-reliance on hospital-based mental health care and EDs needs agreement by all Australian governments to explicitly prioritise the principles of early intervention, community-based mental health care and hospital avoidance in mental health.

    These steps, together with more personalised approaches to treatment and better accountability, will help us achieve systemic quality improvement in mental health care.



    Read more:
    Police aren’t properly trained for mental health crises – but they’re often the first responders. Here’s what works better

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

    – ref. People with severe mental illness are waiting for days in hospital EDs. Here’s how we can do better – https://theconversation.com/people-with-severe-mental-illness-are-waiting-for-days-in-hospital-eds-heres-how-we-can-do-better-257971

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Senior public servants think GenAI will boost productivity – but are worried about the risks

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Helen Dickinson, Professor, Public Service Research, UNSW Sydney

    Many bold claims have been made about Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) and its capacity to improve productivity and generate workplace efficiencies.

    A recent Microsoft survey found 24% of private sector leaders have already deployed GenAI across their organisations. Many are considering laying off staff and replacing them with GenAI systems.

    But how much appetite does the public sector have for using artificial intelligence, which doesn’t come without risks?

    Our new research explores attitudes in Australian bureaucracy to using GenAI in policy work. Given governments are expected to work in ethical, transparent and responsible ways, we wondered if public servants are more wary of adopting this technology.

    No single view

    We asked senior bureaucrats from 22 state, territory and federal government agencies about their views on GenAI. We focused on what this might mean for the future of decision-making, policy development and public services.

    They expressed a range of views on the transformative potential of GenAI. Some were enthusiasts who saw the potential to conduct government work faster and more reliably.

    One interviewee remarked:

    Why improve the candle when you could use a light bulb?

    Others were less enthusiastic, arguing the technology is overhyped. Critically, they see GenAI as fundamentally inappropriate for use in public policy work and inherently risky on several fronts. These include:

    • the tendency for AI to hallucinate, where tools see patterns in data that do not exist in reality, making outputs inaccurate or wrong

    • the risk of biases in existing datasets, such as the underrepresentation of some groups or people

    • the sensitive nature of government data that might be compromised by AI programs.

    Regardless of their specific views on GenAI, public servants consistently told us two things.

    First, they do not believe artificial intelligence will replace workers. Instead, they are confident these tools will augment their work by freeing them from routine and repetitive tasks. This would allow them to focus on high-value tasks, such as engaging with the public.

    Second, the current use of GenAI is largely focused on administration tasks that do not draw on sensitive client data or interact directly with the public.

    Robodebt hangover

    One of the consequences of the Robodebt scheme is the pace and scale of the adoption of automated tools.

    Many interviewees explained public sector organisations are still very cautious about using GenAI technology as a result of the scandal.

    One interviewee told us the majority of the problems with Robodebt were at a human level, which highlights the importance of individuals

    taking their duties, both professionally and ethically, seriously, and interrogating what they get out of AI systems.

    Close attention is also being given to the influence of human decision-making in the development of machines that use GenAI.

    Incremental change

    Our research suggests public service agencies are largely taking a careful and measured approach to applying GenAI in policy work. Senior public servants perceive the public is wary of how governments use these tools. Rebuilding credibility in relation to technology oversight and implementation is imperative.

    Public servants described most of their use of GenAI as purposeful experiments. Clear outcomes are set for the use of these tools and evaluation processes are in place to monitor whether they achieve them.

    This is seen as important because public sector organisations need to know whether these tools do what they promise – deliver value for money and help guard against any unforeseen risks.

    Unauthorised use

    Some recent scandals show how GenAI tools can be risky when misused. In response, some public service agencies have banned freely available GenAI models such as ChatGPT and only allow access to officially authorised programs such as Copilot.

    But this does not mean public servants are not using the technology.

    Several interviewees told us they were aware of colleagues using unauthorised programs to enhance their productivity. Personal devices are often engaged to bypass system restrictions. Concerns were expressed public servants might not be receiving guidance on how to use these tools carefully and safely.

    New reality

    GenAI technology is being asked to perform tasks that require human intelligence and to do these tasks more quickly. However, our findings point to a strong need to align these tools with Australian government values that frame expectations for responsible use of GenAI.

    The public service faces a dilemma. Is this an opportunity for innovation in government policy work by tapping into the potential transformative impact of GenAI programs, as promised in other sectors? Or, is a more cautious approach needed to generate trust, both in the technology, and in public sector organisations to use them appropriately?

    Elon Musk’s recent work in the Trump administration may suggest the latter. The experience highlighted the significant consequences of tech industry influence and the use of AI tools under the remit of maximising government efficiency.

    The Australian public has high expectations of government to solve problems such as the housing crisis and cost-of-living pressures. A combination of machine and human intelligence may offer the power needed to tackle these complex economic and social issues. However, not all agencies have yet decided to flip the switch.

    Our research highlights the mix of views among senior public servants towards GenAI. Whether it transforms the public service or simply speeds up business as usual will depend not on the technology itself but on how boldly, carefully, and transparently governments choose to use it.

    Helen Dickinson receives funding from Australian Research Council, National Health and Medical Research Council, Medical Research Future Fund and Australian Government.

    Dr Jade Hart receives funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council.

    Kathryn Henne receives funding from the Australian Research Council, National Health and Medical Research Council and Google Academic Research Awards program.

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

    – ref. Senior public servants think GenAI will boost productivity – but are worried about the risks – https://theconversation.com/senior-public-servants-think-genai-will-boost-productivity-but-are-worried-about-the-risks-256566

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In first-of-its-kind initiative, California deploys mobile air monitoring to protect underserved communities from pollution

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jun 3, 2025

    What you need to know: The state will use specially equipped vehicles to collect block-by-block air quality data in 64 communities heavily burdened by pollution. The results will help create local solutions to improve air quality and public health. 

    SACRAMENTO – While the Trump administration rolls back pollution protections across the country, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the launch of California’s Statewide Mobile Monitoring Initiative (SMMI), a first-of-its-kind program delivering hyper-local air pollution data to guide air quality improvement efforts in California.

    “While the federal government threatens to take us back to the days of smoggy skies and clogged lungs, California continues to lead the way. We’re deploying first-of-their-kind vehicles to monitor pollution levels at a block-by-block level, delivering critical air quality information to communities across the state.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Starting in June, the pilot project will deploy mobile air monitoring equipment to 64 communities throughout the state, with a particular focus on communities that have long faced environmental disparities. The project spearheaded by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) will use sensor-equipped vehicles from Aclima and mobile laboratories operated by researchers from the University of California, Berkeley, University of California, Riverside, and Aerodyne to collect and analyze data on local pollution levels.

    The initiative is part of California Climate Investments, a statewide effort that puts billions of Cap-and-Invest dollars to work reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening the economy, and improving public health and the environment — particularly in disadvantaged communities.

    More than 60% of the mobile monitoring will serve priority populations, including low-income communities and communities facing disproportionate pollution burdens. The 64 communities were consistently nominated for focused action under the Community Air Protection Program, underscoring the state’s commitment to protecting the health of Californians in areas most burdened by air pollution.

    “By meeting communities where they are and listening to their concerns, we’re building an air quality monitoring system that integrates the lived experiences of the people most impacted by air pollution,” said CARB Executive Director Dr. Steven Cliff. “The Statewide Mobile Monitoring Initiative represents an unprecedented opportunity to gather the detailed information we need to better protect public health in neighborhoods that have historically borne the brunt of environmental injustice.”

    Monitoring will take place in the 64 communities over the next year. The project is expected to end in June 2026, when the collected data will become publicly available.  Final results will be shared with the 64 communities, the general public, and the Board. CARB, local air districts, stakeholders, and community stakeholders will use the data to help guide efforts to address existing and emerging pollution concerns. The data is also expected to inform future regulatory programs, academic research, and applications for grants such as the Community Air Grants Program.

    The program is guided by a robust community engagement framework. More than 40 community-based organizations across California have partnered with CARB to identify local air quality concerns and ensure community voices shape monitoring efforts from the ground up. 

    California’s clean air leadership

    Over the last 50 years, the state’s clean air efforts have saved $250 billion in health costs through reduced illness and reduced diesel-related cancer risk by nearly 80 percent.

    The state continues to set clean energy records. Last year, California ran on 100% clean electricity for the equivalent of 51 days – with the grid running on 100% clean energy for some period two out of every three days. Since the beginning of the Newsom Administration, battery storage is up to over 15,000 megawatts – a 1,900%+ increase.

    Press releases, Recent news

    Recent news

    Jun 2, 2025

    News To the People of California,Recent years have seen a troubling spike in reported hate crimes and manifestations of bigotry. In response, California launched a robust anti-hate agenda that includes significant investments and actions to support and protect all the…

    Jun 1, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom and Acting Governor Eleni Kounalakis issued the following statement regarding the death of Baldwin Park Police Department Officer Samuel Riveros:“We mourn the tragic loss of one of California’s brave law enforcement officers,…

    May 31, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring May 2025, as “Mental Health Awareness Month.”The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONDuring Mental Health Awareness Month, we recognize the…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: IAEA Kicks Off International Radiation Oncology Conference

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    IAEA Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications Najat Mohktar and IAEA Director of the Division of Human Health May Abdel-Wahab together with Lebanon’s Minister of Labour Mohammad Haidar during the opening ceremony of ICARO-4. (Photo : D. Calma/IAEA)

    The fourth International Conference on Advances in Radiation Oncology (ICARO-4) is underway this week at the IAEA headquarters in Vienna, bringing together participants from around the world to examine the latest advances in treating cancer with radiation.

    Opening the conference, IAEA Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications Najat Mokhtar urged attendees to remember inclusivity as they discuss recent innovations ranging from new techniques to the use of artificial intelligence, robotics and automation. “The future of radiotherapy, and of cancer care more broadly, must be equitable. For this, patients [and practitioners] must be at the centre of all we do.”

    Although more than half of all cancer patients need radiotherapy at some point, access to this life-saving treatment remains out of reach for far too many. To meet the target of one machine per 500 patients, low-income countries on average need eight times more machines than currently available, the IAEA-led Lancet Oncology Commission on Radiotherapy and Theranostics found. In terms of human resources, the global radiation medicine workforce of 2022 must expand by more than 60 percent to respond to the 35.3 million new cancer cases and limit the potential 18.5 million deaths anticipated by 2050.

    “Through shared commitment, we can ensure that radiation medicine continues to serve as a force for healing, resilience and sustainable growth in every corner of the world,” said Mohammad Haidar, Lebanon’s Minister of Labor, during the opening ceremony. He noted that Lebanon is strengthening education and training, creating sustainable job opportunities through investments in medical infrastructure and ensuring the well-being and dignity of its workers. These combined efforts, he added, will help improve healthcare outcomes, support the country’s broader economic recovery and contribute to its national development goals.

    “The IAEA’s commitment to science, education and international cooperation has helped shape a new future for Lebanon — one in which human capital is at the centre of this progress,” he said. “Let us continue working together; let us turn dialogue into action and challenges into opportunity.” 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Rep. Stansbury Votes No on GOP Tax Bill after 29-hour Fight

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Melanie Stansbury (N.M.-01)

    GOP bill guts healthcare, food assistance for millions to fund permanent tax breaks for billionaires

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) released the following statement after House Republicans narrowly passed their H.R. 1 tax bill by one vote after 29 straight hours of debate.  

    Watch Rep. Stansbury break down the bill here and here. 

    “Today, the GOP showed who they’re really fighting for in passing a shameful package that will strip millions of veterans, working families, and children of access to healthcare and food assistance—in order to provide permanent tax breaks to billionaires.  In so doing, nearly 14 million Americans will lose access to healthcare, 18 million children will lose access to food assistance and school meals, and millions of seniors will be impacted by cuts to Medicare.

    “This is not what the American people voted for and the GOP knows it, which is why they tried to sneak this bill through in the dead of night—not once, but twice.  Democrats laid it all on the line to stop this bill and its devastating impacts, filing over 500 amendments and working through the night for 29 straight hours. Meanwhile, the GOP cut side deals and snuck in more last minute kickbacks for their wealthy friends and donors late into the night. But, the American people see what is happening, and this fight is far from over.  We will keep working to defeat this bill as it heads to the Senate using every tool we have.”

    H.R. 1 will have wide-ranging and devastating impacts on vulnerable families, the cost of living, and the environment:

    • Tax Breaks at the Expense of the Most Vulnerable. Gives massive permanent tax breaks to the ultra-wealthy through permanent income, estate, and corporate tax breaks on the backs of working Americans. With the 10% wealthiest Americans receiving a 2-4% increase in their income under the bill, and the poorest 10% of Americans seeing a net decrease of 2-4% in income. New Mexico families, who are among the lowest income in the country, will be among the hardest hit.

    • Healthcare. Will take access to healthcare away from over 13.7 million Americans through cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, and Affordable Care Act programs. Defunds Planned Parenthood and bans abortion care under private marketplace insurance. Will strip $880 billion from Medicaid and $500 billion from Medicare, decimating the healthcare economy, with potential hospital, healthcare, and nursing facility closures across the country—representing the largest cut in Medicaid and Medicare in American history. With nearly two thirds of New Mexicans receiving healthcare through Medicare and Medicaid, New Mexico families and healthcare providers will be especially impacted.

    • Food and Hunger.  Will gut access to food assistance and school meals for 18 million American kids, with potentially devastating impacts to over 3 million seniors, veterans and vulnerable families—representing the largest cut in SNAP programs in American history. With one in five kids in New Mexico experiencing food insecurity and one in five families receiving SNAP benefits, New Mexico will be devastated by these cuts.  

    • Education Programs. Guts access to education programs with 4 million students set to lose Pell Grant funding.  With New Mexico students being among the most low-income in the country, they will be particularly impacted by cuts to education assistance programs.

    • Corporate Giveaways. Sends billions of dollars in private contracts to defense contractors, private prisons, oil and gas companies, and big tech. With significant national security infrastructure in New Mexico, New Mexico installations are likely to see shift in security priorities. Funds for detention and attacks on due process in the bill could increase private prison contracts in New Mexico to incarcerate immigrant families. Decreases in oil and gas royalty rates in the bill, could reduce state revenues by nearly a half billion dollars a year—defunding key programs.

    • Decimates Protections for the Environment.  Guts key provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act and opportunities for the public, Tribal nations, and communities to protect their land and water.  Includes mandatory oil and gas leasing, mining, and logging giveaways on public lands, while gutting billions of dollars in investments in climate, clean energy, and land stewardship. New Mexico is specifically named for mandatory oil and gas lease sales.

    • Increases the National Debt and Burdens on States. Is projected to add $3.7 to 5 trillion to the deficit over the next 10 years, representing the largest increase in deficit spending in American history. Shifts significant burden to cash-strapped states with billions of dollars in costs for healthcare and food programs pushed to states, while it cuts federal and state revenues through reductions in oil and gas royalties in a giveaway to industry.  

    H.R. 1 passed the House of Representatives in a 215 to 214 party line vote, with three Republicans abstaining from voting. The bill will now head to the U.S. Senate for further consideration. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Demands Trump Administration Reverse Course on Milwaukee Job Corps Closure

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, demanded the Trump Administration reverse course on the decision to shutter Job Corps training sites across the country, including in Milwaukee, that help young Americans get high-quality career training, are a path to good-paying jobs, and support businesses’ and labor unions’ workforce needs. Last week, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced it will begin shutting down contractor operated Job Corps centers nationwide, including in Milwaukee, where 237 students are currently enrolled and will be abruptly cut off from services, including classes, trainings, housing, and more.

    “Milwaukee Job Corps has critical relationships with employers and service providers to ensure students enter the workforce ready to succeed, including by partnering with labor unions to provide pathways to apprenticeships,” wrote Senator Baldwin in a letter to DOL Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer. “Employers in the Milwaukee area value Job Corps graduates as strong, reliable contributors in the workplace, and losing that connection will add to the challenge of filling open jobs.”

    The Milwaukee Job Corps site has served the community since 2010, and currently has 237 students. The Center assists students ages 16 through 24 in completing their education, obtaining career technical skills, and gaining employment, while also providing essential and transitional support services like housing. Since its opening, the Milwaukee Job Corps Center has awarded 1,354 high school diplomas, and 2,515 career technical completions, which indicate complete training requirements, certificates, and credentials for a trade.

    “Canceling the contract means these students will be interrupted and potentially dislocated in the middle of attaining certifications and reaching their goals,” Senator Baldwin continued. “Robbing these Wisconsinites of their path to self-sufficiency is neither efficient nor will it deliver the desired meaningful results for the students.”

    The full letter is available here and below.

    Dear Secretary Chavez-DeRemer:

    I write to urge you to reconsider your misguided decision to pause operations at Job Corps centers across the country, including in Milwaukee. I ask that you immediately reverse this decision, reinstate the contract, and ensure that the Job Corps Center in Milwaukee can return to providing quality services to its students and a talent pipeline for area employers.

    The Milwaukee Job Corps site has served the community since 2010, and currently has 237 students. The Center assists students ages 16 through 24 in completing their education, obtaining career technical skills and gaining employment, while also providing essential and transitional support services like housing. Milwaukee Job Corps has critical relationships with employers and service providers to ensure students enter the workforce ready to succeed, including by partnering with labor unions to provide pathways to apprenticeships. Employers in the Milwaukee area value Job Corps graduates as strong, reliable contributors in the workplace, and losing that connection will add to the challenge of filling open jobs.

    The sudden pause in Job Corps contracts, which serves as a functional cancellation of our investment in job training, will upend the lives of students currently participating in the program and disrupt a vital link in the workforce system in place in Milwaukee. Through Job Corps, students earn drivers’ licenses, attain GEDs, go on to join the military, go to college, and more. Canceling the contract means these students will be interrupted and potentially dislocated in the middle of attaining certifications and reaching their goals. Robbing these Wisconsinites of their path to self-sufficiency is neither efficient nor will it deliver the desired meaningful results for the students.

    I urge you to reconsider this course of action and reinstate the contract for the Jobs Corps Center in Milwaukee. Thank you for your prompt consideration of this important matter.

    Sincerely, 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Standing Up for Women’s Health

    Source: US State of New York

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    June 3, 2025

    Albany, NY

    “Moments ago, a federal appeals court affirmed the dismissal of a case that attempted to challenge New York’s Reproductive Health Act, our state law that protects reproductive freedom. Let me be clear: This means that New York’s nation-leading abortion protections under the Reproductive Health Act remain in effect.

    “From the halls of Congress to state capitals across this country, extreme politicians are trying to strip away reproductive freedoms. In New York, we’re standing up for women’s health and defending abortion rights.

    “So to anyone who tries to strip away these fundamental freedoms from my constituents, I have a clear message: Not here, not now, not ever.”

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    The State of New York does not imply approval of the listed destinations, warrant the accuracy of any information set out in those destinations, or endorse any opinions expressed therein. External web sites operate at the direction of their respective owners who should be contacted directly with questions regarding the content of these sites.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: The Netherlands: Leyden Labs lands €20 million EIB investment facilitated by HERA to advance pandemic preparedness activities

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • European Investment Bank and Leyden Labs sign €20 million financing to advance Leyden Labs’ pandemic preparedness activities, guaranteed by European Commission’s InvestEU initiative through its Health Emergency Preparedness and Response (HERA).
    • Funding is part of “HERA Invest,” a €110 million top-up to the European Union’s InvestEU initiative, meant to address pandemic readiness, biodefense and antimicrobial resistance.
    • Leyden Labs will use the funding to advance development of its novel non-vaccine approach, with nasal sprays containing broadly-protective antibodies to defend against seasonal and pandemic viral infections.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) and Dutch clinical-stage biotechnology company Leyden Laboratories B.V. have signed a €20 million financing deal to advance development of the Company’s broadly-protective antibodies to defend against seasonal and pandemic viral infections. Leyden Labs’ lead program is a pan-influenza nasal spray currently in clinical development (PanFlu), which has the potential to provide first-in-class influenza protection and meaningfully reduce the burden of influenza infection, including in infection from Avian Flu (H5).

    The venture debt financing agreement is supported under the European Commission’s InvestEU programme and specifically falls under “HERA Invest.” This €110 million initiative from the European Health Union is meant to address biodefence, pandemic readiness and antimicrobial resistance in Europe, as a top-up to the European Union’s InvestEU initiative, funded by the EU4Health programme.

    “The COVID-19 pandemic taught us multiple lessons, including that we should strengthen the EU’s preparedness and autonomy in key areas like bio sciences.” stated EIB Vice President Robert de Groot. “With the support of the European Commission, the EIB backs highly innovative EU companies like Leyden Labs with venture debt, enabling them to grow and thrive in Europe. Technological innovations from companies like Leyden Labs are key for European competitiveness and the well-being of our society.” 

    Hadja Lahbib, Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management, added: “Respiratory viruses are common and affect us all, especially the most medically vulnerable. Today’s agreement reaffirms our commitment to invest in innovation to strengthen preparedness and protection against respiratory viruses. HERA Invest is a prime example of Europe at the forefront of medical advancements in response to serious threats to health.”

    “We are thrilled with this endorsement of our approach and support from HERA and the European Investment Bank. This will accelerate our efforts to provide broad, universal protection against current and future viral outbreaks. We are grateful that HERA and the EIB understand the urgency and significance of investing in initiatives to ensure Europe is prepared for pandemic viruses. This concern is greater than ever given the increasing threat of an avian influenza outbreak,” said Koenraad Wiedhaup, co-founder and CEO of Leyden Labs. 

    Leyden Labs’ product candidates are nasal sprays that administer broadly protective antibodies directly to the respiratory mucosa. Leyden Lab’s solutions are designed to work at the earliest moment, before the virus even reaches systemic circulation. Systemically administered vaccines primarily generate systemic protection against viruses, however, this may be a limitation that contributes to suboptimal efficacy. Airborne viruses, including influenza, do not directly enter systemic circulation, but rather, they enter the body through the nose and mouth. The Company’s antibodies aim to protect against full viral families, so they keep working even when a virus mutates and evolves. This intranasal strategy also has the potential to benefit people with weakened immune systems because it does not rely on the person to be able to mount an immune response in order to be protective.

    The Company’s novel approach has the potential to transform the way the healthcare ecosystem thinks about viral prophylaxis, while also providing an innovative solution for use both in times of seasonal outbreaks as well as pandemic emergencies.

    HERA’s responsibility is to ensure that the EU and Member States are ready to act in the face of cross-border health threats. The €20 million proceeds of this financing will support further development of Leyden Labs’ novel, non-vaccine approach to fighting respiratory viruses to contribute to European pandemic preparedness efforts.

    Background information:

    Health Emergency Preparedness and Response (HERA). The European Commission’s Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA) supports projects that strengthen preparedness and response capacities in the field of health. HERA was established as a direct consequence of the lessons learned from the initial management of the COVID-19 pandemic, to ensure a solid Union response to serious-cross border health threats and secure ready availability and accessibility of medical countermeasures. HERA’s responsibility is to ensure that the EU and Member States are ready to act in the face of cross-border health threats, and its mandate covers both the strengthening of preparedness in advance of future emergencies and the implementation of a swift and efficient response once crisis hits.

    HERA Invest is a €110 million top-up to the InvestEU programme, funded by the EU4Health programme. It is implemented by the EIB and supports projects that focus on pathogens with pandemic potential, chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear threats, and antimicrobial resistance. Together with HERA, the EIB assesses whether an operation meets HERA Invest’s criteria.

    The InvestEU programme provides the European Union with crucial long-term funding by leveraging substantial private and public funds in support of a sustainable recovery. It also helps mobilise private investment for EU policy priorities, such as the European Green Deal and the digital transition. InvestEU brings together under one roof the multitude of EU financial instruments previously available to support investment in the European Union, making funding for investment projects in Europe simpler, more efficient and more flexible. The programme consists of three components: the InvestEU Fund, the InvestEU Advisory Hub and the InvestEU Portal. The InvestEU Fund is deployed through implementing partners who will invest in projects using the EU budget guarantee of €26.2 billion. The entire budget guarantee will back the investment projects of the implementing partners, increase their risk-bearing capacity and thus mobilise at least €372 billion in additional investment.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. The Netherlands owns a 5,2% share of the EIB. It makes long-term finance available for sound investment in order to contribute towards EU policy goals and national priorities. More than 90% of its activity is in Europe. Over the last ten years, the EIB has made available more than €27 billion in financing for Dutch projects in various sectors, including research & development, sustainable mobility, drinking water, healthcare and SMEs. In 2024 the EIB Group, which also includes the EIB’s subsidiary, the European Investment Fund (EIF), made available more than €3 billion for Dutch projects.

    Leyden Laboratories B.V. (Leyden Labs), founded in 2020, is a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in the Netherlands. Leyden Labs is working to free people from the threat of respiratory viruses, by leveraging its Mucosal Protection Platform to develop a portfolio of candidates aimed at providing protection against influenza, coronaviruses, and other respiratory viruses through a new class of broadly protective nasal sprays. Leyden Labs is supported by a strong syndicate of investors and ambassadors; VC investors include GV (formerly Google Ventures), Casdin Capital, F-Prime Capital, ClavystBio (a life sciences venture investor established by Temasek), Polaris Partners, Qiming Venture Partners, Invus, SoftBank Vision Fund 2, Byers Capital / Brook Byers and Bluebird Ventures.To learn more, visit www.leydenlabs.com.

    CR9114, Leyden Labs’ lead product candidate for the PanFlu program, is a human monoclonal antibody that protects against influenza in preclinical models. Leyden Labs holds an exclusive license from Janssen Pharmaceuticals Inc., one of the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson, to develop and commercialize CR9114.

    MIL OSI Europe News –