NewzIntel.com

Category: Health

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Hit and Run – Leanyer

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The NT Police Force is calling for information in relation to a hit and run in Leanyer last night.

    About 7:05pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports of two people, a male and a female, being struck by a passing vehicle on Leanyer Drive. It is alleged the victims were removing groceries from their parked vehicle on the side of the road, before a vehicle travelling at speed struck them and fled the scene immediately. 

    The female suffered serious injuries and the male suffered minor injuries and St John Ambulance conveyed them to Royal Darwin Hospital for medical assessment.

    Initial investigations suggest the offending vehicle is believed to be a white Yaris or Getz hatchback with a missing side mirror that was damaged at the scene of the collision.

    The crime command has carriage of the investigation.

    Anyone with information, particularly those who may have had dash cam footage at the time of the incident, is urged to contact police on 131 444. Please reference job number P25172636.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell & Colleagues Demand Answers from SBA Administrator Loeffler and Commerce Secretary Lutnick on Gutting Support for Entrepreneurs and Small Businesses

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    06.27.25
    Cantwell & Colleagues Demand Answers from SBA Administrator Loeffler and Commerce Secretary Lutnick on Gutting Support for Entrepreneurs and Small Businesses
    “A failure to support small businesses, including minority-owned small businesses, will be a detriment to the entire American economy.”
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, joined Senate colleagues in demanding answers from Administrator of the Small Business Administration Kelly Loeffler and Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick on the Trump Administration’s actions eliminating support for small businesses, including small minority-owned businesses.
    In March, President Trump issued an executive order directing the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) and several other agencies to reduce their functions to the minimum amount required by law. The President’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget proposes to abolish the MBDA and the Trump Administration seeks to eliminate the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Women’s Business Centers and funding for SCORE, which provides mentorship and resources to small businesses, among other programs.
    These actions are already being felt across the country. For example, the MBDA Business Center in Tacoma, Washington has been forced to close after receiving a notice that its MBDA grant was terminated. Since receiving a $2 million MBDA grant in July 2021, the Center has helped minority-owned businesses create and retain 1,495 jobs, obtain $190.8 million in contracts, and obtain $216.9 million in financing. 
    “We demand answers from the Administration about how it intends to properly serve small business entrepreneurs from minority and underserved communities and follow Federal laws establishing support for such entrepreneurs,” wrote the Senators. “A failure to support small businesses, including minority-owned small businesses, will be a detriment to the entire American economy.”
    “The Administration actions to eliminate the MBDA is part of an overall attack on federal support to business owned by socially or economically disadvantaged individuals,” the Senators continued. “Federal agencies have several small business contracting goals, including for small businesses generally, Small Disadvantaged Businesses (SDBs), and women-owned and veteran-owned small businesses.”
    Instead of expanding opportunities for more small businesses to grow and thrive, President Trump’s shortsighted actions are throwing cold water on entrepreneurship and job creation. 
    “Undermining and dismantling targeted federal programs that recognize the historic challenges faced by minority business owners will ultimately hurt local communities and weaken the U.S. economy,” concluded the Senators.
    Sen. Cantwell has been a staunch defender of the MBDA against the Trump Administration’s attempts to illegally dismantle the agency, including demanding answers about compliance with a court order halting the dismantling of the MBDA, demanding Commerce Secretary Lutnick  provide a full accounting of his actions to shutter the MBDA, and calling on the Secretary to honor his previous commitment to protect the MBDA and its mission.
    Senators Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) also signed the letter. 
    The full text of the letter to Administrator Loeffler and Secretary Lutnick is below and HERE.
    Dear Administrator Loeffler and Secretary Lutnick,
    The Trump administration is undoing decades of progress supporting minority small business owners, including the attempt to dismantle the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), undermine small business contracting programs, and cut targeted resources and services. We demand answers from the Administration about how it intends to properly serve small business entrepreneurs from minority and underserved communities and follow Federal laws establishing support for such entrepreneurs. A failure to support small businesses, including minority-owned small businesses, will be a detriment to the entire American economy.
    In 1969, President Nixon created the MBDA to help minority business owners succeed. In 2021, Congress permanently authorized the MBDA, with overwhelming bipartisan support. One of the MBDA’s core functions, as defined in the Minority Business Development Act,[1] is operating a network of Business Centers through public-private partnerships. These Business Centers assist minority-owned businesses with accessing capital, contracts, and counseling, ultimately to facilitate their growth and create jobs. In Fiscal Year (FY) 2024, the MBDA helped minority-owned businesses create or retain more than 23,000 jobs, secure almost $2.7 billion in contracts, and receive in excess of $1.5 billion in capital.[2]
    On March 14, 2025, President Trump issued an executive order directing the MBDA and several other agencies to reduce their functions to the minimum amount required by law.[3] On April 10, 2025, nearly every MBDA employee was let go or reassigned. The cancellation of all MBDA grants and Business Center contracts soon followed. Termination letters sent to MBDA grantees and Business Centers—and subsequently rescinded after the Rhode Island Federal District Court issued a preliminary injunction halting the executive order’s implementation—claimed their grants or contracts were no longer consistent with the agency’s priorities. But Congress, not the Trump administration, authorized the MBDA and established its purposes when it passed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in 2021.[4] Oversight letters from Democratic members of the Senate Commerce Committee regarding the Administration’s actions have gone unanswered.
    The Administration actions to eliminate the MBDA is part of an overall attack on federal support to business owned by socially or economically disadvantaged individuals. Federal agencies have several small business contracting goals, including for small businesses generally, Small Disadvantaged Businesses (SDBs), and women-owned and veteran-owned small businesses. Each federal agency with procurement authority has an Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU) to promote the use of small businesses to fulfill agency contracts. Small business goals and OSDBUs work in tandem to ensure that small businesses, not just large firms, benefit from the largest buyer of goods and services in the world, the U.S. government.
    In January 2025, the SBA lowered to 5 percent the goal of increasing the share of federal contracting dollars going to SDBs, a stark contrast to the Biden administration, which raised the SDB goal to 15 percent.[5] The Administration also appears to be undermining OSDBUs; according to reports, the Department of Health and Human Services, the fourth largest grantor of federal contracting dollars,[6] fired all OSDBU staff except one at the agency.[7]
    The President’s FY 2026 proposed budget doubles down on these actions by entirely eliminating several statutorily authorized and bipartisan entrepreneurial development programs, in addition to the MBDA. The President’s budget also proposes cutting Women’s Business Centers, the Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE), technical assistance for the Microloan program, and more. The Administration justifies these cuts by stating the previous administration awarded “billions in funding to certain businesses solely based on race and gender.”[8] Although some of these programs target specific resources to certain communities, the vast majority of these programs serve all Americans.
    The Trump administration’s war on targeted federal programs is already hurting minority and underserved small businesses. The New York Times found that the Administration’s contract cancellations have disproportionately impacted minority- and women-owned small businesses while largely ignoring the largest federal contracts. As of March 2025, 19 percent of cancelled contracts listed on the DOGE website are for minority-owned businesses and 11 percent are women-owned businesses, despite representing just 10 percent and 5 percent of federal contracts, respectively.[9]
    Bloomberg reported that SBA employees are uncertain whether they can attend meetings with the Hmong Chamber of Commerce or Latino business associations, and some SBA employees are being directed to withhold annual small business awards that were supposed to go to minority entrepreneurs.[10]
    These actions are unacceptable and harm the American economy. Minority-owned businesses employ millions of Americans and generate more than $2 trillion in annual revenue.[11] In the contracting space, the importance of a fully inclusive supplier base has also been well-documented,[12] including in the manufacturing industry.[13] Rather than strengthening support for minority-owned firms, President Trump has instead dismantled the MBDA, lowered contracting goals for SDBs, undermined OSDBUs, and proposed eliminating various entrepreneurial development programs. Undermining and dismantling targeted federal programs that recognize the historic challenges faced by minority business owners will ultimately hurt local communities and weaken the U.S. economy.
    We request answers from the Administration in writing on the following questions by July 10, 2025:
    Please explain how the Department of Commerce plans to utilize congressionally appropriated MBDA funds in accordance with statutory requirements.
    The MBDA Business Centers program is statutorily authorized under 15 U.S.C. § 9523. Please explain how decisions to fire staff who service the program and cancel Business Center contracts were made.
    Please detail how the Trump administration plans to meet the existing SDB contracting goal. Will the SBA commit to advocating for the full staffing and resourcing of OSDBUs to ensure all small business contracting goals are met or exceeded? If not, why not?
    Please detail the specific reasons for the President’s request to eliminate “15 specialized and duplicative programs,”[14] including the Women’s Business Center Program, SCORE, the State Trade Expansion Program, Native American outreach, technical assistance for the Microloan program, Growth Accelerators, and Regional Innovation Clusters.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Stauber Statement After Trump Administration Announces an Investigation into Minnesota for Violation of Title IX

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) issued the following statement after the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office for Civil Rights announced an investigation into the Minnesota Department of Education under Governor Tim Walz and the Minnesota State High School League over whether discrimination on the basis of sex occurred after a biological male was allowed to lead the Champlin Park High School girls’ softball team to its first-ever state championship win. 

    “As a father to two girls, I was horrified to learn that a recent state championship for young female athletes in Minnesota was dominated by a team with a biological boy. Allowing boys to compete in girls’ sports is not only unsafe, it’s deeply unfair, and this disgraceful sham of a championship is just the latest example. Make no mistake, this unfortunate situation is the result of the failed leadership of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison. Their blatant disregard for the Title IX rights of female athletes is what led to this investigation and will almost certainly cost Minnesota nearly $12 million in federal funding. They left the Trump Administration with no other choice but to act in defense of the safety and dignity of Minnesota’s female athletes. I fully support the Trump Administration’s decision to protect Title IX and prevent boys from competing in girls’ sports.”

    As a recipient of federal funds, Title IX requires Minnesota to ensure fair and safe opportunities for females to compete on sex-segregated teams – regardless of state law obligations.

    Despite a U.S. Department of Justice letter restating the Administration’s position on Title IX, Minnesota’s Attorney General advised the Minnesota State High School Leader to follow state law and disobey President Trump’s Executive Order on Keeping Men out of Women’s Sports. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Update 8: Alberta wildfire update (June 27, 4:30 p.m.)

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New digital platform to help women detect breast cancer earlier

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Around 135,000 women across New Zealand who are eligible but not currently enrolled for breast cancer screening will benefit from the successful national rollout of a new digital platform, Health Minister Simeon Brown says. 

    “The launch of Te Puna across the country is a major step forward for delivering faster and smarter screening services,” Mr Brown says. 

    “Te Puna replaces an outdated legacy system with a modern, streamlined platform that makes it easier for women to enrol, book, and manage their breast screening appointments – helping more women get screened earlier.” 

    The new system, which began rolling out in February, is now live nationwide. It introduces a more proactive approach to screening, with women now automatically identified when they become eligible and invited to book a mammogram – shifting from an opt-in to an opt-out model. 

    “This change will significantly boost participation and help close the gap for the 135,000 eligible women who aren’t currently getting screened. 

    “Early detection through regular mammograms is critical. Women diagnosed through screening are about 34 per cent less likely to die from breast cancer. This new system will make it easier for more women to get the checks they need, when they need them.” 

    Te Puna significantly enhances data tracking, accuracy, and reporting – helping providers identify and reach women who have never screened or don’t screen regularly. It also improves convenience for patients, allowing women to book or change appointments using a secure personalised link or QR code sent via text, email, or letter.  

    “This Government is focused on lifting screening rates to save more lives and improve treatment outcomes. Te Puna will play a vital role in achieving that. 

    “We’re also delivering on our commitment to extend breast screening to women aged 70 to 74, with rollout of the expansion beginning later this year. 

    “Every woman deserves the chance for early detection and timely treatment. Te Puna is about putting the right tools in place to deliver better care, faster – and ultimately, to save lives,” Mr Brown says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: So Alberta, what’s next? | Alors, quelle est la prochaine étape pour l’Alberta?

    [embedded content]

    Albertans are frustrated after 10 years of punitive policies, enacted by the federal government, attacking Alberta’s economy and targeting its core industries.

    Chaired by Premier Danielle Smith, the Alberta Next panel will bring together a broad mix of leaders, experts, and community voices to gather input, discuss solutions, and provide feedback to government on how Alberta can better protect its interests, defend its economy, and assert its place in Confederation.

    The panel will consult across the province over the summer and early fall to ensure that those living, working, doing business and raising families are the ones to drive Alberta’s future forward. The work will include identifying solutions advanced by Albertans on how to make Alberta stronger and more sovereign within a united Canada that respects and empowers the province to achieve its full potential. It will also include making recommendations to the government on potential referendum questions for Albertans to vote on in 2026.

    It will consider and hear from Albertans on the risks and benefits of ideas like a establishing an Alberta Pension Plan, using an Alberta Provincial Police Service rather than the RCMP for community policing, whether Albertans should consider pursuing constitutional changes, which (if any) changes to federal transfer payments and equalization Albertans should demand of the federal government, potential immigration reform that would give the provincial government more oversight into who comes to the province, and changes to how Alberta collects personal income tax. Albertans will also have the opportunity to put forward their own ideas for discussion.

    “This isn’t just about talk. It’s about action. The Alberta Next Panel is giving everyday Albertans a direct say in the direction of our province. It’s time to stand up to Ottawa’s overreach and make sure decisions about Alberta’s future are made here, by the people who live and work here.”

    Danielle Smith, Premier

    “Right now, there is a need to restore fairness and functionality in the country. Years of problematic policy and decisions from Ottawa have hurt Albertan and Canadian prosperity. I am honoured to be asked by Premier Smith to participate in the Alberta Next Panel. This panel is about listening to Albertans on how we build a stronger Alberta within a united Canada, to which I, and the Business Council of Alberta, are firmly committed.”

    Adam Legge, president of the Business Council of Alberta

    Chaired by Premier Danielle Smith, the panel includes 13 additional members, including elected officials, academics, business leaders and community advocates:

    • Honourable Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas of Alberta
    • Brandon Lunty, MLA for Leduc-Beaumont
    • Glenn van Dijken, MLA for Athabasca-Barrhead-Westlock
    • Tara Sawyer, MLA-elect for Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills
    • Bruce McDonald, former justice, Court of Appeal of Alberta
    • Trevor Tombe, director of fiscal and economic policy, the University of Calgary School of Public Policy
    • Adam Legge, president, Business Council of Alberta
    • Andrew Judson, vice chairman (prairies), Fraser Institute
    • Sumita Anand, vice president, Above and Beyond Care Services
    • Melody Garner-Skiba, business and agricultural advocate
    • Grant Fagerheim, president and CEO, Whitecap Resources Inc.
    • Dr. Akin Osakuade, physician and section chief, Didsbury Hospital
    • Dr. Benny Xu, community health expert
    • Michael Binnion, president, Questerre Energy

    Albertans have a choice: let Ottawa continue calling the shots—or come together to chart our own course. What’s next? You decide.

    Key facts:

    • Town hall dates and sites, along with other opportunities to participate in this engagement, are available online at Alberta.ca/Next. Exact locations will be posted in the weeks ahead of the event, and Albertans will be asked to RSVP online.
    • The panel’s recommendations will be submitted to government by Dec. 31, 2025.
    • It is anticipated that the panel will add additional members in the coming weeks.

    Related information

    • Alberta.ca/Next
    • Panel member biographies

    Related news

    • Alberta Next: Albertans to choose path forward (May 5, 2025)

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference
    • Listen to the news conference

    Ce sont les Albertains, et non Ottawa, qui devraient façonner l’avenir de l’Alberta. Le groupe d’experts Alberta Next prend la route pour consulter directement les Albertains et tracer la voie à suivre pour la province.

    Les Albertains sont frustrés après 10 ans de politiques punitives adoptées par le gouvernement fédéral qui s’en prennent à l’économie de la province et qui ciblent ses principales industries.

    Le groupe d’experts Alberta Next, présidé par la première ministre Danielle Smith, réunira un large éventail de chefs de file, d’experts et de membres de la collectivité pour recueillir des commentaires, discuter de solutions et fournir une rétroaction au gouvernement sur la façon dont l’Alberta peut mieux protéger ses intérêts. défendre son économie et affirmer sa place dans la Confédération.

    Le groupe d’experts tiendra des consultations dans toute la province au cours de l’été et au début de l’automne pour veiller à ce que les personnes qui vivent, travaillent, font des affaires et élèvent une famille soient celles qui conduiront l’avenir de l’Alberta. Le travail consistera notamment à trouver des solutions proposées par les Albertains pour rendre l’Alberta plus forte et plus souveraine au sein d’un Canada uni qui respecte la province et qui lui donne les moyens de réaliser son plein potentiel. Il s’agira également de formuler des recommandations au gouvernement sur les questions référendaires potentielles sur lesquelles les Albertains pourront se prononcer en 2026.

    Il tiendra compte des risques et des avantages d’idées comme l’établissement d’un régime de retraite de l’Alberta, le recours à un service de police provincial de l’Alberta plutôt qu’à la Gendarmerie royale du Canada pour les services de police communautaires et entendra ce que les Albertains ont à dire à ce sujet. Il déterminera si les Albertains devraient envisager de modifier la Constitution, (s’il y a lieu) des changements aux paiements de transfert fédéraux et à la péréquation que les Albertains devraient exiger du gouvernement fédéral, une réforme potentielle de l’immigration qui donnerait au gouvernement provincial plus de contrôle sur ceux qui viennent dans la province, et des changements à la façon dont l’Alberta perçoit l’impôt sur le revenu des particuliers. Les Albertains auront également l’occasion de présenter leurs propres idées aux fins de discussion.

    « Il ne s’agit pas seulement de paroles. Il s’agit d’agir. Le groupe d’experts Alberta Next donne aux Albertains ordinaires la chance d’experimer leur point de vue sur l’orientation de notre province. Il est temps de résister à l’excès d’Ottawa et de veiller à ce que les décisions concernant l’avenir de l’Alberta soient prises ici, par les gens qui vivent et travaillent ici. »

    Danielle Smith, première ministre

    « Il est désormais nécessaire de rétablir l’équité et la fonctionnalité du pays. Des années de politiques et de décisions problématiques d’Ottawa ont nui à la prospérité de l’Alberta et du Canada. Je suis honoré d’avoir été invité par la première ministre Smith à participer au groupe d’experts Alberta Next. Ce groupe d’expers a pour objectif d’écouter les points de vue des Albertains sur la façonde bâtir une Alberta plus forte au sein d’un Canada uni, ce à quoi le Business Council of Alberta et moi-même tenons fermement. »

    Adam Legge, président du Business Council of Alberta

    Le groupe d’experts, présidé par la première ministre Danielle Smith, comprend 13 autres membres, y compris des représentants élus, des universitaires, des chefs d’entreprise et des défenseurs de la collectivité :

    • L’honorable Rebecca Schulz, ministre de l’Environnement et des Aires protégées de l’Alberta
    • Brandon Lunty, député de Leduc-Beaumont
    • Glenn van Dijken, député d’Athabasca-Barrhead-Westlock
    • Tara Sawyer, députée élue d’Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills
    • Bruce McDonald, ancien juge, Cour d’appel de l’Alberta
    • Trevor Tombe, directeur de la politique fiscale et économique, École de politique publique de l’Université de Calgary
    • Adam Legge, président, Business Council of Alberta
    • Andrew Judson, vice-président (Prairies), Institut Fraser
    • Sumita Anand, vice-présidente, Above and Beyond Care Services
    • Melody Garner-Skiba, défenseure des affaires et de l’agriculture
    • Grant Fagerheim, président-directeur général, Whitecap Resources Inc.
    • Dr Akin Osakuade, médecin et chef de section, Hôpital Didsbury
    • Dr Benny Xu, expert en santé communautaire
    • Michael Binnion, président, Questerre Energy

    Les Albertains ont le choix : laisser Ottawa continuer à prendre les décisions ou s’unir pour tracer notre propre voie. Prochaines étapes? C’est vous qui décidez.

    Faits saillants :

    • Les dates et les sites des assemblées publiques locales, ainsi que d’autres occasions de participer à cette consultation, sont disponibles en ligne à Alberta.ca/Next. Les lieux exacts seront publiés dans les semaines précédant l’événement et les Albertains seront invités à confirmer leur présence en ligne.
    • Les recommandations du groupe d’experts seront soumises au gouvernement d’ici le 31 décembre 2025.
    • On prévoit que le groupe d’experts ajoutera d’autres membres au cours des prochaines semaines.

    Renseignements connexes

    • Alberta.ca/Next
    • Biographies des membres du groupe d’experts (en anglais seulement)

    Nouvelles connexes

    • Alberta Next: Albertans to choose path forward (5 mai 2025)

    Multimédia

    • Visionnez la conférence de presse (en anglais seulement)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Secures Sentencing of Southern California Healthcare Operator for Medi-Cal Fraud

    Source: US State of California

    Friday, June 27, 2025

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    ORANGE COUNTY – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced the sentencing of a Southern California healthcare clinic operator, Oscar B. Abrons III, for his involvement in a prescription medication diversion scheme that defrauded Medi-Cal, the state’s Medicaid program, of more than $20 million. Abrons was sentenced by the Orange County Superior Court to four years in jail and stipulated that the loss to the Medi-Cal program exceeded $20 million. A restitution hearing will be held to determine the loss amount owed by Abrons. Abron’s co-conspirators, Steven Derrick Fleming and Mohamed Waddah El-Nachef, were previously sentenced. Fleming was sentenced to five years in state prison, and El-Nachef was sentenced to a five-year local custody sentence and surrendered his medical license. The prosecution of these individuals was carried out by the California Department of Justice’s Division of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse (DMFEA).

    “When healthcare operators take advantage of Medi-Cal for personal gain, not only are they stealing from taxpayers, but they are also undermining the health and trust of our communities,” said Attorney General Bonta. “We will not tolerate this unlawful behavior and will continue to ensure that Medi-Cal services are delivered to those who need them most and hold any individual or entity accountable that exploits this program.”

    Fleming and Abrons jointly operated God’s Property, an unlicensed clinic where Medi-Cal beneficiaries were paid cash in exchange for obtaining medically unnecessary prescriptions for HIV medications, antipsychotics and controlled substances, which were then sold to buyers on the illicit market. Fleming and Abrons, alongside Mohamed Waddah El-Nachef, an Orange County medical doctor, carried out the diversion scheme from June 23, 2014, to October 1, 2016. During this time, El-Nachef became the top prescriber of HIV medications in the state. As a result of the scheme, Medi-Cal suffered an estimated loss of over $20 million. 

    DMFEA works to protect Californians by investigating and prosecuting those responsible for abuse, neglect, and fraud committed against elderly and dependent adults in the state, and those who perpetrate fraud on the Medi-Cal program.

    The Division of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse receives 75 percent of its funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under a grant award totaling $69,244,976 for Federal fiscal year (FY) 2025. The remaining 25 percent is funded by the State of California. FY 2025 is from October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025.  

    A copy of the sentencing minutes are available here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: RFK Junior is stoking fears about vaccine safety. Here’s why he’s wrong – and the impact it could have

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Julie Leask, Professor, School of Public Health, University of Sydney

    The United States used to be a leader in vaccine research, development and policymaking. Now US Secretary of Health Robert F. Kennedy Jr is undermining the country’s vaccine program at the highest level and supercharging vaccine skepticism.

    Two weeks ago, RFK Jr sacked the entire Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices responsible for reviewing the latest scientific evidence on vaccines. RFK Jr alleged conflicts of interest and hand-picked a replacement panel.

    On Wednesday, RFK Jr announced the US would stop funding the global vaccine alliance, Gavi, because he claimed that “when the science was inconvenient today, Gavi ignored the science”. RFK Jr questioned the safety of COVID vaccines for pregnant women, as well as the diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis vaccine.

    On Thursday, when the new Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices met, the person who first drew RFK Jr into vaccine scepticism, Lyn Redwood, shared disproved claims about a chemical called thimerosal in flu vaccines being harmful.

    The undermining of regulation, advisory processes and funding changes will have global impacts, as debunked claims are given new levels of apparent legitimacy. Some of these impacts will be slow and insidious.

    So what should we make of these latest claims and funding cuts?

    Thiomersal is a distraction

    Thiomersal (thimerosal in the the US) is a safe and effective preservative that prevents bacterial and fungal contamination of the vaccine contained in a multi-dose vial. It’s a salt that contains a tiny amount of mercury in a safe form.

    Thiomersal is no longer used as a preservative in any vaccines routinely given in Australia. But it’s still used in the Q fever vaccine.

    Other countries use multi-dose vials with thiomersal when single-dose vials are too expensive.

    In the US, just 4% of adult influenza vaccines contain thiomersal. So focusing on removing vaccines containing thimerosal is a distraction for the committee.

    COVID vaccines in pregnancy prevent severe illness

    On Wednesday, RFK criticised Gavi’s encouragement of pregnant women to receive COVID-19 vaccines.

    A COVID-19 infection before and during pregnancy can increase the risk of miscarriage two- to four-fold, even if it’s only a mild infection.

    Conversely, there is good evidence vaccination during pregnancy is safe and can reduce the chance of hospitalisation of pregnant people and of infants by passing antibodies through the placenta.

    In Australia, pregnant people who have never received a primary COVID-19 vaccine are recommended to have one. However, they are not generally recommended to have booster unless they have underlying risk conditions or prefer to have one. This is due to population immunity.

    COVID-19 vaccine advice should adapt to changes in disease risk and vaccine benefit. It doesn’t mean previous decisions were wrong, nor that vaccine boosters are unsafe.

    RFK’s criticism of COVID-19 vaccines in pregnancy may influence choices individuals make in other countries, even when unvaccinated pregnant women are encouraged to consider vaccination.

    The diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis vaccine is safe

    RFK Jr also questioned the safety of the combined diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (DTP) vaccine as he announced the withdrawal of US funding support for Gavi.

    In the early 2000s, three community-based observational studies reported a possible association between increased chance of death in infants and use of the DTP vaccine.

    A few subsequent studies also reported associations, with higher risk in girls, prompting a World Health Organization (WHO) review of safety.

    Real world studies are complicated and the data can be difficult to interpret correctly. Often, the very factors that influence whether someone gets vaccinated can also be associated with other health risks.

    When the WHO committee reviewed all the studies on DTP safety in 2014, it did not indicate serious adverse events. It concluded there was substantial evidence against these claims.

    What will de-funding Gavi mean for vaccination rates?

    Gavi, the vaccine alliance, supports vaccine purchasing in low-income countries.

    The US has historically accounted for 13% of all donor funds.

    However, RFK Jr said Gavi needed to re-earn the public trust and “consider the best science available” before the US would contribute funding again.

    Gavi predicted in March that the impact of US funding cuts could result in one million deaths through missed vaccines.

    Could something like this happen in Australia?

    Australia is fortunate to be buffered from these impacts.

    Our vaccine advisory body, the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation, has people with deep expertise in vaccination. We have robust decision processes that weigh evidence critically and make careful recommendations to government.

    Our governments remain committed to vaccination. The federal government released the National Immunisation Strategy in mid-June with a comprehensive plan to continue to strengthen our program.

    The federal government also announced A$386 million to support the work of Gavi from 2026 to 2030.

    All of this keeps our vaccine policies strong, preventing disease and increasing life expectancy here and overseas.

    But to mitigate the possible influence of the US in Australia, our governments, health professionals and the public need to be ready to rapidly tackle the misinformation, distortions and half-truths RFK Jr cleverly packages – with quality information.

    Julie Leask receives research funding from NHMRC, WHO, US CDC, NSW Ministry of Health. She received funding from Sanofi for travel to an overseas meeting in 2024. She has consulting fees from RTI International and the Task Force for Global Health.

    Catherine Bennett has received honoraria for contributing to independent advisory panels for Moderna and AstraZeneca, and has received NHMRC, VicHealth and MRFF funding for unrelated projects. She was the health lead on the Independent Inquiry into the Australian Government COVID-19 Response .

    – ref. RFK Junior is stoking fears about vaccine safety. Here’s why he’s wrong – and the impact it could have – https://theconversation.com/rfk-junior-is-stoking-fears-about-vaccine-safety-heres-why-hes-wrong-and-the-impact-it-could-have-259986

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sandoz Inc. Issues Voluntary Nationwide Recall of One Lot of Cefazolin for Injection Due to Product Mispackaging

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    June 27, 2025
    FDA Publish Date:
    June 27, 2025
    Product Type:
    Drugs
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description
    Potential Presence of Penicillin G Potassium Injection Vial

    Company Name:
    Sandoz Inc.
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)
    Sandoz

    Product Description:

    Product Description
    Cefazolin for Injection, USP, 1 gm vial

    Company Announcement
    Sandoz, Inc. (“Sandoz”) is initiating a voluntary recall of one (1) lot of Cefazolin for Injection, USP, 1 gram per vial. This single lot is being recalled due to a customer complaint indicating that four (4) Penicillin G Potassium for Injection, USP, 20 million Units labelled vials were incorrectly included in a carton (25 vials per carton) of Cefazolin for Injection, USP 1 gram per vial product.
    Risk Statement: There is a reasonable probability that the inadvertent administration of penicillin G potassium injection, instead of intended cefazolin injection, may pose serious and potentially life-threatening adverse health consequences, including lack of efficacy leading to less than optimal treatment of severe infections, antibiotic resistance, adverse reactions, severe allergic reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis), drug interactions, cardiac arrhythmias resulting from high potassium especially in patients with kidney impairment, and delayed recovery.
    To date, Sandoz has not received any reports of adverse events or injuries related to this recall. Sandoz has received a complaint of inadvertent administration of the incorrect product to a patient.

    Product Name
    Vial NDC
    Carton NDC
    Lot Number
    Expiration Date
    Manufacturer
    Distributor

    Cefazolin for Injection, USP
    (25 by 1g vials)

    0781-3451-70
    0781-3451-96
    PG4360
    2027-NOV
    Sandoz GmbH
    Sandoz Inc

    Penicillin G Potassium for Injection, USP
    0781-6136-94
    N/A
    PG4360
    2027-NOV
    Sandoz GmbH
    Sandoz Inc

    Cefazolin for Injection USP is used for the treatment of infections caused by certain bacteria in many different parts of the body including the treatment of pneumonia. Cefazolin for Injection USP can also be used to prevent infections, before and after surgery. Antibacterial drugs like Cefazolin for Injection USP treat only bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections. Cefazolin for Injection USP is indicated for adult, elderly, pediatric patients, including newborn term infants. 
    Penicillin G Potassium for Injection is indicated in the treatment of certain serious infections including septicemia, skin and wound infections. It is also approved for the treatment of diphtheria, community-acquired pneumonia, peritonitis, meningitis/brain abscesses, osteomyelitis, infections of the genital tract, anthrax, tetanus, gas gangrene, listeriosis, pasteurellosis, rat bite fever, fusospirochetes, actinomycosis, complications in gonorrhea and syphilis and Lyme. To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain effectiveness of Penicillin G Potassium for Injection, USP and other antibacterial drugs, Penicillin G Potassium for Injection, USP should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. Penicillin G Potassium for Injection is indicated for use in adults, adolescents, children, pediatric, newborn infants and preterm infants.
    Although both Cefazolin and Penicillin G Potassium belong to the beta-lactam group of antibiotics, they are indicated for different types of infections, and the spectrum of susceptible organisms also differs. Additionally, while the patient populations overlap, each medicine has specific on-label distinct groups, and the dosing regimens may differ, as well.
    Sandoz is notifying its customers by letter and is arranging for return of the recalled product. The product being recalled was shipped to select wholesalers for further distribution nationwide. Healthcare providers and customers who have this product should immediately stop use of this lot only and contact Sedgwick, the Sandoz Reverse Distributor, directly by phone at (844) 491-7872 or by email at Sandoz6004@sedgwick.com.
    For questions about the recall process, please call Sedgwick at (844) 491-7872 between the hours of 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday – Friday (EST).
    Please report any adverse reactions by calling Sandoz at (800) 525-8747. Customer service agents are available from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (EST), Monday-Friday, except on national holidays.
    Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with the use of this product may also be reported to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail or by fax.

    This recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

    Company Contact Information

    Media:
    Jeanne LaCour
    609-955-2339

    Product Photos

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Op-Ed: Medicaid Is Broken. Republicans Are Trying To Save It

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington – On Friday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) published an op-ed in Newsweek, writing that Medicaid is the most broken program in the country, and that despite seeing significant increases in spending for many years, it has failed to create positive health outcomes. However, there is a plan in the reconciliation bill to save it for those who rely on these programs most, such as seniors in nursing homes, the disabled, and single parents.
    Read the full op-ed HERE or below:
    Medicaid Is Broken. Republicans Are Trying To Save It
    Senator Roger Marshall
    Newsweek
    June 27, 2025
    As an OB-GYN in rural Kansas, I delivered a baby almost every day for over 25 years. About half of these deliveries were on Medicaid, and another 10 to 20 percent were done without reimbursement. Every doctor in our community, and our hospital, took all comers; no one was turned away based on their ability to pay. We thought it was our duty, our obligation to society. It’s why we wanted to become doctors: to serve our fellow human beings. All this despite no increase in reimbursement from Medicaid in my 25 years of practicing medicine.
    I’ve said it many times: Medicaid is the most broken program in the country. Having Medicaid does not mean you have access to health care. Only 74 percent of physicians accept Medicaid, and many of those who say they do never see patients on Medicaid. Others string out appointments and limit the number they will see. Many specialists use the “busy schedule excuse” and give Medicaid patients appointments months and months out; for all practical purposes, they exclude them from their practice.
    Over the past five years, Medicaid spending has increased by hundreds of billions of dollars while American health outcomes have declined. Our plan will strengthen and save Medicaid for those who need it the most. By keeping the program fiscally solvent, Republicans are protecting seniors in nursing homes and all those with disabilities. We are ensuring funding will remain available for pregnant moms and prioritizing funding for children. In fact, almost half of all the children in the country—37 million—are now on Medicaid’s CHIP program. We must prioritize every dollar we have for those who need it the most.
    Over 60 percent of Americans support work requirements for Medicaid; a job is the best safety net out there, not to mention a great treatment for mental health and addiction issues.
    I believe there are better solutions out there than throwing more money at a program that doesn’t work well. More block grants to federally funded Community Health Centers, which are developing a broad-based, more holistic approach to health care—which I believe will become a big part of the “Make America Healthy Again” movement.
    Another is block grants to rural hospitals, which are struggling. The best thing we can do for rural hospitals is strengthen our agricultural economy, which last year suffered its largest drop in net income in my lifetime. The GOP-led farm bill will help do just that; provisions related to biofuel production, taxes on farmers, and crop insurance will boost rural America’s economy. Rural hospitals are a reflection of their local economies, and with populations declining in many rural counties, the financial base to support rural hospitals is no longer there. Any hospital that builds its financial survival based on dependence on Medicaid is bound to fail.
    We hope that this GOP bill spurs the economy, and expect that if anyone loses Medicaid, it’ll only be because they found a good job with benefits. A good job is the best safety net out there.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Miller-Meeks Hosts Capitol Hill Briefing Showcasing Breakthroughs in Healthcare AI

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks’ (IA-02)

    Washington, D.C. – On Wednesday afternoon, June 25, 2025, Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks, M.D. (IA-01), convened a bipartisan Capitol Hill briefing to spotlight how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming clinical practice and patient care. Members of Congress, staff, and healthcare leaders heard from innovators using AI to improve outcomes, streamline workflows, and expand access—especially in underserved areas.

    The discussion emphasized the importance of responsible AI that supports, rather than replaces, clinical judgment, while upholding privacy and ethics and expanding access to quality care. The event included a robust Q&A covering regulatory challenges, liability protections, reimbursement hurdles, and the role of venture capital in scaling AI tools.

    “Artificial intelligence holds tremendous potential to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of healthcare delivery, and as a Member of Congress and the Energy and Commerce Committee, I believe the federal government can learn a lot from the pioneers of AI in healthcare,” said Rep. Miller-Meeks. “During our roundtable, we heard from innovators who developed AI that is detecting heart disease and vision-threatening conditions associated with diabetes earlier and more cost-effectively—preserving vision and even saving lives.”

    “We are living through a moment of major societal transition, and AI is already touching nearly every aspect of how we prevent, diagnose, and manage disease,” said Dr. Jesse Ehrenfeld, Immediate Past President of the American Medical Association. “Two-thirds of U.S. physicians are using AI tools today—not to replace clinical judgment, but to offload routine tasks and improve workflow efficiency.”

    “Only about 20% of patients with diabetes complete their recommended annual eye exams, leaving most at risk of preventable vision loss,” said Dr. Michael Abramoff, Founder of Iowa-based Digital Diagnostics. “Autonomous AI helps close this care gap by enabling early detection in primary care—supported by CPT reimbursement and national policy to expand access while lowering cost.”

    “AI tools like HeartFlow’s coronary CT technology give physicians vital insights into blood flow and plaque characteristics,” said Dr. Campbell Rogers, Chief Medical Officer of HeartFlow. “We need AI-specific reimbursement frameworks to ensure these innovations are available to patients who need them most.”

    “As investors, we operate at the intersection of business, government, and society,” said Todd Klein, Partner at Revolution Growth. “Our unique access to policymakers, paired with deep national networks, helps startups scale transformative technologies like healthcare AI responsibly and effectively.”

    Key Takeaways:

    • Aligning FDA clearance and CMS payment is imperative to ensure access to care through federal and state reimbursement.
    • AI focused on outcomes enhances—rather than replaces—physician work and enables top-of-license practice.
    • Healthcare startups are crucial drivers of AI innovation and should be engaged as resources by Congress, FDA, CMS, and OSTP.
    • A transparent, consistent regulatory pathway is needed for autonomous AI approval in healthcare.

    The briefing underscored the critical opportunity for the United States to lead in safe, ethical, and scalable AI healthcare deployment—if the regulatory and reimbursement environment is designed to support it.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The Tiffany Telegram: June 27, 2025

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tom Tiffany (WI-07)

    Dear Friend,

    A lot has been happening in Washington these past few weeks, and I will update you on all of it in this edition of the Tiffany Telegram.

    But first, I ask you to join me in praying for the two Milwaukee police officers who were shot in the line of duty last night. We need the power of prayer to uplift them and their families as they recover from their injuries. You can read more about the incident here. 

    Since our last Telegram, President Trump authorized a successful airstrike in Iran, eliminating key components of their nuclear weapons capability. Iran’s rulers have been vowing “Death to America” for decades, and peace cannot coexist with a nuclear-armed Iran.

    These types of actions fall squarely under the President’s powers as commander-in-chief. But in typical D.C. fashion, Democrats immediately filed articles of impeachment against President Trump. These are the same people who stayed silent when Presidents Biden, Obama, and Clinton used military force in similar situations.

    We saw this same double standard during President Trump’s first term. When they couldn’t defeat him at the ballot box, and their bogus lawfare campaign failed, they turned to political stunts. Thankfully, a bipartisan majority – including 128 House Democrats – joined Republicans in rejecting the latest impeachment proposal.

    President Trump has made it clear that he is not seeking a “regime change” in Iran, and I agree. No reasonable person wants to see American servicemen and women pulled into another endless ground war in the Middle East. What we need is peace through strength. If there is one president who can achieve that, it’s Donald Trump, just as he proved through the Abraham Accords in his first term.

    We also have problems here at home that require urgent attention. A report this week revealed that over the past four years, the Biden administration released more than 700 illegal Iranian nationals into our country.

    And those are just the ones we know about.

    Many more may have entered undetected across our wide-open southern border. Thankfully, the Trump administration took action this week by arresting over 100 of them this week. One of them even had ties to Iran-backed Hezbollah and was living less than 30 minutes from the Seventh District, in St. Paul. You can read more about that here. 

    We must put America first, and that means removing people who never should be here to begin with. The House-passed reconciliation bill takes major steps toward securing our border, and I will keep you updated as the Senate works through it this weekend. 

    As we approach Independence Day, I hope you enjoy time with your family and loved ones but also take a moment to honor the heroes who have made this freedom possible. Thanks again for starting off your weekend with us! We will be back in two weeks with more.

    Sincerely,
    Tom Tiffany
    Member of Congress

    Click here or on the video above to watch me discuss Democrats cheapening impeachment on Meg Ellefson’s Show.

     WHO’s in charge of U.S. pandemic policy?

    That’s a question many Americans were asking during the last administration, when former President Biden bent over backwards to funnel hundreds of millions of dollars to the scandal-plagued World Health Organization (WHO) while quietly working behind the scenes to negotiate a controversial “pandemic accord.” Telegram readers will recall that I responded by drafting a bill to put the brakes on this dangerous effort by classifying it as a treaty, and requiring any such “agreement” to be presented to the Senate for ratification, where it would require a two-thirds supermajority vote. While I wasn’t able to get my legislation enacted into law last Congress, it did clear the House. The good news is that President Trump is back in the Oval Office, and has moved quickly to withdraw the U.S. from the WHO. The bad news, however, is that a future president more friendly to shady organizations like the United Nations and WHO may try to pick up where the Biden administration left off. That’s why this week I reintroduced the No WHO Pandemic Preparedness Treat Without Senate Approval Act. I’m hopeful that in the coming weeks and months, I can work with the Senate sponsor, Sen. Ron Johnson, and President Trump to get this bill across the finish line to protect American sovereignty today – and well into the future. You can read more about the effort here.

    Protect our streets, deport criminal illegal aliens

    After being trapped for four years with a president who allowed and encouraged millions of illegal aliens to flood the United States with little to no vetting, American citizens were forced to pay the price of an open border – sometimes even with their lives. In 2023, Jorge Sanchez, who was in the U.S. illegally, was convicted of a DUI. But instead of being deported, he was released back onto the streets. Then, just a year later, Sanchez was driving drunk again when he struck and killed Wisconsin father Steven Nasholm. This tragedy didn’t have to happen. That’s why yesterday, House Republicans passed the Protect Our Communities from DUIs Act. This bill will deport any illegal alien convicted of driving under the influence, and prevents any future president from skirting their deportation, as we saw with the Biden-Harris administration. Sadly, 160 Democrats opposed the measure. You can see how lawmakers voted on the bill here.

     

    Putting American veterans first

    Our veterans have made the ultimate sacrifice to this great nation, and honoring those men and women is crucial. That is why this week, the House passed legislation to protect our service members and veterans. This legislation ensures that veterans’ healthcare and benefits are fully funded, including critical support for mental health and President Trump’s Bridging Rental Assistance for Veteran Empowerment (BRAVE) program to combat homelessness. It defends constitutional rights by preventing the VA from sharing veteran information without a judge’s consent and blocks federal funding for DEI, gender procedures, and illegal alien services at VA facilities. You can read more about the package here, and see how lawmakers voted on it here. 

    Join me and Congressman Scott Fitzgerald in celebrating 50 years of a Wisconsin favorite – happy anniversary, Miller Lite!

    Committee Update

    Judiciary

    The devastation caused by illegal migration 

    On Thursday, during a Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee hearing, I questioned witnesses on the effects of mass illegal migration on the American people. As we know, the impacts have been widespread and often tragic. During the Biden administration, we saw stories ranging from Laken Riley in Georgia, Jocelyn Nungaray in Texas, and two children in our very own Seventh District where destructive open borders policies shattered American families, terrorized American communities, and killed innocent Americans. And it doesn’t stop there. The tidal wave of illegal immigration flooding American neighborhoods has also reduced job opportunities and lowered wages, especially for blue-collar workers. We’ve also seen more than 250,000 Americans killed by fentanyl almost solely sourced from Communist China and smuggled in through the open southern border by Mexican cartels. That’s why it was deeply troubling to hear one witness blame victims who are unintentionally poisoned, rather than targeting those pumping this deadly drug into our communities. Strengthening border security and interior enforcement is a critical step to turning the tide, and I let the witness know that. You can watch our exchange here.

    Natural Resources

    Fixing our forests with modern tech 

    Yesterday, we had an exciting hearing in the Federal Lands Subcommittee on advancing innovative technologies to improve forest management and prevent wildfires. The private sector has developed some compelling technology in this space, and now we just need federal agencies to use it. Despite spending an average of $2.5 billion per year on wildfires, this crisis is only getting worse. That’s because instead of investing in proactive prevention, we’re spending all that money on reactive suppression. A lot of fires can be prevented with stronger federal integration with the private sector, proactive forest management, and faster responses enabled by modern technology. Whether it’s drones that fly through thick smoke and high winds, AI models that predict fire behavior in real-time, or remote sensors and camera networks that detect ignitions before they become infernos, each of these technologies plays a complementary role in confronting the wildfire crisis. With all the technology we have at our disposal, there is no excuse for the situation to remain the same. It is also timely that this week, the USDA repealed the Clinton-era roadless rule that has prevented the proper management of nearly 59 million acres of Forest Service land. This Congress and this administration will continue to enact commonsense reforms for how we manage our public lands, so that we have safer communities and a healthier environment. You can watch my questions from the hearing here.

    District Update 

    Photo of the week

    I might be biased, but Wisconsin has some of the best wildlife. This week’s photo of the week features a white-tailed deer beneath a tree in full bloom. If you have a favorite photo of Wisconsin that you’d like to share, email it to comms.tiffany@gmail.com with your name and location. You could be featured in the next Telegram.

    “Nature’s duo” – Submitted by Wayne near Park Falls

    Resources  

    Vacation is meant to be relaxing, so don’t let renewing or applying for your passport stress you out. The current processing time is 4 to 6 weeks, so we recommend getting this done as soon as possible. For more information, click here.

    FEMA is accepting applications for the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program. For more information on the program, click here. Additionally, the Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) are available in Wisconsin due to economic losses caused by excessive moisture. Click here to see if you are eligible to apply. 

    If a friend forwarded you this newsletter, and you would like to receive it in the future, you can subscribe here for weekly updates and connect with me on X, Facebook, and Instagram. 

    As always, you are welcome to visit my website or to contact my offices in Washington, DC or Wisconsin, which remain open for service, if you have any questions or need assistance. 

    Good News from Wisconsin’s 7th District and Congress

    State Champs

    Congratulations to all the athletes in the Seventh District who took home state championship titles this spring sports season. Keep up the hard work! 

     ACSA Young Snowmobiler of The Year

    Derek Andres of Conrath was named the 2025 American Council of Snowmobile Association Young Snowmobiler of the Year. Congratulations!  

    100th Birthday

    Plymouth resident and World War II veteran Walter Gorlewski is turning 100 years old this weekend. Happy birthday and thank you for your service! 

    Condemning the LA riots

    This week, the House passed bipartisan legislation condemning the violent riots in LA and expressing gratitude to law enforcement officers.

    Ending Birthright Citizenship

    Today, the Supreme Court ruled that rogue district courts cannot block President Trump’s order to end birthright citizenship and restore the 14th Amendment to its original intent.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Letter, Senator Murray Demands Secretary Kennedy Reverse Reported Hiring of Anti-Vaccine Activist Lyn Redwood to CDC

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    ICYMI: Senator Murray Calls on White House to Reverse Reported Hiring of Anti-Vax Conspiracy Theorist Lyn Redwood to CDC
    ICYMI: Murray Calls for Kennedy to Reinstate Fired ACIP Members or Delay Meeting Until New Members Appropriately Vetted; Calls Out Elevation of Conspiracy Theorist like Redwood
    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member and former chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, sent aletterto Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. calling on him to reverse the reported hiring of notorious anti-vaccine extremist Lyn Redwood—the former longtime president of RFK Jr.’s anti-vaccine advocacy group, Children’s Health Defense—to help oversee vaccine safety at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This letter follows Senator Murray’s questioning of CDC Director nominee, Dr. Susan Monarez, where she raised the alarm over RFK Jr.’s move to bring in Lyn Redwood at CDC. Ms. Redwood gave a presentation on thimerosal in vaccines at the ACIP meeting this week—furthering RFK Jr.’s debunked claims that the preservative used in vaccines causes autism. 
    “I write today to express strong disapproval of your reported decision to appoint Lyn Redwood, an anti-vaccine conspiracy theorist, to oversee vaccine safety at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Ms. Redwood poses a serious danger to our nation’s public health, and I am calling on you to immediately reverse this hiring decision,” Senator Murray wrote.
    “I am deeply concerned about Ms. Redwood’s anti-science background as the past president of Children’s Health Defense, the organization you founded, which spreads vaccine misinformation and aims to instill fear in families about vaccinating their children,” Senator Murray continued, noting Ms. Redwood’s long history of spreading blatantly incorrect information about vaccines. “Your former organization, which Ms. Redwood most recently led, has pushed false conspiracy theories about vaccine safety and contributed to a dangerous rise in vaccine-preventable disease. The organization has also criticized the CDC Immunization Safety Office by spewing false rhetoric that the agency was being deceptive when debunking any potential link between thimerosal and autism spectrum disorder and other neurodevelopmental disorders.”
    Senator Murray also addressed Ms. Redwood’s recent presentation to the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), writing: “I understand Ms. Redwood also presented to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) yesterday, after you provided her with a platform to promote the debunked claim that the vaccine preservative thimerosal causes autism. This claim has been disproven by CDC and with decades of research proving that there is no link between vaccines and autism. She also cited a study that does not exist in her original presentation that was posted to the CDC website. After her presentation and despite the absence of any scientific evidence that thimerosal is linked to autism, ACIP voted against recommending certain flu vaccines that contain thimerosal, which if adopted, will put lives at risk.”
    “Ms. Redwood’s views on vaccines are extremely dangerous, and despite her claims having no basis, elevating her to work at our country’s lead public health agency will further increase vaccine hesitancy, causing fewer people to get vaccinated, and causing parents to be fearful about vaccinating their children against deadly diseases, such as measles, whooping cough, influenza, and more,” Senator Murray concluded. “Hiring someone to lead vaccine safety at CDC who has shown such disregard for basic scientific evidence in their decision-making is an extremely dangerous move and will cause unnecessary deaths. I call on you to reverse this reported hiring decision and ensure no additional anti-vaccine conspiracy theorists, like Ms. Redwood, are employed at CDC or anywhere in the Department.”
    Senator Murray forcefully opposed the nomination of notorious anti-vaccine activist RFK Jr. to be Secretary of HHS, and she has long worked to combat vaccine skepticism and highlight the importance of scientific research and vaccines. Murray was also a leading voice against the nomination of Dr. Dave Weldon to lead CDC, repeatedly speaking up about her serious concerns with the nominee immediately after their meeting. In 2019, Senator Murray co-led a bipartisan hearing in the HELP Committee on vaccine hesitancy and spoke about the importance of addressing vaccine skepticism and getting people the facts they need to keep their families and communities safe and healthy. Ahead of the 2019 hearing, as multiple states were facing measles outbreaks in under-vaccinated areas, Murray sent a bipartisan letter with former HELP Committee Chair Lamar Alexander pressing Trump’s CDC Director and HHS Assistant Secretary for Health on their efforts to promote vaccination and vaccine confidence.
    Senator Murray has been a leading voice in Congress against RFK Jr.’s dismantling of HHS and attacks on America’s public health infrastructure, raising the alarm over HHS’ unilateral reorganization plan and slamming the closure of the HHS Region 10 office in Seattle and the CDC’s National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Spokane Research Laboratory. Senator Murray has sent oversight letters and hosted numerous press conferences and events to lay out how the administration’s reckless gutting of HHS is risking Americans’ health and safety and will set our country back decades, and lifting up the voices of HHS employees who were fired for no reason and through no fault of their own.
    The full letter is available HERE and below:
    The Honorable Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.
    Secretary
    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
    200 Independence Avenue SW
    Washington, DC 20201
    Dear Secretary Kennedy:
    I write today to express strong disapproval of your reported decision to appoint Lyn Redwood, an anti-vaccine conspiracy theorist, to oversee vaccine safety at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Ms. Redwood poses a serious danger to our nation’s public health, and I am calling on you to immediately reverse this hiring decision.
    I am deeply concerned about Ms. Redwood’s anti-science background as the past president of Children’s Health Defense, the organization you founded, which spreads vaccine misinformation and aims to instill fear in families about vaccinating their children. Your former organization, which Ms. Redwood most recently led, has pushed false conspiracy theories about vaccine safety and contributed to a dangerous rise in vaccine-preventable disease. The organization has also criticized the CDC Immunization Safety Office by spewing false rhetoric that the agency was being deceptive when debunking any potential link between thimerosal and autism spectrum disorder and other neurodevelopmental disorders.
    I understand Ms. Redwood also presented to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) yesterday, after you provided her with a platform to promote the debunked claim that the vaccine preservative thimerosal causes autism. This claim has been disproven by CDC and with decades of research proving that there is no link between vaccines and autism. She also cited a study that does not exist in her original presentation that was posted to the CDC website. After her presentation and despite the absence of any scientific evidence that thimerosal is linked to autism, ACIP voted against recommending certain flu vaccines that contain thimerosal, which if adopted, will put lives at risk. 
    Ms. Redwood’s views on vaccines are extremely dangerous, and despite her claims having no basis, elevating her to work at our country’s lead public health agency will further increase vaccine hesitancy, causing fewer people to get vaccinated, and causing parents to be fearful about vaccinating their children against deadly diseases, such as measles, whooping cough, influenza, and more. 
    Hiring someone to lead vaccine safety at CDC who has shown such disregard for basic scientific evidence in their decision-making is an extremely dangerous move and will cause unnecessary deaths. I call on you to reverse this reported hiring decision and ensure no additional anti-vaccine conspiracy theorists, like Ms. Redwood, are employed at CDC or anywhere in the Department. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Energy Department Withdraws from Biden-Era Columbia River System Memorandum of Understanding

    Source: US Department of Energy

    WASHINGTON— U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright today announced that the Department of Energy in coordination with the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), the Departments of Commerce and the Interior and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, has officially withdrawn from the Columbia River System Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Today’s action follows President Trump’s Memorandum directing the federal government to halt the Biden Administration’s radical Columbia River basin policy and will ensure Americans living in the Pacific Northwest can continue to rely on affordable hydropower from the Lower Snake River dams to help meet their growing power needs.

    “The Pacific Northwest deserves energy security, not energy scarcity. Dams in the Columbia River Basin have provided affordable and reliable electricity to millions of American families and businesses for decades,” said Energy Secretary Chris Wright. “Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, American taxpayer dollars will not be spent dismantling critical infrastructure, reducing our energy-generating capacity or on radical nonsense policies that dramatically raise prices on the American people. This Administration will continue to protect America’s critical energy infrastructure and ensure reliable, affordable power for all Americans.”

    BACKGROUND:

    On June 10, 2025, President Trump signed the Presidential Memorandum, Stopping Radical Environmentalism to Generate Power for the Columbia River Basin, revoking the prior Presidential Memorandum, Restoring Healthy and Abundant Salmon, Steelhead, and Other Native Fish Populations in the Columbia River Basin, part of the radical green energy agenda calling for “equitable treatment for fish.”

    The Biden-era MOU required the federal government to spend over $1 billion and comply with 36 pages of costly, onerous commitments aimed at replacing services provided by the Lower Snake River Dams and advancing the possibility of breaching them. Breaching the dams would have doubled the region’s risk of power shortages, driven wholesale electricity rates up by as much as 50%, and cost as much as $31.3 billion to replace.

    The plan would have devastated regional agriculture by reducing water supply to farmers, eliminated several shipping channels, raised transportation costs, and destroyed recreational opportunities across the Columbia River Basin.

    The four dams on the Lower Snake River provide over 3,000 megawatts of secure, reliable and affordable hydroelectric generating capacity— enough generation to power 2.5 million American homes. The Trump administration is committed to protecting this critical infrastructure with lower energy costs, critical shipping channels, and vital water supply for local farmers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trustees Announced to NYS Interest Lawyer Account Fund

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced six trustee appointments to the New York State Interest on Lawyer Account Fund (IOLA). IOLA helps low-income New Yorkers obtain civil legal services to protect their needs. Established in 1983, IOLA pools interest from lawyer trust accounts to provide civil legal aid and support justice system improvements at no cost to taxpayers, lawyers or their clients.

    “I’m committed to helping New York’s most vulnerable secure legal resources in times of need, and the IOLA board helps bring those resources to bear — providing vital legal services to thousands of New Yorkers in need of legal assistance,” Governor Hochul said. “These appointees embody what it means to serve others. I am encouraged by their commitment to the law, civil legal services and the most vulnerable, and I am confident that with their leadership, IOLA will continue to fulfill its important mission.”

    As Chair and Trustee:

    Pei Pei Cheng de Castro

    Pei Pei Cheng de Castro is a partner in Commercial Litigation & Complex Trials and White Collar & Government Investigations at Barclay Damon LLP. Previously, Cheng de Castro was a Deputy Counsel to Governor Kathy Hochul from 2021 to 2024.

    Cheng de Castro obtained a J.D. from New York Law School in 2000 and a B.A. in Environmental Science and Economics from the University of California, Berkeley in 1997.

    As Trustees:

    Rahul Agarwal

    Rahul Agarwal is a Partner in White Collar and Litigation at Friedman Kaplan Seiler Adelman & Robbins LLP, a position he began in 2024. Previously, Agarwal was a Deputy Chief Counsel in the office of the Mayor of the City of New York from 2022 to 2023.

    Agarwal obtained a J.D. from Columbia Law School in 2006, and a B.A. from Brown University in 2001.

    Darren J. Cohen

    Darren J. Cohen is the Associate General Counsel for Clipboard Health, a position he has held since 2023. Previously, Cohen was the Senior Counsel for the Office of Governor Kathy Hochul in 2023.

    Cohen obtained a J.D. from Yale Law School in 2004 and a B.A. in English from Columbia University in 2004.

    Jason C. Hegt

    Jason C. Hegt is a Partner in the Litigation and Trial Department at Latham & Watkins, a position he has held since 2018. Previously, Hegt was an Associate at Latham & Watkins from 2009 to 2017.

    Hegt obtained his J.D. from American University Washington College of Law in 2009 and a B.A. in Political Science from Emory University in 2004.

    Sylvia O. Hinds-Radix

    Sylvia O. Hinds-Radix was most recently the Corporate Counsel for the City of New York from 2022 to 2024. Previously, Hinds-Radix was an Associate Justice of the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, Second Department, from 2012 to 2022.

    Hinds-Radix obtained a J.D. from Howard University School of Law in 1984, an M.A. in Political Science from Long Island University in 1978, and a B.S. in History from the University of Massachusetts in 1976.

    Daniel M. Kummer

    Daniel M. Kummer is the Principal at DKummer Photography, LLC, a position he began in 2023. Previously, Kummer was a Senior Vice President for Litigation at NBCUniversal Media LLC from 1997 to 2023.

    Kummer obtained a J.D. from the New York University School of Law in 1987, and a B.A. from Wesleyan University in 1982.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Health Canada launches public consultation on proposed changes to increase oversight of precursor chemicals and drug equipment

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    June 27, 2025 | Ottawa, Ontario | Health Canada

    The Government of Canada is taking action to keep communities safe on both sides of the border. This includes detecting and disrupting the illegal fentanyl trade.

    Today, the Minister of Health, Marjorie Michel, launched a 45-day public consultation on proposed changes to how Canada regulates precursor chemicals and devices such as pill presses and encapsulators that could be used in the illegal production of drugs. The consultation is open until August 12, 2025.

    The public consultation will allow impacted stakeholders, such as regulated industries that use precursors for legitimate uses, pharmacies and individual pharmacists, to provide feedback on the proposed changes. These changes would strengthen controls around precursor chemicals and drug equipment to support law and border enforcement as they take action to stop their illegal importation and distribution.  

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy Joins Bill to Protect Striking Workers’ Health Care

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    June 27, 2025

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) joined the Striking and Locked Out Workers Healthcare Protection Act, legislation introduced by U.S. Senators Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) to protect workers’ health care benefits and prevent retaliatory employers from using their power to cancel or alter health insurance for workers exercising their right to strike.
    “Cutting off health insurance is not some negotiating tactic for companies to bully striking workers into accepting a bad deal. It’s retaliation. I’m proud to stand with workers and support a bill that would make sure their health and their families’ health are never put at risk when fighting for better pay and working conditions,” said Murphy.
    The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) established the right to strike as a protected activity, and employees cannot be fired for exercising that right. However, employers can, and often do, threaten to cut workers’ health care as a tactic to end strikes and intimidate workers. In many cases, this forces workers to decide whether they should exercise their right to strike or accept poor wages or working conditions in order to protect their health care for themselves and their families. 
    This legislation would create a separate unfair labor practice category for when employers cut or alter workers’ health insurance while they are on strike or locked out, and violators would be subject to increasing levels of civil penalties. Creating a new unfair labor practice would allow workers to bring cases with the NLRB when employers cancel or change their health coverage while they are on strike.
    In addition to Murphy, Gallego, and Baldwin, the bill is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.) and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.).
    The legislation is supported by the AFL-CIO, United Steelworkers (USW), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Service Employees International Union (SEIU), Teamsters, United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW), International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), United Automobile, Aerospace & Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW), Communications Workers of America (CWA), United Mine Workers of America (UMWA), International Association of Iron Workers (IW), American Guild of Variety Artists (AGVA), Transport Workers Union (TWU), Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, National Education Association (NEA) International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and Transportation Workers (SMART), Bakery, Confectionary, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers (BCTGM), and NewsGuild-CWA.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy Joins Bill to Protect Striking Workers’ Health Care

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    June 27, 2025

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) joined the Striking and Locked Out Workers Healthcare Protection Act, legislation introduced by U.S. Senators Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) to protect workers’ health care benefits and prevent retaliatory employers from using their power to cancel or alter health insurance for workers exercising their right to strike.
    “Cutting off health insurance is not some negotiating tactic for companies to bully striking workers into accepting a bad deal. It’s retaliation. I’m proud to stand with workers and support a bill that would make sure their health and their families’ health are never put at risk when fighting for better pay and working conditions,” said Murphy.
    The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) established the right to strike as a protected activity, and employees cannot be fired for exercising that right. However, employers can, and often do, threaten to cut workers’ health care as a tactic to end strikes and intimidate workers. In many cases, this forces workers to decide whether they should exercise their right to strike or accept poor wages or working conditions in order to protect their health care for themselves and their families. 
    This legislation would create a separate unfair labor practice category for when employers cut or alter workers’ health insurance while they are on strike or locked out, and violators would be subject to increasing levels of civil penalties. Creating a new unfair labor practice would allow workers to bring cases with the NLRB when employers cancel or change their health coverage while they are on strike.
    In addition to Murphy, Gallego, and Baldwin, the bill is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.) and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.).
    The legislation is supported by the AFL-CIO, United Steelworkers (USW), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Service Employees International Union (SEIU), Teamsters, United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW), International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), United Automobile, Aerospace & Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW), Communications Workers of America (CWA), United Mine Workers of America (UMWA), International Association of Iron Workers (IW), American Guild of Variety Artists (AGVA), Transport Workers Union (TWU), Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, National Education Association (NEA) International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and Transportation Workers (SMART), Bakery, Confectionary, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers (BCTGM), and NewsGuild-CWA.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FDA Eliminates Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies (REMS) for Autologous Chimeric Antigen Receptor CAR T cell Immunotherapies

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    For Immediate Release:
    June 27, 2025

    The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced today that it has eliminated the Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies (REMS) for currently approved BCMA- and CD19-directed autologous chimeric antigen receptor CAR T cell immunotherapies.  
    These products are gene therapies that are currently approved to treat blood cancers, such as multiple myeloma and certain types of leukemia and lymphoma.
    “The FDA has taken the bold step to remove the Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy requirement from giving CAR T therapies. REMS is a useful safety system, but reevaluation over time helps inform whether a REMS is still needed to ensure that the benefits of a product outweigh its risks,” said FDA Vinay Prasad, M.D., M.P.H., Chief Medical and Scientific Officer and Director, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research. “Eliminating the REMS that is no longer needed also expedites the delivery of potentially curative treatments to patients and reduces burden on providers.”
    A REMS is a safety program that the FDA can require for certain medications with serious safety concerns to help ensure the benefits of the medication outweigh its risks.
    The FDA determined that the approved REMS for the following products should be eliminated because a REMS is no longer necessary to ensure that the benefits of the autologous CAR T cell immunotherapies outweigh their risks.  

    Abecma (idecabtagene vicleucel)
    Breyanzi (lisocabtagene maraleucel)
    Carvykti (ciltacabtagene autoleucel)
    Kymriah (tisagenlecleucel)
    Tecartus (brexucabtagene autoleucel)
    Yescarta (axicabtagene ciloleucel)

    The elimination of REMS for the above products removes the requirements that hospitals and their associated clinics that dispense products must be specially certified and have on-site, immediate access to tocilizumab. The information regarding the risks for these CAR T cell immunotherapies can be conveyed adequately via the current product labeling, which includes a boxed warning for the risks of cytokine release syndrome and neurological toxicities, and medication guides.
    “Physicians and institutions now have greater experience identifying and managing toxicities with the currently approved CAR T products,” said Richard Pazdur, M.D., FDA Oncology Center of Excellence Director. “This approach will potentially facilitate patient access to these treatments while continuing to prioritize safety.”
    Continuous monitoring and assessment of the safety of all biological products, including the CAR T cell immunotherapies, is an FDA priority and we remain committed to informing the public when we learn new information about these products.
    These products will continue to be subject to safety monitoring, through adverse event reporting requirements in accordance with regulations (21 CFR 600.80). The elimination of the REMS for these products does not change FDA requirements for manufacturers to conduct post marketing observational safety studies to assess the risk of secondary malignancies and long-term safety with follow up of patients for 15 years after product administration.
    Related Information

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    06/27/2025

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RIDOH Recommends Closing the Swimming Area at Colaluca Family Campground Pond

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) recommends closing the swimming area at the Colaluca Family Campground Pond in Foster due to high bacteria counts.

    RIDOH will continue to monitor and review beach water quality through Labor Day. The status of a beach may change as new data become available. The most up-to-date beach information is available through a recorded message on RIDOH’s beaches telephone line (401-222-2751).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Jamie Laing Drops Surprise Morning Anthem to Help the Nation ‘Seize the Day’

    Source: Samsung

     
     

    Jamie Laing drops new spoken word track, Morning People, urging the UK to ditch the snooze button and take charge of their day
    Named “Morning People”, the track blends Jamie’s signature wit with practical health & wellness tips
    New research reveals 68% say poor sleep affects their daily lives
    Commissioned by Samsung Health, the campaign calls on the nation to seize the day and achieve their wellness goals with the help of AI-powered wearable tech including the Samsung Galaxy Watch Series & Galaxy Rin
    Samsung have announced new features to help consumers set up habits to improve sleep, heart health, fitness and nutrition as part of the upcoming One UI 8 Watch, which will be available on the newest Galaxy Watch Series

     
    Jamie Laing is urging the nation to hit snooze on snoozing via a surprise music collab aimed at energising mornings and championing wellness.
     
    The Podcast Host, Ultramarathon Runner, and Reality TV Star has turned Motivational Speaker for the spoken word anthem which aims to transform Britain’s bleary-eyed mornings into turbocharged triumphs.
     
    Titled “Morning People”, the track showcases a bold, synth driven battle cry for better mornings, smarter sleep, and data-driven days — complete with an inspirational animated lyric video.
     
    Drenched in dopamine-bright visuals, the video follows an animated Jamie leaping into action with the help of Samsung’s Galaxy Watch Ultra & Galaxy Ring — from guided breathing to movement nudges and mindfulness moments. It’s wellness with a beat drop.
     
    The new campaign encourages consumers to become more morning people, with AI-powered sleep tracking, personalised training plans and Energy Score – a daily measurement of your physical and mental energy and readiness. The Samsung Galaxy Watch Series & Galaxy Ring deliver actionable insights so users can stay on track and keep motivation high [1].
     
    From “Check in with your breath, your mood, your mind” to “Use your feet / Find your rhythm ”, Jamie delivers genuine advice with warmth and charisma — all designed to help a sleep-deprived nation build better habits and wake up feeling ready to ditch the snooze button and “carpe the heck outta that diem”.
     
    “If you can beat the morning, you can win the day” says Jamie. “That’s why I love what Samsung Health is doing — helping people understand the body and the mind, and how tech can empower you to live your best day.”
     
    The track follows Jamie’s headline-making 150-mile ultramarathon — a feat that earned him the title of the UK’s official Morning Motivator. And now he’s using his platform to help others start their day right, with a focus on rest, recovery, and routine.
     
    It comes following research that the average Brits only sleeps for 6 hours, with four in 10 admitting that it is stopping them from reaching their full potential.
     
    Ever-changing temperatures (35%), overthinking past decisions (32%), and pain or discomfort (28%) topped the list as issues stopping Brits from getting their 40 winks.
     
    It also emerged that 59% of the nation don’t class themselves as morning people as research shows nearly a third (30%) of Brits hit snooze on a weekday morning twice or more.
     
    Half the nation revealed they feel grumpy (50%) and stressed (34%) in mornings following a rough sleep and over three-quarters (78%) believe their mental wellbeing would improve if they managed to sleep consistently well.
     
    A third of Brits will cancel their plans following a bad night’s sleep (32%) and 33 per cent blame a lack of sleep for snapping at someone, craving junk food (23%) or making an error at work (21%).
     
    Annika Bizon, Mobile Experience VP of Product & Marketing, Samsung UK&I, said:
     
    “Sleep is the foundation to our approach to health, as it influences physical and mental wellbeing, yet our research reveals that many of us aren’t getting enough. That’s why we are taking action, providing innovative tools to help people understand and improve their sleep. By offering insights, coaching, and inspiration like the Morning People track, we are empowering better starts and helping the nation seize the day.”
     
    The study commissioned by Samsung Health, ushers in a new era of wellness powered by AI.  The wearable technology including the Galaxy Watch Series & Galaxy Ring paired with Samsung Health, is designed to optimise wellness and recovery, helping users seize the day and reach their goals from the moment they wake up.
     
    Samsung Health’s newly announced features[2] include Bedtime Guidance[3], to help you optimise your sleep; Vascular Load[4], which measures stress on your vascular system while sleeping; Running Coach[5], to help strategize your training; and Antioxidant Index[6], to measure your carotenoids for healthy aging. All designed to help users develop healthy habits, using instant health feedback as a motivating tool.
     
    The new features are part of the One UI 8 Watch, which will be available on the newest Galaxy Watch series.
     
    For more information, please visit: https://www.samsung.com/uk/mobile/explore-samsung-health/ for more details.  
     
    [1]Requires smartphone operating on Android 11 or above with Google Mobile Services and the latest version of the Samsung Health app. Samsung account login and Galaxy smartphone is required for certain AI features
    [2]Samsung Health features are intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis, treatment of any medical condition or sleep disorder. The measurements are for your personal reference only. Please consult a medical professional for advice. Samsung account login required. Vascular Load, Running Coach and Antioxidant Index are available on Android phones (Android 10 or above) and requires the Samsung Health app (v6.30.2 or later). Vascular Load and Antioxidant index are Labs features that you can preview before its official launch. If you don’t want to use these experimental features, you can turn them off in Samsung Health settings.
    [3]Bedtime guidance is available on Android phone (Android 11 and above) requires Samsung Health app (v6.30.2 or later). It is based on 3 days of sleep analysis of user’s circadian rhythm and sleep pressure.
    [4]Service only available with Galaxy Watch Ultra or later released Galaxy Watch Series. To measure vascular load, it is required to wear Galaxy Watch when sleeping for at least 3 days out of recent 14 days.
    [5]Service only available with Galaxy Watch Ultra or later released Galaxy Watch Series. To use running coach program, user needs to take a running level test and get a level before starting the coach program.
    [6]Service only available with Galaxy Watch Ultra or later released Galaxy Watch Series. To measure, place the centre of your finger on the sensor at the back of the Watch and hold it for 5 seconds. While Anti-oxidant index can be measured using any finger, the thumb is recommended for the most accurate result. Repeat measurement due to uneven skin texture may lead to inaccurate results.
     

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “We are all inclusive from birth”: the results of the All-Russian competition “My Good Business” have been summed up

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On June 27, 2025, a ceremony was held to present awards to the winners of the All-Russian competition of socially responsible initiatives of entrepreneurs and socially oriented non-profit organizations “My Good Business”.

    The organizer of the All-Russian competition “My Good Business” is the Ministry of Economic Development of Russia. The federal operator of the Competition for the third year in a row was the State University of Management. The award ceremony for the winners, as in the previous year, was held at the Social Entrepreneurship Forum “More than Business”.

    “This is a very kind competition, fully corresponding to its name. It is not only and not so much about money, but about the impulse of the soul. The exhibition in the foyer clearly showed the interest and involvement of entrepreneurs and their clients, grandmothers and mothers. I am personally happy to participate in the main events of the Competition,” admitted Deputy Minister of Economic Development of the Russian Federation Tatyana Ilyushnikova and thanked the State University of Management for assistance in organizing the Competition.

    “GUU has been the operator of the Competition for the third year already. We can see how interest in it is growing based on the number of applications. I often visit the regions and never miss the opportunity to visit local My Business centers to meet social entrepreneurs. It is rare to find such passionate people who are ready to give everything for the sake of people and the promotion of their projects. I have never regretted that we started working on this Competition,” shared Vladimir Stroyev, Rector of GUU.

    “We see that more and more entrepreneurs are taking part in the Competition, both small and large businesses. Our foundation will be happy to continue supporting the Competition. We have recently developed state standards for assessing the social effects of good business. All of these are elements of a major task – focusing the economy on people,” said Roman Davydov, development advisor for the Our Future Foundation and member of the Public Council of the Russian Ministry of Economic Development.

    “My experience of meeting with entrepreneurs shows that for every second one, the main motive for implementing their projects is the desire to be socially useful. Focus on society has recently become increasingly important. And since everyone here is for good, there are simply no losers in this Competition,” said Dmitry Litvin, head of the Rosmolodezh.Predprinimatel and Rosmolodezh.Profi departments.

    Results of the All-Russian competition of projects in the field of social entrepreneurship and NPO “My good business”

    Track “Social Interaction”

    Nomination “Good Guy”: 2nd place: Irina Romacheva, project “Implementation of charitable and infrastructure programs aimed at supporting youth and children’s sports, adaptation of people with disabilities”, Nizhny Novgorod Region; 1st place: Anna Knyazeva, project “Dorogobuzhkotlomash – for children”, Smolensk Region.

    Nomination “Cultural Code”: 1st place: Iskandar Bakhtiyarov, project “Annual holiday for first-graders “Children are our future” from the Ufanet company”, Republic of Bashkortostan.

    Nomination “Initiatives to support socially responsible business and NPOs”: 3rd place: Nikolay Makarov, project “Competition for students of the construction program “KSM Scholar”, Republic of Karelia; 2nd place: Irina Medvedeva, project “Social entrepreneurship development program “Start your own business”, Nizhny Novgorod Region; 1st place: Evgeny Petrov, project “Information technologies in the field of social entrepreneurship”, Nizhny Novgorod Region.

    Track “Help with meaning”

    Nomination “Kind Assistance”: 3rd place: Anna Zueva, project “Charity Shop “Teplo”, Perm Krai; 2nd place: Tatyana Egorova, project “Assistance Point for Participants of the SVO “Territory of Good 26”, Stavropol Krai; 1st place: Aishat Karaeva, project “Comprehensive Social, Medical, Scientific and Information Support for the Population of the Republic of Dagestan”, Republic of Dagestan.

    Nomination “Young Entrepreneur”: 3rd place: Yaroslav Kozlov, project “NeuroCareer Guidance”, Moscow; 2nd place: Anna Pokshivanova, project “Centers for Additional Education for Children and Family Classes “Mirta Superclass”, Lipetsk Region; 1st place: Vladislav Kozin, project “School of Music KozinMusicEducation”, Rostov Region.

    Nomination “Cultural Code”: 3rd place: Elena Bobrova, project “OOO “Valeologiya” Comprehensive rehabilitation of children with disabilities in the Ivanovo Regional Center for Exercise Therapy and Sports Medicine”, Ivanovo Region; 2nd place: Marina Kolesnichenko, project “Theatrical anthology of school literature (Educational theater of the Association of Artists of the Moscow Art Theater)”, Moscow; 1st place: Irina Slesareva, project “STARFISH network of family health aqua clubs”, Moscow.

    Nomination “Kind Mom”: 3rd place: Anastasia Kupriyanova, project “Let’s Help You Learn”, Yaroslavl Region; 2nd place: Yulia Moshkina, project “Family Inclusive Club “We Are Together”, Kirov Region; 1st place: Ekaterina Davydova, project “Correctional and Development Center for Children with Disabilities “MIR”, Tyumen Region.

    Nomination “Good Guy”: 3rd place: Roman Usachev, project “EQUICENTER – power in motion”, Lugansk People’s Republic; 2nd place: Olga Repkina, project “Good Robot” – creation and development of a children’s technical creativity club”, Arkhangelsk region; 1st place: Olga Cherpakova, project “Ecosystem of assistance to the elderly and disabled “Comfort”, Tyumen region.

    Nomination “Crafts of Russia”: 3rd place: Ulyana Voitenko, project “Siberian Will”, Novosibirsk Region; 2nd place: Elena Kuvshinova, “Project for the creation of a cultural and educational center for folk art and crafts in the city of Kirovo-Chepetsk, Kirov Region”, Kirov Region; 1st place: Vladimir Matveyev, project “Reproduction of ancient Russian jewelry”, Novgorod Region.

    Silver Business nomination: 3rd place: Larisa Krutskikh, project From Movement to Speech, Altai Krai; 2nd place: Oleg Serdyuk, project Organization of Care for the Elderly and People with Limited Mobility at Home and in Hospital, Saratov Oblast; 1st place: Galina Bozhenko, project I Want! I Can! I Do!, Donetsk People’s Republic.

    Nomination: “Working to Help”: 3rd place: Gulnaz Kamalova, project “Inclusive Workshops “Dobroshtuki”, Republic of Bashkortostan; 2nd place: Yulia Romeiko, project “Charity Program “Social Hotel for Children with Cancer “Good House”, Moscow; 1st place: Marina Sintsova, project “Center for Reconstructive Dermatology, Cosmetology and Aesthetic Rehabilitation for Participants of the Special Military Operation (SVO)”, Samara Region.

    My Kind Startup nomination: 3rd place: Daniil Bredikhin, project “Smart sticker for the blind and visually impaired”, Oryol region; 2nd place: Alexander Ryabinin, project “Elevatek: creating the opportunity to live without restrictions”, Bryansk region; 1st place: Alexander Litvinov, project “Production of polymer ophthalmological implants for mass use to solve medical and social problems associated with visual impairment”, Nizhny Novgorod region.

    Special nomination “Best social franchise”: Winner – Olga Zubkova, project “Inclusive camp Novy Gorod “Druzhny”, Perm Krai.

    We congratulate all the winners and are already looking forward to the start of the next season of the All-Russian competition “My Good Business”.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Expanding Health Care at Sporting Events

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul signed legislation to expand the service of health care professionals at sporting events in New York State. Legislation A.8481A/S.8206A extends authorization for certain health care professionals licensed to practice in other jurisdictions to practice in this state in connection with an event sanctioned by the New York Road Runners. Legislation A.3267/S.20 allows licensed health care professionals in good standing to perform necessary services at the Ironman Lake Placid 2025.

    “With world-class athletes traveling and competing across the state, New York wants to ensure they have the best care,” Governor Hochul said. “This legislation not only provides more opportunities for health care professionals, but it also allows athletes to have top-of-the-line care during their events.”

    New York State Olympic Regional Development Authority President & CEO Ashley Walden said, “This legislation enhances our ability to bring in top-tier medical professionals from across the country, reinforcing New York’s commitment to hosting premier sporting events with exceptional support. It also allows our out-of-state and international athletes to bring their medical teams to New York State, assuring the continuity of care and furthering our support of these important events in Lake Placid and beyond.”

    New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “Governor Hochul is committed to the health and wellbeing of all New Yorkers and all those visiting New York, including the athletes competing at national and international events hosted in New York communities, like the Ironman Lake Placid 2025 event. This legislation ensures event participants from out-of-state can continue to receive medical support from their physicians and trainers.”

    Legislation A.8481A/S.8206A extends authorization to certain health care professionals who are licensed to practice in other jurisdictions to practice in New York State on athletes and team personnel at an event sanctioned by the New York Road Runners.

    State Senator José Serrano said, “New York Road Runners events provide a great opportunity to bring runners from all over the world to New York City. This important legislation ensures that certain licensed healthcare professionals from other jurisdictions may practice in New York State at major events sanctioned by New York Road Runners. I appreciate the efforts of healthcare professionals at these events that help to ensure runners make it across the finish line safely. Many thanks to Assemblymember Chandler-Waterman for sponsoring this legislation in the Assembly, and Governor Kathy Hochul for signing this important bill into law.”

    Assemblymember Monique Chandler-Waterman said, “The state of New York hosts some of this nation’s most renowned road races, and ensuring the health and safety of every participant is paramount. I am proud to have prime-sponsored this bill as a former runner and Track and Field Coach, it is important that athletes have medical support and healthcare professionals that they are comfortable with and are known to athletes. This bill allows athletes to have access to qualified medical care before, during, and after races by welcoming qualified healthcare professionals from beyond our borders to serve on the front lines. We are excited to continue the upholding of strong public health standards with life-saving measures that reflect the collaborative spirit and resilience of our community with the New York Road Runners.”

    Legislation A.3267/S.20 allows individuals who are licensed to practice as a physician, physician’s assistant, massage therapist, physical therapist, chiropractor, dentist, optometrist, nurse practitioner, emergency medical technician or podiatrist in any state, is in good standing, and has been appointed by World Triathlon Corporation to provide professional services to competitors at the Ironman Lake Placid 2025 events.

    State Senator Dan Stec said, “Ironman Lake Placid is one of the most important athletic events that occur in our region and state. Ensuring our athletes have access to medical care is an important way to make it a successful competition. I’m pleased to see that my legislation allowing for that has been signed into law.”

    Assemblymember Billy Jones said, “Ensuring that healthcare providers are able to complete their duties, especially at major sporting events like the Ironman in Lake Placid, is critical for the safety and well-being of New Yorkers statewide. I am proud to have this legislation be signed into law and look forward to another successful event in the North Country.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Free Fishing Weekend Across the State Set for June 28-29

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul announced today that June 28-29 is a free fishing weekend in New York State, encouraging New Yorkers to get offline and get outside to enjoy opportunities for affordable outdoor recreation across the state. During free fishing days, the fishing license requirement is waived for freshwater fishing on New York’s waters. The weekend is one of six designated Free Fishing Days that take place each year in New York State.

    “There’s no better time for aspiring anglers to try freshwater fishing than a free fishing weekend,” Governor Hochul said. “New York is home to numerous freshwater lakes, ponds, streams and rivers, allowing for memorable fishing experiences for angler experts and novices, as well as friends and family.”

    No rod? No problem. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) partners with libraries across the state to provide a fishing rod lending program. Instead of borrowing a book, library patrons can sign out a fishing rod. This affordable program provides an opportunity for people to try fishing before deciding to purchase their own gear. For more information on the program and a list of participating libraries visit DEC’S website.

    New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “Whether anglers are spending time with family and friends outside in nature or experiencing the thrill of catching a fish, there are plenty of reasons to enjoy fishing. I encourage participating anglers to share their love of fishing by introducing someone new to the sport during New York’s Free Fishing Weekend.”

    DEC also offers a host of resources for those interested in getting started in fishing. The I FISH NY Beginners’ Guide to Freshwater Fishing provides information on everything from rigging up a fishing rod, to identifying your catch, and understanding fishing regulations. A video series on DEC’s YouTube channel is also available that complements the Beginners’ Guide.

    For those looking for a spot to fish during Free Fishing Weekend, publicly accessible locations can be found on DEC’s Places to Fish site. The DECinfo Locator Map or Tackle Box feature in the HuntFishNY mobile app also offers options to find a fishing spot near you, along with information on parking, boat launches and more. Anglers can also access their sporting license information, which serves as valid proof of possessing a fishing license.

    Free Fishing Days further support Governor Hochul’s “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative that promotes physical and mental health by helping encourage New York’s children and families to put down their phones and computers, take a break from social media, and enjoy recreation and outdoor social gatherings.

    The New York State Department of Health (DOH) provides advice to anglers about what fish are safe to eat and how often. Visit DOH’s website to search by waterbody location.

    Outside of free fishing days, anglers over the age of 16 must have a valid fishing license. For more information on purchasing a license visit the DEC website.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Opioid-free pain-management options support construction industry workers

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    People working in the construction industry benefit from ongoing access to opioid-free pain-management options as the Province supports two pain clinics in Burnaby and Langford.

    “People in the construction industry need specialized supports with mental-health and substance-use challenges,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health. “By continuing to fund the Opioid-Free Pain Clinics by Construction Industry Rehabilitation Plan, we are expanding access to safer pain-treatment options that support recovery from injuries, reduce harm and improve overall well-being.”

    In spring 2025, the Ministry of Health provided $160,000 to the Construction Industry Rehabilitation Plan (CIRP) for its Opioid-Free Pain Clinics, which provide pain-management options for construction workers and offer evidence-based approaches to pain relief without pharmacological interventions.

    “The Opioid-Free Pain Clinic offers a groundbreaking solution to a serious problem facing construction workers, managing pain without the risk of opioid dependency,” said Vicky Waldron, executive director of the Construction Industry Rehabilitation Plan. “This innovative program is already delivering powerful results and we’re deeply grateful to the Ministry of Health for supporting a new path forward for workers who need effective, safe and long-term pain relief.”

    This funding will support the continued operation of the two clinics that provide pain-relief services to people working in the construction industry. Services include myoActivation, an evidence-based trigger-point therapy approach, which focuses on needling therapy and counsellor-led self-management sessions.

    “Both the construction industry and years of drug abuse have taken turns wrecking my body, but the support I have received, notably myoActivation, has brought me through to the other side of that pain,” said Ryan, CIRP pain clinic client. “When I wake up to go to work, I no longer feel crippled and more often than not, I am smiling. CIRP kept me working through this rehabilitation, kept me off the streets and allowed me to keep the positive momentum I needed so much.”

    The Burnaby clinic has been open to patients since 2020 and has supported more than 120 patients attending more than 1,500 appointments, with opioid-free pain-management options. Following its success, a second clinic in Langford was opened in fall 2024.

    This work is part of the Province’s work to build up the entire continuum of mental-health and substance-use care so people get the right support. This work includes:

    • increasing early intervention and prevention;
    • adding and expanding treatment and recovery services;
    • building supportive and complex-care housing; and
    • adding overdose prevention services.

    Quotes:

    Jennifer Whiteside, Minister of Labour –

    “Construction work is physically demanding, and chronic pain is a reality for many in the industry. These opioid-free pain clinics give workers access to effective care without the risk of dependency. It’s about giving workers the support they need to stay healthy on the job and return home mentally and physically well each day.”

    Amna Shah, parliamentary secretary for mental health and addictions –

    “No one should have to suffer in pain without support. By expanding access to opioid-free pain-management options, we’re helping people find safer, evidence-based ways to manage their pain, while reducing the risk of dependency and overdose. This not only helps people recover safely, it empowers people with effective alternatives.”

    Tylar, CIRP pain clinic client –

    “This is the best my back has felt since I was 14. When my back started to feel new strains, I came back to CIRP and didn’t miss any work this time.”

    Learn More:

    To find mental-health and substance-use supports in B.C., visit: https://helpstartshere.gov.bc.ca/

    For more information about CIRP, visit: https://www.constructionrehabplan.com/

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Neal Statement on the Third Anniversary of the Dobbs Decision

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Richard Neal (D-MA)

    Neal Statement on the Third Anniversary of the Dobbs Decision

    Washington, D.C., June 24, 2025

    Ways and Means Committee Ranking Member Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement marking the third anniversary of the Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization:

    “Three years ago, Trump’s Supreme Court cruelly ripped away a fundamental constitutional right. Since then, 19 states have banned abortion and access to care gets more difficult by the day. People have died, and millions have been forced into dire circumstances as they attempt to get the care they need.

    “Health care decisions belong between patients and their doctors. We’ve given Republicans multiple chances to protect those rights—they’ve refused every time. Now, they’re entering a new, even crueler phase of their War on Women with Trump’s marquee legislation, further slashing care and throwing millions off their health insurance. This extremism is the greatest threat to the health of the American people. We won’t stop until Roe is restored and every Republican attack on health care is defeated.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Hassan Launches Investigation into GSK on Impact of Its Discontinuation of Children’s Asthma Inhaler

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan
    WASHINGTON – One year after GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) pulled the Flovent HFA inhaler from the market, U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Subcommittee on Health Care, is continuing her oversight of the company by launching an investigation into its decision to discontinue the inhaler – which had been the most prescribed controller inhaler for young children with asthma. 
    After its discontinuation, GSK worked with a different company, Prasco Laboratories, to distribute the same inhaler under a different name – which not only created a greater expense for many patients, but also allowed GSK to avoid an estimated $367.6 million in rebates to Medicaid in 2024 alone. With fewer and more expensive inhaler options available in the year following the discontinuation of Flovent HFA, children across the country faced life-threatening medical challenges, with reports noting significant increases in asthma-related hospitalizations and ICU admissions. 
    “As families continue to battle sky-high prescription drug costs, we must not only lower costs, but also ensure that companies cannot abuse the system to enrich their profit margins and rip off taxpayers,” said Senator Hassan. “One year later, GSK’s decision to discontinue the most prescribed inhaler for young children with asthma and allow a different company to sell the same product in a more expensive form has threatened the lives of children in New Hampshire and across the country. GSK has a responsibility to answer for its actions, and we need to ensure that other companies can’t follow their lead in evading Medicaid payments. As I launch this investigation, I also continue to urge GSK to restore Flovent HFA to the market and work with Prasco to lower the price of the inhaler available today so that individuals suffering from asthma can access this life-saving treatment.” 
    Senator Hassan’s new investigation into GSK and Prasco follows her May 2024 push to get GSK to restore Flovent HFA and explain why it decided to discontinue Flovent HFA while leaving other brand-name inhaler products on the market and capping their prices. As Senator Hassan writes today, GSK’s response “failed to offer a convincing explanation for why it decided to discontinue Flovent HFA while leaving other brand-name inhaler products on the market and capping their prices.” Since discontinuing Flovent HFA, GSK and Prasco have not offered the same discounts and rebates for the authorized generic, leading major insurers and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) to delay or deny coverage of the authorized generic. 
    In addition to adverse outcomes for patients, GSK’s decision to discontinue Flovent HFA has resulted in significant economic consequences, as outlined in Senator Hassan’s request to GSK: 
    GSK avoided an estimated $367.6 million in rebates to Medicaid in 2024 alone by discontinuing Flovent HFA. Instead of receiving these rebates, Medicaid spent an estimated $551.8 million on the authorized generic for 2024. 
    Physicians have reported that even individuals with insurance coverage for the authorized generic have paid as much as $150 for a single inhaler. 
    The overall burden of childhood asthma costs the U.S. health care system an estimated $6 billion per year. 
    Click to read Senator Hassan’s letters to GSK and to Prasco Laboratories.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Union Urges Maine Senators to Reject Medicaid Cuts Threatening Rural Hospitals and Workers’ Healthcare Access

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    WASHINGTON, June 27, 2025 – The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union), representing 600,000 active and retired members across North America, is calling on U.S. Senators Angus King and Susan Collins to reject devastating Medicaid cuts included in the current budget reconciliation package (H.R. 1).

    IAM Union International President Brian Bryant issued letters to U.S. Senators King and Collins urging them to reject the proposal. According to state officials and recent reporting, it threatens to eliminate healthcare coverage for nearly 35,000 Mainers and risks shuttering at least four rural hospitals.

    “These cuts will directly harm the communities where our members live and work,” wrote IAM Union International President Bryant. “Thousands of IAM shipbuilders at Bath Iron Works depend on a reliable local healthcare infrastructure. When hospitals and clinics close or cut services, even those with strong union-negotiated healthcare plans lose access to critical care.”

    The reconciliation package includes new work requirements for Medicaid recipients and significant reductions in federal funding. Maine’s Department of Health and Human Services warns that the proposed changes would severely strain the state’s healthcare system, particularly in rural areas that rely heavily on Medicaid (known locally as MaineCare).

    The IAM Union is urging both of Maine’s U.S. Senators to support working families, protect access to healthcare, and vote “No” on H.R. 1.

    Read the letters to U.S. Senators King and Collins. 

    The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across the United States and Canada.

    goIAM.org | @IAM_Union

    The post IAM Union Urges Maine Senators to Reject Medicaid Cuts Threatening Rural Hospitals and Workers’ Healthcare Access appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Union Urges Maine Senators to Reject Medicaid Cuts Threatening Rural Hospitals and Workers’ Healthcare Access

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    WASHINGTON, June 27, 2025 – The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union), representing 600,000 active and retired members across North America, is calling on U.S. Senators Angus King and Susan Collins to reject devastating Medicaid cuts included in the current budget reconciliation package (H.R. 1).

    IAM Union International President Brian Bryant issued letters to U.S. Senators King and Collins urging them to reject the proposal. According to state officials and recent reporting, it threatens to eliminate healthcare coverage for nearly 35,000 Mainers and risks shuttering at least four rural hospitals.

    “These cuts will directly harm the communities where our members live and work,” wrote IAM Union International President Bryant. “Thousands of IAM shipbuilders at Bath Iron Works depend on a reliable local healthcare infrastructure. When hospitals and clinics close or cut services, even those with strong union-negotiated healthcare plans lose access to critical care.”

    The reconciliation package includes new work requirements for Medicaid recipients and significant reductions in federal funding. Maine’s Department of Health and Human Services warns that the proposed changes would severely strain the state’s healthcare system, particularly in rural areas that rely heavily on Medicaid (known locally as MaineCare).

    The IAM Union is urging both of Maine’s U.S. Senators to support working families, protect access to healthcare, and vote “No” on H.R. 1.

    Read the letters to U.S. Senators King and Collins. 

    The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across the United States and Canada.

    goIAM.org | @IAM_Union

    The post IAM Union Urges Maine Senators to Reject Medicaid Cuts Threatening Rural Hospitals and Workers’ Healthcare Access appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Union Urges North Carolina Senators to Reject Medicaid Cuts That Jeopardize Rural Healthcare and Working Families

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    WASHINGTON, June 27, 2025 – The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union), representing 600,000 active and retired members across North America, is calling on U.S. Senators Thom Tillis and Ted Budd to oppose proposed Medicaid cuts in the reconciliation package (H.R. 1) that threaten healthcare access for working families and could force the closure of rural hospitals across North Carolina.

    IAM Union International President Brian Bryant issued a letter urging Senators Tillis and Budd to reject the legislation, citing its devastating effects on healthcare access and economic stability in North Carolina communities. The IAM Union represents thousands of workers in the state, including at Spirit AeroSystems in Kinston and among airline workers at Charlotte Douglas International Airport and Raleigh-Durham International Airport.

    “These harmful cuts would not only strip coverage from hundreds of thousands of North Carolinians, but also endanger the viability of hospitals and clinics that our members and their families rely on,” wrote IAM Union International President Bryant. “Even the best health insurance means little if the nearest hospital is closed or overwhelmed. The IAM is proud to negotiate strong healthcare benefits for our members. However, no bargaining agreement can replace a shuttered emergency room or a defunded clinic. We need Senators Tillis and Budd to protect the people they serve and reject these reckless cuts.” 

    It’s projected that more than 270,000 North Carolinians will lose their Medicaid coverage if the proposal passes. Meanwhile, reports indicate at least five rural hospitals in the state are at risk of closing due to financial shortfalls. North Carolina’s Department of Health and Human Services warns that the proposed Medicaid cuts will strain the state’s already-fragile rural healthcare network, where many providers depend on Medicaid reimbursements to stay operational.

    Read the letters to U.S. Senators Tillis and Budd. 

    The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across the United States and Canada.

    goIAM.org | @IAM_Union

    The post IAM Union Urges North Carolina Senators to Reject Medicaid Cuts That Jeopardize Rural Healthcare and Working Families appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –