Category: Health

MIL-OSI Video: Lebanon, Palestine, Ukraine & other topics – Daily Press Briefing | United Nations

Source: United Nations (Video News)

Noon briefing by Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

Highlights:

– Lebanon
– Senior Personnel Appointment
– Occupied Palestinian Territory
– Lao PDR
– Deputy Secretary-General
– Libya
– Sudan
– South Sudan
– Zambia
– Ukraine
– Nepal
– Haiti
– Senior Personnel Appointment
– Nansen Award
– Post Day
– Briefings today and tomorrow

Lebanon
We have an update from our peacekeeping colleagues in southern Lebanon. Over the past 24 hours, the exchanges of fire between the Israel Defense Forces and Hizbullah have continued to intensify. Peacekeepers observe large-scale air strikes by Israel, mainly across southern Lebanon, concurrent with its ground activities in the areas of Marun ar-Ras, Bint Jbeil, Aytarun, Kafr Kila and Labbouneh. They have also continued to observe fire by Hizbullah towards Israel.
The UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has confirmed that yesterday [8 October] IDF personnel vacated their position in the vicinity of UNIFIL post UNP 6-52, although movement of IDF personnel and vehicles continues on a nearby road.
Some UN positions have been impacted, sustaining damage from numerous incidents, including to a security camera at UNP 1-31, damage to perimeter walls, gunshots on a vehicle, and shrapnel damage to prefab accommodation. Fortunately, there are no reports of peacekeepers wounded.
As we have been saying repeatedly, the safety and security of our peacekeepers is a paramount priority and is a shared responsibility of all parties.
All parties must abide by their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law.
We also reiterate our call, both for immediate de-escalation and for the parties to return to a cessation of hostilities and the full implementation of Resolution 1701.

Occupied Palestinian Territory
Turning to Gaza, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has an update on the situation in the northern areas. In recent days, Israeli authorities once again ordered more than 400,000 people who remain north of Wadi Gaza to move south, while at the same time tightening access restrictions and expanding military operations in the north. Crossing points into northern Gaza have been largely closed for both humanitarian and commercial supplies. Checkpoints inside Gaza are only permitting civilians to move south — and allowing just a trickle of humanitarian movement into the north.
OCHA warns that these developments are forcing services critical for people’s survival to shut down one by one. According to the UN Relief and Works Agency, seven schools sheltering displaced people are being evacuated, and only two of eight water wells in the Jabalya refugee camp remain functional.
The north is also facing severe shortages of bread and food supplies. Explosive munitions burned down the only bakery supported by the World Food Programme in Jabalya refugee camp.
Today, OCHA and the World Health Organization tried to reach northern Gaza to support the Kamal Adwan hospital, after Israeli authorities ordered its immediate evacuation. After receiving a green light from the Israeli authorities for the mission, the team was forced to wait at a holding point for many hours. Ultimately, the mission had to be aborted.
Despite these challenges, aid workers are seizing any opportunity to support people in northern Gaza. UNRWA is utilizing limited stocks already in the north to distribute high-energy biscuits from WFP to children in designated shelters and delivering bread bundles to families in certain areas. Hot meals are being distributed by our partners to newly displaced families, some of whom are also receiving tents. And water is being delivered using trucks.

Ukraine
Turning to Ukraine, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says intense attacks in the south and east of the country this week have killed and injured dozens of civilians and damaged homes, a hospital and schools.
Authorities and partners on the ground in the southern city of Kherson report that about 20 civilians – including children – were injured in attacks on Monday. At least 280 apartments in 10 buildings were also damaged.
NGOs have mobilized emergency assistance – including first aid, food kits and shelter materials – to help families cover the damage to their homes as winter approaches.
Aid workers continue to provide emergency support, including in Chornomorsk Town in the Odesa Region, where attacks yesterday and today injured five civilians and damaged multiple homes and a hospital. Those affected received emergency shelter kits and psychosocial support, as well as child protection and case management services.
OCHA saus that inter-agency convoys also reached war-affected communities in the Kharkiv and Kherson regions this week, delivering essential hygiene supplies, winter clothes, blankets and charging stations.

Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=09%20October%202024

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6og5F7aYTRc

MIL OSI Video –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: ‘Cajun Navy’ volunteers who participate in search-and-rescue operations after hurricanes are forming long-lasting organizations

Source: The Conversation – USA – By Kyle Breen, Assistant Professor of Sociology, Texas A&M International University

Volunteers with Savage Freedoms Relief Operation coordinates aid in Swannanoa, on Oct. 7, 2024, after Hurricane Helene severely damaged the North Carolina town. Allison Joyce/AFP via Getty Images

The volunteers who take part in search-and-rescue operations and then support disaster survivors belong to organizations that have become more formal and established over the past decade. That’s what we found after spending more than four years volunteering alongside eight of these groups to better understand their role and the motivations of the people who participate in these efforts.

We did this research as part of a larger team of sociologists, an urban planning scholar and emergency management specialists. All of us worked alongside civilian volunteer search-and-rescue groups from Louisiana and Texas between 2017 and 2022 during and after many hurricanes, including Harvey and Laura, the winter storm known as Uri and other major disasters.

While we volunteered with these organizations, we observed them in action and interviewed their leaders and volunteers to learn why they were making the time and taking personal risks to save others. Many cited their personal values, expressed their need to belong to a group, and said it had helped them find a sense of purpose. Others shared that they were motivated by their personal circumstances and experiences or feelings of guilt, or that this kind of volunteering gave them a deep sense of satisfaction.

“I lost everything I owned in Katrina. They deemed my family’s property uninhabitable,” said a boater we’ll call Dylan to protect his anonymity. “I can’t sit here after knowing what it is to lose everything.”

Some volunteers said that one reason why they have repeatedly done this work is to counter stereotypes about people who engage in these efforts. When he’s heard people say, “Oh you’re just out there, doing it for the spotlight,” said Roger, he told us he wants to respond by saying, “Yeah, dude. If you flood, call me, I’ll come get you.”

While the organizations we researched were based in Louisiana and Texas, the volunteers who participate in these efforts come from across the U.S. and, in some cases, other countries. One volunteer we met was from the United Kingdom.

After Hurricane Helene destroyed roads in western North Carolina, rescue squads delivered aid by donkey and helicopter.

Why it matters

Since Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast in 2005, volunteers have been participating in search-and-rescue efforts after big disasters – especially in that region. But these volunteers come from all over.

Many of these groups are known as “Cajun Navy” organizations. Whether or not these organizations use the Cajun Navy branding in their names they share, a common mission of helping others in emergencies.

These volunteers aren’t just operating boats and helicopters. Others serve as dispatchers, handle logistics, and run social media operations.

Over time, some of the organizations have begun to team up with local emergency responders, signing memorandums of understanding with them. They partner with government agencies while assisting in disaster response and relief efforts, but they primarily operate with autonomy and are able to travel where they perceive the need is greatest.

This kind of group tends to dissolve after a disaster is over, instead of evolving into an established nonprofit.

But many of the eight groups we studied have become nonprofits or are in the process of doing so.

How we do our work

We were able to do this research by becoming volunteers ourselves. We took part in dispatch operations on the ground and remotely, and we supported logistics planning. We also observed and, in some cases, participated in search-and-rescue training and operations in the water and on land.

The Research Brief is a short take about interesting academic work.

Kyle Breen received funding from the National Science Foundation for this research. He currently holds funding from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research for other research projects.

J. Carlee Purdum received funding from The National Science Foundation for this research and for other ongoing projects.

– ref. ‘Cajun Navy’ volunteers who participate in search-and-rescue operations after hurricanes are forming long-lasting organizations – https://theconversation.com/cajun-navy-volunteers-who-participate-in-search-and-rescue-operations-after-hurricanes-are-forming-long-lasting-organizations-240769

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Life-saving Medicare Advantage Prior Authorization Bill Reaches Critical Milestone in House
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (1st District of Washington)

Today, U.S. Representatives Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Mike Kelly (PA-16), Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06), and Larry Bucshon, M.D. (IN-08) released the following statement after securing the support of a bipartisan majority for the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act (H.R. 8702) with over 218 cosponsors in the U.S. House of Representatives. The legislation would improve care for seniors by streamlining and standardizing the way Medicare Advantage (MA) plans use prior authorization and increasing oversight and transparency.

“With over 33 million Americans enrolled in Medicare Advantage, modernization of the prior authorization process is long overdue. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, hundreds of health care organizations, and Americans from all corners of the country agree – streamlining this process will allow our Nation’s seniors to receive the care they are entitled to more efficiently. As champions of this legislation, we are grateful to our bipartisan majority of House colleagues for their support and look forward to working with them to get this critical bill signed into law.”

BACKGROUND

Prior authorization is a tool used by health plans to reduce unnecessary care by requiring health care providers to get pre-approval for medical services. However, the current system often results in unconfirmed faxes of a patient’s medical information or phone calls by clinicians which take precious time away from delivering quality and timely care. Prior authorization continues to be the number one administrative burden identified by health care providers, and three out of four Medicare Advantage enrollees are subject to unnecessary delays due to prior authorization. In recent years, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) raised concerns after an audit revealed that Medicare Advantage plans ultimately approved 75% of requests that were originally denied. More recently, HHS released a report finding that MA plans incorrectly denied beneficiaries’ access to services even though they met Medicare coverage rules.

Health plans, health care providers, and patients agree that the prior authorization process must be improved to better serve patients and reduce unnecessary administrative burdens for clinicians. Additionally, leading health care organizations released a consensus statement to address some of the most pressing concerns associated with prior authorization.

Specifically, the bill would:
- Establish an electronic prior authorization process for MA plans including standardization for transactions and clinical attachments.
- Increase transparency around MA prior authorization requirements and its use.
- Clarify CMS’ authority to establish timeframes for electronic prior authorization requests including expedited determinations, real-time decisions for routinely approved items and services, and other prior authorization requests.
- Expand beneficiary protections to improve enrollee experiences and outcomes.
- Require HHS and other agencies to report to Congress on program integrity efforts and other ways to further improve the electronic prior authorization process.
The Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act unanimously passed the House in the 117th Congress and was cosponsored by a majority of members in the Senate and House of Representatives.

This bill is supported by over 440 national and state organizations representing patients, physicians, MA plans, hospitals, and other key stakeholders in the health care industry. To see the list, click here.

The full text of the legislation can be found here. A section-by-section summary can be found here.

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Tours CHRISTUS Health Care Center, Visits Local Officials in Coushatta

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

SHREVEPORT – Yesterday afternoon, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) spoke to the Natchitoches Area Chamber of Commerce, where he spoke about the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act’s (IIJA) impact on their community, and what is being done to help their community.

“When I was negotiating this bill, it was my hope that our state would benefit as much as possible. It is a pleasure to visit Natchitoches and know that it has received a grant from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill to redo a downtown thoroughfare,” said Dr. Cassidy. “I am working so that every village, town and city benefits.”
Specifically, the RAISE grant for Natchitoches is worth $17.2 million and was awarded in August of 2022. When completed, the City of Natchitoches says it will revitalize the Texas Street Business Corridor and rehabilitate feeder roads and neighborhood streets. There will also be new pavement, new and widened sidewalks, walking paths, marked bike and pedestrian lanes, and improved lighting.
As of last fall, money has also been awarded to replace bridges in Natchitoches Parish, as well as provide money to the Natchitoches Regional Airport. Cassidy was welcomed to the Chamber by Ms. Laura Lyles, President and CEO of the Natchitoches Area Chamber of Commerce.
“We appreciate Senator Cassidy taking the time to engage with our Chamber membership about legislative priorities and how they impact our region,” said Ms. Lyles. “This kind of open dialogue is crucial as we work together to create opportunities for growth and prosperity in our communities.”

Later that afternoon, Cassidy visited the CHRISTUS Coushatta Health Care Center, where he held a wide-ranging discussion about the needs of Red River Parish with members of the policy jury, officials at CHRISTUS Coushatta, and the Superintendent of the Red River Parish School District.
“I did two good things in Red River Parish today,” said Dr. Cassidy. “I met with community leaders and toured Coushatta Hospital. In my meeting, I heard from them about the good things happening in Red River Parish. I got to talk about how legislation I worked on such as the Safer Communities Act can expand access to mental health care services in schools, and how the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill can help meet Red River Parish’s needs.”
Before their meeting, Cassidy toured CHRISTUS Coushatta and learned how they meet their patients’ needs. According to them, they have highly trained health professionals and up-to-date technology, which helps them provide emergency care services, acute inpatient care, laboratory services, mammograms and oncology services, among other programs.
As a doctor and Ranking Member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, Cassidy has been a champion for rural health care and underserved communities. Earlier this Congress, Cassidy introduced the Protecting Access to Ground Ambulance Medical Services Act to improve rural ambulance services, and the PEERS in Medicare Act, to expand peer mental health counseling in rural areas. He also introduced the CONNECT for Health Act to expand telehealth services through Medicare and make COVID-era telehealth flexibilities permanent. This coupled with the launch of Louisiana’s new $1.35 billion broadband initiative funded by Cassidy’s IIJA will substantially improve telehealth access across the state.
Among others, Cassidy was thanked for visiting Coushatta by Mr. Brandon Hillman, the administrator for CHRISTUS in Coushatta and a member of the Red River Parish Police Jury.
“We appreciate Senator Cassidy taking the time to tour CHRISTUS Coushatta and to join leaders in Red River Parish for a roundtable discussion on local issues,” said Mr. Hillman. “We were able to engage in a robust discussion about the ways the Senator can continue to support rural health care in Louisiana, and the many federal resources available to enhance the infrastructure of the parish.”

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Salinas Announces New Actions to Fight Fentanyl and Addiction in Oregon
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06)

Salem, OR – Today, Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06) announced new legislative actions she is taking to address the fentanyl and addiction crisis in Oregon. Rep. Salinas was joined by local law enforcement, county officials, and patient advocates for the announcement, which follows her successful post-Measure 110 listening tour earlier this year.

Click here to download a recording of the press conference

“Throughout my first term, I have been working to stop the flow of fentanyl into our communities and provide law enforcement with the tools they need to keep us safe, while also expanding access to treatment and recovery services. That is why I decided to embark on a “Life After Measure 110” listening tour earlier this year,” said Rep. Salinas. “During that tour, I met with law enforcement, district attorneys, county commissioners, and patient advocates to hear directly from the folks who know best how I – as a Member of Congress – can support their efforts and help them tackle this problem at the federal level. As a result of those conversations, I am proud to announce a series of new actions that I am taking to solve this problem and continue moving Oregon forward.”

During her announcement, Rep. Salinas outlined policies, letters, and funding efforts that are the product of conversations she had with local officials during her county-by-county listening tour. These actions include:
- New legislation to increase the size of in-patient facilities that are eligible for Medicaid coverage and provide funding for facilities to subsequently increase their capacity.
- Additional legislation that Rep. Salinas has cosponsored to help stop the flow of fentanyl and other dangerous drugs into our country and improve our mental and behavioral health infrastructure.
- Letters to state and federal partners to convey concerns related to the implementation of House Bill 4002, as well as the lack of federal resources for the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA).
  - Click here to read Rep. Salinas’ letter to Speaker Fahey and Senate President Wagner
  - Click here to read Rep. Salinas’ letter to Oregon-Idaho HIDTA Executive Director Gibson
- Requests for increased federal funding for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Center for Behavioral Health Statistics & Quality (CBHSQ), Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act First Responders grants, and Rural Opioid Technical Assistance Regional Centers (ROTA-R).
Several local officials and law enforcement officers joined Rep. Salinas for her announcement, expressing gratitude for her listening tour and bipartisan approach to solving the fentanyl and addiction crisis.

“I want to thank you for the listening tour, with listening being the key word,” said Marion County Sheriff Nick Hunter. “This is not just one layer that we need to address. This is multiple layers, from the prevention side to the treatment side, but also the vulnerability of our addicted population and truly addressing the enforcement side of trying to get those drugs off our streets. I appreciate the direction you’re taking with this bipartisan approach [of] “we need to do this for our state” – because this is a health crisis, not a law enforcement crisis – and everybody is involved in what that solution or pathway to get better looks like.”

“I really appreciate the Congresswoman’s visit to our county and getting the perspective of multiple counties. This bottom-up approach to policymaking is going to bear a ton of fruit in communities across the United States,” said Polk County Commissioner Jeremy Gordon.

In addition to the new actions announced today, Rep. Salinas already supported several other policies prior to her listening tour that would help law enforcement combat and prevent fentanyl from entering our communities. Rep. Salinas voted with Republicans and Democrats to pass the HALT Fentanyl Act, which would increase criminal penalties for fentanyl-related substances and help save lives. She also supports the Smart Border Protection Act, which would deploy additional personnel to our Southern Border and prevent these dangerous drugs from entering the United States. Beyond legislation, Rep. Salinas consistently meets with local law enforcement to discuss how Congress can better support their efforts to get fentanyl under control.

At the same time, Rep. Salinas has championed bills that would expand access to affordable treatment and supported more funding for school-based and community health centers that often help people who are struggling with substance use disorders. She also recently requested federal funding for the Beaverton Behavioral Health Court, which provides wraparound services to prevent people with substance use disorders from entering the criminal justice system if it can be avoided.

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MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – GP closures regrettable, get ready for more

Source: GenPro

Recent closures of general practices and calls for unprofitable GPs to run cafes to stay afloat are more evidence that communities are paying the price from years of government underfunding of primary health care.

“While the list of reasons for the closures of Hataitai Medical Practice and North Taranaki’s Parklands Medical Centre could differ, we know there are two common themes – that many general practices are financially unsustainable and struggle to recruit and retain staff,” said Dr Angus Chambers, Chair of the General Practice Owners Association (GenPro).

“These two symptoms are a direct consequence of a 20-year-old funding model which has not kept pace with the costs of running a general practice and the changing health needs in our communities.”

More than 2000 Wellington patients will have to find a new doctor next year after the 40-year-old Haitaitai practice closes, and not enough clinical staff can be found to keep open the Parklands centre in Bell Block, so it is closing and merging with another practice seven kilometres away.

“The closures were announced in the same week we learned that a committee established by Health New Zealand-Te Whatu Ora allegedly told a struggling GP practice to set up a café inside the clinic to bring in extra cash.

“Closures and desperate measures do nothing to improve and treat the health needs of our patients and keep the doors open on clinics providing medical, urgent and mental health care,” Dr Chambers said.

A recent survey by General Practice New Zealand, which represents the bulk of primary health organisations, found that more than 60 percent of PHOs had clinics in their networks facing closure, 61 percent were reducing services, and all were restricting patient access. Among reasons given were financial pressures and burnout and retention of GPs.

“GenPro’s own survey in August also showed that financial pressures were weighing on general practices, with 83 percent concerned about their financial viability.

“Hardly a month goes by without an announcement of a GP clinic shutting its doors, closures of after-hours services, cessation of new patient enrolments, or some other reduction in scope of services. Regretfully, I predict more of these closures and reductions are on the way unless something changes.”

“The funding model is based on health attendances from the last millennium, which was a vastly different health environment. Our inability to negotiate funding – because it’s imposed by the government – is the key reason that funding is not keeping pace with rising costs, and general practices are therefore closing.

“GenPro has lodged a complaint with the Commerce Commission about our inability to have effective input into the decisions crucial to achieving the best outcomes for our patients.

“The government must as a matter of urgency increase its support of primary healthcare, overhaul the current out-of-date funding model, and help increase the supply of medical professionals into primary healthcare,” Dr Chambers said.

“GenPro, which represents half of all general practices in Aotearoa, is ready to work with the Minister and Commissioner to develop the solutions needed,” Dr Chambers said.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Eight Charged in $68M Social Adult Day Care and Home Health Care Scheme

Source: United States Attorneys General

An indictment was unsealed today in Brooklyn, New York, charging eight defendants for their alleged roles in a scheme to defraud Medicaid of approximately $68 million through the operation of two social adult day cares and a home health care financial intermediary that were paying kickbacks and bribes for services that were not provided.

According to court documents, Zakia Khan, 53, of Brooklyn, and Ahsan Ijaz, 27, of Brooklyn, owned two social adult day cares, Happy Family Social Adult Day Care Center Inc. (Happy Family) and Family Social Adult Day Care Center Inc. (Family Social), and a financial intermediary, Responsible Care Staffing Inc. (Responsible Care), for the New York Medicaid Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Services Program (CDPAP), which permits family members of Medicaid recipients to receive payment for assisting Medicaid recipients with activities of daily living. Beginning in approximately October 2017, in exchange for kickbacks and bribes, marketers Elaine Antao, 45, also known as Aleena, of Brooklyn, Omneah Hamdi, 61, of Brooklyn, and Manal Wasef, 44, of Brooklyn, allegedly referred Medicaid recipients to Happy Family, Family Social, and/or Responsible Care. The marketers in turn allegedly paid kickbacks and bribes to Medicaid recipients for social adult day care and CDPAP services that Happy Family, Family Social, and Responsible Care billed to Medicaid but were not provided or were induced by kickbacks and bribes. Ansir Abassi, 38, also known as Zaib Abassi and Ansir Zaib, of Brooklyn, and Amran Hashmi, 53, of Brooklyn, allegedly managed Happy Family and Family Social and the marketers. To carry out the kickback scheme, Khan, Antao, Ijaz, Abassi, and Hamdi allegedly used business entities to launder the fraud proceeds and generate the cash used to pay kickbacks and bribes. Seema Memon, 30, of Brooklyn, an employee of Happy Family who was previously charged by complaint on July 1, was also indicted.

“As alleged in the indictment, these defendants orchestrated a years-long scheme to defraud Medicaid of tens of millions of dollars for social adult day care and home care services for seniors that they did not provide,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The defendants allegedly paid cash bribes and kickbacks to recruiters and Medicaid recipients as part of a scheme to enrich themselves at the expense of vital programs for senior citizens. Today’s charges make clear that the Criminal Division will not tolerate schemes that brazenly steal from federal health care programs.”

“Social adult day care and home health services are meant to help seniors, but as alleged, the defendants allegedly turned their businesses into a brazen cash grab of millions of dollars from the Medicaid program,” said U.S. Attorney Breon Peace for the Eastern District of New York. “My office is committed to investigating and prosecuting those who plunder taxpayer-funded, federal health care programs dollars while purporting to offer health care services.”

“HHS-OIG is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to investigate allegations that bribes and kickbacks are paid with Medicaid monies,” said Special Agent in Charge Naomi Gruchacz of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Individuals and entities that participate in the federal health care system are required to obey the laws meant to preserve the integrity of program funds and the provision of appropriate, quality services to patients.”

“The crimes outlined in this indictment took advantage of a network that offers essential health care and other services to those in need,” said Interim Commissioner Thomas G. Donlon of the New York City Police Department (NYPD). “Let it be clear: anyone who attempts to profit by defrauding the system will face consequences, as these schemes drain already limited resources and deprive beneficiaries of crucial funds. I commend our NYPD investigators and federal law enforcement partners for their successful and continued collaboration.”

“As alleged, the defendants saw nothing beyond the dollar signs associated with their crimes, and in turn defrauded the U.S. government of $68 million in welfare funds meant for one of our country’s most vulnerable populations,” said Special Agent in Charge William S. Walker of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New York. “Today’s announcement underscores the HSI New York El Dorado Task Force’s unrelenting focus on dismantling and disrupting financial fraud schemes that exploit the American public and hurt our economy.”

Khan is charged with conspiracy to commit health care fraud, three counts of health care fraud, conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks, paying health care kickbacks, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and money laundering. If convicted, she faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each count of conspiracy to commit money laundering and money laundering, 10 years in prison for each count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud, health care fraud, and paying health care kickbacks, and five years in prison for conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks.

Abassi, Antao, Hamdi, and Ijaz are charged with conspiracy to commit health care fraud, conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and money laundering. If convicted, they face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each count of conspiracy to commit money laundering and money laundering, 10 years in prison for conspiracy to commit health care fraud, and five years in prison for conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks.

Hashmi is charged with conspiracy to commit health care fraud, three counts of health care fraud, conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks, and paying health care kickbacks. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for each count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud, health care fraud, and paying health care kickbacks, and five years in prison for conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks.

Memon is charged with conspiracy to commit health care fraud, conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks, and paying health care kickbacks. If convicted, she faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for each count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and paying health care kickbacks and five years in prison for conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks.

Wasef is charged with conspiracy to commit health care fraud and conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks. If convicted, she faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for conspiracy to commit health care fraud and five years in prison for conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks.

HHS-OIG, NYPD, and HSI are investigating the case.

Trial Attorney Patrick J. Campbell of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section is prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tanisha R. Payne for the Eastern District of New York is assisting with forfeiture matters.

The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,400 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $27 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at http://www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

MIL Security OSI –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: FACT SHEET: Hurricane Helene Recovery Continues as Biden-⁠ Harris Administration Prepares for Hurricane Milton

US Senate News:

Source: The White House
The Biden-Harris Administration continues to both make urgent and life-saving preparations for Hurricane Milton and carry out response and recovery efforts for communities impacted by Hurricane Helene.
Today, President Biden and Vice President Harris received a briefing from members of their Administration about updates on the latest forecast for Hurricane Milton, expected impacts for the State of Florida, and the robust pre-landfall preparations underway. They also received an update on the ongoing response to the impacts of Hurricane Helene across the Southeast and Appalachia. President Biden will address the Nation tonight regarding Hurricane Milton.
President Biden has spoken to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, Clearwater Mayor Bruce Rector, and Pinellas County Chairwoman Kathleen Peters to get firsthand reports on recovery efforts for Hurricane Helene and to discuss preparations for Hurricane Milton. The President told each of the officials to call him directly if they need additional assistance on response and recovery efforts.
More than 8,000 Federal personnel are on the ground across the Southeast, including in Florida, to continue Hurricane Helene recovery efforts and respond to the impacts of Hurricane Milton.
At the direction of President Biden, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell will travel to Florida tonight to join the personnel on the ground and ensure every Floridian gets the help they need when this storm passes.
Additional updates on our efforts for Hurricanes Milton and Helene include:
Hurricane Milton Pre-Landfall Preparations
Pre-Landfall Outreach and Emergency Declarations
President Biden granted pre-landfall emergency declarations for the State of Florida and the Seminole Tribe of Florida for Hurricane Milton, enabling FEMA to provide direct assistance to the state, local and Tribal response, preposition supplies and response assets and mobilize hundreds of personnel in the state, many of whom were already in place supporting the Hurricane Helene response.
The White House has been in contact with more than 60 Florida officials from all 51 counties that fall under the pre-landfall Emergency Declaration approved by President Biden. We remain in close communication with officials in the 16 cities and counties that will likely be in the direct path of the storm.
Surging Resources and Personnel to Florida
FEMA has over 1,000 responders on the ground in Florida supporting Hurricane Milton preparations and recovery efforts from previous disasters. There are over 1,400 search and rescue personnel pre-staged to support Hurricane Milton response efforts.
The U.S. Coast Guard has 1,300 personnel stationed in Florida ready to immediately assist with life-saving and life sustaining search and rescue operations throughout the State. The Coast Guard also has personnel ready who will work directly with the U.S. Army Corps of engineers to assess and open the critical lifeline of the Port of Tampa as quickly as possible to ensure necessary supplies and fuel can start to flow into the impacted areas again.
The State of Florida has activated over 6,000 members of the National Guard and expects to bring on an additional 3,000 National Guard members from Florida and other States to support State response activities.
The Federal government has pre-positioned resources to support local and state response efforts ahead of Hurricane Milton. FEMA pre-staged seven FEMA Incident Management Assistance Teams, eight federal Urban Search & Rescue and swift water rescue teams, three U.S. Coast Guard Swift Water Rescue teams, 10 HealthCare System Assessment Teams, two U.S Army Corps of Engineers temporary power teams, debris experts, Environmental Protection Agency wastewater experts, over 500 ambulances, 20 helicopters prepared to support media requirements following landfall, and 60 High Water Vehicles with ladders from the Department of Defense.
Additionally, FEMA has five incident staging bases with commodities including food and water. Right now, FEMA has 20 million meals and 40 million liters of water ready to deploy to address ongoing Helene and Milton response efforts with capacity to expand as needed.
The Department of Defense is ready to support air search-and-rescue efforts, support urban search-and-rescue teams, provide helicopters to move personnel and equipment, and provide high water vehicles. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is staged across the area of impact and is prepared to support debris management, assessments of infrastructure and water/wastewater facilities, temporary power installations, and flood/water mitigation efforts.
Additional Efforts to Support Pre-Landfall Preparations and Protect Communities
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is leveraging state-of-the-art technology to keep communities safe throughout the southeast. NOAA’s fleet of “Hurricane Hunter” aircraft gather vital data to help improve track and intensity forecasts, supporting the 24-7 work of the National Weather Service (NWS). NWS provides the real-time, accurate information that assists local meteorologists and emergency operations leaders protect their communities and combat weather misinformation. Additionally, data from reconnaissance planes and drones used to survey damage following Hurricane Helene’s landfall will help us better prepare for post-Milton recovery operations.
The Department of Energy’s Energy Response Organization remains activated to respond to storm impacts. Via the Electricity Sub-Sector Coordinating Council and Oil and Natural Gas Sub-Sector Coordinating Council, the Department has been coordinating continuously with energy sector partners on both the ongoing Hurricane Helene response and potential impacts from Hurricane Milton.
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has notified local public housing authorities and owners of its assisted multifamily and heath care properties within the State of Florida to immediately implement all appropriate safety protocols for residents and workers. HUD is committed to ensuring that residents of its assisted homes and properties receive critical information that can save lives during extreme weather events. HUD is also conducting outreach and communications on the programmatic flexibilities and waivers that can be utilized to assist communities and survivors. Additionally, HUD is working with communities, shelter operators and homelessness services providers to prepare and support them—in collaboration with FEMA and disaster assistance organizations such as the Red Cross—as they provide life-saving assistance before and after the storm.
The Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) is assessing potential critical supply chain disruptions following Hurricane Helene’s impact on the IV solution supply chain. ASPR is coordinating with B Braun, an IV solution manufacturer with a facility in Daytona Beach, Florida, to move their product out of the path of the storm and facilitate other activities that will mitigate potential impacts on future distribution. ASPR and HHS partners are committed to continue working with public and private partners to support the supply chain as facilities address return to full operational capacity. ASPR is encouraging manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors to evaluate product allocation and healthcare providers to implement product conservation strategies to maximize available supply. ASPR is in communication with stakeholders to reduce disruption and facilitate product allocation.
Protecting Impacts to Power and Travel Infrastructure
The Department of Transportation is deploying a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Air Traffic Field Incident Response team to Florida and pre-staging operations in Jacksonville to support any impacted towers and airports. The team will work with the State and local authorities and the Department of Defense within the established Emergency Operations Center. The Department of Transportation is also deploying the FAA Communication Support Team (CST), which plays a critical role in restoring communications at impacted air traffic management facilities. Specifically, the CST will set up Starlink and Mobile Phone Bonding kits, which increase signal stability and data throughout the region. The FAA Air Traffic Organization Technical Operations Team is on-site and leading the restoration efforts for communications at air traffic facilities. The FAA is placing aircraft on standby to transport personnel from various agencies, mobilize resources, and support damage assessments to infrastructure.
The FAA granted permission to the utility Florida Power & Light to use large Teros drones to assist with damage assessments and power restoration after Milton passes. These 1,800-pound drones can fly in harsh conditions and operate in winds up to 70 mph before crewed aircraft are able to fly.
The Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration is coordinating with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and is prepared to rapidly process Emergency Relief (ER) funding requests from FDOT. The ER program helps pay for long-term, permanent repairs, and other immediate emergency repairs, such as protecting remaining facilities and restoring essential traffic. It reimburses State, local, federal, Tribal, and territorial governments for eligible expenses associated with damage from natural disasters or other emergency situations based on their requests.
Hurricane Helene Response and Recovery
The Department of Defense continues to support search-and-rescue operations, route clearance, and commodities distribution across western North Carolina with 1,500 active-duty troops. The Department of Defense is also employing additional capabilities to assist with increasing situational awareness across the remote terrain of Western North Carolina. The Army Corps of Engineers continues missions supporting temporary emergency power installations, infrastructure assessments, and debris management oversight.
Mobilizing Financial Assistance and Surging Additional Personnel and Resources
Over $344 million in assistance has been provided to Hurricane Helene survivors. President Biden approved a 100 percent Federal cost-share for Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee to assist in those States’ response efforts. In North Carolina alone, FEMA has approved over $60 million in aid for more than 51,000 households.
FEMA personnel and other Federal partners, including FEMA’s Surge Capacity Force, remain on the ground supporting impacted communities, with over 17.2 million meals and 13.9 million liters of water delivered and ensuring information is accessible, including resources in preferred languages and ASL.
Over the course of the last two weeks, 1,000 Urban Search and Rescue personnel have assisted over 3,200 survivors. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods in all Helene-affected States helping survivors apply for assistance and connecting them with additional State, local, Federal and voluntary agency resources.
Supporting Infrastructure Recovery
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration announced over $130 million in Quick Release Emergency Relief funding to support North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. The funding represents a down payment to address the immediate needs to restore vital transportation systems in these states. Additional funding will flow to affected communities from the Emergency Relief program.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) worked with partners to ensure the national airspace returned to steady state operations and all airports across impacted states reopened. The FAA’s Security and Hazardous Materials Safety Communication Support Team was deployed to restore communications to impacted airports, including delivering satellite communications kits to the Asheville Regional Airport in North Carolina and ongoing work at Valdosta Regional Airport in Georgia. The FAA Air Traffic Organization Technical Operations Team is on-site and leading communications restoration efforts at air traffic facilities. FAA also supported FEMA with two aircrafts to conduct flyover assessments and transport emergency personnel and gear, such as satellite communications kits.
Additionally, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration issued Regional Emergency Declarations for Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. This Declaration affords emergency regulatory relief from Federal Motor Carrier Safety regulations, including maximum driving time for property- and passenger-carrying vehicles from the date of declaration. This allows truck drivers to get essential supplies to affected areas. The FMCSA Regional Declaration eliminates the need for each individual state to request a 14-day extension and allows FMCSA the ability to manage one declaration that includes all eight states and does not expire until October 27.
NOAA continues to support post-disaster imagery flights following Hurricane Helene, already totaling over 68 flight hours during 20 flights, including over western North Carolina. NOAA is currently repositioning to support Florida and the impacts of Hurricane Milton. NOAA’s aerial imagery captures damage to coastal areas caused by a storm and aids safe navigation. Aerial imagery is a crucial tool to determine the extent of the damage from flooding, and to compare baseline coastal areas to assess the damage to major ports and waterways, coastlines, critical infrastructure, and coastal communities. This imagery not only supports FEMA and the broader response community, but the public at large.
Supporting Students and Student Loan Borrowers
The U.S. Department of Education is lifting up a series of resources for students, families, and borrowers impacted by these hurricanes. These resources include guidance, in person support, technical assistance, and peer-to-peer connections for state and local leaders; resources for recovery needs such as mental health support for students and educators; flexibilities to help institutions of higher education continue to manage the Federal financial aid programs; and automatically enrolling affected borrowers with missed payments into a natural disaster forbearance. Thanks to regulations issued by the Biden-Harris Administration, this forbearance will count toward Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) and income-driven repayment forgiveness.
Providing Financial Flexibilities to Homeowners and Taxpayers
The Department of Housing and Urban Development is providing a 90-day moratorium on foreclosures of mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) as well as foreclosures of mortgages to Native American borrowers guaranteed under the Section 184 Indian Home Loan Guarantee program. The moratorium and extension are effective as of the President’s disaster declaration date in each state. When homes are destroyed or damaged to an extent that reconstruction or complete replacement is necessary, HUD’s Section 203(h) program provides FHA insurance to disaster victims. Borrowers from participating FHA approved lenders are eligible for 100 percent financing including closing costs. HUD’s Section 203(k) loan program enables individuals to finance the purchase or refinance of a house, along with its repair, through a single mortgage. Homeowners can also finance the rehabilitation of their existing homes if damaged. FHA is coordinating and collaborating with the Federal Housing Finance Agency, Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Agriculture to ensure consistent messaging and policies for single family loans regarding foreclosure moratoriums and repayment/arrearage agreements. Additionally, affected homeowners that have mortgages through Government-Sponsored Enterprises – including Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac – and the FHA are eligible to suspend their mortgage payments through a forbearance plan for up to 12 months.
The Internal Revenue Service announced disaster tax relief for all individuals and businesses affected by Hurricane Helene, including the entire states of Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina and parts of Florida, Tennessee and Virginia. Taxpayers in these areas now have until May 1, 2025, to file various federal individual and business tax returns and make tax payments. In addition, the Internal Revenue Service is providing more than 1,000 employees to help with FEMA disaster relief call lines and intake initial information to help disaster victims get federal relief. IRS Criminal Investigation agents are also on the ground in devastated areas to help with search and rescue efforts and other relief work – including assisting with door-to-door search efforts.
Protecting Public Health
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services activated the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program for North Carolina to aid uninsured residents in replacing prescription medicines or certain medical equipment lost or damaged in Hurricane Helene.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is working closely with state and local officials to restore drinking water service in North Carolina and across the Southeast as well as provide assistance in debris and hazardous waste clean-up efforts.
Supporting Workers and Worker Safety
The U.S. Department of Labor announced initial emergency grant funding to Florida to support disaster-relief jobs and training services to help respond to Hurricane Helene. Additional grant funding for North Carolina is forthcoming. The National Dislocated Worker Grant – supported by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014 – allows the Florida Department of Commerce to provide people with temporary disaster-relief jobs and the delivery of humanitarian assistance to address immediate, basic needs for those displaced by Hurricane Helene. The funding also enables the state to provide training and services to individuals in the affected communities.
Working alongside the Department of Labor, the States of Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee have all announced that eligible workers can receive federal Disaster Unemployment Assistance to compensate for income lost directly resulting from Hurricane Helene. And, through the Department of Labor’s innovative partnership with the U.S. Postal Service, displaced workers from North Carolina and South Carolina can now go to the post office in any other state and verify their ID for purposes of getting their benefits quickly.
The Department of Labor is also working alongside on-the-ground personnel providing disaster relief, recovery, and rebuilding to prevent additional workplace disasters. This includes producing a worker safety training resource for resilience workers in Florida who are continuing to clear debris, rebuild infrastructure, and prepare for Hurricane Milton. This also includes activating the Wage and Hours Division Natural Disaster outreach, education and strategic enforcement program to provide employers and workers with the information they need to ensure everyone is paid correctly under the law.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Medicines access continues to increase
Source: New Zealand Government

Associate Health Minister with responsibility for Pharmac David Seymour is pleased to see Pharmac continue to increase availability of medicines for Kiwis with the Government’s largest ever investment in Pharmac.

“Pharmac operates independently, but it must work within the budget constraints set by the Government,” says Mr Seymour.

“When our Government assumed office, New Zealanders were facing an uncertain future for medicine access. Pharmac had a $1.7 billion funding hole and had no new money to increase access for medicines.

“It was a priority for this Government to fix that. We’ve allocated Pharmac its largest ever budget of $6.294 billion over four years, so that it can get on and do its job – negotiating the best deals for medicine for New Zealanders.

“That is now showing tangible results, with new cancer drugs continuing to be made available. This is an early sign of the direction we’re setting for Pharmac – one that prioritises expanding opportunities and access for patients and their families.

“Today represents another step forward for cancer patients as the $604 million uplift from the Government continues to facilitate access to new treatments.

“From 1 November 2024 an estimated 380 people will benefit from the full funding of Cetuximab for bowel (colorectal) cancer located on the left side of the bowel, which has spread, and does not have certain (RAS or BRAF) gene mutations. Cetuximab will be fully funded at any point in a person’s treatment.

“Pharmac also recently, announced funding of pembrolizumab (branded as Keytruda), from 1 October, for another type of bowel cancer.

“Cancer chemotherapy medicines, bendamustine and pemetrexed will also be made more accessible, to more people.

Pharmac currently fund bendamustine for people with previously untreated chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) and lymphomas, which are types of blood cancer. They are adjusting the eligibility criteria to include people with relapsed or refractory CLL.

“The eligibility criteria for pemetrexed is being adjusted to make it available for any relevant use,” says Mr Seymour.

“I’m pleased to see Pharmac’s responsiveness to the voices of patients and their families by expanding access to more medicines for more groups. This decision reflects our commitment to a more adaptable and patient-centered approach.

“We want to build a world-class health system, and that requires access to world-class medicines.”

Note to editors:
- Please find the link to Pharmac’s announcement here: https://pharmac.govt.nz/news-and-resources/news/pharmac-improves-access-to-three-cancer-medicines
- Pharmac is an independent Crown entity responsible for deciding which medicines and medical devices are funded in New Zealand. The recent funding uplift from the Government has enabled Pharmac to make these significant changes. Further details about the funding changes will be available on Pharmac’s website and through their communications channels.
MIL OSI New Zealand News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Muriwai stormwater renewals update: 30 October community meeting
Source: Auckland Council

Following last year’s severe weather events, Auckland Council’s Healthy Waters has been working to improve stormwater network resilience by renewing the existing network. We have been coordinating with the Tāmaki Makaurau Recovery Office to investigate stormwater management in two key areas of Muriwai that were impacted: Motutara Road and Domain Crescent.

Change in scope of the project

The original scope of the project had two elements:
1. An embankment (bund) on Domain Crescent
2. Renewing open roadside drains to increase the stormwater capacity on Motutara Road and Domain Crescent and installing sediment traps to reduce blockages and improve maintenance.
Further investigations found that the Domain Crescent embankment needed to be bigger than originally planned, resulting in increased costs. This has led to a change in scope for this element of the project. Affected residents have been contacted by our Recovery Office staff.

Stormwater renewals will go ahead

The proposed stormwater renewals on Domain Crescent and Motutara Road will still happen. The project is now in the design stage. Construction is expected to begin in 2025.

Muriwai community update

We’d like to hear your knowledge about the existing stormwater network and to discuss the proposed stormwater renewals. The Healthy Waters project team including our designers will be available to hear your feedback and respond to your questions.

Venue: Main Hall, The Surf Club at Muriwai

Date: Wednesday 30 October 2024

6pm: Refreshments 6:30pm: Presentation 7pm: Questions and answers

For more information, please email healthywaters@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name release, fatal crash, SH73, Kirwee

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Police are now in a position to release the names of the two people who died following a crash on West Coast Road, Kirwee on Thursday 3 October 2024.

They were Anna Brenmuhl, 74 and Francis Brenmuhl, 75 of Kirwee.

Our deepest thoughts and sympathies are with their family at this extremely difficult time.

The driver of the other vehicle involved in the collision remains in Christchurch Hospital in a stable condition.

Our investigation into the crash remains ongoing. No charges have been laid at this stage.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Chris Deluzio and Wife, Zoë Bunnell, Announce Birth of Their Son

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17)

ALLEGHENY COUNTY, PA — This week, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) and his wife Zoë Bunnell welcomed their fourth child into their family, a healthy baby boy.

Congressman Deluzio and his family are thrilled to share this news and released the following statement:

“We are over the moon to welcome our son into our family and are grateful that both the baby and Zoë are healthy and recovering well.

“We want to thank the dedicated team of nurses, doctors, and staff at UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital who helped us begin this new chapter for our family!

“Our hearts are full, and we thank everyone for their well wishes. We’re so proud to be raising our family in Western Pennsylvania.”

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MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Kaine Leads Push to Examine Ageism’s Impacts on Quality and Equity of Health Care

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, on Ageism Awareness Day, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, led a group of senators in sending a letter to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) requesting that the agency examine the impact of ageism on quality and equity of care, patient safety, and health outcomes. Ageism in health care is associated with a decreased likelihood that older adults will receive care that meets medical guidelines, an increased likelihood that they are not properly reimbursed for care, and exclusion from clinical trials and other research that is available to the public generally.
“While ageism is often subtle, it is woven into our workforce, our health care system, and our everyday interactions,” wrote the senators.
“Ageism within health care leads to poorer health outcomes, avoidable morbidity, and costly preventable adverse events. Ageism costs the health care system $63 billion annually. In health care, ageism is expressed in our policies, the practices of health care providers, and negative assumptions held by older adults themselves,” they continued.
The senators specifically asked the AHRQ for answers to the following questions:
What is the full scope of ageism within health care?
What is the impact of ageism and intersectionality on both the micro and macro levels of health care related to health equity and outcomes?
What is the evidence for interventions to address ageism and promote age inclusivity in health care?
Kaine has long worked to address the needs of older Americans. This past July, he helped secure key provisions in the HELP committee-passed bill to reauthorize the Older Americans Act, which supports a wide range of programs and services to help older Americans remain in their homes and connected to their communities.
In addition to Kaine, the letter was signed by Senators Bob Casey (D-PA), Angus King (I-ME) and Bernie Sanders (I-VT).
Full text of the senators’ letter is available here and below.
Dear Dr. Valdez:
We write to express our concern about the complexity and pervasive nature of ageism in health care and request that the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) examine the impact of ageism on quality and equity of care, patient safety, and health outcomes.
While ageism is often subtle, it is woven into our workforce, our health care system, and our everyday interactions. Ageism undermines older adults and their contributions to our communities. Research shows that 81 percent of adults aged 50-80 report experiencing internal ageism, 65 percent are exposed to ageist messages, and 45 percent face ageism in interpersonal interactions. These staggering statistics demonstrate how ingrained ageism is in our society.
Ageism refers to stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination directed towards people on the basis of their age. While ageism is often subtle, it is woven into our workforce, our health care system, and our everyday interactions. Ageism undermines older adults and their contributions to our communities. Research shows that 81 percent of adults aged 50-80 report experiencing internal ageism, 65 percent are exposed to ageist messages, and 45 percent face ageism in interpersonal interactions. These staggering statistics demonstrate how ingrained ageism is in our society.
Ageism within health care leads to poorer health outcomes, avoidable morbidity, and costly preventable adverse events. Ageism costs the health care system $63 billion annually. In health care, ageism is expressed in our policies, the practices of health care providers, and negative assumptions held by older adults themselves. At the macro level, ageism is complex and reflected in health care access issues which result in older adults being less likely to receive care consistent with medical guidelines, payment policies that do not adequately reimburse for complex care needed for older adults, and exclusion or underrepresentation of older adults in clinical trials and other research.
At the micro level, practices such as the use of ageist language and elder speak, exclusion of older patients from plan of care conversations, and variations in treatment practices due to a patient’s age all affect patients’ quality of care. Self-directed ageism can also lead to adverse outcomes for a patient if their beliefs on aging lead them to believe that the symptoms they are experiencing should be considered a “normal” part of aging. For example, while some cognitive decline is expected as we age, memory loss, confusion, changes in behavior, and inability to complete activities of daily living are all signs of changes in cognitive ability that need to be evaluated by a medical professional. Moreover, people who internalize ageist societal messages tend to have poorer physical, cognitive, and mental health. The reverse is also true—individuals who internalize positive aging messages are likely to exhibit benefits in physical, cognitive, and mental health—highlighting the need to promote age inclusivity.
We respectfully request that AHRQ examine this issue and provide a synthesis of existing evidence on ageism in health care to inform efforts to reduce ageism within the health care system. Specifically, we request your assistance to answer the following questions:
What is the full scope of ageism within health care?
What is the impact of ageism and intersectionality on both the micro and macro levels of health care related to health equity and outcomes?
What is the evidence for interventions to address ageism and promote age inclusivity in health care?
With AHRQ’s mission to improve the quality, safety, and equity of health care, we believe your organization is well suited to support Congress’ effort to address ageism in health care. Results of the requested review will help inform practice, quality improvement efforts, education of health professionals, and policy.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senators Reverend Warnock, Casey Urge Administration to Ensure Seniors Can Benefit from New Prescription Drug Cost Cap

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

Senators Reverend Warnock, Casey Urge Administration to Ensure Seniors Can Benefit from New Prescription Drug Cost Cap

The senators urged the Biden Administration to provide more information to seniors about out-of-pocket prescription drug cost cap that goes into effect January 2025
The $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket prescription drugs for Medicare recipients to save seniors $1.5 billion in copays and other expenses
Senator Reverend Warnock championed the Inflation Reduction Act law lowering out-of-pocket drug costs, giving Medicare the power to negotiate and lower prescription drugs
Senators Reverend Warnock, Casey also recently reintroduced the Capping Prescription Costs Act to lower out-of-pocket drug costs for families – MORE HERE
Senators Reverend Warnock, Casey: “The new cap will allow nearly 19 million Medicare beneficiaries to reduce their spending on prescription drugs. We must do more to ensure that older adults understand these new options and benefits”
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Bob Casey (D-PA) are urging the Biden Administration to better inform seniors of the steps they may need to take to benefit from the impending cap on out-of-pocket prescription drug costs.
In an October 3 letter to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra, the Senators noted that in January 2025, as a result of the landmark Inflation Reduction Act law, a $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket drug costs for Medicare Part D beneficiaries will go into effect and reduce drug costs for nearly 19 million Americans. The Senators urged HHS to increase outreach efforts to ensure that seniors understand how to guarantee their prescription drugs count towards the out-of-pocket cap so they don’t end up paying more than expected.
“The new cap will allow nearly 19 million Medicare beneficiaries to reduce their spending on prescription drugs. We must do more to ensure that older adults understand these new options and benefits. A lack of information and communication could leave older adults paying more and missing out on benefits to which they are entitled,” wrote the Senators.
Senators Reverend Warnock and Casey have long led efforts in the Senate to lower prescription drug costs. In 2022, they fought to pass the Inflation Reduction Act, which put in place the $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket prescription drug costs for Medicare Part D beneficiaries. The law also capped the cost of insulin at $35 a month for Medicare recipients and gave Medicare the power to negotiate prescription drug prices for the first time. Negotiations began last year on the first set of ten drugs: Eliquis, Jardiance, Xarelto, Januvia, Farxiga, Entresto, Enbrel, Imbruvica, Stelara, and NovoLog/Fiasp. In August, the Biden Administration announced the new, lower negotiated prices for each of these first ten drugs. Early next year, the Administration will announce the next set of 15 drugs that will be subject to price negotiations. Senators Warnock and Casey also recently introduced the Capping Prescription Costs Act which would cap annual out-of-pocket prescription drug costs at $2,000 for individuals and $4,000 for families with private insurance.
“The IRA directly lowers prescription drug costs for millions of Americans, and we must do everything we can provide older adults with the resources to understand these benefits. This is especially important with Open Enrollment beginning on October 15, a key opportunity for beneficiaries to ensure their health plans meet their needs. The Biden-Harris Administration has worked tirelessly to pass and implement the IRA, and we look forward to continuing those efforts as provisions of the law take effect, making prescription drugs costs more affordable,” concluded the senators.
The full letter can be found HERE and the text is below:
Dear Secretary Becerra:
Thank you for your ongoing commitment to lowering the cost of health care across the Nation. In just a few months, as a result of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), a $2,000 cap on out-of pocket prescription drug costs will go into effect. The new cap will allow nearly 19 million Medicare beneficiaries to reduce their spending on prescription drugs. We must do more to ensure that older adults understand their new options and benefits. A lack of information and communication could leave older adults paying more and missing out on benefits to which they are entitled. As this and other prescription drug pricing provisions from the IRA take effect, we urge the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to increase outreach efforts to older adults to ensure they are aware of how to benefit from the law
When Congress passed the IRA, we fought to ensure the legislation included significant steps to improve prescription drug affordability by allowing Medicare to negotiate drug prices, capping out of pocket costs for Medicare beneficiaries, lowering insulin costs, and decreasing prescription drug costs for low-income Medicare beneficiaries. Last year, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) began to negotiate with pharmaceutical companies to lower the price of prescription drugs and in August, CMS announced the negotiated maximum fair prices for the first 10 drugs under the IRA’s negotiation program. Medicare enrollees taking these 10 drugs paid a total of $3.4 billion in out-of-pocket costs in 2022. Had the IRA been in effect in 2023, Medicare would have saved $6 billion, and beneficiaries would have saved $1.5 billion in copays and other expenses. Additional drugs will be negotiated each year under this program, largely expanding the affordability of prescription drugs for Medicare beneficiaries.
Starting in 2023, cost-sharing was eliminated for vaccines covered by Medicare Part D. According to HHS, 10.3 million Medicare Part D enrollees received a recommended vaccine free of charge, which saved beneficiaries more than $400 million in out-of-pocket costs. This includes 3.9 million older adults who received a shingles vaccine, which is an increase of about 42 percent from 2021.
In January 2024, the IRA also capped out of pocket costs for insulin at $35 per month for Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in Part B and Part D. Had the IRA been in effect in 2020, 1.5 million Medicare beneficiaries would have benefited, saving about $734 million in Part D and $27 million in Part B, or about $500 in average annual savings per beneficiary. Thanks to pressure from the IRA, three of the largest U.S. insulin manufacturers have capped out-of-pocket insulin costs for even more patients.
In January 2025, Medicare Part D enrollees will benefit from a $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket drug costs. This redesign will reduce beneficiary out-of-pocket spending by about $7.4 billion each year among more than 18.7 million enrollees in 2025. This will save nearly $400 per person in out of pocket costs each year.
CMS has provided some information about the upcoming implementation of the out-of-pocket cap, with detailed guidance regarding the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan to Part D plan sponsors and a fact sheet for consumers and Medicare beneficiaries. But CMS must do more to inform older adults about the details of the $2,000 out of pocket cap to ensure they are able to realize its maximum benefits. For example, Medicare beneficiaries need information about how to guarantee their prescription drugs count towards the out-of-pocket cap and how to choose the best Part D plan for their individual needs. Without this critical information, beneficiaries may end up paying more than expected.
The IRA directly lowers prescription drug costs for millions of Americans, and we must do everything we can provide older adults with the resources to understand these benefits. This is especially important with Open Enrollment beginning on October 15, a key opportunity for beneficiaries to ensure their health plans meet their needs. The Biden-Harris Administration has worked tirelessly to pass and implement the IRA, and we look forward to continuing those efforts as provisions of the law take effect, making prescription drugs costs more affordable.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Meaningful connections take centre stage on World Mental Health Day

Source: Mental Health Australia

On World Mental Health Day, Mental Health Australia is urging policymakers to recognise that meaningful connections are critical to mental health.

10 October is not just a date on the calendar. It’s an opportunity to spotlight mental health, challenge stigma, and push for real change. This year, Mental Health Australia’s World Mental Health Day campaign focusses on why meaningful connections are so important for good mental health.

“At the heart of our campaign are the powerful voices of people in Australia with lived and living experience of mental ill-health,” said Mental Health Australia CEO, Carolyn Nikoloski.

“Twelve advocates from across the country have shared their personal stories, demonstrating how meaningful connections transformed their mental health journeys and helped them find a path to recovery.”

From Outback Queensland to Australia’s capital, these stories remind us that mental health affects everyone, regardless of income or postcode.

“World Mental Health Day reminds us to connect—to loved ones, our communities, colleagues, and to Country. It’s a call to reach out for support and, just as importantly, to reconnect with ourselves for better mental health,” Ms Nikoloski urged.

This message was reflected to policymakers yesterday at Mental Health Australia’s Mental Health Sector Expo, which was co-hosted with the Parliamentary Friends of Youth Mental Health and the Parliamentary Friends of Mental Health.

The event united over 120 mental health professionals from 45 member organisations at Parliament House, with the Hon. Mark Butler MP, Minister for Health and Aged Care addressing the audience about the vital importance of this year’s theme – the power of meaningful connections – by highlighting the valuable contribution of the mental health sector.

Mr Butler said, “I want to thank all of you for the work that you do. These are really tough times. We’ve gone through an incredibly traumatic period with the pandemic that really impacted people’s mental health…you have the best ideas of how we can do better to support people in mental distress, whether that’s relatively temporary mental distress or whether it’s lifelong relatively severe mental illness.”

As one of the final parliamentary sitting weeks of 2024 unfolds, Australia’s leading mental health organisations showcased their critical work and achievements, calling attention to the mental health services available in local communities across the country.

“This event was an important opportunity for mental health professionals, policymakers, and people with lived and living experience of mental ill-health and their family, carers and supporters to connect and unite in a bipartisan effort to continue building a mental health system that supports every person in Australia,” Ms Nikoloski said.

MIL OSI News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Anthrax vaccine protects sheep and cattle

Source: New South Wales Department of Primary Industries

10 Oct 2024

Livestock producers who manage properties where anthrax has occurred or nearby properties have been reminded to vaccinate their cattle and sheep against anthrax, even though there are no current anthrax cases.

NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) and Local Land Services (LLS) advise annual anthrax vaccination on these high-risk properties.

NSW DPIRD senior veterinary officer, Amanda Walker, said vaccination is a preventative measure against anthrax, the spores of which can lie dormant in the soil for decades.

“Vaccination effectively prevents anthrax from occurring and helps break the cycle of spore production, reducing cases of this unpredictable and serious disease that can kill stock of any age or class with no warning,” Dr Walker said.

“If vaccination is continued over time spores in the environment will die, reducing the risk of anthrax occurring in the future.”

“Producers should contact their LLS district vet to obtain specific advice for their properties.”

In the past, most anthrax cases have occurred in areas bordered by Bourke and Moree in the north, to Albury and Deniliquin in the south.

LLS veterinarian, Scott Ison, said the disease is caused by the bacterium, Bacillus anthracis, and affected stock often show few or no signs of ill health before they die.

“Farmers can apply to use the vaccine through their LLS district veterinarian and once authorised, they can place an order for the vaccine with their local rural supplier or private veterinarian,” Dr Ison said.

“Farmers should suspect anthrax if animals die suddenly, as in many cases there may be no other signs. The disease may begin in a flock or herd with the deaths of single animals over a few days before increasing to dramatic losses in a very short time.”

Anthrax is listed as prohibited matter under the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015 and is a notifiable disease in NSW.

Anyone who suspects anthrax must report it immediately by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline, 1800 675 888.

More information about preventing anthrax is available on the NSW DPIRD website or from LLS, 1300 795 299.

Media contact: pi.media@dpird.nsw.gov.au

MIL OSI News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government unveils most significant reforms to employment rights
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Ministers have unveiled the Employment Rights Bill to help deliver economic security and growth to businesses, workers and communities across the UK.
Legislation introduced in Parliament to upgrade workers’ rights across the UK, tackle poor working conditions and benefit businesses and workers alike

Ahead of International Investment Summit, government reveals landmark reforms in under 100 days to boost pay and productivity, showing the benefits of a ‘pro-business, pro-worker’ approach

New balance for early months of a job at heart of pragmatic reforms to help drive growth in the economy and support more people into secure work

Employment Rights Bill will end exploitative zero-hour contracts and unscrupulous fire and rehire practices, while establishing rights to bereavement and parental leave from day one

Today (10 October) ministers have unveiled the Employment Rights Bill, introduced within 100 days of the new government coming to office, to help deliver economic security and growth to businesses, workers and communities across the UK.

Getting the labour market moving again is essential to economic growth with one in five UK businesses with more than 10 employees reporting staff shortages. Flexibility, for workers and businesses alike, is key to answering this challenge and is at the heart of the legislation to upgrade the law to ensure it is fit for modern life and a modern economy.

The existing two-year qualifying period for protections from unfair dismissal will be removed, delivering on the manifesto commitment to ensure that all workers have a right to these protections from day one on the job.

The government will also consult on a new statutory probation period for companies’ new hires. This will allow for a proper assessment of an employee’s suitability to a role as well as reassuring employees that they have rights from day one, enabling businesses to take chances on hires while giving more people confidence to re-enter the job market or change careers, improving their living standards.

The bill will bring forward 28 individual employment reforms, from ending exploitative zero hours contracts and fire and rehire practices to establishing day one rights for paternity, parental and bereavement leave for millions of workers. Statutory sick pay will also be strengthened, removing the lower earnings limit for all workers and cutting out the waiting period before sick pay kicks in.

Accompanying this will be measures to help make the workplace more compatible with people’s lives, with flexible working made the default where practical. Large employers will also be required to create action plans on addressing gender pay gaps and supporting employees through the menopause, and protections against dismissal will be strengthened for pregnant women and new mothers. This is all with the intention of keeping people in work for longer, reducing recruitment costs for employers by increasing staff retention and helping the economy grow.

A new Fair Work Agency bringing together existing enforcement bodies will also be established to enforce rights such as holiday pay and support employers looking for guidance on how to comply with the law.

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said:

This government is delivering the biggest upgrade to rights at work for a generation, boosting pay and productivity with employment laws fit for a modern economy. We’re turning the page on an economy riven with insecurity, ravaged by dire productivity and blighted by low pay.

The UK’s out-of-date employment laws are holding our country back and failing business and workers alike. Our plans to make work pay will deliver security in work as the foundation for boosting productivity and growing our economy to make working people better off and realise our potential.

Too many people are drawn into a race to the bottom, denied the security they need to raise a family while businesses are unable to retain the workers they need to grow. We’re raising the floor on rights at work to deliver a stronger, fairer and brighter future of work for Britain.

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

It is our mission to get the economy moving and create the long term, sustainable growth that people and businesses across the country need. Our plan will give the world of work a much needed upgrade, boosting pay and productivity.

The best employers know that employees are more productive when they are happy at work. That is why it’s vital to give employers the flexibility they need to grow whilst ending unscrupulous and unfair practices.

This upgrade to our laws will ensure they are fit for modern life, raise living standards and provide opportunity and security for businesses, workers and communities across the country.

Alongside the legislation, a ‘Next Steps’ document for the Make Work Pay Plan has been published [available here – link to when available] outlining the government’s vision and long-term plans and setting out our ambitions for the plan to grow the economy, raise living standards across the country and create opportunities for all.

Ending one-sided flexibility

The legislation will level the playing field where all parties understand what is required of them and good employers aren’t undercut by bad ones.

The bill will end exploitative zero hours contracts, following research that shows 84% of zero hours workers would rather have guaranteed hours. They, along with those on low hours contracts, will now have the right to a guaranteed hours contract if they work regular hours over a defined period, giving them security of earnings whilst allowing people to remain on zero hours contracts where they prefer to. According to TUC research nearly two thirds of managers (64%) believe ending zero hours contracts would have a positive impact on their business.

Ending unscrupulous employment practices is a priority for this government and none more so than shutting down the loopholes that allow bullying fire and rehire and fire and replace to continue. The government is closing these loopholes and putting in place measures to give greater protections against unfair dismissal from day one, ensuring that the feeling of security at work is no longer a luxury for the privileged few.

This bill turns the page on the previously ineffective, costly and conflicting approach to dealing with industrial relations that has brought so much disruption to businesses and livelihoods. lt repeals the anti-union legislation put in place by the previous administration, including the Minimum Service Levels (Strikes) Act legislation that failed to prevent a single day of industrial action while in force.

Employment Rights Minister Justin Madders said:

We know that most employers proudly treat their staff well. However, for decades as the world of work has changed, employment rights have failed to keep pace, with an increase in one-sided flexibility slowing the potential for growth in the economy.

The steps we’re taking today will finally right these wrongs, working in partnership with business and unions to kickstart economic growth that will benefit them, their workers and local communities.

From tackling fire and rehire to ending exploitative zero hours contracts, we are delivering a modern economy that drives up living standards for families across the UK.

Supporting working families

Too many people find that the current system isn’t compatible with the realities of everyday life, whether that’s raising children or supporting a loved one with a health condition. The government wants to make sure that everyone can get on in work and not be held back because work isn’t compatible with important family responsibilities.

That is why the government will:

Change the law to make flexible working the default for all, unless the employer can prove it’s unreasonable.

Set a clear standard for employers by establishing a new right to bereavement leave, with the entitlement sculpted with the needs of employees and the concerns of employers at the forefront.

Deliver stronger protections for pregnant women and new mothers returning to work including protection from dismissal whilst pregnant, on maternity leave and within six months of returning to work.

Tackle low pay by accounting for cost of living when setting the Minimum Wage and remove discriminatory age bands.

Establish a new Fair Work Agency that will bring together different government enforcement bodies, enforce holiday pay for the first time and strengthen statutory sick pay. It will create a stronger, recognisable single organisation that people know where to go for help – with better support for employers who want to comply with the law and tough action on the minority who deliberately flout it.

Beyond the bill

The Make Work Pay Plan doesn’t stop with this bill. Continuing to reform employment rights in line with changes to the economy and labour market is critical to maintaining growth, prosperity and opportunity. As an outlook to the future, the government has also today published a Next Steps document that outlines reforms it will look to implement in the future.

Subject to consultations, this includes:

A Right to Switch Off, preventing employees from being contacted out of hours, except in exceptional circumstances, to allow them the rest and get the recuperation they need to give 100% during their shift.

A strong commitment to end pay discrimination by expanding the Equality (Race and Disparity) Bill to make it mandatory for large employers to report their ethnicity and disability pay gap.

A move towards a single status of worker and transition towards a simpler two-part framework for employment status.

Reviews into the parental leave and carers leave systems to ensure they are delivering for employers, workers and their loved ones.

Responding to the government’s initiative, these businesses and employee groups have said:

Shirine Khoury-Haq, CEO of the Co-op, said:

We support the Government’s ambitions to strengthen rights for workers and value the co-operative approach to involve employers in the reforms. As the UK’s largest consumer co-operative, Co-op has long supported colleagues to have good working lives, with policies like our leading bereavement leave, day one right to request flexible working arrangements, and menopause support already in place. The positive impact of these policies is clear to see.

Being able to support colleagues when they need it, and in particular women, parents and carers, helps retain valuable talent and makes good business sense. We look forward to continuing to work with Government to make work pay and to deliver economic growth.”

Paul Nowak, TUC General Secretary, said: 

After 14 years of stagnating living standards, working people desperately need secure jobs they can build a decent life on.   

Whether it’s tackling the scourge of zero-hours contracts and fire and rehire, improving access to sick pay and parental leave, or clamping down on exploitation – this Bill highlights the Government’s commitment to upgrade rights and protections for millions.   

Driving up employment standards is good for workers, good for business and good for growth. While there is still detail to be worked through, it is time to write a positive new chapter for working people in this country.”   

Jane van Zyl, CEO at Working Families, said:

As campaigners for better rights for working parents and carers, we’re pleased there is hope on the horizon for the millions who stand to benefit from the transformational changes in the proposed Employment Bill. 

Establishing workplace rights from day one and making flexible working the default could be the key to unlocking labour market mobility, with the promise of getting the economy moving and ensuring parents and carers are not held back in their careers. In addition, we welcome any strengthening of legislation that helps protect pregnant women and new mothers against losing their jobs unfairly at a vulnerable time in their lives. 

The proposals in the Plan to Make Work Pay have the potential to remove barriers in the workplace, give a better start for new parents and reduce gendered roles in caring. The message it sends that worker’s rights matter, and the willingness to address inequalities, is very promising.” 

Simon Roberts, Chief Executive of Sainsbury’s, said:

As one of the UK’s largest employers we put our colleagues at the heart of everything we do. We see the clear link between engaged, motivated colleagues and business performance and that is why we have increased colleague pay by over 50% in the last 5 years.

We share the Government’s vision of making work pay, enabling growth and driving productivity. We welcome today’s announcement and Government engagement with business to date and look forward to seeing progress on business rates reform, which would deliver real benefits for our colleagues, customers and communities.”

Peter Cheese, Chief Executive of CIPD, the professional body for HR and Learning & Development professionals, said:

We share the Government’s ambition to raise employment standards and job quality through the Employment Rights Bill as part of the wider Make Work Pay agenda.

The changes being proposed represent the greatest update in employment legislation in decades. We’re pleased to see the ongoing commitment from Government to engage with the business community to work through the important details to ensure they have a positive impact for both employers and workers.”

Jemima Olchawski, CEO of Fawcett Society, said:

Today’s draft employment bill is a win for women. Fawcett and our members have campaigned long and hard to see government chart a new course for inclusive economic growth and to improve women’s working lives. We share this government’s ambition to ensure all women can thrive at work and fully contribute to the economy.”

Mark Reynolds, Mace Group Chair and Chief Executive, said:###

Ensuring British workers are supported with strong employment rights benefits everyone – employers as well as employees. This package of reforms is a welcome insight into the Government’s plans and show that they have engaged extensively with businesses and taken a pragmatic approach. We’re pleased to support it; both on behalf of Mace and the wider construction industry. We look forward to working closely with the Government as they take these plans forward.”

Brian McNamara, CEO of Haleon, said:

It is crucial that the Government continues to engage with the business community on such an important piece of legislation and we welcome the dialogue to date. Haleon is committed to creating an inclusive culture that provides all employees with equal opportunities. This is central to our company strategy and will be core to our future success.”

Greg Jackson, CEO of Octopus Energy, said:

In formulating these proposals it’s clear that the government has listened to both workers and employers to create protections against bad practices while enabling good businesses to invest in growth and training. For example, the probation period will allow progressive employers to give a chance to people without typical experience or educational backgrounds, opening up new opportunities for them in great careers.”

Chris O’Shea, CEO of Centrica, said:

As the largest Unionised workforce in the energy sector, we are pleased to see the Government publish their landmark legislation providing more rights and flexibility to employees.

At Centrica, we offer a range of policies to support our 21,000 colleagues including flexible working and health and wellbeing support from day one, a leading 10 days paid carers policy, our Pathway to Parenthood which offers comprehensive financial support towards fertility treatment alongside paid leave to for any fertility, adoption or surrogacy appointments, and additional support for neurodivergent colleagues. It’s the right thing to do and we want to help our employees and share best practices with others. Our experience shows that there is a clear business case for doing this with savings from increased retention and ensuring colleagues don’t have to take unplanned absences.”

Helen Dickinson OBE, CEO of the British Retail Consortium, said:

As the country’s largest private sector employer, employing three million people, the industry stands ready to work with government to ensure these reforms are a win:win for employers and colleagues, and maximise employment opportunities, investment, and growth. Many of the expected provisions, including stopping exploitative contracts and offering flexibility in employment, are things that responsible retailers already do. Introducing these standards for everyone means good employers should be competing on a level playing field. We look forward to engaging the government on the details, including around seasonal hiring and the use of probation periods.”

Kate Nicholls, CEO of UKHospitality, said:

I’m pleased the Government has recognised the importance of flexibility to both workers and businesses. This is crucial for hospitality, which employs 3.5m people and provides countless flexible roles for working parents, students, carers and many more.

We look forward to continuing our engagement and consultation with the Government on its plans, which are not without cost, to get the details right for all parties.”

BT Group spokesperson, said:

BT Group believes that a strong economy is one that works for everyone, and has already adopted many of the measures that will be covered by this legislation.  It will be crucial to get the details right, to avoid unintended consequences and keep the UK competitive, and we welcome the constructive, consultative approach that the Government is taking.

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Published 10 October 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Federal Assistance for Hurricane Helene Exceeds $344 Million as FEMA Expands Dual Response Efforts as Hurricane Milton Forecast to Make Landfall This Evening
Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: Federal Assistance for Hurricane Helene Exceeds $344 Million as FEMA Expands Dual Response Efforts as Hurricane Milton Forecast to Make Landfall This Evening

Federal Assistance for Hurricane Helene Exceeds $344 Million as FEMA Expands Dual Response Efforts as Hurricane Milton Forecast to Make Landfall This Evening
WASHINGTON – FEMA, under the direction of the Biden-Harris Administration, continues to lead a comprehensive, whole-of-government approach to assist communities impacted by Hurricane Helene. As of October 9, federal disaster assistance for survivors has surpassed $344 million and has reached 375,000 households.

More than 8,000 federal workers from all parts of the country are supporting the response efforts in six states and three Tribal Nations for both Hurricanes Helene and Milton. As the agency prepares for Hurricane Milton’s impacts to Florida, these assets remain in partnership with state, tribal and local partners to support of Hurricane Milton recovery efforts to ensure every available resource is mobilized.

Hurricane Helene Response

The agency is actively working alongside state, local and tribal partners to assess damage and support those affected by Helene. To date, FEMA has shipped over 17 million meals, nearly 14 million liters of water and 210 generators.

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground meeting with survivors in neighborhoods across the affected states to help them apply for assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.

Disaster survivors in designated areas of Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia can begin their recovery process by applying for federal assistance through FEMA. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in these areas should apply for assistance, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies.

Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Homeowners and renters with damage to their home or personal property from previous disasters—whether they received FEMA funds or not—are still eligible to apply for and receive assistance for Helene.

Those with access to power and cellular service can apply for FEMA assistance in one of three ways:

FEMA reminds survivors who applied for assistance that a letter from FEMA saying they’re ineligible for assistance may not be a final decision. If you believe your application was not approved in error, or if you have additional information that could strengthen your claim, you may appeal the decision. To learn more, visit http://www.fema.gov/fact-sheet/fema-answers-appeals-process-qa.

Voluntary Organizations

Voluntary agencies are supporting all affected states by providing critical feeding operations and support for survivors with hot and prepared meals and shelf-stable meals. Organizations are also providing personnel and resources to the hardest hit areas. The American Red Cross has hundreds of trained disaster workers providing comfort and operating shelters.

Survivors can receive free services like cutting fallen trees, tarping roofs and mitigating mold with the help of Crisis Cleanup by calling 844-965-1386. The hotline is open through Oct. 11 and can connect survivors with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups and the faith-based community who may be able to assist.

Additional support and assistance provided to each state includes:

Support for Florida

Recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene continue in Florida even as the federal government is supporting the state in preparing for Hurricane Milton’s landfall on the Gulf Coast. FEMA has approved approximately $142 million for nearly 49,000 households impacted by Hurricane Helene. FEMA specialists are canvassing Florida communities affected by Helene to help survivors apply for assistance. Additionally, FEMA inspectors are visiting applicants’ homes to verify disaster-caused damage.

There are more than 90 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods and 10 Disaster Recovery Centers are open where they may speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.

Residents in need of information or resources should call the State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) at 800-342-3557. English, Spanish and Creole speakers are available to answer questions.

Residents can find additional resources and information at Florida Division of Emergency Management’s website, FloridaDisaster.org.

Support for Georgia

FEMA has approved over $59 million for nearly 76,000 households.

There are more than 120 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods and one Disaster Recovery Center is open where they may speak to state and federal personnel to help with their recovery. Survivors may find their closest center by visiting FEMA.gov/DRC.

Resources: Residents can find resources like shelters and feeding sites at Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency.

Support for North Carolina

Financial Support: FEMA has approved approximately $60 million in housing and other types of assistance for nearly 52,000 households.

Staffing: As response efforts continue in North Carolina, more than 1,000 FEMA staff are on the ground, with more arriving daily. Nearly 400 Urban Search and Rescue personnel remain in the field helping people. These teams have rescued or supported over 3,200 survivors to date. There are over 1,200 Department of Defense personnel supporting the response. Experienced FEMA leaders from around the country are in the field to bolster response efforts.

Sheltering: Shelter numbers continue to decline, with 17 shelters housing just more than 700 occupants. Over 2,600 people who cannot return home are staying in safe and clean lodging through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program. Transitional Sheltering Assistance is available for North Carolinians displaced by Helene. Residents in declared counties who have applied for disaster assistance may be eligible to stay temporarily in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA while they work on their long-term housing plan. People do not need to request this assistance. FEMA will notify them of their eligibility through an automated phone call, text message and/or email, depending upon the method of communication they selected at the time of application for disaster assistance.

Power and Cellular Restoration: As of today, power was restored to more than more than 90% of originally reported power outages have been restored as a result of approximately 8,000 crew on the ground. Cellular restoration continues to improve, with more than 90% of cellular sites operating. FEMA is boosting response coordination by providing 40 Starlink units to ensure first responders can communicate with each other.

Commodities: Commodity distribution, mass feeding, and hydration operations are underway in areas of western North Carolina. FEMA commodity shipments are enroute to support operations. Voluntary organizations are supporting feeding operations with bulk food and water deliveries coming via truck and aircraft. Mobile feeding operations are reaching survivors in heavily impacted areas, including three mass feeding sites in Buncombe, McDowell and Watauga counties.

The Salvation Army has 20 mobile feeding units supporting the massive operation and has provided emotional and spiritual care to survivors. To date, the American Red Cross is engaging in targeted distribution of emergency supplies in low-income communities with high levels of minor or affected residential damage.

Resources:
- Residents can visit: ncdps.gov/helene to get information and additional assistance.
- Residents can get in touch with loved ones by calling 2-1-1 or visiting unitedwaync.org to add them to search and rescue efforts.
- There are more than 300 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors without cell coverage or power.
Support for South Carolina

In South Carolina, FEMA has approved over $77 million for nearly 97,000 households. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties continuing to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.

There are nearly 50 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors without cell coverage or power.

Residents with questions on Helene can call the state’s toll-free hotline, open 24 hours a day, at 866-246-0133.

Residents who are dependent on medical equipment at home and who are without power due to Helene may be eligible for a medical needs shelter. Call the state’s Department of Public Health Care Line at 855-472-3432 for more information.

Residents can find additional information at South Carolina Emergency Management Division’s website.

Support for Tennessee

FEMA has approved more than $5.1 million for disaster assistance for over 900 households.

Residents can call 800-824-3463 to report a missing person. Callers should be prepared to provide as much information as possible including names, phone numbers, vehicle identification and last known whereabouts.

There are more than 20 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors without cell coverage or power.

Counties continue to establish donation centers. For the evolving list, visit Tennessee Emergency Management Agency’s website.

Support for Virginia

To date, FEMA has approved over $1.3 million for over 700 households.

There are about 30 Disaster Survivor Assistance members going into neighborhoods to connect with survivors without cell coverage or power.
mashana.davis
Wed, 10/09/2024 – 22:34

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Pressley Celebrates Signing of Massachusetts Liquor License Bill

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

Pressley Championed, Helped Enact Landmark Reforms as a Boston City Councilor in 2014

Video (YouTube)

BOSTON – Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) celebrated the enactment of state legislation to authorize additional liquor licenses in Boston and delivered remarks at a ceremonial bill signing at the Massachusetts State House. As a Boston City Councilor, Pressley championed and helped enact the last major liquor license reform in 2014.

“Restaurants are the economic, social, and cultural anchors of our streets and every Bostonian deserves the chance to realize the fundamental idea that this city and all its blessings belong to each of us. Today’s signing of legislation to reform Massachusetts’ archaic liquor license laws—and build upon the reforms we enacted in 2014—gives our restauranteurs and our communities a chance to enjoy an equitable opportunity to build community and wealth—from Hyde Park to East Boston from Dorchester to Jamaica Plain and all across the city.

“When I authored the home rule petition to lift the cap as a Boston City Councilor a decade ago, I was hopeful it would set a new floor for future reform, and I am so proud to see that playing out today. Thank you to Senator Liz Miranda, Rep. Chris Worrell, Councilor Brian Worrell, Governor Maura Healey and every restauranteur and advocate who invested the sweat equity that made today possible. Today, we raise a figurative drink to this achievement and look forward to tomorrow to actualize the potential of this legislation.”

During her time on the Boston City Council, Pressley championed legislation to overhaul the liquor license process in Boston by eliminating the cap on liquor licenses and returning control over licensing to the city. In 2014, in partnership with then-Boston Mayor Marty Walsh, her City Council colleagues, and the Massachusetts Legislature, Pressley’s reforms returned the Boston Licensing Board to the City of Boston and created 75 new liquor licenses to be distributed across the city.

In 2017, Pressley and Walsh announced a new proposal to grant the City of Boston additional liquor licenses as part of an ongoing effort to attract new businesses and restaurants, encourage expansion of current establishments, and support Boston’s growing economy.

A transcript of Rep. Pressley’s remarks is below, and the full video is available here.

TRANSCRIPT: Pressley Celebrates Signing of Massachusetts Liquor License Reform Bill

October 9, 2024

Boston, Massachusetts

Governor, I have to say that, you know, because there are so many people here today, it’s easy to have oversights, and if there are any more, know that it’s an error of the head and not the heart.

But I would say that it is incredibly heartening that there are so many people here. This was not always the case on this issue. Many people saw this is a third-rail issue. There were a lot of people that were happy with an unjust status quo.

10 years ago, when I was an At-Large Boston City Councilor and Chair of the Committee on Healthy Women, Families and Communities, making the case that walkable amenities, that restaurants, had something to do with healthy communities. That it was about public health and public safety, social and economic mobility. These critical anchors.

And so to stand here today, President Spilka, I have to say, it feels good to be in the Massachusetts Seventh. It feels good to be home.

It feels good to be in Boston as we celebrate the signing of game-changing legislation to reform our archaic liquor license laws to give our restaurateurs and our communities a chance to enjoy in equity and opportunity to build community and to build wealth.

It never gets old. I feel just as hopeful as I did 10 years ago, when we were here with Governor Deval Patrick, when we signed the economic development bill that included our first bite at reforming this antiquated, unjust liquor licensing system.

Governor Patrick signed that after we had worked for four-and-a-half years with two mayors: Mayor Menino—this was the last action on his desk—Mayor Menino and Mayor Walsh. So if we could just acknowledge both of those mayors and Governor Patrick.

I was proud to lead that effort as an At-Large Boston City Councilor. It’s a beautiful thing to be able to celebrate with Governor Healey as we take the next step towards economic justice for all of Boston’s neighborhoods.

Are you tired of making history yet? You keep doing it. Okay.

The legislators in this room: Councilor Brian Worrell, Representative Chris Worrell, State Senator Liz Miranda. When I say that they have poured their blood, sweat, and legislative capital into making today a reality, it was not easy.

But this is a glorious day. It is so rare, as a lawmaker, when you plant a seed that you can see it bear its fruit in your lifetime. So this is an incredible, incredible day.

When I first raised this issue a decade ago, we knew that reforming a century-old system designed to strip Boston of the flexibility to raise or lower the cap on liquor licenses was a long, difficult and politically risky process.

But we showed what was possible when we bring together a diverse coalition of existing and aspiring restauranteurs, economic justice advocates, and community members who recognize the need to disrupt an unjust status quo and address the disparity in neighborhood sit-down restaurants.

I am proud of the cultural and economic impact that our liquor license reform has had since passing in 2014. The impact has been undeniable in the restaurants that have been able to open, remain open, and become staples of their respective neighborhoods.

And for the entrepreneurs and workers who have found opportunities that were previously closed to them—and take it from me, there is simply no better feeling than traveling this incredible city from Hyde Park to East Boston, Dorchester, Jamaica Plain, Roxbury—seeing the fruits of that labor and new neighborhood restaurants.

Restaurants are the economic, social and cultural anchors of our streets. They incentivize foot traffic. They feed our bodies and our souls. They create space for us to celebrate and to grieve the milestones of life. And the folks up here know that every single Bostonian deserves the chance to do that in the community they call home.

10 years ago, I was hopeful that our liquor license reform would set a new floor for future reform as we saw today. It is a joy to celebrate this new legislation, which gives us the chance to realize that fundamental idea that this city, in all its blessings, belong to all of us.

And now we know that even a historic day like today is not a magic wand. We’re all committed to putting in the work to make sure this game-changing legislation has the transformative and equitable impact we all know it can.

So while we continue to do the work to break down barriers to entry, like disparate access to capital, the shortage of built out commercial space for restaurants in our communities, the importance of today cannot be underestimated or understated.

So let’s raise a figurative drink to today’s achievement, roll up our sleeves tomorrow, to actualize the potential of this game-changing legislation.

And with that, I’m proud to introduce my sister-in-service, who speaks the same love language that I do—policy—lead of this historic piece of legislation, State Senator Liz Miranda.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Johnson Leads Delegation Letter Demanding EPA Regulate BioLab Chemicals

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Hank Johnson (GA-04)

U.S. Senators Ossoff, Warnock, and Reps. Scott, McBath, Williams Join Johnson in Urging EPA To Enhance Federal Oversight of Facilities That Manufacture and/or Store Hazardous Chemical TCCA.

CONYERS, GA – Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), along with U.S. Sens. Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock and U.S. House Reps. David Scott (GA-13), Lucy McBath (GA-07) and Nikema Williams (GA-05), sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan today urging him to enhance federal oversight of facilities that manufacture and/or store the hazardous chemical Trichloroisocyanuric Acid (TCCA), which is at the heart of the incident at the BioLab plant in Conyers – an environmental and health crisis that has been ongoing since Sept. 29.

“We are concerned that facilities like BioLab Conyers, which manufacture and/or store TCCA are improperly managing these substances,” the lawmakers wrote. “When not handled correctly, these chemicals can contaminate local air, water, and soil, posing severe public health risks which include respiratory issues, skin irritations, and long-term conditions like lung and heart disease.”

Specifically, the lawmakers urge the EPA to “include it on the list of regulated substances under the Risk Management Program (RMP),” which would prompt federal and state agencies to develop more effective safety protocols and management strategies, ensuring stricter adherence to safety standards for facilities handling this chemical.

“The gravity of this situation underscores the need for changes to the federal and state regulatory systems.”

Lawmakers are also requesting the agency respond to nine key questions surrounding the reactive chemical in question.

Read the letter HERE or below.

The Honorable Michael Regan
Administrator
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20460

Dear Administrator Regan,

We are writing to urge the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to take immediate action to enhance federal oversight of facilities that manufacture and/or store the hazardous chemical Trichloroisocyanuric Acid (TCCA).

On September 29, 2024, just after Hurricane Helene slammed the area, a catastrophic chemical fire took place at the BioLab facility in Conyers, Georgia, that stores TCCA. The fire released a large, billowing plume of hazardous, toxic gasses into the air, which caused the closure of parts of Interstate 20 for nearly 17 hours, with local businesses and government offices forced to close while 17,000 residents living near the plant were forced to evacuate.

As of today, toxic substances continue to rise into the air from the smoldering ruins of the plant, with corporate and government officials being unable to offer a specific timetable as to when the danger will end. People not just in the immediate vicinity of the plant but also millions across southeastern metropolitan Atlanta are under constant exposure to hazardous air quality. This incident has raised serious concerns about the community’s vulnerability to toxic chemical exposure. The danger is heightened by approaching rain which will douse the collapsed building under which millions of pounds of TCCA remain exposed to moisture.

BioLab, a division of KIK Consumer Products, manufactures and stores millions of pounds of chemical mixtures primarily composed of TCCA at the Conyers, Georgia facility. When TCCA comes into contact with small amounts of water, a hazardous chemical reaction is triggered that generates heat and causes decomposition of the chemical and can in turn produces toxic chlorine gas and can also produce explosive nitrogen trichloride. The Conyers BioLab facility has experienced three separate chemical incidents in the past seven years, four in the past 20. Each event resulted in dangerous chemical reactions and fires, releasing toxic gases like chlorine into the air.

There have been conflicting reports on what caused the most recent fire at the Conyers facility. One report cited water used to douse a fire on the roof of the plant seeping in, while another report blames the fire on a malfunctioning sprinkler system. Rainwater from Hurricane Helene seeping into the BioLab facility during and after Hurricane Helene has not been ruled out as a cause as well.

We are concerned that facilities like BioLab Conyers, which manufacture and/or store TCCA are improperly managing these substances. When not handled correctly, these chemicals can contaminate local air, water, and soil, posing severe public health risks which include respiratory issues, skin irritations, and long-term conditions like lung and heart disease.

A similar incident occurred on August 27, 2020, at the Lake Charles BioLab facility in Westlake, Louisiana, in the aftermath of Hurricane Laura. The facility sustained severe damage after TCCA manufactured and stored therein was moistened by small amounts of water and decomposed, producing toxic chlorine gas and nitrogen trichloride. These gases ignited, causing a fire and noxious clouds of toxic gases. The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazardous Investigation Board (CSB) investigated the incident and issued safety recommendations to minimize the consequences of future accidental chemical releases like the Lake Charles incident.

The 2023 (CSB) report on BioLab Lake Charles found a regulatory gap regarding the oversight of chemicals like TCCA, particularly in their classification and management under existing federal regulations. Given TCCA’s involvement in multiple safety incidents due to its highly reactive properties, we urge the EPA to include it on the list of regulated substances under the Risk Management Program (RMP).

This action will prompt federal and state agencies to develop more effective safety protocols and management strategies, ensuring stricter adherence to safety standards for facilities handling this chemical. We hope the Conyers debacle will prompt the inclusion of TCCA to the Process Safety Management (PSM) Standard under the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

We call on the EPA to collaborate with states to implement training programs specifically designed for emergency responders and facility staff. These programs should address the unique challenges posed by reactive chemicals that adversely react to water used to extinguish fires, focusing on appropriate firefighting techniques, chemical behavior, and risk assessment. The EPA, in partnership with state fire marshals and chemical safety experts, can establish comprehensive guidelines for fire suppression techniques tailored to reactive chemicals, including recommendations for effective alternative extinguishing agents, such as dry chemical extinguishers or foam.

Considering these concerns, we respectfully request clarification by November 20, 2024, on the following matters regarding regulatory oversight and preventative measures at chemical facilities like BioLab:

1. Has the EPA, in conjunction with the State of Georgia, initiated any investigations or inspections regarding BioLab Conyers’
2. What immediate actions are the EPA and State agencies taking in response to this latest fire, given the history of public safety concerns at the Conyers facility?
3.   The 2023 Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) found that TCCA and TCCA-based formulations are not covered by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Process Safety Management (PSM) Standard. Has there been any progress in addressing    this regulatory gap?
4.    Following the BioLab Conyers incident is the EPA considering adding TCCA to the list of regulated substances under the Risk    Management Program (RMP)?
5. How is the EPA collaborating with state agencies to ensure that chemical facilities like BioLab Conyers are prepared for extreme    weather events that could worsen fire hazards or hazardous material spills?
6. In response to BioLab Conyers’ repeated safety failures, what specific measures will the EPA implement with state agencies to improve fire preparedness protocols, particularly for training facility staff and local emergency responders on handling fires involving non-water extinguishable substances?
7. Does the EPA anticipate monitoring potential groundwater, soil, and water contamination from the chemical fire at the Conyers BioLab facility?
8. We understand that the EPA is working to monitor air quality following the chemical fire. What steps has the EPA taken to inform    affected communities of their findings and recommendations to safeguard the health and safety of these communities and their environment?
a. How have the locations and spatial extent of the EPA’s air quality monitoring area changed as the location and direction of the smoke plume has shifted?
9. What specific additional authority and resources does the EPA need to effectively prevent future incidents at chemical facilities like BioLab Conyers?

The gravity of this situation underscores the need for changes to the federal and state regulatory systems. We look forward to your prompt response and urge robust, decisive measures to address the serious environmental and safety concerns posed by incidents like this.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Ahead of World Mental Health Day, Senator Hassan, Students, and School Leaders Discuss Youth Mental Health Programs

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan

MANCHESTER – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan visited Southside Middle School in Manchester, where she met with students and received an update from officials from the Manchester, Concord, and Laconia School Districts on their federally funded programs that provide mental health resources and training in schools. They include a focus on evidence-based suicide prevention due to Senator Hassan’s bipartisan STANDUP Act, which was passed into law in 2022.

During the visit, Senator Hassan met with Southside Middle School students who showed her posters that they have put up ahead of World Mental Health Day (on October 10) to reduce the stigma around youth mental health. She then sat down with officials from Manchester, Concord, and Laconia school districts and discussed the impact that Project AWARE, a federally funded youth mental health program, has had on students. Project AWARE includes evidence-based suicide awareness and prevention training as part of Senator Hassan’s bipartisan STANDUP Act.

“Young people across New Hampshire have been speaking up about the need for more mental health resources in our schools,” said Senator Hassan. “Programs like Project AWARE – which has been strengthened by the STANDUP Act’s focus on utilizing the most effective methods to reduce suicides – are making an impact in our schools. I appreciated hearing from school officials about their Project AWARE programs and how we can continue to work together to improve students’ mental health.”

“In order for our students to succeed academically, we need to go beyond the classroom to focus on the whole student. Our work to build district-wide systems of support for mental health and safety would not be possible without the Project Aware grant. We are grateful for Senator Hassan’s support in securing this funding, and thankful for her efforts on behalf of our students,” said Manchester Superintendent Jennifer Chmiel.

“The Concord School District is grateful to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration for the opportunity to continue to build relationships with our community behavioral health partners, expand mental health literacy through training and awareness campaigns, and integrate social-emotional competencies into our curriculum, all in support of our students and their families. Through Project AWARE, we will keep improving our interconnected systems with local and state child-serving entities to enhance care coordination with an eye toward sustainability. We are excited to spend the next 5 years building protective factors in our diverse learners, providing equitable access to school-based behavioral health supports so each student can bring their best self to their education every day,” said Concord Superintendent Kathleen Murphy.

“Project AWARE has given us the resources to talk with our young people about what to do when they’re having mental health issues. We’re working to have a proactive approach where it’s natural and appropriate to get help to feel better and get back in the game of learning and life,” said Laconia Superintendent Bob Champlin.

Senator Hassan is working to strengthen mental health care treatment for young Granite Staters. In addition to Senator Hassan’s bipartisan STANDUP Act, the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which Senator Hassan supported and helped pass into law, includes important funding for New Hampshire schools to support youth mental health, including a $760,000 annual grant used by the University of New Hampshire to partner with the Manchester School District to place mental health professionals in schools.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: No savings? No plans? No Great Australian Dream. How housing is reshaping young people’s lives
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wendy Stone, Professor of Housing & Social Policy, Centre for Urban Transitions, Swinburne University of Technology

Roman Samborskyi/Shutterstock

Australia’s housing crisis is dramatically reshaping the lives and hopes of young people, highlighted in a new report launched today in Canberra as part of World Homeless Day.

The research, developed by Swinburne University of Technology and funded by YWCA Australia, provided a platform for young women and gender diverse people from around Australia to share their housing experiences and aspirations.

Our research found many young people are frustrated about the affordability, quality and security of housing in Australia.

These housing barriers are changing the traditional life course that many of these young people expected to follow, undermining their sense of what it means to be an “adult”.

Louise, 26, told us, as part of our research:

I don’t feel like an adult sometimes because of my living circumstances … I thought I’d be like ‘Sex and the City’, having my own apartment and going out for drinks with my friends. But none of us have time to do that.

The report highlights how such housing barriers and frustrations are severely impacting young people’s relationships, health and wellbeing, education, employment, and ability to plan for the future.

Housing dreams are ratcheted down

Home ownership is still “the great Australian dream” for many. However, numerous young people feel buying a home is out of reach or impossible.

Erin, a young woman in her late 20s, states:

It feels like you have to buy a house to be in the game, but to get there it just feels completely out of our grasp. And that’s quite scary.

For many, buying or even renting is seen as unattainable without a partner. This has gendered implications where young women need to depend financially on a partner, potentially leading to disadvantage in the future.

Amy, 30, articulates:

It’s very hard to get a rental as a single female […] the uncertainty of not getting another place keeps me here.

Participants with hopes of having children express anxiety when their housing circumstances are unpredictable and/or unaffordable.

Jamie, a non-binary person in their mid-20s, says:

The biggest negative impact of being stuck on the lowest end of the rental market is that it severely limits my ability to plan to start a family. My partner and I both want a child but are terrified of the idea of not being able to afford rent with a new baby and limited family support.

Health and wellbeing are undermined

Young people describe feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, trapped and crushed by their housing situations. For some, this stems from the daily challenge of simply making ends meet.

Celia, a woman in her late 20s, describes:

The constant cycle of living in a place for a year, getting a massive rent increase, having to find a new place and move again is exhausting, financially unsustainable and demoralising. It feels pretty hopeless because I’m stuck in this cycle and I’ll never save for a house deposit because I’m losing it all on exorbitant rent.

For other participants, the health and wellbeing impact stems from their less-than-ideal dynamics at home, with many living with family as adults to save on rent.

As Zoe, a woman in her late 20s, describes:

It’s like you don’t pay with money to live with family […] but you pay with your mental health.

Relationships and safety are affected

Compromised safety is a concern among young women and gender diverse people we spoke with – whether it be escaping family and domestic violence, living in housing that is physically safe (such as with working locks on doors and windows), or sharing with others comfortably.

Our research found gender has a material impact on housing experiences, and shaped young women’s and gender diverse people’s perceptions of safety.

Julia, a woman in her early 20s, highlighted safety concerns:

My family home was filled with a lot of domestic violence. And so when I left and now I have my own place, I feel very, very safe there in comparison. And also no one in my family knows where I live. So that makes me feel very safe.

Some of the challenges of living with family were summarised by Ryde, a non-binary person in their early 20s:

Even now I’m like learning how to like be my own person while still being under my parents’ roof […] like still living at home is a bit emotionally kind of weird.

So what needs to change?

Participants involved in the research provide a number of solutions for addressing their housing barriers, including:
- Further investment in social housing
- Stronger rental regulation
- Women-specific and LGBTQ+-specific housing support
- Widely available information about housing, including education in high school.
Beth told us:

I feel like our education totally failed us. I always think there needs to be some kind of unit in Year 11 or 12, like a compulsory unit where it’s like just life skills. So taxes, superannuation, getting your first job, buying your first house, getting into the rental market. If we have the skills or knowledge from that education, we might be able to make more informed choices.

Finally, young people urgently need a seat at the table when it comes to decisions about housing. They know what is needed and what politicians need to hear.

In the words of Taylor, a 24-year-old woman:

I think one thing that the politicians struggle to understand is that we’re not asking for, you know, four bedroom, three bathrooms at $400.00 a week. We’re asking for houses with working locks. No mould. And you know, we’re asking for very basic secure housing at affordable prices, it’s not a matter of us being picky. It’s a matter of health and safety.

(All participants’ names have been changed).

Wendy Stone receives funding from the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (AHURI), the Australian Research Council (ARC), the Brian M. Davis Charitable Foundation, Housing for the Aged Action Group (HAAG), Kids Under Cover and YWCA Australia, the funder of the research this article reports on. She has previously received funding from the Victorian Government.

Catherine Hartung received funding from YWCA Australia to undertake this research.

Sal Clark received funding from YWCA Australia to undertake this research

Zoe Goodall has received funding from the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (AHURI), the Victorian government, the Brian M. Davis Charitable Foundation, Kids Under Cover, and YWCA Australia. YWCA Australia funded the research this article reports on.

– ref. No savings? No plans? No Great Australian Dream. How housing is reshaping young people’s lives – https://theconversation.com/no-savings-no-plans-no-great-australian-dream-how-housing-is-reshaping-young-peoples-lives-240435
MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –
January 23, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Yes, nature is complex. But saving our precious environment means finding ways to measure it
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Brendan Wintle, Professor in Conservation Science, School of Ecosystem and Forest Science, The University of Melbourne

Shutterstock

Nature loss directly threatens half the global economy. The rapid destruction of biodiversity should alarm the many Australian businesses dependent on nature, such as those in agriculture, tourism, construction and food manufacturing. Yet nature considerations are often ignored in business decision-making.

At the Global Nature Positive Summit in Sydney this week, scientists, politicians, conservationists and business leaders have gathered to discuss ways to help nature in Australia – not just by protecting it from damage, but improving it. Getting more businesses interested in – and taking positive action on – nature conservation is key to the talks.

Reducing the environmental impact of a business first requires measuring that impact. It might seem an impossibly difficult task. After all, nature is a diverse and intricate web of connections. How can we capture that in a number?

After all, nature is complex – but measuring how a business intersects with it need not be.

Uncovering impacts on nature

The fishing industry depends directly on stocks of wild fish. And a housing developer has a direct impact on nature if they clear natural vegetation to build a new suburb.

Businesses interactions with nature can be indirect, too – for example, a margarine producer who uses canola oil from a grower who depends on bees for pollination. Builders might indirectly harm rainforests in Indonesia by buying timber grown there. A superannuation company investing in that developer is also having an indirect negative impact.

From next year, Australian companies will be required to measure and report their climate impacts. While businesses are not yet required to disclose their impacts on nature more broadly, many are moving in that direction – both in Australia and globally.

For example in 2022, more than 400 of the world’s largest corporations called for mandatory disclosure of nature impacts. They included Nestlé, Rio Tinto, L’Oréal, Sony and Volvo. And many early-adopter businesses have begun voluntary disclosures.

Guidelines are available to help businesses understand and measure their impacts, however progress is slow. This is partly due to a perception from business that the task is too complex.

Nature assessment is challenging. Unlike identifying a company’s contributions to climate change – by measuring tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions – there is no agreed single measure of impacts on nature.

What’s more, different people ascribe different values to aspects of nature. Rightly or wrongly, for instance, most people would probably value a koala over a mosquito.

What do you value more – a koala or a mosquito?
Shutterstock

Drawing on the expertise of ecologists

Despite the difficulties, gauging the extent to which a business affects the environment can be done. Essentially, it involves three steps:
1. understanding how a business broadly intersects with nature
2. evaluating how specific business activities intersect with and put pressure on nature
3. measuring and reporting the degree to which specific activities are impacting on the condition of nature. In other words, is the state of animals, plants and ecosystems improving or worsening?
Online tools such as ENCORE can get businesses started on the first step – understanding a business’ broad impacts and dependency on nature.

Many businesses are moving to the second stage – evaluating the specific business activities that put pressure on the environment, and determining the extent to which businesses depend on particular services ecosystems provide.

The pressure a business places on nature can be measured via specific metrics, such as the amount of water consumed, air pollutants emitted, waste generated or area of land changed. Again, a suite of online tools and metrics can help with this.

The next step is more complicated, yet essential. It requires businesses directly measuring their impacts on specific animals, plants and ecosystems. For this, we can turn to the expertise of ecologists.

Individuals of a species can be hard to count, and extinction risk can be hard to measure. So ecologists often describe and monitor a species’ habitat – the environments in which a species can survive and reproduce – as a proxy for the fate of the species itself.

Ecosystems – such as a rainforest, wetland or desert – can be described as being in good or poor condition. The rating depends on whether all the ecosystem’s plants, animals and other components are present, or whether unwanted components, such as weeds or invasive species, are found there.

A graphic showing how ecologists measure the state of nature.
TNFD

In addition, maps, showing ecosystem condition and extent are available for much of Australia.

Habitat mapping is also available for most threatened animals and plants, and thousands of other species. And mapping exists for World Heritage areas, important wetlands, national parks, Indigenous Protected Areas and other environment types.

These resources are not difficult or expensive to access, and people and organisations with the skills to interpret and use such data are becoming more common.

Some businesses are attempting these measurements. For example, plantation forestry company Forico last year prepared a natural capital report on a range of nature metrics, including the extent of species habitats, and assessment of vegetation condition.

But many businesses are not yet grappling with this deeper nature analysis.

This map, from ecosystem research organisation TERN, is one of many freely available to businesses seeking nature data.
TERN

Looking ahead

We have the information and metrics to help businesses measure their impact on nature.

Collaboration is urgently needed between business and nature experts, so the data available can be tailored to the needs of businesses, and presented in a form they can use.

Governments can support this – for example by establishing accessible and practical online data platforms, and funding training for more nature experts who understand business.

A new federal government agency, Environment Information Australia, will also hopefully become an important hub for data and information.

By measuring what might seem immeasurable, businesses can become part of the solution to the nature crisis. There is cause for optimism – but no time to waste.

Brendan Wintle has received funding from The Australian Research Council, the Victorian government, the NSW government, the Queensland government, the Commonwealth National Environmental Science Program, the Ian Potter Foundation, the Hermon Slade Foundation and the Australian Conservation Foundation. Wintle is a Board Director of Zoos Victoria and a lead councillor of the Biodiversity Council.

Sarah Bekessy receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the National Health and Medical Research Council, the Ian Potter Foundation and the European Commission. She is a Lead Councillor with The Biodiversity Council, a board member of Bush Heritage Australia, a member of the WWF Eminent Scientists Group and an advisor to ELM Responsible Investment, the Living Building Challenge and Wood for Good.

Simon O’Connor is affiliated with the Australian government as a member of the Minister for Environment and Water’s Nature Finance Council, and previously oversaw the national consultation group for the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures

William Geary receives funding from the Victorian government and is associated with the Victorian Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action.

– ref. Yes, nature is complex. But saving our precious environment means finding ways to measure it – https://theconversation.com/yes-nature-is-complex-but-saving-our-precious-environment-means-finding-ways-to-measure-it-240583
MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Workplace Health – 4 in 5 workers say they feel burnout, but many don’t admit their struggle to their boss

Source: Robert Half

• 81% of New Zealand workers say they feel burnt out, with heavy workloads (59%) and an insufficient number of staff (31%) being the top two contributors

• 24% of workers who say they feel burnout have not expressed their feelings to their manager

• 76% state their managers are aware of their feelings of burnout and are handling it by encouraging time off (24%), delegating some responsibilities to other team members (19%), and helping to prioritise projects (18%)

• 10% say their managers are not taking steps to alleviate their feelings of burnout.

Auckland, 10 October 2024 – On World Mental Health Day, new independent research by specialised recruiter Robert Half finds that the overwhelming majority (81%) of New Zealand workers say they feel burnt out at work, but 24% are not upfront with their manager about it.

When asked whether they feel burnt out, defined in the research as a state of emotional, physical and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged or excessive workplace stress, four in five workers (81%) say they feel “a little burnt out” (60%), “very burnt out” (16%) or “completely burnt out” (5%).

With 89%, Gen X feels the most burnt out, compared with 86% of Gen Z, 79% of Millennials and 69% of Baby Boomers.

“Burnout is reaching alarming levels in the Kiwi workforce,” says Ronil Singh, Director at Robert Half.

“Despite New Zealand being known for boasting healthy work-life balance, the past year has seen a surge in stress, exhaustion and disengagement among employees. A combination of factors, including companies operating with minimal staff, the pandemic’s lingering effects, economic instability and pervasive job insecurity have all contributed to this uptick.”

The reasons why workers are burnt out

When asked about what is contributing the most to their feelings of burnout, workers identified their work conditions are playing a larger role than the workplace’s culture or challenges that come with the return to the office:

• Heavy workloads 59%

• An insufficient number of staff 31%

• The commute to the office 29%

• A lack of communication and support from my manager 22%

• A toxic organisational culture 21%.

“The constant pressure to perform, the erosion of work-life balance and fears about job security are leaving many employees feeling overwhelmed and stressed,” Singh says. “Burnout is not a sign of weakness. It’s a signal that something needs to change in the workplace. A healthier and more sustainable workplace can be achieved through a joint effort between employers and employees, built on open communication and mutual support.”

How managers are addressing staff burnout

The majority (76%) of affected workers say they have approached their manager to reveal they feel burnt out and have received support to alleviate their symptoms.

The most common steps managers have taken are:

• Providing encouragement for staff to take time off 24%

• Delegating some responsibilities to other team members 19%

• Helping to prioritise projects 18%

• Providing greater scheduling and workplace flexibility 17%.

For 10% of workers, however, their manager has not taken any steps to address burnout despite being made aware. Meanwhile, almost a quarter (24%) of workers have not made their manager aware of their feelings.

“Employees must recognise the signs and communicate their struggles to their managers for burnout to be properly addressed,” Singh says. “Ignoring it can lead to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism and even long-term health problems. Speaking up allows employees to advocate for themselves and work with their managers to find solutions that address their specific needs and challenges.

“At the same time, it is on managers to create a supportive and empathetic work environment where employees feel comfortable sharing their concerns. Regular check-ins and open communication channels can help reduce stress and promote work-life balance,” concluded Singh.

Notes

About the research

The study is developed by Robert Half and was conducted online in June 2024 by an independent research company, surveying 501 full-time office workers across New Zealand. This survey is part of the international workplace survey, a questionnaire about job trends, talent management and trends in the workplace.

About Robert Half

Robert Half is the global, specialised talent solutions provider that helps employers find their next great hire and jobseekers uncover their next opportunity. Robert Half offers both contract and permanent placement services, and is the parent company of Protiviti, a global consulting firm. Robert Half New Zealand has an office in Auckland. More information on roberthalf.com/nz.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: $410,000 to upgrade health facilities on the Mid North Coast

Source: New South Wales Premiere

Published: 10 October 2024

Released by: Minister for Regional Health

The Mid North Coast Local Health District will benefit from a $410,000 funding boost from the NSW Government to upgrade health facilities in the region.

The Minns Labor Government is investing a total of almost $12 million in 61 projects as part of the Regional Health Minor Works Program.

Port Macquarie Base Hospital, Kempsey District Hospital and Macksville District Hospital will share a $235,000 allocation to replace outdated waste management systems in each facility’s operating theatres.

Wauchope District Memorial Hospital will also receive $175,000 to replace the decking structure between the main building and the hospital’s rehabilitation unit, improving accessibility for patients and staff at the facility.

Quotes attributable to NSW Regional Health Minister Ryan Park:

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to investing in health infrastructure to support better health outcomes for rural and regional communities.

“This investment will allow Mid North Coast Local Health District to upgrade equipment and health facilities to enhance the working environment for health staff and improve patient experiences.

“The program is one of a number of investments our Government is making to strengthen rural and regional health services, so people have access to the best possible care close to home.”

Quotes attributable to Labor Spokesperson for Port Macquarie, Cameron Murphy MLC:

“I’m proud to be part of a government which is making this important investment in regional health facilities.

“This funding will benefit staff and patients, and it means we can upgrade outdated systems in operating theatres in Port Macquarie, Kempsey and Macksville and also improve accessibility for patients in Wauchope.”

Quotes attributable to Labor Spokesperson for Oxley, Anthony D’Adam MLC:

“Through investments like this one, our government is improving access to care in our regional, rural and remote communities.

“This investment in health infrastructure supports improved working environments for our healthcare staff.”

Quotes attributable to Jill Wong, Mid North Coast Local Health District Acting Chief Executive:

“The replacement of outdated waste management systems at Port Macquarie, Kempsey and Macksville hospitals will ensure that we can continue to safely remove surgical waste at each of the facilities in an appropriate manner.

“The upgrade to the deck structure at Wauchope District Memorial Hospital will enable patients, staff and visitors have improved accessibility when moving between the main building and the rehabilitation unit.”

MIL OSI News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Accounts show Government choosing pain over a plan

Source: Council of Trade Unions – CTU

“The Government accounts released today show that spending and debt continues to grow under the current Government, but there is no plan to deliver a better economy,” said NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi Economist Craig Renney.

“Net Core Crown Debt increased by $20bn last year, with revenue from taxation also rising by $8bn. The OBEGAL deficit increased $3.4bn last year alone, to $12.9bn.

Finance Minister Nicola Willis admitted, “The accounts show the corrosive impact of low growth and low productivity…and we are cutting back on the investments needed to lift both.” Yet there is no plan to solve this problem, Renney said.

“The Government accounts showed our overreliance on income tax and GST taxes to balance the books. Source deductions from wages increased 10.1% during the last year. The GST take increased by 4.1%. But other sources of taxation have not increased at the same rate, or have fallen in the form of corporate taxation (-5.9%). We need a better conversation about how taxes are being levied and why.” Renney said.

“Spending on welfare has increased by 8%, with Jobseeker Support expenses rising by 17%. Welfare payments would be higher if the one-off $600m cost-of-living support is removed. Unemployment is expected to rise significantly in the future, meaning that welfare expenses will be higher in the future.”

Renney said “The Government has provisioned $500m for the Cook Straight Ferry (iREX) Costs, which is only the cost of the works abandoned to date. This doesn’t include the cost of cancelling the ferry contract, nor the cost of purchasing the replacement ferries necessary. The Government is likely facing a $bn bill for that decision alone.”

“The Minister signalled new cuts in her speech at the event, while requiring new economic growth to deliver on their financial aspirations. Yet decisions like iREX show that the Government has no means of delivering sustainable growth. Health New Zealand is looking for $2bn in savings right now, yet the Government is looking for further savings in spending on top.”

“The Government’s fiscal strategy needs to change. Government debt is low by international standards, and there is no shortage of projects to invest in. These would improve employment and economic outcomes – both of which will benefit working people. Yet the Government is wedded to plan that will see unemployment rise, and investment fall. It’s time for a better plan.” Renney said.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Jiangsu steps up efforts on affordable, reliable childcare

Source: China State Council Information Office 2

East China’s Jiangsu Province boasted more than 3,300 nurseries at the end of September, signifying its continuous efforts to enhance the childcare service system and reduce the burden on child-rearing families, according to the Jiangsu Commission of Health.
The province had also provided 324,000 available childcare slots, with 3.8 slots per 1,000 people by the end of 2023. Various service models are now available, such as community-based childcare, employer-run nurseries, family day-care and comprehensive childcare centers.
Spanning over 2,000 square meters, the comprehensive childcare center in the Jianye District of Nanjing, the capital of Jiangsu Province, offers 80 childcare slots.
“We are very satisfied with the center’s clean environment, reasonable fees and trustworthy childcare staff,” said Zhang Feng, a resident who enrolled her two-year-old daughter there.
Jiang Xuexia, deputy director of the childcare center, noted that Jianye District has the youngest population demographic in Nanjing, with many young parents striving to balance work and family life.
To help ease the burden on parents, the center has implemented an integrated medical and childcare service system to improve the quality of infant and childcare services in the district. Since its opening in September last year, all of its slots have been fully booked.
More and more cities in Jiangsu have stepped up efforts to provide more families with universal day-care services for children under three in recent years.
Suzhou is pushing hard to build a 15-minute childcare service circle, and plans to add 100 community-based childcare centers, offering full-day, half-day, temporary and time-based childcare services at the end of this year. Wuxi and Taizhou have set up childcare facilities within enterprises and industrial parks to provide free or favourable childcare services for employees.
Data from the National Health Commission shows that there are currently over ten million children aged under three in need of childcare services.
Looking ahead, Jiangsu aims to scientifically allocate childcare resources and improve support policies, foster talents at a faster pace, and promote the high-quality development of accessible, affordable and reliable childcare services.

MIL OSI China News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Asian Development Blog: Key Strategies to Improve Mental Health Support Across Asia and the Pacific

Source: Asia Development Bank

World Mental Health Day is a timely reminder that integrating mental health care into schools, workplaces, and communities is critical for improving health outcomes and reducing costs. Expanding digital interventions and peer-support systems are also crucial, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

Mental health is crucial for ensuring the health and well-being of individuals and populations. Integrating mental health care into homes, schools, workplaces, health care services, and elderly care facilities will improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.

Good mental health may lead to improved academic performance and work productivity, and stronger interpersonal relationships and social connections.

We need to ensure that developing countries in Asia and the Pacific are addressing the increasing global burden of mental health issues and treatment gaps.

It is important to integrate mental health support with other services and activities relevant to people’s life stage. In schools, this means school-based mental health programs. In workplaces, it includes incorporating mental health support in employment support programs.

In communities, mental health services need to be part of primary care services, particularly those addressing the needs of pregnant women, new mothers, and older people.

Mental health must be integrated into universal health coverage strategies to build resilient health systems and ensure equitable care for all.

Mental health is complex and complicated but this should not mean that those suffering from poor mental health must accept limited lives. With effective treatment, they can live full and productive lives.

Improved access to mental health care services, engaging people with lived experiences of mental health disorders, and support from families and friends all make a difference. Governments need to embed peer-support insights in addressing barriers to access to care and evaluating the effectiveness of mental health services.

Governments also need to expand digital interventions for mental health as there is growing evidence that digital health interventions have the potential to improve the quality and cost-effectiveness of health service delivery and help deliver better health outcomes, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

Digital interventions for mental health can be used to increase mental health literacy. This can include using social media for public health communication aimed at supporting good mental health and destigmatizing discussions about mental health, for example through events like World Mental Health Day and R U OK? Day.

It can also facilitate engaging people with lived experiences through online communities to discuss various aspects of their lives, providing access to evidence-based information through trusted websites, and utilizing social media platforms to promote mental health and social connectedness in later years.

Digital tools can also support training with online self-training tools, and access to specialist training via webinars and other online training platforms.

Promoting and protecting mental wellness throughout the lifespan should be part of universal health coverage strategies of developing member countries. Health promotion at primary health and community care levels should help educate about mental health.

Clinical care pathways and treatment guidelines must be strengthened to ensure referral to specialist care. National health insurance systems should include mental health treatment as part of their benefits or covered health services.

Indeed, addressing mental health serves as an important step towards building resilient health systems which will help people and communities adapt and mitigate climate change. We must step up efforts to protect mental health for all, placing it at the heart of universal health coverage, and leaving no one behind.

MIL OSI Economics –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Universities – Super-sized risk of heart disease – UoA

Source: University of Auckland (UoA)

New Zealand adults are eating, on average, far more salt daily than international recommendations; but, takeaways frequently do not display salt content.

New Zealand adults are eating, on average, far more salt daily than international recommendations; however, takeaways frequently do not display salt content.

New Zealanders over 15 years consume around 3,000mg of sodium per day, compared with the World Health Organization’s upper limit of 2,000mg (or one tsp of salt) per day.

Under the Food Standards Code, it is mandatory to provide nutrition information for packaged foods, but there are no such regulations for fast food, say public health researchers at the University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau in a new study.

Dietary sodium comes chiefly from salt. The researchers are calling for a national sodium-reduction strategy but say a key first step would be mandatory labelling of the sodium content in takeaway meals.

“A single serve of a burger or takeout sandwich with fries can easily provide more than the recommended daily upper limit for sodium [dietary salt] of 2,000mg,” says Associate Professor Helen Eyles from the School of Population Health in Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland.

In 2020, the average NZ household spent a third (29 percent) of its weekly food budget on restaurant meals and takeaways.

Of 28 major fast-food chains, with more than 20 outlets, reviewed in 2020, ten did not provide information on the sodium content of their products.

Of 5246 products checked, only one-third provided sodium data for consumers, according to the research just published in the Journal of Nutritional Science.

This is despite salt being a significant contributor to heart disease.

Excess sodium [salt] consumption leads to raised blood pressure, which in turn can lead to stroke, heart attack, and other types of heart disease, the leading causes of preventable mortality in New Zealand and globally.

New Zealand has committed to a 30 percent relative reduction in mean population sodium intake by 2025, as part of the WHO Global Action Plan for reducing non-communicable diseases, which it is unlikely to achieve.

The countries that are doing the best in sodium reduction have a national sodium reduction strategy and a multipronged approach – it is not just about fast food but packaged food too, Eyles says.

In addition to setting benchmarks for processed foods a strategy would include a consumer awareness campaign, improved labelling of salt on foods, and monitoring of the food environment alongside population salt intake, says Shona Gomes whose masters research on target development informed the new paper.

Currently, New Zealand has only two voluntary strategies to reduce sodium in processed foods in place – targets for some categories of packaged foods (led by the Heart Foundation of New Zealand) and the Government-led Health Star Rating nutrition label.

Countries doing well have comprehensive benchmarks for packaged foods, and at least some sections of fast foods, such as for sodium on fries, and in burgers and pizzas.

“First of all, in New Zealand, we need to make it visible how much salt is in our fast foods,” Eyles says.

“We really need a national sodium reduction strategy implemented by the government, with one prong of that approach being to work with fast food manufacturers to reduce salt in their products.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Flood Simulation Exercise in Lautem Marks Key Milestone in Strengthening Local Disaster Preparedness and Response
Source: International Organization for Migration (IOM)

Lautem, Timor-Leste – The Civil Protection Authority (CPA), along with municipal and suco-level disaster management teams, successfully led a flood simulation exercise in Los Palos villa, with support from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United States Agency for International Development Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (USAID-BHA). Over a hundred participants joined the event, which was carried out in close collaboration with civil society, and community members. The exercise aimed to enhance disaster preparedness and response, with a focus on reducing the exposure and vulnerability of Lautem Municipality to climate-related hazards.

The exercise would not have been possible without the cooperation of every sector of the community, including local leaders, civil society organizations, women, youth and community members themselves. Civil Protection Authority President Mr. Jesuino Dos Reis De Matos Carvalho, Municipal Director of the Civil Protection Authority Mr. Casemiro Pires Assunção, Municipal Administrator Mr. Mélio de Jesus, USAID-BHA Regional Advisor Mr. Joseph Miskov, USAID-BHA Program Officer for East Asia and the Pacific Ms. Jessica Doxtater, USAID Project Management Specialist Mr. Inacio Fernandes Quintao, and IOM Timor-Leste Chief of Mission Jewel Ali as well as members from the Civil Protection Authority, Municipal Health Post, National Police of Timor-Leste, and Red Cross of Timor-Leste were also in attendance.

Lautem Municipality has become increasingly vulnerable to flooding due to climate change and heavy seasonal rains. A recent report on flooding in Lautem highlights the severe impact of heavy rains in July 2023, destroying several bridges and roads, displacing multiple communities, and tragically claiming the lives of four children who were swept away by the rising waters.

The flood simulation exercise mobilized IOM-trained at-risk community members to carry out emergency action plans and safely evacuate before emergencies and aligns with the Civil Protection Authority’s goal of enhancing disaster preparedness in Timor-Leste.

“Disaster simulations are essential for improving readiness and response of agencies and frontline responders. The U.S. government is committed to working with Timor-Leste to reduce disaster risks and protect lives for future generations,” USAID-BHA Regional Advisor Mr. Joseph Miskov expressed.

The flood simulation is part of the Strengthening Disaster Resilience of at-risk communities in Timor-Leste (STREAM) project, by IOM in partnership with CPA, and funding support from BHA. Through continued support, the municipal and suco disaster management committees have strengthened local disaster risk management, developed community-based action plans, and upgraded critical infrastructure to better protect residents in times of crisis. IOM and BHA also officially handed over the refurbished evacuation center with improved WASH facilities to promote dignified and safer evacuation during emergencies.

“IOM remains committed to supporting Lautem and other at-risk communities in Timor-Leste by helping establish local disaster management structures. We will continue to work closely with local authorities and community members to address the needs of displaced communities and reduce disaster risks,” shared IOM Timor-Leste Chief of Mission Jewel Ali.

The simulation will highlight additional steps in building Lautem’s disaster resilience and empower local actors, ensuring they lead the way in safeguarding their communities for the future.

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For more information, please contact:
- Jewel Ali, Chief of Mission, IOM Timor-Leste, at jali@iom.int
- Andrea Empamano, Media and Communications Officer, IOM Timor-Leste, at aempamano@iom.int
MIL OSI United Nations News –
January 23, 2025