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Category: Health

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Colleagues Push to Expand Telehealth Access, Make Telehealth Flexibilities Permanent

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) joined a bipartisan group of 60 senators in reintroducing the Creating Opportunities Now for Necessary and Effective Care Technologies (CONNECT) for Health Act. The legislation will expand coverage of telehealth services through Medicare, make telehealth flexibilities permanent and make it easier for patients to connect with their doctors. Current flexibilities are set to expire on September 30 unless Congress extends them. 
    “Again and again, Iowans have shared stories with me about their difficulties accessing medical care. Temporary telehealth policies have helped Americans across the country, especially in our rural communities. The CONNECT for Health Act will update out-of-date laws to make recent telehealth innovations permanent, empowering patients and providers,” Grassley said.
    The CONNECT for Health Act would:
    Permanently remove all geographic restrictions on telehealth services and expand originating sites to the location of the patient, including homes;
    Permanently allow health centers and rural health clinics to provide telehealth services;
    Allow more eligible health care professionals to utilize telehealth services;
    Remove unnecessary in-person visit requirement for telemental health services;
    Allow for the waiver of telehealth restrictions during public health emergencies; and
    Require more published data to learn how telehealth is being used, telehealth’s impact on quality of care, and how it can be improved to support patients and health care providers.
    The bill is led by Sens. Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and John Barrasso (R-Wyo.). 
    Additional cosponsors include Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), along with Sens. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Angus King (I-Maine.), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) and John Boozman (R-Ark.).
    The CONNECT for Health Act has the support of more than 150 organizations, including the American Medical Association, AARP, American Hospital Association, National Association of Community Health Centers, National Association of Rural Health Clinics and American Telemedicine Association.
    Background:
    This legislation was first introduced in 2016 and is considered the most comprehensive legislation on telehealth in Congress. Since 2016, several provisions of the bill have been enacted into law or adopted by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, including provisions to remove restrictions on telehealth services for mental health, stroke care and home dialysis.
    In 2020, as then-chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, Grassley helped make mental telehealth services a permanent benefit under Medicare.
    The full text of the bill is?available here.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

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

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, April 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 April 1, 2025 to April 30, 2025, which is equal to $0.25 per common share on an annualized basis. The dividend will be paid on April 30, 2025 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on April 15, 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 April 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-OSI USA: Senator Collins, Bipartisan Group Urge Administration to Reverse Course on LIHEAP Staffing Cuts

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins, Jack Reed (D-RI), and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), led ten of their Senate colleagues, including Senator Angus King, in sending a letter to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., urging the Trump Administration to reverse course on the recently reported elimination of the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) workforce. As a result of the Administration’s reduction of about 10,000 employees from HHS, the entire staff running the $4.1 billion LIHEAP, which helps millions of American households afford their heating and cooling bills, has reportedly been cut.

    The federally funded LIHEAP is a crucial lifeline that helps 6.2 million low-income households and seniors on fixed incomes afford their energy bills, including those who use natural gas, propane, electricity, and home heating oil. Without this assistance, many Americans may not be able to afford their utility bills and could end up falling victim to extreme weather.

    “We are concerned that the reported staff terminations will undermine the HHS’s ability to deliver this critical funding to low-income seniors and families,” the Senators wrote. “We are also concerned that the local community action agencies that help enroll qualified beneficiaries could be weakened by other actions and funding cuts being undertaken by HHS and the Department of Government Efficiency.”

    The Senators also highlighted that the termination of the entire staff that oversees LIHEAP could hold up hundreds of millions of dollars in funding that Congress already appropriated to assist low-income Americans.

    “As you know, our states are expecting HHS to release nearly $400 million in FY25 funding later this month.  Any delay in providing this funding will set back efforts to provide summer cooling grants, weatherize low-income homes, and plan for the next winter heating season,” the Senators continued.

    HHS has already released 90 percent of those federal funds to state partners. The remaining 10 percent, almost $400 million, used by states to pay for summer cooling, and emergency funding for households that need additional assistance and weatherization, cannot be released until HHS determines the state-by-state allocation. Now, it’s unclear how the remaining funds could be disbursed to the states.

    “Access to affordable home energy is a matter of health and safety for many low-income households, children, and seniors. To that end, we urge you to reverse course on any staffing or funding cuts that would jeopardize the distribution of these funds to our constituents,” the Senators concluded.

    Senators Collins, Reed, and Murkowski led the successful effort to provide a total of $4.1 billion for LIHEAP this fiscal year, with $4 billion through appropriations and $100 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds.

    In addition to Senators Collins, Reed, Murkowski, and King, the letter was signed by Senators Tina Smith (D-MN), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Christopher Coons (D-DE), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Edward Markey (D-MA) Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Mark Warner (D-VA), and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM).

    The complete text of the letter can be read here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Mental Health targets show increasing access

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey says second quarter mental health and addiction target data indicates New Zealanders are seeing genuine progress in improving wait times and increasing access to timely mental health support.
    “It is encouraging to see all three of our wait time targets are improving and two of those targets are already being met at a national level,” Mr Doocey says.
    “This includes a 3.1 per cent increase in the overall number of people who are now accessing primary mental health and addiction services within one week. And a 1.5 per cent increase of Kiwis accessing specialist mental health and addiction services within three weeks.
    “The results released today reinforce the Government’s commitment to increasing access to timely mental health and addiction support. I’m pleased the targets and numbers are going in the right direction overall which results in better access for Kiwis.
    “There is still plenty of work to be done, and I will continue in my efforts to drive change. This is evident at a local level where certain districts and population groups aren’t receiving the same level of access.
    “While it’s positive to see an increase in the shorter stays in ED target, today’s results highlight there is a lot more work to do to reach 95 per cent of people admitted, discharged, or transferred from an ED within six hours.
    “This data provides a clearer understanding than we’ve ever had before. It provides clarity on the regions that are underperforming and in need of further improvement to bring them up to the national target.
    “I’ve recently met with Health NZ’s four regional deputy chief executives and tasked them with developing action plans for supporting and improving underperforming services within the regions.
    “As New Zealand’s first Minister for Mental Health, I am clear that accountability is vital and that we will continue to take a proactive approach to improving access and providing timely mental health and addiction support when and where it’s needed.”
    Note for editors:•    Factsheets for quarter two results can be found here.•    Faster access to specialist mental health and addiction services: target of 80 percent of people accessing specialist mental health and addiction services are seen within three weeks.o    81.9 percent of people were seen by specialist mental health service within three weeks in quarter 2, compared with 80.4 percent in quarter 1.
    •    Faster access to primary mental health and addiction services: target of 80 percent of people accessing primary mental health and addiction services through the Access and Choice programme are seen within one week.o    83.9 percent of people were seen by primary mental health service within one week in quarter 2, compared with 80.8 percent in quarter 1.
    •    Shorter mental health and addiction-related stays in emergency departments: target of 95 percent of mental health and addiction-related emergency department presentations are admitted, discharged, or transferred from an emergency department within six hours.o    65 percent of people were admitted, discharged, or transferred from an emergency department within six hours in quarter 2, compared with 63.5 percent in quarter 1.
    •    Increased mental health and addiction workforce development: target of training 500 mental health and addiction professionals each year.o    Increased mental health and addiction workforce development – 457
    •    Strengthened focus on prevention and early intervention: target of 25 percent of mental health and addiction investment is allocated towards prevention and early intervention.o    24.4% of investment allocated towards prevention and early intervention 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Appointments to Pharmac Board

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Health Minister with responsibility for Pharmac David Seymour has appointed two new people to the Pharmac Board and reappointed a current member for a second term. 
    Chartered accountant Talia Anderson-Town joined the Board in 2021 and has now been appointed for a further three years. 
    The two new Board members are:

    Lucy Elwood, a lawyer with significant governance and leadership experience including roles as CEO of the Cancer Society of New Zealand and Chair of Rare Disorders NZ
    Anna Adams, a barrister with experience in health law, public policy and regulatory systems. Her previous governance roles have included Board membership of the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand. 

    Other Board members include Chair Paula Bennett, Peter Bramley, and Dr Margaret Wilsher. 
    “Last year in my letter of expectations I made it clear that I want Pharmac to work in partnership with consumers, clinicians, suppliers and the health sector to improve health outcomes for New Zealanders underpinned by robust data and evidence,” says Mr Seymour.
    “I’m confident this board will provide the strategic direction and governance needed to deliver on my expectations for a world class medicines and medical devices agency.”
    He also thanked departing Board member Diana Siew, who steps down this month after a three-year term. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Pharmac Listens To Patient Voice

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Health Minister David Seymour welcomes Pharmac opening consultation on their proposal to fund two brands of oestradiol patches. 
    “Increasing availability of medicines has always been a priority of mine. For many New Zealanders, funding for pharmaceuticals is life or death, or the difference between a life of pain and suffering or living freely,” Mr Seymour says.
    “For the first time, Pharmac has its own Minister. Last year I outlined in my letter of expectations that Pharmac should have appropriate processes for ensuring that people living with an illness, along with their carers and family, can participate in and provide input into decision-making processes around medicines – this is committed to in the Act-National Coalition Agreement.
    “Pharmac received significant feedback at the end of last year about a decision to move to Estradiol TDP Mylan as the only funded brand of oestradiol patch. They heard very clearly that the TDP Mylan brand of patch did not work for everyone, and that people wanted options. 
    From today Pharmac will begin consulting on a proposal to fund two brands of oestradiol patches, Estradot and Estradiol TDP Mylan, from December 2025.
    “Pharmac has been working and engaging with people who use oestradiol patches, menopause specialists, doctors, nurses, pharmacists, advocacy groups and petition founders to reflect their feedback in a new proposal to fund both Estradot and TDP Mylan patches,” Mr Seymour says.
    “The redirection of Pharmac remains positive and continues towards a more adaptable and patient-centered approach to funding medicines.
    “The decision to begin consultation to fund Estradot and Estradiol TDP Mylan from December 2025 follows the Pharmac Consumer Engagement Workshop Report, last year’s Medicines Summit, my letter of expectations, and the acceptance of Patient Voice Aotearoa’s White Paper as steps towards a system which works for the people it serves.
    “The Government is doing its part. Last year this government allocated Pharmac its largest ever budget of $6.294 billion over four years, and a $604 million uplift to give Pharmac the financial support it needs to carry out its functions – negotiating the best deals for medicine for New Zealanders.
    “We want to build a world-class health system, and that requires access to world-class medicines.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Enhancing cardiac services in southern Alberta

    Alberta’s government is committed to expanding access to cardiac services so that Albertans can get the care they need, when and where they need it. That is why Budget 2025 provides $5 million to advance plans for enhanced cardiac and intensive care services in southern Alberta, including a cardiac catheterization lab in Lethbridge and expanded intensive care units in Lethbridge and Medicine Hat.

    Last fall, Alberta’s government announced Lethbridge’s cardiac catheterization lab progression to functional programming, accelerating timelines by up to one year. Budget 2025 provides funding for detailed planning to prepare the cardiac catheterization lab for construction funding in a future budget.

    “Increasing cardiac and ICU capacity is critical, especially in areas where residents are currently travelling significant distances to receive care. These projects include a cardiac catheterization lab, which will improve health outcomes for residents and, ultimately, save lives.”

    Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health

    “Building these cardiac and intensive care facilities will help strengthen communities in southern Alberta. On top of creating jobs during construction, this work will literally save lives and enhance the overall quality of care for patients. I look forward to these important projects moving ahead as soon as possible.”

    Martin Long, Minister of Infrastructure

    “Every heartbeat matters in saving lives. I’m so grateful the Lethbridge cardiac catheterization lab project is being accelerated to ensure patients can get the care they need, faster and closer to home.”

    Nathan Neudorf, MLA for Lethbridge-East

    In addition to a new cardiac catheterization lab at the Chinook Regional Hospital, Budget 2025 supports plans to redevelop and expand intensive care units and diagnostic capabilities at both the Lethbridge hospital and the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital. Pending the completion of the planning process, it’s anticipated that about eight new beds will be added at the Medicine Hat hospital and about 34 beds will be added at the Chinook Regional Hospital in Lethbridge. These new beds will have the ability to be ICU or lower-acuity beds, depending on hospital needs at any given time.

    “Expanding intensive care services in Medicine Hat represents the Alberta government’s strong commitment to health care. As the MLA for Cypress-Medicine Hat, I know this will address the health care needs of southern Alberta communities.”

    Justin Wright, parliamentary secretary for rural health

    “Increasing the scope of cardiac services in our city has been a top advocacy priority for several years. On behalf of Lethbridge city council, I want to thank everyone involved in making this a reality.”

    Blaine Hyggen, mayor, City of Lethbridge

    “These changes will reduce wait times, expand cardiac services for southern Albertans and keep patients close to home. ICU upgrades and enhanced cardiac care will greatly benefit the region.”

    Dr. David Stewart, interim South Zone medical director, Alberta Health Services

    Budget 2025 also includes $22 million for an interim cardiac catheterization lab at the Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre. The interim lab will provide cardiac serves to Central Albertans until two permanent catheterization labs are built as part of the $1.8-billion Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre redevelopment project.

    Budget 2025 is meeting the challenge faced by Alberta with continued investments in education and health, lower taxes for families and a focus on the economy.

    Quick facts

    • In 2024, Alberta Health Services submitted a needs assessment for cardiac services in southern Alberta that recommended the construction of new intensive care units at Chinook Regional Hospital and Medicine Hat Regional Hospital, and the development of interventional cardiac services in Lethbridge.
    • The project was accelerated to functional programming in fall 2024.
    • The cardiac catheterization lab at Chinook Regional Hospital will help an estimated 1,500 to 1,700 patients per year once it is fully operational.

    Related news

    • Expanding cardiac services in southern Alberta (Oct. 22, 2024)
    • Expanding cardiac care at Chinook Regional Hospital (April 12, 2023)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tonko, Turner, Rutherford & Pettersen Introduce Bipartisan Reentry Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Paul Tonko (Capital Region New York)

    WASHINGTON, DC—Representatives Paul D. Tonko (D-NY), Mike Turner (R-OH), Brittany Pettersen (D-CO), and John Rutherford (R-FL) today introduced the Reentry Act, bipartisan legislation that empowers states to restore access to healthcare, including addiction and mental health treatment, through Medicaid for incarcerated individuals up to 30 days before their release. Representative Tonko, Turner, Pettersen, and Rutherford are joined by over 60 original cosponsors in introducing this legislation.

    Their bill addresses alarming data showing that individuals released from incarceration are up to 129 times more likely to die of a drug overdose during the first two weeks after release.

    “The overdose crisis has touched communities of every state across the nation, and few are at greater risk than those individuals returning home from incarceration,” Congressman Tonko, Co-chair of the Addiction, Treatment, and Recovery (ATR) Caucus said. “By restarting benefits for Medicaid-eligible Americans prior to release, our bipartisan Reentry Act takes swift, needed action to combat the disease of addiction and bring targeted treatment to the people who most need it. In short, our bill will save lives, lower costs, and reduce recidivism. I urge Congress to join us in advancing the Reentry Act without delay to combat the disease of addiction and provide hope to our communities.”

    “Too many individuals leaving incarceration face overwhelming challenges, with recidivism and overdose rates alarmingly high in the weeks following release,” said Congressman Turner. “The Reentry Act is a bipartisan solution that allows states to restore Medicaid coverage 30 days before release, ensuring access to critical substance abuse treatment and healthcare during this vulnerable transition. By providing continuity of care, we can save lives, reduce repeat offenses, and help communities in Ohio and across the country fight the opioid epidemic. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this commonsense legislation.”

    “Throughout my time in law enforcement, I saw many individuals reoffend time and time again as they struggled to break the cycle of substance abuse,” said Rutherford (R-FL-05). “Continuity of care for those leaving the prison system is important to help reduce instances of overdose deaths, suicides, and drug related crimes following reentry. That’s why I’m proud to join my bipartisan colleagues in supporting these important programs that help individuals who are released from prison to receive the mental health and addiction treatment they need right before and after they are released from incarceration. This legislation is smart on crime, saves lives, and reduces recidivism.”

    The Reentry Act:

    • Restarts benefits for Medicaid-eligible incarcerated individuals 30 days pre-release
    • Makes it easier for states to provide effective addiction treatment and services, allowing for smoother transitions to community care and a reduced risk of overdose deaths post-release
    • Does not change WHO is eligible for Medicaid or CHIP coverage, just ensures a warm handoff back for those already eligible.

    A fact sheet on the reentry act can be found HERE.

    More than 130 groups support the Reentry Act, including:

    A Little Piece of Light, Accompanying Returning Citizens with Hope, ACOG, Activate Your Life inc, Addiction Policy Forum, American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry, American Academy of Family Physicians, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Association of Nurse Practitioners, American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists, American Civil Liberties Union, American College of Emergency Physicians, American Correctional Association (ACA), American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, American Psychiatric Association, American Psychological Association Services, Alliance for Rights and Recovery, American Association for the Treatment of Opioid Dependence (AATOD), Association for Behavioral Healthcare, Association for Behavioral Health and Wellness, Autistic Self Advocacy Network, American Society of Addiction Medicine, Benevolence Farm, Big Cities Health Coalition, Black Male Initiative, BrainFutures, Breakthrough Alliance of Colorado, CADCA, Center for Justice and Human Dignity, Central Ohio Restored Citizens Collaborative, Christian Love Agency, Coalition on Human Needs, Community Catalyst, Community Oriented Correctional Health Services, DC Peace Team, Drug Policy Alliance, Each One Teach One Reentry Fellowship, EvergreenDaley, Exchanging Pathways, EX-incarcerated People Organizing (EXPO) of Wisconsin, Fabian Consulting Inc., Fair and Just Prosecution, Families Inspiring Reentry & Reunification 4 Everyone, Florida Citizens United for the Rehabilitation of Errants, Florida Incarcerated Workers Organizing Committee, Foundation for California Community Colleges, From the Block to the Boardroom, Future Stars of Tomorrow, Gateway Alliance Project, Grays House, Hinda Institute, HIV Medicine Association, Honest Jobs, HOPE for Prisoners, Illinois Alliance for Reentry and Justice, Indivior, InnerMission, Inseparable, Just Detention International, Just Future Project, Justice in Aging, JustLeadershipUSA, JustUS Coordinating Council, KLN Consulting LLC, Law Enforcement Leaders to Reduce Crime & Incarceration (LEL), Legal Action Center, Los Angeles Reentry Health Advisory Collaborative, Major County Sheriffs (MCSA), MATTERS Network, Mental Health America, Mississippi Impact Coalition, My Meta ReEntry Services, Inc., My Sisters Reunited Reentry Services Inc, NACo, NAMI Huntington, NASTAD, Nation Outside, National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, National Association of Social Workers, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), National Association for Behavioral Healthcare, National Black Harm Reduction Network (NBHRN), National Health Care for the Homeless Council, National League for Nursing, National League of Cities, National Nurses United, National Sheriffs Association, NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, New Beginnings Reentry Services, Inc, Overdose Prevention Initiative, Petey Greene Program, Phoenix House NY, Police Assisted Addiction and Recovery Initiative, PrEP4All, Presbyterian Healthcare Services (PHS) of New Mexico, Prison Cells To PH.D., (P2P), Rainbow Connections LGBTQIA, REACH Medical Ithaca NY, Reason for Hope, Rebuild, Overcome, and Rise (ROAR) Center at the University of MD, Baltimore, Reentry Ready, Reentry Working Group, Reflections of a Reformed You (RoarYOU), Reframe Health and Justice, ReNforce, Reproductive Justice Inside, Restored Citizens FAITH Foundation, Returning Artists Guild, Safer Foundation, Settling Our Differences, Skillsets for life consulting LLC, Solution Partners, St. Vincent de Paul Southwest Idaho Reentry Services, Survivors for Solutions, Süt&Tye luxury services llc, T’ruah: The Rabbinic Call for Human Rights, The AIDS Institute, The Change Up: Midnight Coalition, The First 72+, The Justice Policy Institute, The Liberation Foundation, The Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies, The Productive Offenders of Society Foundation, The Returning Artist Guild, Treatment Communities of America, United Men of Color, Unlock Higher Education, Urban Community Unity Solutions LLC (U.C.U.S.), Vermont Citizens United for the Rehabilitation of Errants, Veteran Mental Health Leadership Coalition, Victory House for Women, Virginia Justice Alliance, Vital Strategies, We Are Revolutionary, Why not prosper, Women on the Rise, WorkingGroup512, Young People in Recovery, Youth First Justice Collaborative

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Indian Yoga Association joins for celebration of International Day of Yoga 2025; collaboration to enhance the celebration and promote the benefits of yoga on a global scale

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 03 APR 2025 5:54PM by PIB Delhi

    With just 79 days to go for the International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2025, the Indian Yoga Association (IYA) has volunteered to play an active role in the celebrations of the International Day of Yoga . IYA representatives led by Secretary General Subodh Tiwari met senior officers from the Ministry of Ayush to discuss their plan of activities.

    Representatives from 27 state chapters of the IYA actively participated in the discussions, showcasing their dedication and enthusiasm for the mega International Day of Yoga 2025.

    The Ministry of Ayush thanked the IYA for their proactive approach and advance  planning for IDY 2025. This collaboration is expected to enhance the celebration and promote the benefits of yoga on a global scale.

    As announced by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, theme for IDY 2025 is “Yoga for One Earth One Health,”. The Prime Minister has also appealed to everyone to include Yoga into their routine and take pride in the country’s traditional wisdom for overall well being. IYA expressed its commitment to spread this theme through their number of institutions.

    The IYA members stated that many of them have already chalked out specific plan to carry out activities related to the 10 unique signature events that have been identified to mark the 10th anniversary of International Day of Yoga 2025.

    These 10 signature events are

    • Yoga Sangam – A synchronised Yoga demonstration at 1,00,000 locations, aiming for a world record.
    • Yoga Bandhan – Global partnerships with 10 countries to host Yoga sessions at iconic landmarks.
    • Yoga Parks– Development of 1,000 Yoga Parks for long-term community engagement.
    • Yoga Samavesh – Yoga Samavesh is an inclusive initiative promoting accessible yoga for persons with special needs, children, seniors, and marginalized groups. It features 10 key events, each focusing on a specific yoga protocol for conditions like diabetes, hypertension, asthma, mental health, and substance abuse. Over 1,000 participants will undergo a 10-day training conducted by partner organizations.
    • Yoga Prabhav – A decadal impact assessment on Yoga’s role in public health.
    • Yoga Connect – A Virtual Global Yoga Summit featuring renowned Yoga experts and healthcare professionals.
    • Harit Yoga – A sustainability-driven initiative combining Yoga with tree planting and clean-up drives.
    • Yoga Unplugged – An event to attract young people to Yoga
    • Yoga Maha Kumbh – A week-long festival across 10 locations, culminating in a central celebration led by the Hon’ble Prime Minister.
    • Samyoga – A 100-day initiative integrating Yoga with modern healthcare for holistic wellness.

    IYA members will strive to ensure that their IDY 2025 activities will revolve around the above signature events.

    Annexure

    The International Day of Yoga (IDY) has become a global wellness movement, uniting millions across countries. Here’s a brief look at its key milestones:

    • IDY 2015 – New Delhi: The first IDY at Rajpath saw 35,985 participants, setting two Guinness World Records.
    • IDY 2016 – Chandigarh: 30,000+ participants gathered at Capitol Complex, including 150 Divyangjan performing Yoga Protocol for the first time. The Prime Minister emphasised Yoga’s role in treating ailments like diabetes.
    • IDY 2017 – Lucknow: 51,000 participants joined at Ramabai Ambedkar Maidan, with Yoga highlighted as affordable ‘health insurance’.
    • IDY 2018 – Dehradun: 50,000+ participants at Forest Research Institute, with the theme “Yoga for Public Health”. ISRO launched BHUVAN-YOGA and Yoga Locator apps.
    • IDY 2019 – Ranchi: Focused on ‘Yoga for Heart Care’, with eco-friendly Yoga accessories benefiting Khadi artisans.
    • IDY 2020 – Virtual: Amid the pandemic, 12.06 crore people joined online. The “My Life, My Yoga” contest attracted entries from 130 countries.
    • IDY 2021 – Virtual: Themed “Yoga for Wellness”, reaching 496.1 million people globally. Iconic celebrations occurred at Times Square, the Eiffel Tower, and Tokyo Skytree.
    • IDY 2022 – Mysuru: 15,000 participants at Mysore Palace, with a ‘Guardian Ring’ global Yoga relay and VR-powered digital exhibition.
    • IDY 2023 – Jabalpur & UN HQ, New York: With 23.44 crore participants, this IDY set two Guinness World Records, including the most significant Yoga session (1.53 lakh participants in Surat). The ‘Ocean Ring of Yoga’ covered 35,000 km.
    • IDY 2024 – Srinagar: Held at SKICC, Srinagar, with 7,000 participants braving the rain. The ‘Yoga for Space’ initiative saw ISRO scientists join in. A Guinness World Record was set in Uttar Pradesh, with 25.93 lakh people pledging to Yoga. 24.53 crore global participants marked this as a historic celebration.

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Polis Administration Awards $14.4 Million to Support Nation-Leading Efforts in Geothermal Heating

    Source: US State of Colorado

    Awards from two programs will support 16 geothermal heating studies and projects to bring affordable geothermal heat to Colorado homes and buildings

    STATEWIDE – The Colorado Energy Office (CEO) announced a total of $14.4 million in funding awards Thursday to support geothermal heating projects across Colorado. This funding from the Geothermal Energy Grant Program (GEGP) and Geothermal Energy Tax Credit Offering (GETCO) will enable awardees to plan and install geothermal heat pumps and thermal energy networks that deliver low-cost, energy efficient heating and cooling to homes and buildings around the state. Awardees include local governments, school districts, residential communities, a medical campus, and a wastewater treatment facility.

    “Geothermal energy – the heat beneath our feet – is a clean energy option that will help save Coloradans money and protect our state for future generations. I am thrilled to announce this $14.4 million investment in  advancing geothermal energy across our state and empower companies to harness the heat beneath our feet,” said Governor Polis.

    CEO made a total of 11 awards through the GEGP program and five through GETCO. Some projects qualified for both incentives based on project eligibility. This round of GEGP provided grants for single-structure geothermal, thermal energy network studies, and thermal energy network construction projects. GETCO recipients receive a refundable tax credit reservation that can be deducted from their income tax liability. Cycle two of GETCO provided tax credit reservations for geothermal electricity or thermal energy network studies and project installations.

    “Geothermal energy is such an important part of our overall effort to transform our energy system because it provides a clean, firm energy source for both buildings and electricity generation,” said CEO Executive Director Will Toor. “Geothermal heat pumps and thermal energy networks reduce greenhouse gas pollution while improving indoor air quality and saving Coloradans energy and money on heating and cooling costs. We are pleased to support such a diverse array of geothermal projects around the state through these two key incentive programs.”

    The awarded projects include a broad range of ways to utilize geothermal energy. For example, the City and County of Denver will use its GETCO award to study the creation of a cutting-edge, multisource district thermal system that provides heating and cooling through a shared water loop for 5.5 million square feet of municipal buildings.

    “The downtown thermal network pilot project is a key step toward a carbon-free downtown Denver,” said Liz Babcock, Executive Director of Denver’s Office of Climate Action, Sustainability and Resiliency. “With support from the state, Denver can meet our community’s needs while demonstrating how this affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy option can meet the needs of cold weather climate cities around the world.”

    Liberty School District J-4 will apply its funding to install a geothermal energy network for two buildings at Liberty School. This will replace a 60-year-old hydronic heating system with three cost-efficient heat pumps that will add cooling, improve ventilation, and enhance indoor air quality for better occupant health and comfort.

    “Liberty School District J-4 extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Colorado Energy Office for their invaluable support in funding a new geothermal heating and air conditioning system for our K-12 facility,” said Liberty School District J4 superintendent Rhonda Puckett. “Their guidance throughout the GETCO application process was instrumental in developing a compelling application narrative that demonstrated the significant needs of our building (IAQ, temperature control, reliability, etc.). With CEO’s support, our project is now financially viable and is planned to be completed in the summer/fall of 2025 and will significantly improve the learning environment for our students and serve the broader community as a whole.”

    GEGP recipients are:

    • Town of Bayfield: $51,000
    • Town of Mountain Village: $64,269.50
    • Town of Winter Park: $64,269.50
    • Karval School District: $225,000
    • Liberty School District: $246,000
    • Golden Hills: $60,000
    • Mount Zion Church: $240,000
    • Mountain View Church: $75,000
    • Memorial Hospital: $57,626.80
    • Metro Water Recovery: $250,000
    • Clayworks Parcel B3: $200,000

    GETCO awardees are:

    • Pitkin County: $131,700
    • Liberty School District: $1.109 million
    • City and County of Denver: $4.999 million
    • Eagle County: $3.484 million
    • Metro Water Recovery: $3.095 million

    This announcement marks the second round of funding for GEGP and GETCO. For the first cycle of GETCO, SIMCOE LLC received a tax credit reservation of $1 million for the Florida Mesa Geothermal Project to support the development of up to 20 MW of geothermal electricity in Southwestern Colorado. This funding will help SIMCOE LLC determine the heat source in the project location. The current application cycle for GETCO opened April 1 and will close June 30. GETCO applications will open twice annually through 2032 or until all $35 million in available tax credit reservations have been allocated.

    Last May, the Polis administration also announced $7.7 million in awards for the GEGP. Applications for the third GEGP funding round, which is the last planned round of funding for the program, closed March 31. CEO expects to announce awardees in early summer.

    In addition to these funding opportunities, the Colorado Heat Pump Tax Credit can help reduce the cost to install eligible heat pump technology, including geothermal heat pumps and thermal energy networks, through 2032.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Raksha Mantri exhorts AMC to continue adopting latest technologies to provide quality health services to soldiers

    Source: Government of India

    Raksha Mantri exhorts AMC to continue adopting latest technologies to provide quality health services to soldiers  

    “Need to develop tech for both defence & civilian sectors, Civil-military convergence is crucial for overall development”

    INHS Asvini, Mumbai bags RM Trophy for best hospital in AFMS for 2024

    Posted On: 03 APR 2025 5:58PM by PIB Delhi

    “The medical sector is going through a phase of technological transformation across the globe, and the Army Medical Corps (AMC) must continue adopting latest advancements to provide quality health services to our soldiers,” said Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh while addressing the 261stRaising Day celebrations of AMC at Army Hospital (Research & Referral), Delhi Cantt. on April 03, 2025.

    While Raksha Mantri acknowledged AMC’s efforts of adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI) and carrying out research in cutting-edge tech, he stressed on the need to stay abreast with evolving practices to achieve new breakthroughs in the field. He pitched for encouraging simulator-based training, wherein expertise in medical procedure is achieved through machine-based learning. He batted for additional research and training centres for the personnel to achieve this proficiency.

    Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted the need to develop dual-use technologies, which can prove to be beneficial to both defence and civilian sectors. Civil-military convergence in the field of defence technology is crucial for the overall development, he said, while commending AMC for working with academia such as ICMR, IITs & AIIMS and medical organisations of other countries. He also urged AMC to explore the possibility of training medical professionals of other developing and under-developed countries to increase India’s stature in the field of military diplomacy.

    Raksha Mantri appreciated the remarkable contribution of AMC in reforming the health sector – from infrastructure to services and policy making to implementation. He stated that AMC has strengthened the combat medical readiness of the Armed Forces by introducing Advanced Mobile Surgical Units and Rapid Response Medical teams. Indigenous Trauma Management System and AI-powered medical triage systems have improved emergency response time & patient care, he added.

    Shri Rajnath Singh pointed out that the services of AMC are not limited to the serving soldiers, and they continuously strive for the well-being of the ex-servicemen and their families.

    Raksha Mantri made special mention of Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, the incumbent and first female Director General of Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS), describing her as a shining example of the growing Nari Shakti in the military. “Under her leadership, not only are our doctors carrying out exceptional work, the participation of women has also increased,” he said. 

    On the occasion, Shri Rajnath Singh presented the Raksha Mantri Trophy in recognition of the outstanding performance in delivery of healthcare to Armed Forces personnel. The trophy for the best hospital in AFMS for 2024 was awarded to INHS Asvini, Mumbai, while the second-best hospital trophy was given to Command Hospital, Western Command, Chandimandir, Haryana. These awards stand as testimony to the AMC’s unwavering pursuit of excellence and patient care.

    The event was attended by senior dignitaries, including Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, DGAFMS Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin and other civil and military officials.

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Brooks — Search warrant execution leads to seizure of fentanyl, fluorofentanyl

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Police have charged three people and seized synthetic drugs after a search warrant execution in Pictou County.

    Pictou County Integrated Street Crimes Enforcement Unit (PCISCEU) began an investigation related to a suspicious package being moved by courier. Investigation found that the package contained illicit, synthetic drugs with a delivery address in Three Brooks.

    After the package was claimed, the PCISCEU executed a search warrant at an identified address on Three Brooks Rd.

    During the warrant execution, which took place on March 27, officers safely arrested four people, seized fentanyl and fluorofentanyl, and recovered an enclosed trailer that was found to have been reported stolen.

    Three people are facing charges related to this investigation:

    • Jake Bruce Murphy, 34, of Three Brooks, has been charged with Possession of a Schedule I Substance (Fentanyl) and Failure to Comply with Undertaking (three counts);
    • Rebecca Lynn Pitts, 48, of Three Brooks, has been charged with Possession of a Schedule I Substance (Fentanyl);
    • Merissa Ann Sutherland, 34, of Pictou, has been charged with Possession of Property Obtained by Crime and Failure to Comply with Undertaking (two counts).

    The three were released by police on conditions pending a court appearance on June 23, 2025, at Pictou Provincial Court.

    The fourth person arrested was released without charges.

    Fentanyl is a potent opioid pain reliever and is 20 to 40 times more potent than heroin. More information about the dangers of fentanyl is available from Health Canada.

    The investigation is ongoing and is assisted by Eastern Region Federal Serious and Organized Crime (FSOC), Nova Scotia RCMP Synthetic Drugs and Scenes Unit, Antigonish/Guysborough Street Crimes Enforcement Unit, and Pictou County District RCMP.

    Note: The PCISCEU is made up of police officers from Pictou County District RCMP, Westville Police Service, and Stellarton Police Service.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: World Autism Awareness Day

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    “I want to recognize the millions of Americans living with autism and their families. President Trump has directed me to address and find out what is causing the autism epidemic and what we can do about it. HHS is going to do everything in its power to ease the difficulties that so many of these individuals and families face. We’re going to rise to meet the challenge.” – Secretary Kennedy

    —

    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) | http://www.hhs.gov

    http://www.Twitter.com/HHSGov | http://www.Facebook.com/HHS http://www.Instagram.com/HHSGov
    http://www.LinkedIn.com/company/us-department-of-health-and-human-services

    HHS Privacy Policy: http://www.hhs.gov/Privacy.html

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UdhK-hQ5fxc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Veterans Affairs Congressional Oversight Leaders Request Cost Estimate for Electronic Health Record Program

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies, and his colleagues with direct oversight of the Department of Veterans Affairs have requested the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) submit an updated schedule and cost estimate to Congress for the Electronic Health Record Modernization (EHRM) program.

    Boozman joined Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Ranking Member Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Mike Bost (R-IL-12) and Ranking Member Mark Takano (D-CA-39), Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Ranking Member Jon Ossoff (D-GA), and House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Chairman John Carter (R-TX-31) and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-25) in asking VA Secretary Doug Collins to provide necessary details to help Congress fully assess the EHRM program.

    VA recently announced an accelerated EHRM deployment that includes nine additional VA medical centers in 2026 as part of its effort to restart the stalled modernization program. The members’ request follows a Government Accountability Office (GAO) recommendation to produce an updated cost estimate for EHRM before moving forward with the accelerated deployment schedule.

    “The need for a cost estimate is further underscored by practical necessity,” wrote the members. “Without a reliable cost estimate, VA risks budget overruns, schedule delays, and diminished congressional trust. Compliance with these laws, directives, and GAO recommendations is a critical step to ensuring EHRM’s success and accountability.”

    In 2019, the program was initially estimated to cost $16.1 billion over a decade. An independent cost estimate conducted by the Institute for Defense Analysis in October 2021 estimated the project to cost up to $50 billion. After lifting a pause that was put in place on the program in April 2023, VA has not yet provided Congress with an updated cost estimate for EHRM as anticipated by a framework of federal laws and Office of Management and Budget directives governing major acquisition programs. 

    The full letter can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Astronaut Chris Williams Assigned to First Space Station Mission

    Source: NASA

    NASA astronaut Chris Williams will embark on his first mission to the International Space Station, serving as a flight engineer and Expedition 74 crew member.
    Williams will launch aboard the Roscosmos Soyuz MS-28 spacecraft in November, accompanied by Roscosmos cosmonauts Sergey Kud-Sverchkov and Sergei Mikaev. After launching from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, the trio will spend approximately eight months aboard the orbiting laboratory.
    During his expedition, Williams will conduct scientific investigations and technology demonstrations that help prepare humans for future space missions and benefit humanity.
    Selected as a NASA astronaut in 2021, Williams graduated with the 23rd astronaut class in 2024. He began training for his first space station flight assignment immediately after completing initial astronaut candidate training.
    Williams was born in New York City, and considers Potomac, Maryland, his hometown. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Physics from Stanford University in California and a doctorate in Physics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, where his research focused on astrophysics. Williams completed Medical Physics Residency training at Harvard Medical School in Boston. He was working as a clinical physicist and researcher at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston when he was selected as an astronaut.
    For more than two decades, people have lived and worked continuously aboard the International Space Station, advancing scientific knowledge and making research breakthroughs not possible on Earth. The station is a critical testbed for NASA to understand and overcome the challenges of long-duration spaceflight and to expand commercial opportunities in low Earth orbit. As commercial companies focus on providing human space transportation services and destinations as part of a robust low Earth orbit economy, NASA is able to more fully focus its resources on deep space missions to the Moon and Mars.
    Learn more about International Space Station research and operations at:
    https://www.nasa.gov/station
    -end-
    Josh Finch / Claire O’SheaHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1100joshua.a.finch@nasa.gov / claire.a.o’shea@nasa.gov
    Chelsey BallarteJohnson Space Center, Houston281-483-5111chelsey.n.ballarte@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mental Health Support is Available as Kentuckians Face Repeated Severe Weather Events

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Mental Health Support is Available as Kentuckians Face Repeated Severe Weather Events

    Mental Health Support is Available as Kentuckians Face Repeated Severe Weather Events

    FRANKFORT, Ky

    – As Kentuckians brace for another round of severe weather, many residents are still recovering from the devastating storms and flooding that occurred between February 14 and March 7

    These repeated incidents can take a serious toll on mental health and leave people feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed

    For adults and children having negative feelings or thoughts, free crisis counseling is available through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Disaster Distress Helpline

    Call 800-985-5990 (Spanish Press 2) or text “TalkWithUs” to 66746 (for Spanish text “Hablamos” to 66746) to connect with a trained crisis counselor

    SAMHSA’s Disaster Distress Helpline provides free, 24/7, 365-day-a-year crisis counseling and support to people experiencing emotional distress related to natural or human-caused disasters

    Stress, anxiety, and other depression-like symptoms are common reactions before, during and after a disaster

    This national hotline provides immediate crisis counseling for people who are feeling emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster

    The hotline is toll-free, multilingual, and confidential, offering crisis support service to all residents in the United States and its territories

    Counselors can also provide information about recognizing emotional distress and its effects, coping tips and referrals to other call centers for more support

    For more information about who is most at risk for emotional distress from natural disasters and to find related resources, visit https://www

    samhsa

    gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline

        
    martyce

    allenjr
    Thu, 04/03/2025 – 12:31

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Flu vaccines are now available for 2025. What’s on offer and which one should I get?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Allen Cheng, Professor of Infectious Diseases, Monash University

    PeopleImages.com – Yuri A/Shutterstock

    It’s that time of year when flu vaccines are becoming available in Australia. You may have received an email from your GP clinic or a text message from your pharmacy telling you they’re in stock.

    So far in 2025 in Australia, there have been more flu notifications compared to the same period in previous years.

    Elsewhere, many northern hemisphere countries have reported intense flu activity during the 2024–25 winter season. This has included several deaths in children.

    Although it’s difficult to make predictions about the intensity and timing of the upcoming flu season, it’s a good time to start thinking about vaccination.

    Who should get vaccinated, and when?

    In Australia, flu vaccines are available for everyone over the age of six months. Flu vaccines don’t work well in young infants, but they can be protected if their mothers are immunised during pregnancy.

    The National Immunisation Program provides free vaccines for people at higher risk, including specific age groups (adults older than 65 and children between six months and five years), those with chronic medical conditions, pregnant women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

    For healthy adults and children outside these groups, a flu vaccine costs around A$20–30. The vaccines are widely available at GPs and pharmacies, and through workplace programs.

    Flu vaccines reduce the risk of GP presentation with influenza by around 30–60% and hospitalisation with influenza by about 50–70%.

    There’s some evidence the protection from flu vaccines wanes over several months. Ideally, everyone would get vaccinated within a few months of the peak of the flu season. But in reality, we can’t easily predict when this will occur, and since the COVID pandemic, flu seasons have arrived unusually early in the year. So, some time in the next month or so is a good time to get vaccinated.

    The flu can be a nasty virus to catch.
    Kmpzzz/Shutterstock

    In general, flu vaccines can be given at the same time as most other vaccines, including COVID vaccines, but check with your vaccination provider about whether this is appropriate for you.

    Influenza vaccines are regarded as safe. While some people may get a sore arm or fever, these symptoms are usually mild and short lived. Serious side effects, such as Guillain-Barré syndrome, are rare, and are thought to be less common than after influenza infection.

    Why do we need a flu vaccine every year?

    Influenza is a difficult virus to make vaccines for, as the virus changes frequently, and vaccines generally only provide protection against a limited range of strains. Some studies suggest mutations in the influenza virus are 20 times more common than with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID.

    This means, each year, experts need to predict the likely circulating strains in the next season, so vaccines can be manufactured in preparation.

    The World Health Organization coordinates two meetings each year – in February to decide on vaccine strains for the following northern hemisphere season, and around September for the southern hemisphere.

    Although all current influenza vaccines contain strains from four influenza subtypes (A/H1N1, A/H3N2, B Victoria and B Yamagata), one of the strains appears to have disappeared during the pandemic. So next year’s vaccines will probably drop the B Yamagata strain.

    Seasonal flu vaccines don’t provide protection against avian influenza (bird flu) strains, but vaccination is still recommended for people who may be at risk of bird flu, such as poultry workers. This is to reduce the chance that a new virus could result from the combination of both seasonal and avian influenza strains.

    Which vaccines are available?

    There are a variety of vaccines you may be offered when you book in or turn up for a flu vaccine.

    Over the past few years, new types of vaccines have been developed. Some of these attempt to improve the body’s immune response to vaccines. For example, Fluad Quad contains an adjuvant called MF59, an additional substance designed to attract immune cells to the site of vaccination.

    Other vaccines, such as Fluzone High-Dose, use a larger dose of the vaccine strains to improve the immune response. These vaccines are recommended for older people, as immune responses tend to decline with age.

    Certain vaccines use alternative production methods to try to improve the match between vaccine strains and the circulating strains. Standard flu vaccines are produced using influenza viruses grown in chicken eggs. One weakness of this method is that viral mutations can occur during the production process, known as “egg adaptation”. During some of the seasons between 2014 and 2019, this was shown to reduce the effectiveness of flu vaccines.

    The avoid this issue, cell-based vaccines, such as Flucelvax Quad, use influenza vaccine strains grown in mammalian cells rather than eggs.

    Flu vaccines are free for certain vulnerable groups, such as children under five.
    SeventyFour/Shutterstock

    The key takeaways are:

    1. older people are recommended to receive an enhanced vaccine (Fluad Quad for >65 years or Fluzone High-Dose for >60 years), with Fluad Quad provided free under the National Immunisation Program

    2. other people are recommended to receive a standard vaccine (egg-based or cell-based), with vaccines provided free for high-risk groups and children between six months and five years.

    Looking to the future

    There are several new flu vaccines currently under development. Recombinant vaccines, such as Flublok, use insect cells to produce a specific component of the virus.

    With the success of mRNA vaccines for COVID, there is interest in using a similar process for influenza. In theory, this could shorten the time to develop vaccines, for both seasonal influenza and pandemic influenza.

    There’s also interest in combination vaccines – for example, a single shot could provide protection against both COVID and the flu.

    The “holy grail” of influenza vaccines is one that could provide long-lasting protection against many different strains. Although we’re not there yet, you’re at lower risk of influenza and its complications if you get a flu shot.

    Allen Cheng is a member of the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation. He receives funding from the Australian Department of Health and the National Health and Medical Research Council.

    – ref. Flu vaccines are now available for 2025. What’s on offer and which one should I get? – https://theconversation.com/flu-vaccines-are-now-available-for-2025-whats-on-offer-and-which-one-should-i-get-252292

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boyle, Bennet, & Brown Introduce Legislation to Support Patients with Mental and Physical Health Comorbidities

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brendan Boyle (13th District of Pennsylvania)

    Legislation Advances Innovative, Evidence-Based Collaboration Between Physical and Mental Health Providers

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), U.S. Senator Michael Bennet (CO), and Rep. Shontel Brown (OH-11) introduced the Mental and Physical Health Care Comorbidities Act, aimed at improving care for patients facing both mental and physical health challenges. The bicameral bill would authorize the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Innovation (CMMI) to fund innovative, evidence-based interventions at hospitals and health systems serving low-income patients, addressing how mental and physical health conditions interact.

    Current healthcare systems often fail to address the intersection of mental, behavioral, and physical health, as well as social determinants like economic status and food insecurity. Many providers serving patients with comorbidities have developed effective programs that bridge health and social expertise to improve outcomes.

    “For too long, mental and physical health treatments have been siloed. This legislation will help hospitals and health systems serving vulnerable communities integrate care for mental and physical health challenges, while addressing the social determinants of health,” said Congressman Boyle. “These evidence-based solutions will improve health equity and outcomes in medically underserved areas, including my district.”

    “As our country experiences a worsening mental health crisis, we must ensure patients who experience both mental and physical health challenges get the support and care they need,” said Senator Bennet. “Our bicameral bill builds off the experiences of Colorado medical professionals and will empower providers to work together to treat patients with physical and mental health comorbidities holistically.”

    “Communities of color and other underserved groups continue to feel the significant impact of comorbid mental and physical diseases,” said Congresswoman Brown. “The Mental and Physical Health Care Comorbidities Act, which I am proud to co-lead with Senator Bennet and Congressman Boyle would ensure our healthcare system is equipped to treat comorbidities that affect our most vulnerable populations and help move us closer to a more just and equitable health care system.”

    The Mental and Physical Health Care Comorbidities Act focuses on hospitals and health systems serving low-income and dually eligible populations (those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid). Participating hospitals will collaborate with the Department of Health and Human Services to develop plans for improving care for uninsured and Medicaid patients with comorbid conditions.

    The bill would:

    • Address social determinants of health by promoting holistic care models.
    • Integrate mental and behavioral health screenings into medical assessments, particularly for children and adolescents.
    • Identify potential payment reforms to improve care delivery.
    • Enhance electronic health records to better integrate mental, behavioral, and physical health data.

    The text of the Mental and Physical Health Care Comorbidities Act is available here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Get big or die trying: social media is driving men’s use of steroids. Here’s how to mitigate the risks

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Timothy Piatkowski, Lecturer in Psychology, Griffith University

    Anna Moskvina/Shutterstock

    Men have cared about their appearance throughout the centuries, and ideals of masculinity and “manliness” are ancient – with strong emphasis put on physical fitness and virility. In ancient Greece, the ideal male body was considered strong, symmetrical and athletic.

    Now, with easier access to performance and image enhancing drugs (PIEDs) and their promotion on social media, ideals of masculinity and muscularity have taken on a whole new level.

    PIEDs are a class of drugs that some people use to enhance physical appearance or athletic performance. They include anabolic-androgenic steroids, human growth hormone, and other medicines used “off-label” such as insulin.

    Social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok flood us with images and videos promoting steroid use as a “quick fix” to achieve big muscles.

    Other influencers promote muscularity by “natural” means, but are then found out as liars who were using steroids all along. For those following, especially impressionable young men, the fallout is real. What once seemed like a natural achievement is exposed as chemically enhanced, pushing young men to wonder whether steroids are the only way to keep up.

    A growing and harmful trend

    Recent studies show that muscle-building behaviours such as steroid use are rising among young men. But why is this happening?

    The answer lies partly in a societal obsession with hypermasculine ideals. Images of sculpted bodies, amplified by social media influencers with millions of followers, set unattainable standards of physical perfection. Fitness influencer content often normalises extreme body ideals. It is no longer just about fitness, it is about shaping an identity around an ideal male body.

    It is not a harmless trend. The use of steroids carries significant health risks. For instance, beyond the well-known risks of heart disease and liver damage, steroid use can also lead to psychiatric issues such as mood disorders, aggression and depression.

    Tragically, some fitness influencers and bodybuilders who use PIEDs have died unexpectedly. Australian fitness influencer Jaxon Tippet, who openly admitted to using steroids in the past, died at 30 from a heart attack – a known risk linked to anabolic steroids.

    Towards ‘safer use’

    Many fitness influencers actively engage in online fitness coaching, a booming industry.

    This involves providing guidance on training, diet and supplementation. Some of this extends into drug coaching: providing guidance on how to use steroids and other enhancement drugs within a “safer use” model that’s informed by harm reduction approaches.

    While these approaches don’t encourage drug use, they do offer strategies to reduce and mitigate known harms.

    Some elite bodybuilders actively champion transparency over steroid use. In recent years, athletes and coaches have partnered with scholars on numerous podcasts to discuss prioritising health and health monitoring behaviours such as blood testing.

    Regular blood testing is framed as a key strategy to mitigate risks associated with steroid use, often conducted at specific intervals.

    However, the absence of formal regulation means not all advice is created equal. Some influencers may still encourage practices that are dangerous and potentially life-threatening.

    While these trends are concerning, the solution doesn’t lie in finger-pointing at influencers or shaming young men for their choices. Instead, we advocate for a more positive, educational approach.

    A better way forward

    Asking people to “just say no” to drug use has never worked. Instead, we must shift the narrative by educating, supporting and collaborating with the people who drive the trend – PIED consumers.

    By partnering with trusted community figures and influencers, we can spread awareness about the dangers of steroid use while offering accurate, evidence-based information about health and wellbeing.

    An example of this approach is Vigorous Steve, a well-known figure in the fitness world. He has used his platform to share important research on the harms of steroids.

    Steve’s work on social media, with millions of views, is a model for how harm reduction education can reach a large, engaged audience, help normalise safer use discussions and expand access to information.

    With this in mind, the Queensland Injectors Voice for Advocacy and Action (QuIVAA) has recently launched the Steroid QNECT program (one of us, Tim Piatkowski, is the vice president of QuIVAA). The program provides support to people using steroids, offering peer education and resources via online platforms.

    Since its inception in January this year, the program has already engaged with and provided harm reduction information to hundreds of Australians who use steroids, helping to bridge critical gaps in education.

    As the muscle building trend continues, peers, policymakers, researchers and health professionals across Australia must collaborate to provide accurate, balanced education about the risks of steroids – especially for young men.

    Timothy Piatkowski receives funding from the Queensland Mental Health Commission. He is Vice President of Queensland Injectors Voice for Advocacy and Action (QuIVAA). Tim collaborates regularly with peers in community, such as Vigorous Steve, mentioned in this article.

    Samuel Cornell receives funding through an Australian Government Research Training Program
    Scholarship. Over the past five years, he has received funding from Royal Life Saving – Australia, Surf Life Saving Australia, and Meta Inc.

    – ref. Get big or die trying: social media is driving men’s use of steroids. Here’s how to mitigate the risks – https://theconversation.com/get-big-or-die-trying-social-media-is-driving-mens-use-of-steroids-heres-how-to-mitigate-the-risks-253110

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Update 284 – IAEA Director General Statement on Situation in Ukraine

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has delivered a new ambulance and other medical equipment to help Ukraine provide adequate health care for the personnel operating its nuclear power plants (NPPs) in challenging conditions during the military conflict, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said today.

    The ambulance was handed over to the Emergency Technical Center of the national nuclear energy company Energoatom last Friday, during a 12-day IAEA mission to review the medical capacities of Ukraine’s three operating NPPs, the Chornobyl site as well as nearby hospitals and health facilities that provide critical medical support and care to plant staff.

    “Nuclear safety and security require a well-functioning workforce that has timely access to medical services, including mental health support. The personnel of these facilities have been working in extremely difficult circumstances for more than three years now, enabling the continued safe production of much-needed electricity. Their physical and psychological well-being is of paramount importance for nuclear safety and security,” Director General Grossi said.

    In addition to the new ambulance – the third such vehicle provided by the IAEA to Ukraine – an ultrasound system was delivered to a specialised health care facility in the city of Netishyn, located close to the Khmelnytskyy NPP.

    During the recent mission to Ukraine, IAEA medical and procurement experts discussed the impact of assistance delivered so far under its Medical Assistance Programme for Operating Personnel at NPPs in Ukraine as well as future needs with medical personnel and psychologists, both at the NPPs’ own health care units and nearby hospitals. The IAEA team also visited the National Research Centre for Radiation Medicine (NRCRM).

    “It was a very important mission to obtain a better understanding of the many challenges and difficulties these medical professionals face daily in carrying out their extremely important work. Based on the team’s findings, we will be able to direct our medical support to where it is most needed,” Director General Grossi said.

    Over the past week, the IAEA has also continued to provide other technical support and assistance to Ukraine to help maintain nuclear safety and security, with 120 deliveries since the start of the armed conflict valued at a total of 16 million euros.

    Last week, the Kherson Regional Clinical Hospital received ultrasound and radiographic equipment. It was part of an IAEA initiative to support – through the delivery of equipment using nuclear or isotopic-based techniques – the areas severely affected by the destruction of the Kakhovka dam in 2023.  More deliveries are planned in the coming months.

    Separately, State Enterprise USIE Izotop – involved in the management of radioactive material intended for medical, industrial and other purposes – received vehicles to support their daily field activities in nuclear and radiation safety and security.

    The recent deliveries of equipment were supported by Canada, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea and Malta.

    Despite such assistance, the general nuclear safety and security situation in Ukraine remains precarious, based on the assessments of the IAEA teams continuously deployed at all the NPP sites.

    At the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), the IAEA team reported hearing military activities at varying distances away from the site. The team continued to monitor nuclear safety and security, conducting a walkdown of the reactor buildings of units 1, 3 and 5 and of the turbine halls of units 1 and 2.

    Elsewhere, the IAEA teams based at the Khmelnytskyy, Rivne and South Ukraine NPPs as well as the Chornobyl site reported hearing air raid alarms over the past week. At Chornobyl, the team also heard a loud explosion and a drone in the evening of 30 March.

    Over the past week, the IAEA teams at the Rivne, South Ukraine and Chornobyl sites rotated, with newly-arrived staff replacing their colleagues who have been monitoring nuclear safety and security there for the past several weeks.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Legrand Unveils 2025-2027 Global CSR Roadmap – Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation Continues History of Positive Impact in North America

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WEST HARTFORD, Conn., April 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Legrand®, a global specialist in electrical and digital building infrastructures, announced its sixth consecutive global Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Roadmap, outlining aspirational goals for 2025-2027. Building on two decades of CSR progress, Legrand, North & Central America is driving positive change and reinforcing its commitment to a more sustainable and socially responsible future.

    “How we work is just as important as what we work on,” said Brian DiBella, President and CEO, Legrand, North and Central America. “Our vision of ‘improving lives’ includes building a sustainable future for all. The CSR Roadmap showcases our global commitment to leading by example and driving meaningful impact across our operations and value chain. The achievements we are seeing in our region are the result of countless, dedicated team members all working together toward a common goal of improving lives.”

    Below are examples of Legrand’s 2025-2027 CSR Roadmap goals, which support long-term CSR goals:

    • Mitigating Climate Change: Reduce the Legrand Group’s scope 1 and 2 emissions by 10% by 2027 as compared to 2024, and reduce CO2 emissions from our supplier’s operations by an average of 30%, representing 70% of emissions related to purchased goods.
    • Developing a More Circular Economy: By 2027, 50% of new and redesigned projects shall meet Legrand’s Eco-Design index criteria, 37% of sustainable materials to be used in products manufactured by the Group, and primary plastic packaging in manufactured products to be reduced by 80% by weight.
    • Serving our Customers: By 2027, enable our customers to avoid 20 million tons of CO2 emissions through our energy-efficient products.
    • Being a Responsible Business: By 2027, 90% of Legrand employees will meet training requirements, reduce workplace accidents by 20% compared to 2024, and ensure 100% of its key suppliers comply with human rights standards and ethics policies.
    • Promoting Inclusion: By 2027, Legrand has an aspirational goal to expand its GEEIS-Diversity certification and support the next generation of employees in the industry.

    These goals build upon Legrand’s significant achievements in recent years and position the company for success to achieve its 2030 aspirations. The company holds a “Gold” sustainability rating from EcoVadis, placing it in the top 5% of over 150,000 evaluated companies, and an “A” rating for its climate commitment from the CDP, formerly known as the Carbon Disclosure Project.

    Additional recent accomplishments in North America include:

    • Supplier Commitments: Legrand secured commitments from 139 suppliers to reduce their CO2 emissions by 30% by 2030, totaling a reduction of 157,728 kilotons of carbon emissions. This equals the electricity use of 32,870 homes in a year.
    • Renewable Energy: 89% of corporate electricity comes from renewable sources and is part of the RE100 initiative, which pledges to achieve 100% renewable electricity by 2030.
    • Product Transparency: Legrand published transparency documents for more than 70% of its product sales, including Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), Health Product Declarations (HPDs), and Declare Labels.
    • Community Engagement: Since 2014, as part of Legrand, North & Central America’s Better Communities volunteer and philanthropy program, employees have generously volunteered nearly 20,000 hours in North America. Together, Legrand and its employees have pledged more than $3 million in funding and $18 million worth of Legrand products to numerous non-profit organizations.
    • Recycled Materials: As part of its ongoing efforts to increase the amount of recycled content in its products, in 2024 Legrand’s best-selling wire mesh cable tray was made from 97% recycled materials and is 100% recyclable. This product is used in data centers, commercial and industrial buildings to efficiently organize and route cables.

    “We’ve made significant progress reducing energy use, advancing renewable energy, designing innovative products that have more recycled content, and tying employee and executive compensation to meeting CSR goals,” said Ratish Namboothiry, Vice President of Sustainability and CSR, Legrand, North & Central America. “We’re building on this momentum and continue to advance our efforts, leveraging the latest advancements in technology and innovation with a goal of integrating sustainability considerations across our products, operations, and supply chain design.”

    About Legrand and Legrand, North and Central America
    Legrand is the global specialist in electrical and digital building infrastructures. Its comprehensive offering of solutions for residential, commercial, and data center markets makes it a benchmark for customers worldwide. The Group harnesses technological and societal trends with lasting impacts on buildings with the purpose of improving life by transforming the spaces where people live, work and meet with electrical, digital infrastructures and connected solutions that are simple, innovative and sustainable. Drawing on an approach that involves all teams and stakeholders, Legrand is pursuing a strategy of profitable and responsible growth driven by acquisitions and innovation, with a steady flow of new offerings that include products with enhanced value in use (energy and digital transition solutions: datacenters, digital lifestyles and energy transition offerings). Legrand reported sales of €8.6 billion in 2024. The company is listed on Euronext Paris and is a component stock of the CAC 40, CAC 40 ESG and CAC SBT 1.5 indexes. (code ISIN FR0010307819). https://www.legrand.us/

    Media Contact:    
    Glen Gracia 339.499.8680 glen.gracia@legrand.us

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine, Gillibrand, and Courtney Lead Colleagues in Condemning Education Department Changes to Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and U.S. Representative Joe Courtney (D-CT-02) led a bicameral group of their colleagues in sending a letter to U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon expressing their strong opposition to President Trump’s directive for changes that would limit eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. They also called on Secretary McMahon to ensure all eligibility criteria for the program are strictly followed under the law passed by Congress and adhere to congressional intent. The PSLF program was created by Congress and signed into law by President George W. Bush to encourage more people to enter public service by providing loan forgiveness after 10 years of working full-time for a federal, state, local, or Tribal government organization or certain nonprofit organizations. Since the program was created, it has provided teachers, nurses, veterans, first responders, and other public servants with needed student loan relief.
    “We write to express our strong opposition to the Department of Education’s (Department) order to initiate the formal rulemaking process to limit eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program,” wrote the members. “Since March 7, 2025, our dedicated public service workers have faced immense uncertainty and anxiety due to President Trump’s Executive Order #14235 which directed the Secretary of Education and the Secretary of Treasury to redefine ’public service’ to align with the administration’s political agenda. This move contradicts the core tenets of public service and the original intent and purpose of the PSLF program.”
    “This order’s vague and arbitrary restrictions on which organizations qualify for PSLF are deeply troubling. Under the guise of national security, it unfairly targets organizations that serve marginalized communities, such as those advocating for immigrants or protecting vulnerable children, with no evidence of illegal activity,” the members wrote. “Furthermore, the broad language of the order could lead to political repression and the chilling of free speech, where organizations or individuals deemed ’non-conforming’ to the administration’s views could be stripped of the very support they rely on to carry out their public service missions.”
    The members concluded, “We request your immediate action and assurance on the following: Ensure that all eligibility criteria are strictly followed under the law passed by Congress. There should be no exceptions or compromises regarding compliance with the established statute. And prioritize processing PSLF applications that are eligible for forgiveness immediately. The severe reduction of employees at the Federal Student Aid office gives us grave concerns that these eligible borrowers will not be processed in a timely manner.”
    Kaine, a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, and Gillibrand have long pushed for changes to improve the PSLF program. In May 2021, Kaine and Gillibrand successfully called for strengthening the PSLF program and fixing eligibility barriers and program restrictions that excluded certain first responders, teachers, public health workers, and other public servants from relief. They have previously introduced legislation to overhaul the PSLF program, including by expanding eligibility and simplifying the application and approval process.
    The letter was cosigned by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Angus S. King (I-ME), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Tina Smith (D-MN), and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD). It was also cosigned by U.S. Representatives Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC-At-Large), Frederica S. Wilson (D-FL-24), Robin L. Kelly (D-IL-02), Danny K. Davis (D-NC-01), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12), Mark Pocan (D-WI-02), Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13), Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY-07), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY-13), Delia C. Ramirez (D-IL-03), Jamie Raskin (D-MD-08), Juan Vargas (D-CA-52), Alma S. Adams (D-NC-12), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR-01), Dwight Evans (D-PA-03), Johnny Olszewski (D-MD-02), Kathy Castor (D-FL-14), Nikema Williams (D-GA-05), Herbert C. Conaway (D-NJ-03), LaMonica McIver (D-NJ-10), Hank Johnson (D-GA-04), Betty McCollum (D-MN-04), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA-07), Brittany Pettersen (D-CO-07), Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA-10), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA-05), Sarah Elfreth (D-MD-03), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (D-IL-04), Ritchie Torres (D-NY-15), Jill Tokuda (D-HI-02), Scott Peters (D-CA-50), Judy Chu (D-CA-28), Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS-02), Lucy McBath (D-GA-06), Paul D. Tonko (D-NY-20), Chris Deluzio (D-PA-17), Linda T. Sánchez (D-CA-38), Diana DeGette (D-CO-01), Shelia Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL-20), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA-07), Marilyn Strickland (D-WA-10), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09), Summer L. Lee (D-PA-12), Kweisi Mfume (D-MD-07), Jerrold Nadler (D-NY-12), Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ-10), James P. McGovern (D-MA-02), William R. Keating (D-MA-09), Gabe Amo (D-RI-01), Mark Takano (D-CA-39), and Chellie Pingree (D-ME-01).
    Full text of the letter is available here and below:
    Dear Secretary McMahon:
    We write to express our strong opposition to the Department of Education’s (Department) order to initiate the formal rulemaking process to limit eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. Since March 7, 2025, our dedicated public service workers have faced immense uncertainty and anxiety due to President Trump’s Executive Order #14235  which directed the Secretary of Education and the Secretary of Treasury to redefine “public service” to align with the administration’s political agenda. This move contradicts the core tenets of public service and the original intent and purpose of the PSLF program.
    PSLF was established under the College Cost Reduction and Access Act of 2007 under President George W. Bush with bipartisan support and provides student loan forgiveness to individuals who work in qualifying public service jobs. The program aims to support those in roles such as government employees, teachers, nurses, active-duty service members, veterans, and non-profit workers by offering them loan forgiveness after they make 120 qualifying monthly payments under an eligible repayment plan. PSLF was established to encourage professionals to dedicate their careers to public service, easing their financial burden while contributing to the well-being of our communities. However, navigating the program’s requirements has proven complex, and many borrowers have encountered challenges in applying for or receiving the forgiveness they are due.
    The program has long been plagued with challenges. In 2017, less than one percent of the first cohort was eligible for forgiveness.  Under President Trump’s first term, fewer than 7,000 applicants were approved for forgiveness, less than three percent of total applicants. President Biden took steps to streamline the process, and under his administration, over one million applicants have been approved for forgiveness.  The program has over 2.4 million cumulative PSLF borrowers with eligible employment and open loans.  Under Executive Order #14235, this framework reverses the previous administration’s efforts to administer the PSLF program more effectively after years of unnecessary roadblocks.
    The PSLF program supports local, state, and federal government employees and those at tax-exempt nonprofits under 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. However, certain nonprofits, like labor unions and partisan political groups, do not qualify. This order’s vague and arbitrary restrictions on which organizations qualify for PSLF are deeply troubling. Under the guise of national security, it unfairly targets organizations that serve marginalized communities, such as those advocating for immigrants or protecting vulnerable children, with no evidence of illegal activity. Furthermore, the broad language of the order could lead to political repression and the chilling of free speech, where organizations or individuals deemed “non-conforming” to the administration’s views could be stripped of the very support they rely on to carry out their public service missions. We have already seen what can happen when the President targets organizations for doing the right thing for the country. We are fearful this is yet another tool for President Trump to go after any group or organization that does not show loyalty to his political, partisan agenda.
    At your nomination hearing on February 13, 2025, you testified in front of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee that you would fully implement existing public service loan forgiveness programs because they “have been passed by Congress …  That is the law.”  Your statement reinforced a commitment to upholding the law and supporting individuals who dedicate their careers to public service. It’s time to back up your words, follow the law, and step up as a true champion of the PSLF program.
    We request your immediate action and assurance on the following: Ensure that all eligibility criteria are strictly followed under the law passed by Congress. There should be no exceptions or compromises regarding compliance with the established statute. And prioritize processing PSLF applications that are eligible for forgiveness immediately. The severe reduction of employees at the Federal Student Aid office gives us grave concerns that these eligible borrowers will not be processed in a timely manner.  Regardless of the Trump and Elon Musk administration, these borrowers have met the criteria, done the work, and are entitled to the relief they were promised.
    Revoking PSLF eligibility for public service workers who serve across communities nationwide is both reckless and harmful. We urge you to uphold the law, adhere to congressional intent, and protect PSLF from future attacks. We look forward to your response on this critical matter.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gillibrand Condemns Trump For Decimating The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Programs (LIHEAP); Cuts Threaten To Raise Cost Of Living For More Than One Million New York Households

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand

    U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand issued the following statement on the Trump administration firing all the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) staff running the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, which will render the program incapable of disbursing funding to New York and deprive low-income New Yorkers of energy assistance they rely on:

    “LIHEAP is a commonsense, bipartisan program,” said Senator Gillibrand. “In the coldest and hottest months of the year, it lowers the cost of living and saves lives. By firing everyone who disburses LIHEAP funding, President Trump and the so-called ‘Department of Government Efficiency’ are preventing hundreds of millions of dollars in federal funding that Congress has already allocated to LIHEAP from reaching families in need. President Trump is raising the cost of living, all to provide tax cuts for billionaires. I will be doing everything in my power to get President Trump to reverse these cuts and deliver financial assistance to New Yorkers who need it.” 

    LIHEAP helps tens of thousands of low-income households across the state afford their energy bills and make cost-effective repairs to their heating systems. During winter 2022-2023, the program helped 1.1 million New York households heat their homes.

    Gillibrand has been a longstanding advocate of the program. Every year, she secures hundreds of millions in LIHEAP funding for New York. She also cosponsors legislation to expand LIHEAP and ensure that no household pays more than three percent of its annual income on energy costs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: The Bridge Shelter Extended

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Province is extending its lease for The Bridge, an innovative integrated services shelter with on-site health support in Dartmouth.

    “This is a powerful example of government and community partners coming together to support vulnerable Nova Scotians,” said Scott Armstrong, Minister of Opportunities and Social Development. “The Bridge offers more than just immediate shelter – it provides a pathway to stable housing. The success of this model shows that with the right support, people can move from crisis to stability.”

    The Bridge is a collaborative initiative of the departments of Opportunities and Social Development, Health and Wellness and Seniors and Long-Term Care; the Office of Addictions and Mental Health; Nova Scotia Health; and service providers Adsum for Women and Children and Welcome Housing & Support Services.

    Since opening on May 1, 2023, The Bridge has provided shelter for more than 400 people experiencing housing insecurity. Ninety-eight people have advanced to housing options, which include a mix of private, non-profit and public housing. It has also reduced emergency department visits and long-term hospital stays, with more than 6,300 visits to the on-site health clinic in the past two years.

    Residents have access to housing support and a range of health services, including an occupational therapist, continuing care co-ordinator, VON, the Mobile Outreach Street Health clinic, and mental health and addictions counsellors.

    The new five-year lease for the property on Wyse Road runs from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2030. The length of this renewed agreement ensures the space can adapt to evolving community need.

    Opportunities and Social Development is providing $23.9 million for the lease extension and operational funding including service providers, security and food.

    Quotes:

    “Government is working together across departments and with its partners to do things differently and help those in need in our community. The Bridge is an innovative approach that offers people experiencing homelessness a safe place to recuperate when they’re well enough to be released from the hospital so they can fully recover and transition to permanent housing.”
    — Michelle Thompson, Minister of Health and Wellness

    Quick Facts:

    • The Bridge is part of Nova Scotia’s first supportive housing approach, combining rental or housing assistance with flexible, voluntary support services for people and families at risk of or experiencing housing insecurity
    • there are now 590 shelter beds across the province, including 442 in Halifax Regional Municipality
    • non-healthcare referrals to The Bridge will continue to be managed by Adsum for Women and Children, and housing support services will continue to be provided by Welcome Housing & Support Services
    • the Province is investing $26.1 million in The Bridge, including $23.9 million from Opportunities and Social Development and $2.2 million from Health and Wellness, to support operations, service providers and on-site healthcare

    Additional Resources:

    News release – The Bridge Integrated Services Shelter Extended: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/2024/03/07/bridge-integrated-services-shelter-extended

    News release – New Healthcare Initiative a First in Atlantic Canada: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/2023/04/21/new-healthcare-initiative-first-atlantic-canada-0

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Federal Charges in Shooting Incident

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man pleaded guilty to federal charges stemming from a violent shooting incident involving the illegal use of a firearm.

    According to court records, on the night of September 19, 2024, Devin Wade Wyaco shot John Doe (who was riding a bicycle) from the passenger side of his girlfriend’s vehicle, striking John Doe in the abdomen. Doe was transported to Zuni Hospital and later to the University of New Mexico Hospital for treatment. During an interview with investigators, John Doe identified the vehicle as belonging to Wyaco’s girlfriend. Doe survived the shooting.

    Police identified Wyaco, 34, an enrolled member of the Zuni Pueblo, as the shooter through statements from his girlfriend, who admitted being present during the incident and confirmed Wyaco’s involvement. A federal search warrant executed at her residence corroborated her account. In his plea agreement, Wyaco confessed that he fired at John Doe after becoming angry when one of the bicyclists threw a rock at the car. He also admitted that as a previously convicted felon—having prior convictions for possession of cocaine with intent to distribute and aggravated fleeing from a law-enforcement officer—he knowingly possessed a firearm and ammunition in violation of federal law.

    Handgun recovered from Wyaco’s girlfriend’s home.

    Wyaco pled guilty to all three charges contained in the indictment, including assault with a dangerous weapon, using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

    At sentencing, Wyaco faces no less than 10 years and up to life in prison followed by up to five years of supervised release. Additionally, Wyaco faces up to $250,000 in fines.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Holland S. Kastrin and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

    The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Zachary C. Jones is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER: IN LETTER TO HHS SECRETARY KENNEDY, DEMANDS ANSWERS FOR BROKEN PROMISES TO 9/11 FAMILIES AND SURVIVORS AFTER AGAIN SLASHING KEY STAFF WHO SUPPORT THE WORLD TRADE CENTER HEALTH PROGRAM

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
    Trump Admin Announced HHS-Wide Layoffs, Cutting 10,000 Staff, Including Vital Support For The 9/11 Health Care Program That Helps Sick First Responders & Survivors Get Treatment For Cancer, Respiratory Illnesses, And More
    This Is The Second Time The Trump Admin Has Slashed Support & Fired Staff Who Are Key For The World Trade Center Health Program, After Trump & Musk Also Sunk The Permanent Funding Fix Schumer Secured For Program Last Year
    Schumer To Kennedy: Twice You Have Betrayed Your Promise To Protect The 9/11 Healthcare Program, Immediately Reverse This Cruel Decision
    After the Trump administration again slashed resources for the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP), U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer yesterday demanded answers from U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. for his broken promises that he made to both the senator and 9/11 first responders and survivors to protect the program. WTCHP offers medical monitoring and treatment for first responders and survivors diagnosed with 9/11-related health conditions, including many types of cancers, respiratory illnesses, and more. The new cuts announced earlier this week include the dismissal of Dr. John Howard, the administrator of the WTCHP, and nearly all staff at the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) who are essential to the daily work of the WTCHP, hobbling the work of the program.
    “In our meeting prior to your confirmation as Secretary, you made an unequivocal commitment to working with me to strengthen this program. In your time in office you have fired staff not once, but twice, completely betraying what you said in our conversation and betraying the thousands of survivors of 9/11 who rely on the WTCHP for services,” Senator Schumer wrote in his letter.
    This is the third time in four months President Trump has ripped away the vital resources from the program that allow it to continue serving 9/11 survivors’ health.
    Schumer added, “9/11 first responders and survivors are suffering, they’re getting cancers from the air they breathed when they ran to the towers to help protect us. Secretary Kennedy wants to cut healthcare off to these heroes? It’s un-American. These are our heroes. Secretary Kennedy and Donald Trump should not betray them and must reverse these cuts immediately.”
    In December 2024, Senators Schumer and Gillibrand negotiated the inclusion of permanent federal funding for the WTCHP in a bipartisan health package. However, the federal funding was dropped at the last minute when President Trump & Elon Musk sunk the bipartisan spending agreement. Then, in February 2025, the Trump administration slashed the workforce of the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) as part of DOGE’s senseless cuts to the federal health system. In response, the senators worked together with a bipartisan group of House members, called on the administration to reverse the cuts. The Trump administration relented and appropriately re-hired WTCHP staff. Schumer said he is deeply worried about the future of the program given the Trump Administration’s repeated indiscriminate cutting, and call on the HHS to immediately to reverse on the recent layoffs at NIOSH. The Administration is firing key employees who do the essential work to ensure 9/11 survivors receive the care they need, leaving this program in limbo as they have for months.
    Schumer’s letter to Secretary Kennedy can be found HERE or below:
    Dear Secretary,
    I am writing with extreme concern and anger about your recent decision to lay off staff at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The reduction in force announcements at HHS yesterday are reckless and dangerous, are not based on any systematic review and will have profound negative consequences for the heroic survivors and first responders of 9/11 who are in need of health care due to illness developed as a result of their work in the days, weeks and months after that horrific attack on our nation.
    I wrote to your office on February 17th, 2025 with concern about staff firings at the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP). While you ultimately and appropriately reinstated those employees, it was only after my public outcry as part of a bipartisan group of New York lawmakers. Additionally, your office did not respond to the letter I sent requesting more information, including a briefing, about the fate of the WTCHP and your plans to strengthen the program.
    In our meeting prior to your confirmation as Secretary, you made an unequivocal commitment to working with me to strengthen this program. In your time in office you have fired staff not once, but twice, completely betraying what you said in our conversation and betraying the thousands of survivors of 9/11 who rely on the WTCHP for services.
    This program is essential, providing critical screenings, services, research and medications to thousands of Americans – at zero cost – for 9/11-related health conditions and diseases. The regrettable actions that you have taken continue a pattern of callous decisions beginning in December 2024 when the incoming Trump Administration tanked the bipartisan health package that included permanent funding for the WTCHP. The repeated failure to fund this essential program and, now, the repeated firing of key employees at HHS demonstrates a lack of understanding of the importance of this program for our nation’s heroes. Worse, it demonstrates a disturbing lack of concern to take care of those who answered the nation’s call in a time of urgent need and now are suffering with illness because of it.
    I ask for a response to this letter by Friday, April 4th. I call on you to promptly rehire the NIOSH staff essential to carrying out the WTCHP mission. I am also repeating my request for a briefing on the changes that have been made to the WTCHP and what plans you will take as Secretary to ensure the program can provide lifesaving care to current and future enrollees. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Polis, Department of Revenue, and Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment Team Up to Help Save Coloradans Money

    Source: US State of Colorado

    State to send Coloradans information about tax credits they might be eligible to claim

    DENVER — This year, Governor Jared Polis, the Colorado Department of Revenue, and the Department of Public Health and Environment collaborated on an innovative initiative to share ways to save money.

    Starting today, the state is sending mailers to about 47,000 taxpayers who may be eligible for certain state and federal tax credits to encourage them to file. As part of an innovative partnership with a major commercial provider of online tax preparation software, the mailers highlight specific state tax credits for tax year 2024, including:

    • Colorado Child Tax Credit, which gives money back to Colorado families, up to $1,200 per child younger than six.
    • Colorado Earned Income Tax Credit, which gives money back to Colorado workers, up to $3,915.
    • Family Affordability Tax Credit, which gives money back to Colorado families with children younger than 17, up to $3,200 per child.

    “Coloradans can save thousands of dollars by claiming these credits,” said Governor Polis. “My administration is laser-focused on supporting families and children and ensuring that Colorado remains one of the best places to live, work, and raise a family.”

    Executive Director Heidi Humphreys, Department of Revenue highlighted the work to save Coloradans time and money.

    “Whether it is helping Coloradans save money on their taxes or save time with DMV2GO and TAX2GO, the Department of Revenue is committed to serving state residents,” Humphreys said.

    To possibly receive any of these credits, taxpayers must file a Colorado tax return and claim the credits. Coloradans who have already filed a tax return can still amend their returns to receive the credits.

    This is the third year the State of Colorado has contacted taxpayers by mail about potential ways to save through tax credits. Taxpayers may be eligible even if they do not usually file taxes.

    “Far too many families miss out on tax credits simply because they don’t know they’re eligible,” said Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Executive Director Jill Hunsaker Ryan. “By expanding outreach and providing clear, accessible information, we’re ensuring more Coloradans can claim the money they’ve earned. These tax credits can make a real difference in affording essentials like food, housing, and childcare.”

    The State wishes to thank Gary Community Ventures and the New Practice Lab for their work in developing this mailer.

    INDIVIDUAL INCOME TAX RETURNS

    How to file

    • Online – The Taxation Division encourages taxpayers to file electronically to reduce processing time and the potential for errors as well as issues in transit. Taxpayers can currently file with one of the many third-party vendors who offer certified electronic income tax filing products. Income tax processing will be available on Revenue Online in the coming days.
    • By mail – Instructions about filing State income tax are available on each form.

    The tax filing deadline for tax year 2024 is April 15, 2025; however, the state offers an automatic six-month extension for filing as long as payment obligations are satisfied by April 15.

    How to save money
    The Taxation Division’s new online tax benefits information hub can help taxpayers save potentially thousands of dollars. Found at Tax.Colorado.gov/SaveMoney, the new online resource offers tax benefits information in an easy-to-understand format and is organized into four high-impact tax groups: families and individuals, seniors and retirees, charitable contributions and climate-friendly.

    These four groups house dozens of tax credits and subtractions available to eligible taxpayers. Many of these credits are refundable and can benefit qualifying individuals and businesses, even if they have little or no state tax liability.

    The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment’s Get Ahead Colorado/Hacia Adelante Colorado websites are another essential resource for helping families maximize their tax refunds by providing free, reliable tax information and connections to free tax filing services and support. A new Colorado-specific Tax Credit Calculator makes it easy for individuals to determine their eligibility for valuable tax credits, ensuring more money stays in their pockets. Visit GetAheadColorado.org to learn more.

    Useful information
    Up-to-date information, including the status of state income tax refunds, is at Tax.Colorado.gov — just click on the “Where’s My Refund” banner. Taxpayers can call the Taxpayer Helpline by phone at (303) 238-7378, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please note, translation services are available upon request. To physically visit a Service Center for help, please schedule an appointment. Taxpayers who need low or no-cost help filing state income tax returns should visit Tax.Colorado.gov/Community-Tax-Help for additional resources.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NCDHHS Expands Success Coach Program Statewide to Support Families After Foster Care

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: NCDHHS Expands Success Coach Program Statewide to Support Families After Foster Care

    NCDHHS Expands Success Coach Program Statewide to Support Families After Foster Care
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    The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services today announced the statewide expansion of Success Coach, an innovative program designed to help families stay together and thrive after exiting foster care. With this program, the North Carolina child welfare system is transitioning from offering post-adoption services to providing a comprehensive permanency support model, ensuring that all families – whether adoptive, reunified, custody, guardianship, or kinship care – have access to resources that promote long-term stability and well-being.

    Developed through a partnership between the Duke Endowment and Catawba County Department of Social Services and informed by families with lived experience, Success Coach is a voluntary, in-home service that provides families with individualized coaching, advocacy and resource navigation for up to two years at a time – at any point in their journey and as many times as they need – at no cost to the family. The program aims to strengthen familial bonds, increase protective factors and reduce risks that could lead to reentry into the foster care system.

    “Every child deserves a safe, loving and stable family, and Success Coach is a key part of our commitment to making that a reality for all families exiting foster care,” said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai. “By expanding this permanency model statewide, we are ensuring that families across North Carolina have access to consistent, high-quality support, no matter where they live.”

    A Success Coach is a specialized social worker who works alongside families to assist them in identifying their most pressing needs, developing a tailored success plan, and connecting them to additional community-based resources. Services are ultimately decided on by the family and can include parenting support, crisis prevention, case management, respite, help navigating the behavioral health system, and assistance with basic needs such as employment, food security, housing, education and building a reliable support system. These services are especially critical in North Carolina’s more rural counties where access to resources can be limited. 

    “Catawba County families have long benefitted from Success Coach Services,” said Lisa Tucker Cauley, MSW, Division Director of Human Services. “We are proud of the partnership with Catawba County and the Duke Endowment that led to these services being available for all North Carolina families.”

    Early data from Catawba County demonstrates the program’s impact on supporting sustainable permanency, showing improved mental health outcomes, stronger parent-child relationships and increased placement stability. Over the last 10 years, Catawba County has seen no children reenter foster care within 12 months of exiting care. 

    With the statewide rollout, NCDHHS aims to create a positive impact on permanency outcomes for children and families, reduce disruptions in placements, decrease reentry into foster care, and improve long-term well-being for any child or family who has experienced foster care in North Carolina.

    “Success Coach is already showing great results for improving permanency among families in Catawba County, and we know this program is a game-changer for children and families across the state,” said Catawba County DSS Director Karen Harrington. “We are removing barriers to access by bringing services directly into the home and providing families with the tools they need to remain safe, strong and self-sufficient for the long run.”

    NCDHHS is investing more than $16.5 million in state and federal funding over the next three years to transition Success Coach statewide. The expansion will be supported by three regional vendors – Catawba County DSS, Boys & Girls Homes of North Carolina, and Children’s Home Society of North Carolina – who will work with local DSSs on program implementation and training. Training for new Success Coaches is ongoing, with quarterly sessions to ensure high-fidelity implementation of the model.

    Any family who exits foster care through reunification, guardianship, custody, kinship care or adoption is eligible to participate in the Success Coach program. Success Coach is also available for any adoptive families, including private adoption and relative adoption. These services are voluntary and intended to provide ongoing support as families navigate building or rebuilding their relationships after foster care or post-adoption. Families can reengage with the program as many times as needed, accessing booster sessions or reinitiating services if they are faced with a new challenge or if their circumstances change.

    The statewide expansion of Success Coach is part of NCDHHS’s broader strategy to build a strong, consistent and accessible permanency support system across North Carolina. As states across the country continue to look for new and innovative solutions to improving long-term permanency and family stability, the department’s goal is for Success Coach to serve as a national model and standard for providing effective permanency services.

    For more information on North Carolina’s Success Coach providers, please visit:

    El Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte anunció hoy la expansión a nivel estatal de Success Coach, un programa innovador diseñado para ayudar a las familias a mantenerse unidas y prosperar después de salir del cuidado de crianza temporal. Con este programa, el sistema de bienestar infantil de Carolina del Norte está en transición de ofrecer servicios posteriores a la adopción a proporcionar un modelo integral de apoyo a la permanencia, asegurando que todas las familias, ya sean adoptivas, reunificadas, de custodia, tutela, o cuidado de parentesco, tengan acceso a recursos que promuevan la estabilidad y el bienestar a largo plazo.

    Desarrollado a través de una asociación entre Duke Endowment y el Departamento de Servicios Sociales del Condado de Catawba e informado por familias con experiencia vivida, Success Coach es un servicio voluntario, en el hogar que brinda a las familias entrenamiento individualizado, abogacía y navegación de recursos por hasta dos años a la vez, en cualquier momento de su viaje y tantas veces como lo necesiten, sin costo para la familia. El programa tiene como objetivo fortalecer los lazos familiares, aumentar los factores de protección y reducir los riesgos que podrían conducir el reingreso a el sistema de cuidado de crianza.

    “Cada niño merece una familia segura, amorosa y estable, y Success Coach es una parte clave de nuestro compromiso en hacer que eso sea una realidad para todas las familias que salen del cuidado de crianza”, dijo Dev Sangvai, secretario de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte. “Al expandir este modelo de permanencia en todo el estado, nos aseguramos de que las familias de Carolina del Norte tengan acceso a un apoyo constante y de alta calidad, sin importar dónde vivan”.

    Un Success Coach (coach de éxito) es un trabajador social especializado que trabaja junto a las familias para ayudarlas a identificar sus necesidades más apremiantes, a desarrollar un plan de éxito personalizado y conectarlos con recursos adicionales basados en la comunidad. Los servicios son decididos en última instancia por la familia y pueden incluir apoyo a los padres, prevención de crisis, manejo de casos, relevo, ayuda para navegar por el sistema de salud conductual, y asistencia con necesidades básicas como empleo, seguridad alimentaria, vivienda, educación y crear un sistema de apoyo fiable. Estos servicios son especialmente críticos en los condados más rurales de Carolina del Norte, donde el acceso a los recursos puede ser limitado.

    “Las familias del Condado de Catawba se han beneficiado durante mucho tiempo de los Servicios de Success Coach”, dijo Lisa Tucker Cauley, MSW, directora de la División de Servicios Humanos. “Estamos orgullosos de la asociación con el condado de Catawba y Duke Endowment que llevó a que estos servicios estuvieran disponibles para todas las familias de Carolina del Norte”.

    Los primeros datos del condado de Catawba demuestran el impacto del programa en el apoyo a la permanencia sostenible, mostrando mejores resultados de salud mental, relaciones más sólidas entre padres e hijos y una mayor estabilidad en la colocación. En los últimos 10 años, el condado de Catawba no ha visto a ningún niño reingresar al cuidado de crianza dentro de los 12 meses posteriores a la salida del cuidado.

    Con la implementación en todo el estado, NCDHHS tiene como objetivo crear un impacto positivo en los resultados de permanencia para los niños y las familias, reducir las interrupciones en las colocaciones, disminuir el reingreso al cuidado de crianza temporal, y mejorar el bienestar a largo plazo de cualquier niño o familia que haya experimentado el cuidado de crianza temporal en Carolina del Norte.

    “Success Coach ya está mostrando grandes resultados para mejorar la permanencia entre las familias del condado de Catawba, y sabemos que este programa es un cambio real para los niños y las familias en todo el estado”, dijo la directora de DSS del condado de Catawba, Karen Harrington. “Estamos eliminando las barreras de acceso al llevar los servicios directamente al hogar y proporcionar a las familias las herramientas que necesitan para mantenerse seguras, fuertes y autosuficientes a largo plazo”.

    NCDHHS está invirtiendo más de $16.5 millones en fondos estatales y federales durante los próximos tres años para la transición de Success Coach en todo el estado. La expansión contará con el apoyo de tres proveedores regionales: Catawba County DSS, Boys & Girls Homes of North Carolina, y Children’s Home Society of North Carolina, que trabajarán con los Departamentos de Servicios Sociales locales en la implementación del programa y la capacitación. La capacitación para los nuevos Coaches de Éxito (Success Coaches) está en curso, con sesiones trimestrales para garantizar la implementación de alta fidelidad del modelo.

    Cualquier familia que sale del cuidado de crianza temporal a través de la reunificación, la tutela, la custodia, el cuidado de parentesco o la adopción es elegible para participar en el programa Success Coach. Success Coach también está disponible para cualquier familia adoptiva, incluyendo la adopción privada y la adopción por un familiar. Estos servicios son voluntarios y están destinados a brindar apoyo continuo a medida que las familias avanzan en la construcción o reconstrucción de sus relaciones después del cuidado de crianza o después de la adopción. Las familias pueden volver a participar en el programa tantas veces como sea necesario, acceder a sesiones de refuerzo o reiniciar los servicios si se enfrentan a un nuevo desafío o si sus circunstancias cambian.

    La expansión estatal de Success Coach es parte de la estrategia más amplia de NCDHHS para construir un sistema de apoyo de permanencia sólido, consistente y accesible en Carolina del Norte. A medida que los estados de todo el país continúan buscando soluciones nuevas e innovadoras para mejorar la permanencia a largo plazo y la estabilidad familiar, el objetivo del departamento es que Success Coach sirva como modelo y estándar nacional para proporcionar servicios efectivos de permanencia.

    Para obtener más información sobre los proveedores de Success Coach de Carolina del Norte, visite:

    Apr 3, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: National Sales Director for New York-Based Mobile Diagnostic Company Pleads Guilty to Kickback Scheme

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News (b)

    BOSTON – A New York-based national sales director pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to conspiring to offer and pay kickbacks to doctors in exchange for ordering medically unnecessary brain scans.

    David Fuhrmann, 60, of Port Jefferson, N.Y. pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute. U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton scheduled sentencing for July 10, 2025.

    From at least June 2013 through at least September 2020, Fuhrmann conspired with others, including two managers for a mobile medical diagnostics company that performed transcranial doppler (TCD) scans, to enter into kickback agreements with various doctors. Fuhrmann and his co-conspirators agreed to offer and pay doctors kickbacks based on the number of TCD ultrasounds the doctors ordered. Some doctors were paid in cash and others by check. Fuhrmann and his co-conspirators created rental and administrative service agreements. On paper, these agreements made it appear as if doctors were compensated for the TCD company’s use of space and administrative resources based on fair market value and not based on the volume or value of referrals. These agreements were shams that hid the true nature of the arrangement of paying per test.  

    According to the charging documents, the scheme resulted in fraudulent bills of approximately $70.6 million to Medicare.  

    The charge of conspiracy to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Roberto Coviello, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Thomas Demeo, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigation Division, Boston Field Office; Kelly M.  Lawson, Acting Regional Director, U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration, Boston Regional Office; Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division; and Christopher Algieri, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, Northeast Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Howard Locker and Mackenzie Queenin of the Health Care Fraud Unit are prosecuting the case.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressmen Davis, Griffith, and Cline Introduce Legislation to Protect Nuclear Medicine Patients

    Source: US Congressman Don Davis (NC-01)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressmen Don Davis (D-NC), Morgan Griffith (R-VA), and Ben Cline (R-VA) introduced the bipartisan H.R. 2541, the Nuclear Medicine Clarification Act of 2025, which would close a loophole that currently allows patients to be unintentionally exposed to high levels of radiation without reporting or disclosure. The legislation would improve care and ensure transparency for patients and simplify federal rules coming from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).

     

    “Patients deserve to have protections and transparency when undergoing treatment for serious health conditions,” said Congressman Davis. “Improving reporting for accidental radiation exposure is long overdue and we must restore the rights of the patients who place their trust in healthcare providers.”

     

    “The Nuclear Medicine Clarification Act is about making sure patients are protected and federal agencies are doing what they’re supposed to do,” said Congressman Cline. “This bill brings clear direction to the NRC so that nuclear medicine procedures are carried out with the highest safety standards. I’m proud to join my colleagues to reintroduce this commonsense legislation that puts patient safety first and strengthens oversight without growing bureaucracy.”

     

    “I am extremely pleased Reps. Davis, Griffith, and Cline have come together on this important patient safety and care issue,” said Dr.  Jackson W. Kiser, a Nuclear Medicine physician. “I have over a dozen published articles on this topic and have seen the impact that a large extravasation can have on a patient’s care. It is disturbing that in the year 2025 patients can be extravasated with large doses of radiation that affect their imaging or therapy procedure and may have skin and tissue implications. And it is unconscionable that patients are not told, and the NRC is not informed. I am pleased that Congress is stepping in to force the NRC to protect patients. NRC needs to make these incidents reportable like any other accidental exposure so my fellow physicians can get the support they need from their hospitals like I have to reduce the frequency and severity of these medical events.”

     

    Background

     

    Radiopharmaceutical extravasations are medical errors that occur when a radioactive drug is accidentally injected into the tissue rather than into the patient’s vein as intended. Large extravasations can cause tissue and skin damage and compromise the nuclear medicine procedure. However, since 1980, NRC rules have exempted all radiopharmaceutical extravasations from “medical event” reporting requirements, even if they result in radiation doses that were known to be incredibly dangerous, and even if they exceeded the level of radiation doses that NRC should have reported to Congress.

     

    In 2022, NRC accepted a petition for rulemaking to close this outdated loophole. In 2024, NRC published a draft proposed rule to require reporting of extravasations that result in injury or have the potential to cause injury. The draft proposed rule is insufficient and uses a subjective standard to determine whether an event is reportable, which is contrary to every other radiation safety rule.

     

    In response, the Nuclear Medicine Clarification Act would require NRC to treat extravasations like all other unintended irradiation.  If a dose threshold is exceeded, the incident must be reported. Doing so would improve safety and transparency for patients while simplifying rules for licensees.  

    MIL OSI USA News –