Category: housing

MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mike Levin Leads Bipartisan Letter Urging Funding Request to Improve Living Conditions at Barracks Across the Country Including Camp Pendleton

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Levin (CA-49)

October 17, 2024

Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) led a bipartisan letter with Rep. Gregory F. Murphy, M.D. (NC-03) to Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro highlighting the unhealthy and unsafe conditions at naval barracks across the country and urging the Secretary to fully fund initiatives to modernize and refurbish the structures, including at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.

The Members cite a September 2023 Government Accountability Office (GAO) report on the poor state of barracks at ten Department of Defense (DOD) installations, six of which fall under the purview of the Secretary of the Navy. They urge Secretary Del Toro to fully fund the Marine Corps’ Barracks 2030 Initiative in its Fiscal Year 2026 request. The funding will help to repair the barracks and ensure the wellbeing of the Marines living in them.

“When our Sailors and Marines make the great personal sacrifice to join the finest maritime force in the history of the world, their oath comes with the tacit understanding that our nation recognizes their service and ensures their wellbeing in the performance of their duties. As Members of Congress representing various Department of the Navy installations, we continue to have a vested interest in the health and welfare of our Sailors and Marines,” reads the letter.

“We urge you to prioritize unaccompanied housing in the Department of the Navy’s FY26 funding request that ensures enough funding to refurbish existing barracks units and fully modernize and rebuild these structures in a way that our service members deserve,” continues the letter. “We also ask that you support your installation commanders in this endeavor who remain hard at work in advocating for the wellbeing of our Sailors and Marines.”

[Click here] or see below for the full letter:

Dear Secretary Del Toro,

When our Sailors and Marines make the great personal sacrifice to join the finest maritime force in the history of the world, their oath comes with the tacit understanding that our nation recognizes their service and ensures their wellbeing in the performance of their duties. As Members of Congress representing various Department of the Navy installations, we continue to have a vested interest in the health and welfare of our Sailors and Marines.

We have tracked with great concern the ongoing state of disrepair of Unaccompanied Housing (UH) units on Camp Pendleton and Camp Lejeune. Our constituents have continued to diligently inform of us of a litany of problems plaguing the very places that our Sailors and Marines live, including weekly plumbing malfunctions, extensive black mold, and defective security infrastructure.

This is not a new development. In September 2023, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) published a report on the poor state of barracks habitability across 10 DOD installations. Of these 10 installations, six fell under your purview: Naval Support Activity Bethesda, Maryland; Naval Base Coronado, California; Naval Base San Diego, California; Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia; Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, California; and Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California.

Last year, Camp Pendleton’s barracks were found in significant disrepair, presenting major health and safety concerns for our service members. Issues include deteriorating infrastructure, such as malfunctioning plumbing, broken windows, and non-operational smoke detectors. General hygiene conditions have also worsened, with reports of 4black mold and vermin infestations. Many of these problems stem from a shortage of maintenance personnel and an overwhelming backlog of work orders, exacerbated by the aging facilities. We urge immediate action to fully fund the repairs and modernization of Camp Pendleton barracks in the upcoming fiscal year.

As you may recall, last October General Smith took you, and Representatives Murphy and Pence to see the horrible conditions of the barracks at Camp Lejeune. Our understanding is that the Marine Corps has a plan to refurbish all of the barracks at Camp Lejeune, Marine Corps Air Stations New River and Cherry Point. We implore you to fully fund the Marine Corps’ Barracks 2030 Initiative in your Fiscal Year 2026 request to the Congress.

Camp Lejeune and Camp Pendleton are not alone in their struggles among Navy-Marine Corps installations. Navy and Marine Corps unaccompanied housing units across several districts have reported identical issues that threaten the health and safety of our Navy and Marine Corps team.

We urge you to prioritize unaccompanied housing in the Department of the Navy’s FY26 funding request that ensures enough funding to refurbish existing barracks units and fully modernize and rebuild these structures in a way that our service members deserve. We also ask that you support your installation commanders in this endeavor who remain hard at work in advocating for the wellbeing of our Sailors and Marines.

The health, safety, and morale of our service members are paramount, and we must take swift action to address these critical issues. Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.

Sincerely,

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MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Georgians in Taliaferro County Now Eligible for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene
Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: Georgians in Taliaferro County Now Eligible for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene

Georgians in Taliaferro County Now Eligible for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene
ATLANTA – Homeowners and renters in Taliaferro County who had uninsured damage or losses caused by Hurricane Helene can now apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs.

Previously, Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Ben Hill, Berrien, Brantley, Brooks, Bryan, Bulloch, Burke, Butts, Camden, Candler, Charlton, Chatham, Clinch, Coffee, Colquitt, Columbia, Cook, Dodge, Echols, Effingham, Elbert, Emanuel, Evans, Fulton, Glascock, Glynn, Hancock, Irwin, Jeff Davis, Jefferson, Jenkins, Johnson, Lanier, Laurens, Liberty, Lincoln, Long, Lowndes, McDuffie, McIntosh, Montgomery, Newton, Pierce, Rabun, Richmond, Screven, Tattnall, Telfair, Thomas, Tift, Toombs, Treutlen, Ware, Warren, Washington, Wayne and Wheeler counties were approved for assistance to households.

There are several ways to apply: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or visit a Disaster Recovery Center. The FEMA Helpline is open every day and help is available in most languages.

The deadline to apply is Dec. 2, 2024.

What You’ll Need When You Apply
- A current phone number where you can be contacted.
- Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
- Your Social Security number.
- A general list of damage and losses.
- Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
- If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.
If you have homeowners, renters or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4830. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters.
larissa.hale
Thu, 10/17/2024 – 20:22

MIL OSI USA News –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: More than $38M in Expedited FEMA Funds Support North Carolina Helene Recovery

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: More than $38M in Expedited FEMA Funds Support North Carolina Helene Recovery

More than $38M in Expedited FEMA Funds Support North Carolina Helene Recovery

RALEIGH, N.C. – Just three weeks since Tropical Storm Helene in North Carolina, FEMA has approved more than $38 million in expedited public assistance grant funds for debris removal in Buncombe County.

These projects reimbursed $34 million to Buncombe County and $3.95 million to the town of Biltmore Forest for debris removal costs after the storm.

“FEMA has already provided more than $100 million in assistance to households, but we’re also supporting North Carolina communities as they respond to and recover from this historic storm,” said Thomas J. McCool, federal coordinating officer for North Carolina’s disaster operation. “This expedited funding is just the start; we’ll be here as long as it takes, fully committed to the rebuilding process across the state.”

“The receipt of expedited federal disaster recovery funding to impacted communities and directly to disaster survivors continues to be a state and federal priority as we move from the response phase of this disaster and into the recovery phase,” said Will Ray, North Carolina emergency management director.

Expedited projects are obligated at 50% of eligible costs incurred for debris removal and emergency protective measures conducted within the first 45 days following a disaster. President Biden authorized the federal cost-share to be increased from 75% to 100% for the first 180 days of the incident period. FEMA paid 100% of eligible costs for these two projects.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. These funds support the removal of debris, costs of emergency protective measures and restoration of public facilities, helping disaster survivors resume life in their communities.

barbara.murien…
Thu, 10/17/2024 – 21:20

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senators Coons, Tillis to introduce legislation to promote protection of international digital freedom

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) today announced plans to introduce the Advancing Digital Freedom Act of 2024, which would equip the U.S. State Department with the authorities to elevate digital freedom as a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy and support its critical role in advancing democratic governance around the world. Companion legislation will also be introduced in the House by Representatives Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-Calif.) and Young Kim (R-Calif.).
“As a global leader of human rights, the United States must deter authoritarian and illiberal states that are using advanced technologies to threaten human rights alongside our own national security,” said Senator Coons. “Protecting digital freedom abroad is a cornerstone of American foreign policy for the modern age, and that is why we must cooperate with like-minded countries to develop and deploy emerging technology in a manner that respects democracy and rule of law. As Co-Chair of the Senate Human Rights Caucus, I’m confident that this bill will help protect digital freedoms and counter global misinformation and disinformation in partnership with our allies.”
“With increasing cyber threats and attacks on the horizon than ever before, working with our allies to counter them is all the more important,” said Senator Tillis. “Protecting and promoting digital freedom across the globe must be a priority, which is why I look forward to introducing this bipartisan legislation to ensure the Department of State continues to prioritize this as a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy.”
“Digital technology has both benefits and drawbacks when it comes to advancing democracy,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “It can enable citizens to access information, share ideas, and organize while simultaneously allowing for authoritarian regimes to spread propaganda, enhance surveillance, and stifle free speech. We must ensure that digital technologies are used to strengthen democracy, not dismantle it. It is crucial for the United States to develop a comprehensive strategy to safeguard digital freedom worldwide and work with partners to implement this plan. Promoting human rights and democracy at home and abroad must remain a bipartisan issue, and I am proud to advance these priorities with a bipartisan, bicameral group of congressional colleagues.”
“The Unholy Alliance, including the People’s Republic of China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, relies on abusive surveillance technologies to restrict access to information and the outside world and to maintain their grip on power,” said Congresswoman Young Kim, Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Indo-Pacific. “To remain a global human rights leader, the United States cannot stand idly by as these authoritarian regimes use digital technologies and platforms to suppress innocent civilians, religious minorities, and political dissenters. I am proud to join Representative Kamlager-Dove and Senators Coons and Tillis to lead this bipartisan, bicameral effort to protect the right to international digital freedom. I’ll keep fighting to ensure the United States promotes global human rights and protects freedom-loving people around the world.”
The right to freedom of expression has become a fault line between pro-democracy groups and authoritarian governments. Digital platforms, including social media, have been crucial tools for movements such as the Mahsa Amini protests in Iran or the Umbrella Movement in Hong Kong. However, autocratic governments have attempted to stifle these efforts by cracking down on digital freedom. Russia and China deploy digital tools to identify and silence dissidents, Iran routinely blocks access to thousands of websites conveying political content, and North Korea and Venezuela coordinate disinformation campaigns to undermine citizens’ access to credible information. To address such threats to digital freedom, the Advancing Digital Freedom Act would strengthen the United States’ role in leading efforts to ensure technology is used to uphold human rights, democratic values, and the rule of law.
Specifically, the bill would:
Elevate digital freedom as a foremost foreign policy priority of the United States;
Empower the Coordinator for Digital Freedom in the State Department’s Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy to lead global efforts to protect digital freedom, counter disinformation and misinformation, and advance democratic governance in the digital space;
Encourage the State Department to engage with foreign governments, nongovernmental organizations, and other actors to coordinate efforts to defend digital freedom against digital authoritarianism; and
Require the Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy to submit an annual report to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and the House Foreign Affairs Committee on the state of global digital freedom, including analysis of emerging and concerning trends impacting digital freedom.
As Co-Chairs of the Senate Human Rights Caucus, Senators Coons and Tillis are committed to the promotion and protection of human rights and democracy through U.S. foreign policy. Recently, the caucus has held briefings and issued statements on the state of conflict and human rights across the globe, including in the Horn of Africa, Ukraine, and across Latin America.
The text of the bill is available here.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Rogers Announces $10 Million Earmark to Expand Morehead State University’s Space Science Network

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Harold Hal Rogers (KY-05)

Recognizes U.S. Lunar Mission “Saviors” with Congressional Tribute

MOREHEAD, KY (Oct. 17, 2024) – U.S. Rep. Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) visited Morehead State University’s Space Science Center on Thursday to announce a federal earmark totaling nearly $10 million in Community Project Funding to broaden the region’s highly competitive deep space network. The funding will be used to enhance the two space tracking stations on campus to support future government-funded and commercial space programs.

“The staff and students at Morehead State are now involved in some of the United States’ most innovative and historic space missions. This project will allow the space science center to support future NASA programs, including NASA’s Near Space Network, Artemis and the Moon to Mars Program,” said Congressman Rogers, chairman of the House appropriations subcommittee that funds science-related federal agencies. “This means that students here at MSU will have first-hand access to more lunar and deep space tracking services that they cannot get anywhere else in the country.”

“We are incredibly grateful for the support and leadership of Congressman Hal Rogers in securing this critical funding for Morehead State’s Space Science Program. His dedication to advancing science and technology in our region has been instrumental in positioning MSU as a leader in space research and exploration,” said Dr. Jay Morgan, President of Morehead State University. “This funding will allow us to expand our capabilities, provide our students with unmatched hands-on experiences, and contribute to the growing space economy in our region and in Kentucky. It’s an exciting time for Morehead State, and we thank Congressman Rogers for helping make this possible.”

Congressman Rogers also requested a $7.5 million Community Project Funding earmark for fiscal year 2025 MSU’s Space Science Center to provide payload operations for government and commercial space stations. The funding request was approved by the House Appropriations Committee and is pending on-going budget negotiations.

“This funding is a game-changer for Morehead State’s Space Science Program. It enables us to further enhance our research and technological capabilities, allowing our students and faculty to participate in groundbreaking projects that contribute directly to the future of space exploration,” said Dr. Ben Malphrus, Director of the MSU Space Science Center. “We’re deeply thankful to Congressman Hal Rogers for his vision and continued support, which is helping us shape the next generation of space scientists and engineers right here in Eastern Kentucky.”

To highlight the importance of investing in Morehead State’s work at the Space Science Center, Congressman Rogers recognized the staff and students who saved the United States’ latest mission to the moon after a troubled landing damaged the Odysseus Lander, “Odie,” cutting-off communications back to Earth.

“Morehead State was the only conduit between NASA and the private company that sent the lunar lander to the moon to conduct research. The multi-million-dollar mission was in jeopardy of failure, until the staff and students here in our Appalachian Mountains worked around the clock for 72 hours to save that historic mission,” said Congressman Rogers. “I submitted a tribute in the Congressional Record to commemorate the team that NASA Administrator Bill Nelson dubbed as the ‘saviors’ of the nation’s first lunar landing since the Apollo era.”

The Congressional Record is preserved in the Library of Congress, recognizing the work of MSU staff members, Dr. Malphrus, Chloe Hart from Ashland, Emily Walter from Pikeville, Nathan Fite, Christopher Smith and Seifala Moustaffa, as well as students Mila Shearer and Carrie Bruce.

For more information about Congressman Rogers work in Washington and at home in Kentucky, visit halrogers.house.gov and follow him on social media.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Scott, Rubio, Colleagues Announce Bill to Replenish Disaster Relief Fund

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott
WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Senator Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) announced legislation to replenish the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Disaster Relief Fund (DRF) following Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton’s damage to South Carolina and neighboring southeastern states. The senators’ legislation would appropriate $20 billion to the dwindling FEMA Disaster Relief Fund, which is intended to assist individuals, households, states, and non-federal government entities with recovery following a natural disaster.
“Hurricane Helene brought a level of devastation we haven’t seen since Hugo. In South Carolina alone, the storm claimed 49 lives and left over a million without power. When any state experiences a natural disaster of this magnitude, Congress has a responsibility to step up and do its job,” said Senator Tim Scott. “Communities back home and in surrounding states have come together to recover, but it will take every possible effort to get us back to where we were.”
“Unfortunately, this is a hurricane season no one will soon forget. The Disaster Relief Fund (DRF) is the front line for states, and our constituents, to receive support in the aftermath of natural disasters. While assessments of the full extent of these storms are underway, the DRF cannot be allowed to be depleted. I am proud to announce my colleagues and I will be introducing a bill to provide additional funding to support communities affected by the recent hurricanes,” said Senator Marco Rubio.
“Americans help Americans. FEMA needs resources to help those impacted by Hurricanes Milton, Helene, and Francine. Related to this, I will continue working to make flood insurance affordable again,” said Senator Bill Cassidy.
“It is alarming that FEMA has spent almost half of its disaster fund, and there are still weeks left in hurricane season. Congress must take action to ensure critical agencies have sufficient resources to help those impacted by natural disasters recover while also maintaining long-term rebuilding projects,” said Senator John Cornyn.
“I’ve been on the ground in Florida surveying damage and talking to Floridians for weeks as our state prepared for and now responds to and recovers from Hurricanes Helene and Milton. What’s clear is that Florida families and businesses need their federal government to show up where they are and help them get back on their feet. This bill, providing $20 billion for FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund, will ensure that the agency has what it needs to provide immediate aid to folks in Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, the Carolinas and other states impacted by disasters while our local communities determine their needs from FEMA, SBA, USDA and other federal agencies. The federal government’s response to hurricanes over the last two years has left too many Floridians, especially our farmers, hurting and with unmet needs. Unfortunately, I am already hearing from local officials and families in Florida that are frustrated by the fact that these disasters have stretched FEMA’s current resources too thin. That is unacceptable. No state is immune from disasters and I hope that none of our colleagues in the Senate will object to the quick passage of this needed funding. Even with this bill, I continue to urge Majority Leader Schumer to bring back the Senate to fully fund other disaster relief functions at the SBA and USDA block grants, and I’m glad that, in my conversations with President Biden, he has completely agreed with me on the need to get this done. While Floridians are incredibly resilient and will rebuild stronger than ever, it’s going to be an all hands on deck effort at the local, state and federal level to come together and support these communities. I’m going to keep fighting like hell to deliver the federal resources Floridians need to recover,” said Senator Rick Scott.
Senators Scott and Rubio were joined by Senators Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), and John Cornyn (R-Texas).

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: La Ronge — Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes: male charged with manslaughter

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

On September 16, 2024 at approximately 5 a.m., La Ronge RCMP received a report of a seriously injured 29-year-old male outside an apartment building on Bedford Drive in La Ronge, Saskatchewan. The male was transported to hospital and later died. He has been identified as Darris Sanderson from Pinehouse Lake, SK.

As a result of continued investigation, officers from Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes and the Warrant Enforcement Suppression Team (WEST) arrested an adult male in La Ronge, Saskatchewan on October 16, 2024. 25-year-old Tyrell Dumais of La Ronge is charged with one count, manslaughter, Section 236(a), Criminal Code.

He is scheduled to appear in La Ronge Provincial Court on October 17, 2024.

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: Helping early childhood educators to upskill

Source: Australian Ministers for Education

The Albanese Government is helping early childhood educators gain the valuable on-the-job experience they need to complete qualifications and upskill.

Minister for Early Childhood Education Dr Anne Aly today launched a new Practicum Exchange Network to help early learning providers participate in prac exchanges with other services.

“This will help early childhood educators complete prac requirements for early learning qualifications,” Minister Aly said.

“The new Practicum Exchange Network website will enable early learning services and educators to find and organise prac exchanges with other services and educators.

“Prac exchanges help students learn from experienced educators and teachers, gaining a wealth of experience and knowledge in a variety of settings.

“From January 2025, educators who undertake prac in a rural or remote location, away from home, will be able to apply for a living allowance to assist with relocation costs.”

The new website is part of the Government’s $72.4 million Early Childhood Education Workforce package which is helping to build and retain a highly skilled early learning workforce.

The package is also helping existing educators upskill through a paid prac wage subsidy, supporting educators to complete placements.

The funding also enables positions to be backfilled while early childhood educators, teachers and centre directors undertake professional development opportunities.

Shaped by engagement with the sector, the workforce package is another way the Albanese Government is recognising the professionalism of early childhood educators.

The Government is also delivering a historic 15 per cent wage rise for the critical early childhood education and care workforce, helping to retain the current workforce while also attracting new people to the sector.

A sustainable and high-quality early childhood education and care workforce is a vital step towards building a universal early learning and care system that works for children and families.

To learn more or to join the Practicum Exchange Network visit prac.education.gov.au.

MIL OSI News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Announces Charges Against Indian Government Employee in Connection with Foiled Plot to Assassinate U.S. Citizen in New York City

Source: US State of North Dakota

Vikash Yadav Directed Plot to Murder U.S.-Based Leader of Sikh Separatist Movement

Note: View the second unsealed superseding indictment here.

The Justice Department today announced the filing of murder-for-hire and money laundering charges against Indian government employee, Vikash Yadav, 39, also known as Vikas, and Amanat, in connection with his role in directing a foiled plot to assassinate a U.S. citizen in New York City. Yadav is charged in a second superseding indictment unsealed today in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. Yadav’s alleged co-conspirator, Nikhil Gupta, 53, was previously charged and extradited to the United States on the charges contained in the first superseding indictment. Yadav remains at large.

“The Justice Department will be relentless in holding accountable any person — regardless of their position or proximity to power — who seeks to harm and silence American citizens,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “As alleged, last year, we foiled an attempt by Vikash Yadav, an Indian government employee, and his co-conspirator, Nikhil Gupta, to assassinate an American citizen on U.S. soil. Today’s charges demonstrate that the Justice Department will not tolerate attempts to target and endanger Americans and to undermine the rights to which every U.S. citizen is entitled.”

“The defendant, an Indian government employee, allegedly conspired with a criminal associate and attempted to assassinate a U.S. citizen on American soil for exercising their First Amendment rights,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “The FBI will not tolerate acts of violence or other efforts to retaliate against those residing in the U.S. for exercising their constitutionally protected rights. We are committed to working with our partners to detect, disrupt, and hold accountable foreign nationals or others who seek to engage in such acts of transnational repression.”

“Today’s charges are a grave example of the increase in lethal plotting and other forms of violent transnational repression targeting diaspora communities in the United States,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “To the governments around the world who may be considering such criminal activity and to the communities they would target, let there be no doubt that the Department of Justice is committed to disrupting and exposing these plots and to holding the wrongful actors accountable no matter who they are or where they reside.”

“DEA foiled this assassination attempt last year and has continued to trace this case back to an employee of the Indian government whom we charge was an orchestrator of this intricate murder-for-hire scheme. DEA did not relent, and today’s indictment names Vikash Yadav as an alleged mastermind,” said Administrator Anne Milgram of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). “We charge that Yadav, an employee of the Indian government, used his position of authority and access to confidential information to direct the attempted assassination of an outspoken critic of the Indian government here on U.S. soil. This case was led by the DEA New York Division’s Drug Enforcement Task Force, which is comprised of DEA, the New York State Police, and the New York City Police Department, and is a true testament to the tenacity and determination of our team.”

“Last year, this office charged Nikhil Gupta for conspiring to assassinate a U.S. citizen of Indian origin on U.S. soil,” said U.S. Attorney Damian Williams. “But, as alleged, Gupta did not work alone. Today, we announce charges against an Indian government employee, Vikash Yadav, who orchestrated the plot from India and directed Gupta to hire a hitman to murder the victim. The right to exercise free speech is foundational to our democracy, and predicated on the notion that we can do so without fear of violence or reprisal, including from beyond our borders. Let this case be a warning to all those who would seek to harm and silence U.S. citizens: we will hold you accountable, no matter who and where you are.”

As alleged in the second superseding indictment and other public court documents, in 2023, Yadav, working together with others, including Gupta, in India, and elsewhere, directed a plot to assassinate on U.S. soil an attorney and political activist who is a U.S. citizen of Indian origin residing in New York City (the victim). The victim is a vocal critic of the Indian government and leads a U.S.-based organization that advocates for the secession of Punjab, a state in northern India that is home to a large population of Sikhs, an ethnoreligious minority group in India. The victim has publicly called for some or all of Punjab to secede from India and establish a Sikh sovereign state called Khalistan, and the Indian government has banned the victim and his separatist organization from India.

During times relevant to the second superseding indictment, Yadav was employed by the Government of India’s Cabinet Secretariat, which houses Indian’s foreign intelligence service, the Research and Analysis Wing. Yadav has described his position as a “senior field officer” with responsibilities in “security management” and “intelligence.” Yadav also has referenced previously serving in India’s Central Reserve Police Force and receiving “officer[] training” in “battle craft” and “weapons.” Yadav is a citizen and resident of India, and he directed the plot to assassinate the Victim from India.

In or about May 2023, Yadav recruited Gupta to orchestrate the assassination of the victim in the United States. Gupta is an Indian national who resided in India and has described his involvement in international narcotics and weapons trafficking in his communications with Yadav and others. At Yadav’s direction, Gupta contacted an individual whom Gupta believed to be a criminal associate, but who was in fact a confidential source (the CS) working with the DEA, for assistance in contracting a hitman to murder the victim in New York City. The CS introduced Gupta to a purported hitman, who was in fact a DEA undercover officer (the UC). Yadav subsequently agreed, in dealings brokered by Gupta, to pay the UC $100,000 to murder the victim. On or about June 9, 2023, Yadav and Gupta arranged for an associate to deliver $15,000 in cash to the UC as an advance payment for the murder. Yadav’s associate then delivered the $15,000 to the UC in Manhattan.

In or about June 2023, in furtherance of the assassination plot, Yadav provided Gupta with personal information about the victim, including the victim’s home address in New York City, phone numbers associated with the victim, and details about the victim’s day-to-day conduct, which Gupta then passed to the UC. Yadav directed Gupta to provide regular updates on the progress of the assassination plot, which Gupta accomplished by forwarding to Yadav, among other things, surveillance photographs of the victim. Gupta directed the UC to carry out the murder as soon as possible, but Gupta also specifically instructed the UC not to commit the murder around the time of the Indian Prime Minister’s official state visit to the United States, which was scheduled to begin on or about June 20, 2023.

On or about June 18, 2023, approximately two days before the Indian Prime Minister’s state visit to the United States, masked gunmen murdered Hardeep Singh Nijjar outside a Sikh temple in British Columbia, Canada. Nijjar was an associate of the victim, and, like the victim, was a leader of the Sikh separatist movement and an outspoken critic of the Indian government. On or about June 19, 2023, the day after the Nijjar murder, Gupta told the UC that Nijjar “was also the target” and “we have so many targets.” Gupta added that, in light of Nijjar’s murder, there was “now no need to wait” on killing the Victim. On or about June 20, 2023, Yadav sent Gupta a news article about the victim and messaged Gupta, “[i]t’s [a] priority now.”

Yadav and Gupta of India have been charged with murder-for-hire, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison; conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison; and conspiracy to commit money laundering, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The DEA New York Division and the FBI New York Field Office’s Counterintelligence Division are investigating the case, with valuable assistance provided by the DEA Special Operations Division, DEA Vienna Country Office, FBI Prague Country Office, Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, and Czech Republic’s National Drug Headquarters.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Camille L. Fletcher, Ashley C. Nicolas, and Alexander Li for the Southern District of New York are prosecuting the case with assistance from Trial Attorney Christopher Cook of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section and Trial Attorney A.J. Dixon of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.

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

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Five Defendants Sentenced for Long-Running Bid-Rigging Conspiracy in Georgia Concrete Industry

Source: US State of North Dakota

Four executives and a corporation were sentenced for participating in a long-running conspiracy to fix prices, rig bids and allocate jobs for ready-mix concrete in the greater Savannah, Georgia area.

James Clayton Pedrick, Gregory Hall Melton, John David Melton, Timothy “Bo” Strickland and Evans Concrete LLC were charged in September 2020 with conspiring to fix prices, rig bids and allocate jobs for the sale of ready-mix concrete used in residential, commercial and public projects. Pedrick, Strickland and Evans Concrete later pleaded guilty for their participation in this conspiracy. Gregory Hall Melton and John David Melton were convicted by a jury in the U.S. District Court in Savannah earlier this year. Argos USA LLC separately admitted to its role in the conspiracy and entered into a deferred prosecution agreement (DPA) with the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division in January 2021.

Gregory Hall Melton was sentenced today to 41 months in prison, and three years of supervised release and to pay a $50,000 fine. John David Melton was sentenced today to 26 months in prison, three years of supervised release and to pay a $10,000 fine. The court previously sentenced Strickland to five months in prison and to pay $150,000 fine, Pedrick to one year of probation and Evans Concrete to pay a $2.7 million fine. Argos USA LLC paid a $20 million criminal penalty as part of its DPA.

According to court documents, the defendants effectuated their conspiracy by coordinating the issuance of price-increase letters to customers, allocating specific ready-mix concrete jobs in the coastal Georgia area, and submitting bids to customers at collusive and noncompetitive prices. The charged conspiracy began as early as 2010 and continued until about July 2016.

“These sentences reflect the egregious nature of rigging bids for materials like ready-mix concrete which are essential to the American economy,” said Deputy Assistant Attorney General Manish Kumar of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “The Antitrust Division and its law enforcement partners will hold accountable those who seek to exploit the critical need for these materials to harm consumers.”

“Concrete is an essential material in construction projects, with prices set in the free market by the forces of supply and demand,” said U.S. Attorney Jill E. Steinberg for the Southern District of Georgia. “However, the defendants in this case for several years illegally rigged the system to benefit themselves at the expense of customers and are being held accountable for their conduct.”

“Activities related to bid-rigging and collusion do not promote an environment conducive to open competition which harms the consumer,” said Executive Special Agent in Charge Kenneth Cleevely of U.S. Postal Service’s Office of Inspector General (USPS OIG). “The sentencing in this case represents a win for all law enforcement agencies who investigate those who engage in this type of harmful conduct to ensure that justice is served.”

“The sentences imposed today send a clear message to anyone who chooses corporate greed over open and fair competition,” said Special Agent in Charge Joseph Harris of the Department of Transportation’s Office of Inspector General (DOT OIG), Southern Region. “Our commitment to working with our law enforcement partners and DOJ’s Antitrust Division is unwavering as we continue to pursue and uncover corrupt conduct and hold companies that intentionally engage in wrongdoing accountable.”

The FBI Washington Field Office, DOT OIG and USPS OIG investigated the case.

Trial Attorney Patrick S. Brown and former Trial Attorney Julia M. Maloney of the Antitrust Division’s Washington Criminal Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney E. Greg Gilluly Jr. for the Southern District of Georgia prosecuted the case.

Anyone with information on bid rigging, price fixing, market allocation or other anticompetitive conduct in the ready-mix concrete industry should contact the Antitrust Division’s Complaint Center at 888-647-3258 or visit http://www.justice.gov/atr/report-violations.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: Department of State Daily Press Briefing – October 17, 2024

Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

Spokesperson Matthew Miller leads the Department Press Briefing, at the Department of State, on October 17, 2024.

———-
Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at http://www.state.gov and on social media!
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTWHP4RjIpw

MIL OSI Video –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: New critical minerals strategy to attract clean energy investment and create thousands of jobs
Source: New South Wales Premiere

Published: 18 October 2024

Released by: The Premier, Minister for Industry and Trade, Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces

The Minns Labor Government will create a $250 million royalty deferral initiative for critical minerals projects and will examine the implementation of a rapid assessment framework for minerals mining projects.
The initiatives are the first actions of the NSW Government’s new Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Strategy, which sets a vision for NSW to become a global leader in critical minerals.

Currently there are 12 critical minerals mining and processing projects in NSW that are ready for investment. They need around $7.6 billion in capital investment value and are expected to generate about 4,600 jobs during construction and 2,700 ongoing jobs.

High initial investment costs for critical minerals projects are a barrier for the industry. The royalty deferral scheme will assist new projects in the early stages of development, ease financial pressures, attract investment to NSW and enhance the economic viability of the sector.

Another immediate action from the strategy is a joint Department of Planning Housing and Infrastructure and NSW Resources assessment to deliver greater certainty to the sector around the planning process for critical minerals projects.

NSW has globally significant resource deposits and 21 of the 31 nationally declared critical minerals. The strategy identifies priority minerals and metals for NSW – including rare earths, scandium, cobalt, copper and silver – which have important uses in the electrification of the economy and the manufacturing of clean energy products like solar panels and batteries.

The strategy outlines the vital role of critical minerals in supporting broader government priorities, including in the clean energy transition and driving domestic manufacturing.

The International Energy Agency estimates that over the next 20 years, the world will need six times the amount of critical minerals currently mined to reach global net-zero carbon emissions. The energy transition will need double today’s copper production, triple today’s rare earth elements and cobalt production, and thirty times more nickel – all these minerals can be found in NSW.

Fully realising the opportunity of the state’s critical minerals and high-tech metals deposits means moving further down the supply chain and beyond only extracting and exporting resources. Examples of this in the strategy include investigating opportunities to pilot common-user refineries and supporting investment in domestic manufacturing.

The new Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Strategy focuses on five key pillars:
- Encouraging exploration by minimising investment risk in greenfield exploration and promoting exploration in new areas,
- Incentivising production by creating an attractive investment environment and removing barriers to help projects move from exploration to production,
- Developing future-ready skills by providing training and education pathways to encourage careers in critical minerals mining,
- Establishing resilient supply chains by examining local processing facilities, driving research and development, and investigating critical minerals recycling, and
- Engaging local communities by ensuring responsible mining.
The royalty initiative will be an opt-in scheme where the first five years of royalties are deferred. It will apply to critical minerals projects which can start production between 1 July 2025 and 30 June 2030, predominantly mine commodities listed on the Commonwealth Government’s Critical Minerals List and where the proponent has a market capitalisation under $5 billion.

The full Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Strategy, and a two-page summary of the strategy, can be viewed on the NSW Resources website https://www.nsw.gov.au/criticalminerals.

Quotes attributable to NSW Premier Chris Minns:

“We’ve got the metals and minerals the world needs, and NSW is open for business.

“We are sending a clear message to Aussie and global miners: invest in NSW.

“This is about backing regional jobs and manufacturing jobs, and taking advantage of the critical minerals boom.

“We want to make sure we fully realise the opportunities that critical minerals and high-tech metals have for NSW.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully:

“To be a global leader in critical minerals, it is vital that the NSW planning system operates efficiently and provides certainty and transparency to the critical minerals sector and communities.

“The strategy identifies a number of improvements we can make to help enhance the system. These will provide greater guidance to the industry and improve collaboration between government agencies and departments in project assessment.

“We’re also investigating further ways to improve decision-making to make sure we fully realise the opportunity before us.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos:

“Our vision for NSW is to be a global leader in critical minerals and high-tech metals, generating economic prosperity through exploration, mining, processing and advanced manufacturing.

“NSW critical minerals projects typically have long lead times for development, and higher capital investment. The new royalty deferral scheme will assist mine proponents to attract investment and move faster to production.

“The new strategy sets out a clear vision for NSW to be a leader in critical minerals and high-tech metals, generating economic prosperity through responsible exploration, mining, processing, recycling and advanced manufacturing.

“We want NSW to be moving further down the supply chain. Extracting minerals is a critical first step, but we can generate strong economic returns and support more jobs by getting into processing and advanced manufacturing.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong:

“The new Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Strategy forms a key part of the NSW Government’s approach to Industry policy, which seeks to invest and promote home-grown products and services not only for NSW, but for export right around the world.

“This strategy provides a long-term vision and commitment to the critical minerals and high-tech metals mining industry so that businesses can feel confident to invest and grow in NSW, as we seize the investment opportunities of the renewable energy economy, both here and across the globe.”
MIL OSI News –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: NSW Government commits $75 million to deliver much-needed infrastructure for Western Sydney homes
Source: New South Wales Premiere

Published: 18 October 2024

Released by: Deputy Premier, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Minister for Western Sydney

The Minns Labor Government is investing $75 million to build roads, parks, infrastructure and improved town centre access for more than 42,000 new homes across Western Sydney.
Special Infrastructure Contributions fund critical supporting infrastructure for homes such as state and regional roads, primary and secondary schools and emergency, health and bus services.

For more than a decade, fast-growing communities in Western Sydney have not received their fair share of infrastructure. Delivering on its commitment to support essential infrastructure for the communities taking the most housing, the Minns Labor Government is delivering new grant funding to help build better communities.

The $75 million in round 6 of the Special Infrastructure Contribution grant funding targets councils in specific local government areas in the Western Sydney Growth Centres such as Blacktown, Camden, Campbelltown, Hawkesbury, The Hills and Liverpool.

The grant funding aligns with the National Housing Accord target of 377,000 new, well-located homes across NSW by 2029.

Previous grant rounds have supported long-awaited projects for growing communities, including:
- More than $34 million toward the Memorial Avenue Road Upgrade at Kellyville in North West Sydney, which is currently underway.
- More than $20 million toward the new Edmondson Park primary and high schools. Approvals have now been received for the high school, with construction set to get underway in the near future.
The key driver of these projects has been the significant population growth experienced by Western Sydney, which has not been matched by the infrastructure these communities need.

The Minns Labor Government is committed to building a better NSW with more homes, paired with vital infrastructure, as we take action to address the housing crisis.

This grant is also open to state agencies including Communities and Justice, Education, Transport for NSW, NSW Health, NSW Police, Fire and Rescue NSW and the Planning Ministerial Corporation.

The grant funding for the Special Infrastructure Contributions $75 million Round 6 will open for nominations at 9am on Friday 18 October and close midnight on Monday 16 December 2024.

The Special Infrastructure Contributions will continue to apply until 30 June 2026 when the Housing and Productivity Contribution will apply to the current area of the Western Sydney Aerotropolis.

For more information visit: https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/plans-for-your-area/infrastructure-funding/special-infrastructure-contributions/western-sydney-growth-area-sic

Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney Prue Car said:

“Western Sydney is one of the largest growth areas in our state but is lacking the infrastructure to support vibrant and well-connected communities.

“New roads, open spaces, active transport and town centre access will make housing across these six LGAs possible, especially in Blacktown and The Hills.

“Western Sydney was left behind by the previous government, we are not only building new homes but we are building the infrastructure to support better communities.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“The Minns Government is committed to delivering new, well-located homes where they are needed most.

“In order to build a community, residents need access to a local school, connecting roads and critical services.

“This funding means supporting infrastructure is being delivered alongside new homes.”
MIL OSI News –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Remarks by President Biden After Air Force One Arrival | Schönefeld, Germany

US Senate News:

Source: The White House
Berlin Brandenberg International AirportSchönefeld, Germany
10:13 P.M. CET
THE PRESIDENT: It’s a good day for the world. We got Si- — I called Bibi Netanyahu to congratulate him on getting Sinwar. He has a lot of blood on his hands — American blood, Israeli blood, and others.
And I told him that we were really pleased with his actions and, further, that now is the time to move on — move on, move towards a ceasefire in Gaza, make sure that we move in a direction that we’re going to be in a position to make things better for the whole world.
It’s time for this war to end and bring these hostages home. And so, that’s what we’re ready to do. That’s what we’re going to be — and I’m sending Tony Blinken to Israel — I guess he’s going in five days — four days — four or five days. Anyway, he’s going. And I talked with Bibi about that. We’re going to work out what — what is the day after now, what — how do we secure Gaza and move on.
So, thank you very much.
Q Do you feel more hopeful, sir, about a ceasefire?
THE PRESIDENT: I do. I do feel more hopeful.
Q Do you have a sense of when he will end the war, sir?
THE PRESIDENT: Hopefully, he — very soon.
10:14 P.M. CET

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senator Markey Statement on Study Showing Methadone is More Effective Than Other Drugs to Treat Opioid Use Disorder

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

Senator Markey’s Modernizing Opioid Treatment Access Act (MOTAA) would expand access to methadone for the treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD)

Washington (October 17, 2024) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), chair of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Subcommittee on Primary Health and Retirement Security, today released the following statement after the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) released a study showing methadone is more effective than buprenorphine and naloxone for opioid use disorder (OUD).

“The study released today demonstrates that methadone is an essential and effective treatment for opioid use disorder. In fact, more people stayed in treatment when on methadone compared to buprenorphine and naloxone. Amid tens of thousands of people dying every year from opioid overdose, this study reiterates that it is unacceptable to keep this evidence-based, life-saving medication behind antiquated guardrails. My Modernizing Opioid Treatment Access Act would take a carefully considered step forward in expanding access to this medication by allowing the most highly trained addiction physicians in the country prescribe methadone to their patients that could be picked up at a pharmacy. To stand in the way of its passage is to keep in place outdated guardrails that cost people’s lives. Congress must pass the Modernizing Opioid Treatment Access Act.”

In March 2023, Senators Markey and Rand Paul (R-Ky.), along with Representatives Norcross and Bacon, introduced their bipartisan and bicameral MOTAA, which would represent the first major reform to methadone in half a century and is supported by hundreds of clinicians and medical organizations. In December 2023, MOTAA passed the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee. In December 2022, Senator Markey secured his bipartisan Opioid Treatment Access Act (OTAA)—legislation that reduces wait times for patients qualifying for methadone medication treatment and expands access to methadone clinics—into the end-of-year omnibus spending package. That same month, Senator Markey also applauded proposed changes by the Department of Health and Human Services to remove barriers to OUD treatment, such as allowing people to take home doses of methadone medication, which are key provisions included in the OTAA.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Natural Gas Producer Agrees to Settlement to Reduce Emissions in New Mexico

Source: United States Attorneys General 7

Settlement Includes $9.4M Civil Penalty and Compliance Measures that Will Result in Reduction of Over 113,000 Tons’ Worth of CO2 Pollution

The Justice Department, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) today announced a settlement with Hilcorp Energy Company resolving Clean Air Act and New Mexico state law violations at the company’s oil and gas production operations in New Mexico.

Under the settlement, Hilcorp agreed to pay a civil penalty of $9.4 million for violations resulting from Hilcorp’s failure to reduce emissions during well completion operations. The civil penalty will be split between the U.S. and the State of New Mexico. In addition, the company must employ an EPA-approved third-party auditor to ensure compliance with all applicable Clean Air Act and New Mexico Air Quality Control Act requirements.

Hilcorp is further directed to account for the excess volatile organic compound (VOC) and methane emissions released through improper well completions by replacing, on a faster timeline than federal regulations require, old process control equipment with equipment that does not emit air pollution. This mitigation project will occur on Tribal lands of the Jicarilla Apache Nation Reservation, in Rio Arriba County, and on Navajo Nation Off-Reservation Trust Land in San Juan and Sandoval counties; all of these areas have potential environmental justice concerns.

The work that Hilcorp will do under this agreement will result in the equivalent of over 113,000 tons of reduced carbon dioxide emissions over the next three years, similar to the number of reductions achieved by taking 24,000 cars off the road for one year. The settlement will also eliminate nearly 583 tons of VOC emissions annually.

The case is the first to address violations of the Clean Air Act New Source Performance Standards covering well completions following hydraulic fracturing, commonly referred to as “fracking.”

“Hilcorp is a large, sophisticated natural gas producer and should know better than to violate Clean Air Act requirements to capture and control gas produced as a result of fracking,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “We are committed to upholding the rule of law and holding industry accountable. Today’s settlement importantly includes commitments to make infrastructure upgrades that will result in significant reductions of methane and VOC emissions.”

“Oil and gas production results in significant air pollution, including emissions of methane that are one of the leading sources of near-term climate change, which makes today’s settlement with Hilcorp Energy a huge win for the environment and the planet,” said Assistant Administrator David M. Uhlmann of EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “EPA is requiring Hilcorp to pay a $9.4 million penalty and make substantial investments in Clean Air Act compliance, which will reduce climate damaging emissions and improve air quality for all New Mexico residents, including communities with environmental justice concerns.”

“This settlement holds one of the San Juan Basin’s largest polluters accountable for their contribution to climate change and ozone pollution,” said Secretary James Kenney of the New Mexico Environment Department. “If we want to make New Mexico’s air safe for future generations then Houston-based Hilcorp Energy Corporation executives need to step up their game and comply with federal and state rules.”

Federal Clean Air Act and New Mexico state air regulations require oil and gas producers to capture gas that flows back to the surface following fracking using equipment that can accommodate flowback and to implement a reduced emission completion control, commonly referred to as a green completion. Producers have several green completion options to choose from. If none are technically feasible, producers may route the captured gas to a pollution control device like a flare.

Based on EPA’s and NMED’s investigations, the U.S. and the state allege that Hilcorp conducted at least 192 well completion operations in Rio Arriba and San Juan counties from Aug. 2, 2017, through Aug. 1, 2019.

At 145 of these well completions, Hilcorp captured none of the gas and instead released into the atmosphere all gas that flowed back following fracking. At the remainder of well completions, Hilcorp captured a portion of the gas and directed it to a flare but did not demonstrate that all green completion options were infeasible. Hilcorp’s actions resulted in thousands of tons of harmful methane and VOC emissions being released into the environment. Methane is a climate super pollutant and potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change, and VOCs adversely affect human health in multiple ways, including being involved in the formation of ground level ozone.

Hilcorp is one of the nation’s largest privately-owned oil and gas exploration and production companies, and a top producer of natural gas in New Mexico from 2018-2021. New Mexico is one of the top ten producing states for natural gas in the United States for 2018-2023. In 2022, on-shore oil and gas industry data reported to EPA showed that Hilcorp’s San Juan Basin operation emitted the most methane in the U.S. among all oil and gas operations.

The settlement is part of EPA’s Mitigating Climate Change National Enforcement and Compliance Initiative, which focuses, in part, on reducing methane emissions from oil and gas and landfill sources. Like all EPA’s national enforcement initiatives, the Mitigating Climate Change initiative prioritizes communities already overburdened by pollution and other potential environmental justice concerns.

More information on the settlement agreement is available on EPA’s Hilcorp Energy Company webpage.

The consent decree was filed with the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico and is subject to a 30-day comment period. Information on providing public comment and the complaint and proposed consent decree are available on the Justice Department’s website at http://www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.

EPA and NMED investigated the case.

Attorneys of the Environment and Natural Resources Division’s Environmental Enforcement Section are handling the case.

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: October 17th, 2024 JEC Chairman Martin Heinrich Hosts “Pro-Worker, Pro-Business Opportunities” Roundtable

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
PHOTOS & VIDEO
Heinrich highlights how federal legislation is expanding pathways to in-demand jobs in New Mexico
ALBUQUERQUE — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Chairman of the U.S. Joint Economic Committee (JEC), hosted a “Pro-Worker, Pro-Business Opportunities” roundtable to talk directly with New Mexicans about how federal legislation he helped pass into law is creating careers in high-demand sectors and strengthening New Mexico’s health care, skilled trades, early childhood education, and union workforce.

Heinrich Hosts “Pro-Worker, Pro-Business Opportunities” Roundtable on October 17, 2024.
“The manufacturing and clean energy renaissance driven by historic investments from the Infrastructure Law, the Inflation Reduction Act, and the CHIPS and Science Act is creating career opportunities across New Mexico. We need to build on this momentum by expanding access to apprenticeships, supporting new, high-quality jobs in the building and skilled trades, growing pathways to health care careers, and strengthening our early childhood education workforce. I will continue fighting to address workforce shortages, build the middle class, grow our economy, and provide more New Mexicans with the careers they can build their families around in their home communities,” said Heinrich.
Thanks to recently enacted legislation that Heinrich helped pass into law, like the Inflation Reduction Act and Infrastructure Law, New Mexico is now at the center of a clean energy “manufacturing renaissance,” which is creating hundreds of jobs in New Mexico that people can build their families around.
Heinrich discussed his work with community leaders to create more pathways to in-demand careers, including through jobs training and registered apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs. He also highlighted the success of the domestic manufacturing tax credits in the Inflation Reduction Act and CHIPS and Science Act that have expanded clean energy and semiconductor manufacturing in New Mexico.
Through his role as Chairman of the U.S. Joint Economic Committee (JEC), Heinrich has held hearings on job training in the clean energy sector, the domestic boom in manufacturing, and investing in early childhood education. Heinrich has also released reports on growing registered apprenticeship programs, job training for the clean energy transition, the manufacturing renaissance, addressing rural health worker shortages, the economic benefits of early childhood education, employing women in the clean energy sector, and growing the labor force in New Mexico.
Heinrich has long been committed to creating new pathways to careers for New Mexicans in the communities where they grew up, while tackling shortages in in-demand sectors like health care and early childhood education.
Heinrich introduced the Apprenticeship Pathways Act, legislation to create pathways to careers for high school students by expanding access to apprenticeship programs for occupations with high need, including the building trades, healthcare, manufacturing, technology, telecommunications, and early childhood education.
Earlier this year, Heinrich introduced the Pre-Apprenticeships To Hardhats (PATH) Act, legislation to strengthen the pipeline for careers in New Mexico, address rising workforce shortages, and grow the state’s economy through quality pre-apprenticeship programs.
In March, Heinrich introduced the Providing Resources and Opportunities for Health Education and Learning (PRO-HEAL) Act, legislation that will tackle the health care provider shortage in New Mexico and nationwide by expanding pathways to high-quality, in-demand health care careers that medical professionals can access in their communities. Specifically, the PRO-HEAL Act addresses medical provider shortages by incentivizing states and institutions of higher education to expand or create health care provider pipeline programs, particularly in underserved and rural communities. The legislation is inspired by the success of the Combined BA/MD Degree Program at the University of New Mexico, where over 65% of students who have graduated from their program practice medicine in New Mexico.
Last year, Heinrich introduced the Pathways to Health Careers Act, legislation that reauthorizes and modernizes the Health Profession Opportunity Grant (HPOG) program to help address health care shortages in New Mexico and across the country and create pathways to high-quality, in-demand health care careers.
The HPOG program has a proven track record of successfully educating workers for jobs in the health care industry, while also providing career coaching, job placement, and a mix of other support services. The Pathways to Health Careers Act would restart and expand the HPOG Program, providing $425 million to make HPOG available nationwide from FY2024 through FY2028 and includes set asides for Tribes and U.S. Territories.
In 2021, Heinrich introduced the Championing Apprenticeships for New Careers and Employees in Technology (CHANCE in Tech) Act, legislation to create earlier pathways to high-paying careers in the information technology (IT) industry.
Investments in Clean Energy and Advanced Manufacturing:
Heinrich has been fighting hard to pass legislation and secure investments that are growing the state’s economy, building the middle class, and expanding high-quality jobs New Mexicans can build their families around.
In 2022, Heinrich helped author and pass into law the landmark Inflation Reduction Act,which has created a manufacturing renaissance in the state and established New Mexico at the center of the nation’s clean energy future. Heinrich marked the two-year anniversary of the legislation being signed into law in August, highlighting how its incentives have expanded and spurred a number of new clean energy projects across New Mexico.
Earlier this year, Heinrich highlighted $20 million from the Inflation Reduction Act for Pajarito Powder to scale production of components for electrolyzers and fuel cells. Heinrich invited the U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm to tour the facilities of Pajarito Powder in Albuquerque, N.M.
In June, the N.M. Delegation welcomed $23.9 million from the CHIPS and Science Act for SolAero, an Albuquerque, N.M.-based manufacturing company, to increase its production of compound semiconductors for spacecraft and satellites, as part of an expansion and modernization of their facility. Heinrich, Luján, and Stansbury, along with Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller, welcomed U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce Don Graves and White House CHIPS Coordinator Ryan Harper to New Mexico to highlight this investment.
In April, Heinrich and Luján welcomed Energy Secretary Granholm to break ground on a new 216,000-square-foot Array Technologies manufacturing campus — a $50+ million investment located on Albuquerque’s Westside — which will employ over 300 additional New Mexicans to facilitate the production, assembly, design, engineering, and customer service of solar tracking technology.
That same day, Heinrich, Granholm, and Vasquez participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the production of the first wind towers coming off the Arcosa Wind Towers manufacturing line. The ribbon-cutting ceremony came nearly nine months after Heinrich welcomed President Biden to the Belén manufacturing facility — a $60 million investment that will have a $314 million economic impact and create 250 jobs in the region.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Former NYCHA Superintendent Convicted Of Bribery And Extortion Offenses

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

In the First Trial Following a 70-Person Takedown in February 2024, Joy Harris, a Former New York City Housing Authority Superintendent, Was Convicted of Bribery and Extortion for Accepting Cash from Contractors in Exchange for Awarding Contracts

Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that Joy Harris, a former New York City Housing Authority (“NYCHA”) superintendent, was convicted of bribery and extortion under color of official right for soliciting and accepting tens of thousands of dollars from contractors in exchange for awarding those contractors no-bid contracts at NYCHA developments. The verdict followed a one-week trial before U.S. District Judge Lewis A. Kaplan, who will sentence HARRIS on February 26, 2025.

U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “Corruption is an insidious crime—difficult to detect, corrosive in its effect on government agencies, and damaging to public trust in government institutions. Joy Harris’s years-long abuse of her position to demand tens of thousands of dollars in bribes betrayed her duty to NYCHA residents, the City of New York, and taxpayers. The jury’s unanimous verdict sends a clear message that those who use their public offices for personal gain will be held accountable.”

According to the evidence presented in court during the trial:

NYCHA is the largest public housing authority in the country, providing housing to New Yorkers across the City and receiving over $1.5 billion in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”) every year. When repairs or construction work at NYCHA housing require the use of outside contractors, services must typically be purchased via a bidding process. However, when the value of a contract was under a certain threshold, designated staff at NYCHA developments, including assistant superintendent and superintendents, could hire a contractor of their choosing without soliciting multiple bids.

HARRIS, an assistant superintendent and superintendent at four different NYCHA developments in Manhattan between 2015 and 2021, demanded and accepted cash in exchange for NYCHA contracts. She required contractors to pay bribes up front in order to be awarded the contracts or required bribe payments after the contractor finished the work and needed a NYCHA employee to sign off on the completed job so that the contractor could be paid by NYCHA. HARRIS typically demanded 10% of the contract value—between $500 and $1,000, depending on the size of the contract. In total, HARRIS demanded and accepted tens of thousands of dollars in bribes in exchange for awarding contracts worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.

* * *

HARRIS, 49, of Bushkill, Pennsylvania, was convicted of one count of federal program bribery, which carries a maximum term of 10 years in prison, and one count of extortion under color of official right, which carries a maximum term of 20 years in prison.

The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.

Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the New York City Department of Investigation, U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”), the HUD Office of Inspector General, and the U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, which work together collaboratively as part of the HSI Document and Benefit Fraud Task Force, as well as the special agents and task force officers of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York.

This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (“OCDETF”) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles criminal organizations using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

Of the 70 current and former NYCHA employees charged with bribery and extortion offenses in February 2024, 55 of the defendants have now pled guilty or been convicted at trial. The charges against the remaining defendants are pending.

This case is being handled by the Office’s Public Corruption Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jerry J. Fang, Meredith Foster, Sheb Swett, Jacob R. Fiddelman, and Catherine Ghosh are in charge of the prosecution, with the assistance of Paralegal Specialists Jayda Foote and Nandita Vasantha.

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Extends Renewal Period for Flood Insurance Policyholders in Florida Affected by Hurricane Milton

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: FEMA Extends Renewal Period for Flood Insurance Policyholders in Florida Affected by Hurricane Milton

FEMA Extends Renewal Period for Flood Insurance Policyholders in Florida Affected by Hurricane Milton

Extension follows grace period announcement last week for seven states affected by Helene

WASHINGTON – While renewal dates have passed for some National Flood Insurance Program policyholders in Florida who were affected by Hurricane Milton, these policyholders may be able to take steps that will renew their policy and receive coverage for flood damage.

Certain NFIP policyholders in Florida affected by Hurricane Milton now have additional time to renew their policies without a lapse in coverage. These policyholders now have until Dec. 10, 2024 to renew their policies. This is a significant extension from the standard 30-day renewal grace period.

“I’m sensitive to the fact that our policyholders are dealing with many obstacles during this period of extensive recovery in the wake of Hurricane Milton,” said Jeff Jackson, the interim Senior Executive of the NFIP. “Extending the grace period for policy renewals is one way to show our customer that we care about what they’re going through.”

Policyholders should be sure to ask their insurance agent or company about advance claims payments to help start their recovery. Advance payments may be available of up to $20,000 prior to a visit from an adjuster.

FEMA previously announced an extended grace period for policyholders in seven states affected by Helene, including Florida. Due to Hurricane Milton, this grace period will be extended for Florida policyholders based on the below schedule.

If the policy term ended on:	The grace period would have ended:	But now runs until:
Aug. 28, 2024	Sept. 26, 2024	Dec. 10, 2024
Sept. 26, 2024	Oct. 25, 2024	Dec. 10, 2024
Oct. 15, 2024	Nov. 13, 2024	Dec. 10, 2024
Nov. 1, 2024	Nov. 30, 2024	Dec. 10, 2024
Nov. 15, 2024	Dec. 14, 2024	Dec. 14, 2024

Policyholders whose NFIP policy renewal date is within this range should contact their agent or insurance company.

For example, if the original policy expiration date was Aug. 28, 2024, the policy may be renewed on or before Dec. 10, 2024. Holders of active policies can file claims for damage received from Milton if premium is paid.

Other Actions to Help Policyholders

The NFIP has extended the proof of loss requirement for policyholders who suffered flood damage from Hurricane Milton from the standard 60 days to 120 days from the date of loss.

The NFIP also authorized its Write Your Own insurance company partners and the NFIP Direct to pay claims based on the adjuster’s report without requiring policyholders to sign a proof of loss. When a policyholder seeks additional payment for any reason or disagrees with the adjuster report, they may still submit a signed proof of loss to the insurer along with supporting documentation. This can include a contractor’s estimate, bills, receipts, photographs and other related documents.

Anyone affected by Milton who has an NFIP flood insurance policy and has suffered flood damage should begin filing their claim now. Evacuated policyholders can still start their claim and provide specifics later once local officials say it’s safe to return home.

Policyholders who wish to take advantage of the grace period should contact their agent or insurance company. Those who don’t have their insurance agent or company’s contact information should call 877-336-2627 for assistance.

FEMA also encourages NFIP policyholders affected by Milton to apply for federal disaster assistance. The three ways to apply are visiting disasterassistance.gov, calling 800-621-3362 or using the FEMA App. Survivors may receive funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay.

To learn more about how to file a flood insurance claim visit floodsmart.gov.

amy.ashbridge
Thu, 10/17/2024 – 21:36

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Brown Announces That East Palestine Selected to Receive Nearly $16 Million To Build a New Public Safety Complex

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Ohio Sherrod Brown

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has selected East Palestine to receive a major investment of nearly $16 million to build a new public safety complex that will host the city’s fire, emergency services, and police departments, along with its 911 call center.

“East Palestine knows all too well how important well-equipped first responders are to protecting Ohioans. We’re continuing to work to make this community whole by securing a new facility for East Palestine police officers, firefighters, and emergency personnel. I’m proud to have worked with the East Palestine community to deliver this essential facility for them,” said Brown.

Brown secured a provision in the government funding package that made USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Disaster Assistance available to the Village for building this new public safety complex. Brown aggressively advocated to ensure that the Village was selected for this investment.

Last year’s train derailment brought to light East Palestine’s serious need for updated public safety infrastructure. The Village’s firehouse is located just 40 feet from the railroad tracks. Had the derailment occurred half a mile sooner, the fire station would have been inaccessible and unable to respond to the disaster. Making matters worse, every public safety building in the Village is within the 1-mile evacuation zone for railroad incidents. When the derailment happened, the Village’s dispatch center was forced to relocate, and the fire and police personnel ended up operating out of a city garage.

A fully functional dispatch center is essential for effective emergency responses. The establishment of a well-located public safety building is critical to public safety. This new complex would not only serve the Village but also assist the county as a back-up 911 call center.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar Completes Visits to All 87 Counties in 2024

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)

MINNESOTA – With stops today in three remaining counties: Aitkin (American Peat Manufacturing); Carlton (local airport), and Kanabec (Lakes & Pines Community Action Council), U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar has once again visited every one of Minnesota’s 87 counties in one year.

“The best way for me to do my job is by listening to the people of Minnesota and getting things done for them,” said Klobuchar. “That’s why every year I meet with Minnesotans all over our state and discuss what we can get done together. From expanding child care and housing to supporting local businesses, I’m committed to taking action on the issues that matter most.”

Today, Klobuchar toured American Peat Technology in Aitkin and then went to the Cloquet Airport in Carlton County which is developing a new storage hanger thanks to federal funding. Klobuchar ended the day in Mora and visited the Lakes and Pines Community Action Council.

This year, Klobuchar’s stops included:

1. Aitkin
• Toured American Peat Technology and met with their leadership team.

2. Anoka
• Gave remarks at the USA Cup Opening Ceremony in Blaine.
• Attended the 43rd annual Game Fair and discussed conservation policy with Ron Schara.
• Participated in Coon Rapids 4th of July Festivities.
• Attended the Blaine Festival.

3. Becker
• Led a child care discussion and toured the Boys & Girls Club of Detroit Lakes LEAP Preschool.

4. Beltrami
• Led a breakfast discussion with Bemidji City and Beltrami county and tribal leaders.
• Spoke at the dedication ceremony of the new Bemidji Veterans Home, toured it with veterans, and met with Red Lake Band Members.

5. Benton
• Toured SNX Technologies Inc. and met with their leadership.

6. Big Stone
• Discussed agriculture with local farmers while touring Anne Schwagerl’s farm.

7. Blue Earth
• Visited Mankato in the aftermath of severe flooding with Mankato mayor and Representative Finstad.
• Met with family and friends of Sergeant Cade Wolfe.

8. Brown
• Attended the community celebration at the Pheasant Opener in Sleepy Eye and spoke at the Pheasants Forever land dedication.
• Toured the New Ulm Airport’s recent upgrades and met with local leaders.

9. Carlton
• Toured the new Cloquet airport hangar with airport leadership and the Cloquet mayor.

10. Carver
• Led a discussion with the City of Chaska mayor and public safety leadership about their Emergency Operations Center project.
• Toured the town of Carver with the mayor in the aftermath of severe flooding.
• Attended the Highway 212 Groundbreaking Ceremony.
• Spoke to veterans at the Chanhassen Memorial Day event.

11. Cass
• Led a community discussion with the Walker mayor and local business leaders.

12. Chippewa
• Spoke with veterans and toured the new Montevideo Veterans Home.

13. Chisago
• Discussed regional tourism and toured the Franconia Sculpture Park.

14. Clay
• Celebrated the launch of the federally funded Moorhead 11th Street Underpass project.
• Attended the Reimagine Romkey Park event.

15. Clearwater
• Toured TEAM Industries and met with their leadership.

16. Cook
• Visited the North Shore Winery and Coho Cafe.

17. Cottonwood
• Toured Red Rock Rural Water Treatment Center and visited with local leaders.

18. Crow Wing
• Met with the mayor and city leadership about the Highway 210 expansion in Brainerd.
• Toured the new YMCA child care center.

19. Dakota
• Gave remarks at the Kaposia Library opening in South Saint Paul.
• Met with Burnsville first responders.
• Attended the opening ceremony of the Veterans Memorial Greenway in Inver Grove Heights.
• Met with law enforcement and community leaders in Hastings to highlight the Cooper/Davis Act that requires social media to alert authorities when controlled substances are being distributed illicitly on their platforms.
• Attended an event in Inver Grove Heights to highlight the new Criminal Justice Network for Minnesota law enforcement.
• Led the Survivor March and delivered remarks at the Susan G. Komen 32nd Annual Race for the Cure in Eagan.

20. Dodge
• Met with the owner and toured Chaotic Good Brewery in Kasson.

21. Douglas
• Led a discussion at the Alexandria YMCA about their child care program.

22. Faribault
• Met with leadership and toured Winnebago Manufacturing in Blue Earth.

23. Fillmore
• Toured Harmony Enterprises manufacturing facility and their child care center.
• Toured the new Preston State Veterans Home and met with veterans.

24. Freeborn
• Led a discussion and toured the Freeborn/Mower Electric Cooperative in Albert Lea.

25. Goodhue
• Met with students and school leadership to hear about the Red Wing Flight Path workforce training program.
• Spoke at the 50th Anniversary Jaunt With Jim bike ride in Cannon Falls.

26. Grant
• Toured the West Central High School Greenhouse and the Central Lakes College’s mobile meat cutting trailer and met with FFA students and their instructors.

27. Hennepin
• Attended the annual MLK Breakfast.
• Delivered remarks at the Asia Mall Lunar New Year celebration in Bloomington.
• Delivered Remarks at the MN Newspaper Association Convention.
• Met with officers at the Minneapolis Second Precinct Station.
• Convened a meeting with the Metropolitan Airport Commission leadership to hear updates on aviation safety and passenger experience.
• Delivered remarks at the Stand with Ukraine Two Year Commemoration event.
• Spoke at the Annual Parkinson’s Foundation Walk in Plymouth.
• Delivered remarks at the Celebrating the Sistas Awards Ceremony and presented the Icon Award honoring Laysha Ward.
• Delivered remarks at the MN Ovarian Cancer Alliance Gala.
• Visited Woodlake Nature Center in Richfield and met with staff.
• Spoke at the 78th Annual Paralyzed Veterans of America National Convention.
• Participated in the groundbreaking event for the St. Louis Park Cedar Lake Road Reconstruction project.
• Spoke at the Annual Somali Independence Day Street Festival.
• Delivered remarks at the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation 75th Anniversary Gala.
• Toured the I-494 construction site and met with local project leaders in Bloomington.
• Attended the Minnesota Business Partnership Annual Dinner.
• Attended the Twin Cities Pride Parade and Festival in Minneapolis.
• Honored the Legendary Cornbread Harris at an event with his son Jimmy Jam.
• Attended Champlin Father Hennepin Festival.
• Convened a meeting with the Metropolitan Airport Commission leadership to hear updates on aviation safety and passenger experience.
• Attended the Charles Lindbergh Richfield Post Office Dedication Ceremony.
• Presented the Spirit of Hospitality Award at the Bloomington Travel and Tourism Diamond Service Awards Gala.
• Attended the Niron opening and met with local businesses and Shakopee Band investors.

28. Houston
• Led a discussion with leadership and toured the Houston County airport in Caledonia.

29. Hubbard
• Toured a workforce housing development and met with local leaders.

30. Isanti
• Toured the North Star Child and Family Advocacy Center in Braham.

31. Itasca
• Met with leadership and toured the KOOTASCA Child Care Hub.

32. Jackson
• Met with first responders to discuss the new EMS telemedicine ambulance in Jackson.

33. Kanabec
• Toured the Lakes and Pines Community Action Council and visited with leaders.

34. Kandiyohi
• Toured the Life Link III Air Base at Willmar Municipal Airport.
• Attended the four lane Highway 23 completion celebration.

35. Kittson
• Met with owners and toured Far North Distillery.

36. Koochiching
• Met with the team at the Voyageurs National Park Headquarters.

37. Lac qui Parle
• Toured PURIS Plant-Based Protein manufacturing facility and met with leadership.

38. Lake
• Visited the iconic Betty’s Pies in Two Harbors.

39. Lake of the Woods
• Met with county leadership about their new water safety equipment.

40. Le Sueur
• Led a discussion with the Le Sueur Sheriff and other local leaders and toured the department.
• Viewed the flood damage and met with leadership in Waterville about federal assistance.

41. Lincoln
• Led a discussion at Lyon-Lincoln Electric Co-Op with their leadership.

42. Lyon
• Visited the farm of Carolyn and Jonathan Olson in Cottonwood.

43. McLeod
• Participated in the Winsted Post Office Rededication Ceremony to James A. Rogers, Jr.

44. Mahnomen
• Toured the White Earth Nation College with Chairman Fairbanks and members of the Tribal Council.

45. Marshall
• Toured North Valley Health Center Community Hospital in Warren.

46. Martin
• Toured the CHS soybean processing facility in Fairmont.

47. Meeker
• Toured the Doosan Bobcat manufacturing plant and met with leadership in Litchfield.

48. Mille Lacs
• Met with the owner and enjoyed breakfast at the Bee Cafe in Milaca.

49. Morrison
• Delivered remarks at the Memorial Day program at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls.
• Met with the mayor and area leadership to discuss the Little Falls bridge project.

50. Mower
• Led a discussion and toured the Hormel Foods child care center in Austin.
• Attended the I-90 bridge project groundbreaking ceremony in Austin.

51. Murray
• Met with the owners and got a tour of Painted Prairie Vineyard in Currie.

52. Nicollet
• Toured KATO Engineering and met with leadership in North Mankato.
• Delivered remarks and presented the Purple Heart at a ceremony honoring Corporal Earl Meyer in St. Peter.

53. Nobles
• Met with CEDA and county officials to discuss child care projects and solutions in Worthington.
• Toured the Highway 59 federally funded street project with Worthington leadership.

54. Norman
• Convened a meeting with Norman County leadership to discuss the West Central Regional Water District project.

55. Olmsted
• Delivered remarks at the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association Annual Legislative Conference in Rochester.
• Attended the Memorial Day Rochester Honkers game.
• Toured the Mayo Clinic’s new Kellen building.
• Delivered remarks at the Soldier’s Field Aquatic Center improvements opening ceremony.
• Led a discussion with county leadership and law enforcement about efforts to combat illegal fentanyl use in Rochester.

56. Otter Tail
• Met with leadership from Pioneer Kids Child Care and toured the facility in Fergus Falls with Fergus Falls Chamber of Commerce members.

57. Pennington
• Visited Northern Woodwork Inc. in Thief River Falls.
• Met with city and business leadership at Rivers and Rails Brewing Company.

58. Pine
• Toured Pine Technical & Community College and met with leadership.

59. Pipestone
• Met with local leaders at the Pipestone Airport to discuss improvement plans.

60. Polk
• Met with child care and city leaders at the Prairie Pines Child Care Center in Fosston.

61. Pope
• Met with staff and toured Clyde Machines in Glenwood with the mayor and Pope County leadership.

62. Ramsey
• Toured PAR Systems in Shoreview.
• Delivered remarks at the St. Paul Firefighters Local 21 Installation celebration.
• Gave welcome remarks at the Thai Songkran Festival opening ceremony.
• Delivered remarks at the Official State Memorial Day event at Fort Snelling.
• Spoke at the Hmong Freedom Festival in St. Paul.
• Hosted Secretary Becerra at the Episcopal Homes Senior Living Center to highlight Medicare drug pricing.
• Hosted tourism event at the Minnesota State Fair in Falcon Heights.
• Toured the Carter Work Project in St. Paul with Habitat for Humanity leadership.
• Delivered remarks at the Military Appreciation Day event at the MN State Fair.
• Spoke at the CLUES Fiesta Latina in St. Paul.
• Toured Delkor Systems in Arden Hills with Ex-Im Bank Director Herrnstadt.
• Led a round table discussion with Ex-Im Bank director and Minnesota business leaders.
• Delivered remarks at the St. Paul Kellogg-Third Street Bridge Construction Kick Off event.
• Attended the Serving Our Troops Event in support of military families.
• Attended St. Paul St. Patrick’s Day festivities.
• Toured the Neighborhood Development Center with Secretary Yellen

63. Red Lake
• Led a discussion about the Farm Bill with the Minnesota Wheat Growers Association and Minnesota Barley Growers Association.

64. Redwood
• Delivered remarks and met with agricultural leaders at Farmfest.

65. Renville
• Toured K&M Manufacturing in Renville and met with employees.

66. Rice
• Met local leaders and manufacturers to tour a planned child care facility in Faribault.
• Toured flood damage and met with leadership in Northfield.

67. Rock
• Toured the new child care center under construction in Luverne.

68. Roseau
• Attended annual Hockey Day Celebration activities in Warroad.

69. Saint Louis
• Toured flood damage in downtown Cook with the mayor and local leaders.
• Toured the flash flood damage in Biwabik with the mayor and local leaders.
• Joined Duluth mayor to highlight the success of their flood mitigation projects.
• Visited the Blatnik Bridge to highlight its need for repair.
• Attended Fourth of July festivities in Aurora, Gilbert, Eveleth, Tower, and Ely.
• Presented a flag to the Ely mayor at Ely Memorial High School in commemoration of their 100th Anniversary Celebration.
• Attended Labor Day events in Duluth and Virginia.

70. Scott
• Met with Scott County Sheriff leadership, viewed the new rescue equipment, and toured the 911 Dispatch Center in Shakopee.

71. Sherburne
• Met with leadership of the Wave Youth Center in Big Lake to tour and discuss their expansion project for middle and high school-aged youth.

72. Sibley
• Toured the Heartland Ethanol Plant in Winthrop with company leadership.

73. Stearns
• Delivered remarks at the annual St. John’s Boys’ Choir Spring Gala in St. Cloud.
• Spoke at the St. Cloud VA Medical Center 100th Anniversary celebration.
• Toured the St. Cloud Coborn’s with business leadership.

74. Steele
• Convened a discussion with Owatonna High School staff and Chamber of Commerce leadership about their Youth Skills Training Program.

75. Stevens
• Met with the Chancellor of UMN Morris and toured the campus.

76. Swift
• Toured the Swift County Historical Museum in Benson and met with leadership.

77. Todd
• Met with company leadership of EnterpriseCP Manufacturing and toured the facility.

78. Traverse
• Led a discussion with Browns Valley mayor and fire chief to hear about fire department operations.

79. Wabasha
• Toured Pepin Manufacturing Inc. in Lake City.
• Spoke at the Governor’s Fishing Opener Kick-Off in Lake City.

80. Wadena
• Met with Central Lakes College leaders to discuss their Butchery Program and federal partnerships.

81. Waseca
• Met with staff and toured Winegar Manufacturing in Waseca.

82. Washington
• Spoke at the 1st Annual Momentous Music Festival with Brian Mueller in Woodbury, honoring Aimee Muller.
• Attended the Hugo Good Neighbors Day festivities.

83. Watonwan
• Visited the farm of Harold Wolle in St. James.

84. Wilkin
• Toured CHI St. Francis Health and met with leadership in Breckenridge.

85. Winona
• Visited local businesses in Winona with Chamber of Commerce leadership to discuss tourism.

86. Wright
• Attended the I-94 West Corridor Coalition Gap Project Groundbreaking Ceremony in Monticello which received federal funds.

87. Yellow Medicine
• Met with leadership and visited the Yellow Medicine County Historical Society and Museum.
• Walked the Dave Smiglewski Memorial Trail in Granite Falls with the Smiglewski Family.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: A sister’s last hope to save her brother from addiction – David Vincent Smith’s He Ain’t Heavy is a triumphant debut

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Chris Thompson, Lecturer, Australian Catholic University

Bonsai Fims

So, on we go
His welfare is of my concern
No burden is he to bear
We’ll get there
For I know
He would not encumber me
He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother
– He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother by The Hollies

Writer–Director David Vincent Smith’s reference to The Hollies’ 1969 hit as the title for his new film is not without irony.

Max (Sam Corlett) – drug-dependent and out of control – is clearly a crushing weight on his sister Jade (Leila George) and mother Bev (Greta Scacchi).

The opening scene of this compelling new Australian production throws us right into the chaos he visits upon them. The desperate, violent, off-camera shouts of abuse from Max as his sister sneaks past concerned neighbours and into their mother’s house are obviously nothing new.

Bev, seated at the kitchen table, shows none of the anxiety we see in Jade. Perhaps she’s beyond reacting to Max’s outbursts. Perhaps she looks past the ugly side of her son through eyes that see only with a mother’s love.

Jade, however, is at the end of her tether. Everything she’s tried has failed. She’s left with just one last desperate measure.

This desperate measure didn’t come to David Vincent Smith as a narrative conceit. It was much closer to home.

One night, Smith got a call from his mother who told him his own drug-addicted brother was outside their home. As he explains in the film’s press kit:

I could hear smashing windows in the background as he tried to claw his way inside. I was done. There had been many years of violence, emergency rooms and mental trauma […] my own life was suffering as a result […] what could I do? I had an idea – I could kidnap him. Take him out to the desert, throw away the car keys and resolve this once and for all.

Smith didn’t pursue that extreme thought in real life. Instead, it found its way onto the screen, first as a short “proof of concept” film – I’m Not Hurting You, which played at the 2019 Sydney Film Festival – and then as He Ain’t Heavy, his first feature film.

The kidnapping and withdrawal

Jade does indeed kidnap her brother. She sedates him and brings him to their dead grandparents’ home in the country, which Jade and Bev have been packing up in preparation to for its sale.

Here, we see Jade’s methodical preparation of the room where she will incarcerate Max, the food she will feed him, the posters and pamphlets that inform her how to manage a drug addict’s withdrawal.

The film follows Jade (Leila George), who has spent much of her life trying to bring her brother Max out of his drug addiction.
Bonsai Fims

The choice of the grandparents’ home is significant for our understanding of this fractured family. Here we find evidence that things weren’t always like this.

We see old photo albums of happier times, toys and games that are now just reminders of fun family visits, a guitar that was once part of Max’s promising singing career, the nearby waterhole where lazy days were spent, and pencil marks on the door jamb recording the siblings’ growth.

Perhaps the resonance of their better days will be as powerful as the enforced withdrawal in bringing Max back. But, of course, Jade’s best-laid plans don’t go as she might have hoped.

Sam Corlett, who plays Max, also plays the role of Leif Eriksson in the popular Netflix series Vikings: Valhalla.
Bonsai Fims

In many ways, Max’s drug addiction is what Alfred Hitchcock would have called a McGuffin – the story element you think the film is about, when in fact the film is about something else entirely.

In this case, that something else is love: the love Jade feels for her brother that leads to this extreme action, the love Bev feels for her son that makes her vulnerable to his unpredictable and violent behaviour, and the absence of love Max feels for himself – a void that sucks him into a self-destructive spiral.

He Ain’t Heavy is essentially a three-handed chamber piece that delivers a triumvirate of distinctive, grounded and well-delineated performances, each one serving a sharply written screenplay imbued with an authenticity that reflects Smith’s lived experience.

Bev (Greta Scacchi) feels a lot of lover for her son, which makes her vulnerable to his unpredictable and violent behaviour.
Bonsai Fims

A powerful portrait of familial love

Without giving any spoilers, there are some narrative conveniences along the way that might detract from a lesser film. In this case, however, they are easy to forgive, in favour of the powerful viewing experience they help deliver.

If only for the curiosity factor, it’s worth noting Leila George is also Greta Scacchi’s real-life daughter (her father is Vincent D’Onofrio). This obviously doesn’t hurt when it comes to casting for family resemblance. But this tidbit of trivia is quickly forgotten in the moments of each of their finely crafted, absorbing performances.

In Smith’s earlier short film version, we see a plaque on the grandparents’ kitchen wall with the following aphorism:

RECIPE FOR LIFE – pinch of persistence, dash of kindness, spoonful of laughter, heap of love.

This is a story about a family that has exhausted its persistence, and for whom laughter is something of the past. But Jade’s extreme action is really an act of kindness. Both she and Bev, in their own ways, are driven by that heap of love.

He Ain’t Heavy is a film that deserves the same heap of love from its audience.

The film serves a sharply written screenplay imbued with authenticity.
Bonsai Fims

He Ain’t Heavy is in select cinemas from October 17.

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

– ref. A sister’s last hope to save her brother from addiction – David Vincent Smith’s He Ain’t Heavy is a triumphant debut – https://theconversation.com/a-sisters-last-hope-to-save-her-brother-from-addiction-david-vincent-smiths-he-aint-heavy-is-a-triumphant-debut-237764

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI China: China boasts robust industrial ecosystem for intelligent connected vehicles: minister

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

China boasts robust industrial ecosystem for intelligent connected vehicles: minister

BEIJING, Oct. 17 — A comprehensive industrial system for China’s intelligent connected vehicle sector has basically taken shape, covering products and technologies such as basic chips, sensors, computing platforms and chassis control, Minister of Industry and Information Technology Jin Zhuanglong said Thursday.

Jin made the remarks during the opening ceremony of the 2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference in Beijing.

China leads the world in human-machine interaction and is rapidly advancing toward breakthroughs in technologies like steer-by-wire and active suspension technologies, among others, the minister noted.

According to him, the country’s intelligent connected vehicle sector currently boasts nearly 400 “little giant” firms, or novel elites of small and medium-sized enterprises that are engaged in manufacturing, specialize in a niche market and hold cutting-edge technologies.

Five Chinese lidar companies have ranked among the global top ten in sales, while nine automotive manufacturers are piloting conditionally automated driving models, Jin said.

To support such rapid industrial development, more than 50 cities in China have designated over 32,000 kilometers of test routes for intelligent connected vehicles and upgraded about 10,000 kilometers of roads with smart technologies.

The 2024 World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference, running from Oct. 17 to 19, has attracted over 250 auto firms and institutions from home and abroad. More than 200 new technologies and products are expected to make their debut at the event.

MIL OSI China News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Vice premier urges improved policy implementation to hit yearly growth targets

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

NANJING, Oct. 17 — Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang has called for more effective implementation of both existing and incremental policies to fulfill the country’s annual social and economic development targets.

Ding, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during an investigation and research tour of Henan and Jiangsu, two provinces in central and eastern China, respectively.

The tour, spanning from Monday to Thursday, focused on economic operations, sci-tech innovation and industry development.

In Zhengzhou, capital of Henan, Ding visited places including an academy of science, a university and a digital technology firm, calling for concerted efforts to promote projects aligned with major national strategies. He underscored the need to cultivate the digital economy and develop new quality productive forces tailored to local conditions.

While visiting a housing project in the city, Ding also urged strengthened financial support for the country’s real-estate market.

In Suzhou and Jiangyin, two cities of Jiangsu, Ding learned about local efforts to attract foreign investment, develop the integrated circuit sector and promote vocational education. He said it is crucial to integrate sci-tech innovation and industry innovation to create momentum for high-quality development.

Work should also be done to maximize the use of local government special-purpose bonds, improve the business environment for the private businesses, and enhance services for foreign investors, he added.

MIL OSI China News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Director Rachel Rossi Delivers Keynote Address at the Community Legal Services 57th Annual Pro Bono Awards Dinner

Source: United States Attorneys General 7

Remarks as Prepared for Delivery

Thank you very much for that generous introduction, Executive Director Harvey. I want to first thank Jeff for his leadership and for hosting this awards dinner. And Jeff, thank you for your service as a lieutenant colonel in the Florida Army National Guard during the recent hurricanes.

Also, a big thank you to Andrea Ortiz, CLS’ Director of Pro Bono Services, for all her work to make tonight’s event possible. And thank you to all those who helped plan this award dinner.

I also want to recognize the distinguished attendees tonight for attending this event that recognizes the amazing work of volunteer attorneys throughout the 12-county service area of Community Legal Services.

And I want to congratulate all those who will be recognized with awards tonight. The commitments you have made to the work of serving those most in need is truly inspiring. To all the pro bono volunteers, including those assisting the Community Legal Services’ Pro Bono Program and the Peer Academy, we commend your dedication and aid to the most in-need in our communities.

Finally, I must acknowledge my colleague Roger Handberg, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Florida, and his leadership team. We’ve been impressed with the Office’s innovative access to justice initiatives, including their regular collaboration with CLS.

It is an honor to be here. I am delighted to join all of you to shine a light on the access to justice work being done in the Orlando area and across Central Florida.

As Jeff mentioned, I lead the Office for Access to Justice, a standalone office within the Justice Department. Our mission is to ensure access to the promises and protections of our civil and criminal legal systems for all communities. We do this work strategically, through several different initiatives:

We are focused on dismantling economic barriers, including by promoting reduced reliance criminal and civil fines and fees.

We’re breaking down language access barriers, through the department-wide Language Access Coordinator who led efforts to modernize the department’s Language Access Plan for the first time in over a decade.

We’re combatting barriers to reentry for adults in custody, through innovative civil legal assistance programs in federal prisons.

We’re also disrupting barriers through Access DOJ, an initiative that utilizes human centered design and best practices from the access to justice field to make it easier to access critical forms, understand important information and resources, or more easily navigate federal court systems, such as bankruptcy proceedings.

And of course, we promote access to council and legal help. I don’t have to convince the people in this room that pro bono assistance is essential to disrupting barriers and closing the justice gap.

Legal aid organizations provide invaluable assistance to the most vulnerable, but they can’t help everyone. There are eligibility requirements that limit the kinds of cases they can take. Even when eligibility is not an issue, the need for legal aid often outweighs the resources available.

That’s where pro bono attorneys come in: they extend the reach of these limited resources by volunteering to represent low-income individuals, often in close collaboration with legal service providers. The justice gap is vast — and it will require a wide range of strategies and tools to close it. This includes the hard work and dedication of pro bono attorneys.

That’s why I’m so inspired by programs like CLS’ Pro Bono Academy, an innovative program that provides structured training to prepare volunteers for pro bono representation.

And that’s why the Office of Access to Justice is prioritizing promoting pro bono representation through our leadership of the Federal Government Pro Bono Program, which is working to mobilize a massive workforce — federal government attorneys and staff — to pitch in and help bridge the justice gap.

I am particularly proud of the Federal Government Pro Bono Program’s significant work in Florida.

Last year, ATJ launched the DOJ Pro Bono Portal on Paladin to enable Justice Department employees to find pro bono opportunities statewide. The portal has expanded to 15 jurisdictions so far, including Florida.

Every Justice Department attorney in Florida can access pro bono opportunities with the click of a mouse, including those posted by Community Legal Services.

Unfortunately, the urgent need for pro bono assistance and legal aid often becomes most salient in the wake of disaster. You know this better than anyone with Florida having experienced four hurricanes in the last 14 months. Parts of the state saw complete obliteration of homes and businesses. Other areas of the state are cleaning up debris and starting the long process of rebuilding.

As you know, it is estimated that more than 200 people were tragically killed by Hurricane Helene. And even for those who survived, the costs are devastating. Helene’s path of destruction across the southeastern U.S. is expected to exceed 30-40 billion dollars in damages.

And Hurricane Milton compounded the harms, with at least 24 additional lives lost. I don’t have to tell you, because you’re living it.

When hurricanes and other natural disaster strike, first responders make sure people have the basics: food, shelter, utilities and medical care. Skilled professionals and volunteers bravely address immediate critical needs and conduct rescue efforts.

While many know to call police, fire departments and disaster response officials for help, rarely do people think about the need for lawyers or legal help.

Yet, in the midst of a disaster, attorneys — like those in CLS’ disaster unit — are critical to facilitating disaster survivors’ access to essential needs like food and shelter. And when disaster survivors start picking up the pieces of their lives in the weeks, months and sometimes years after a disaster — legal help is often a critical lifeline.

In the immediate aftermath of a natural disaster, legal aid providers and pro bono volunteers address urgent civil legal issues — from defending against unlawful evictions, to helping apply for public assistance like unemployment benefits, food stamps and FEMA resources.

And a disaster doesn’t end once the storm has passed. Legal challenges can haunt disaster survivors for years as they seek to replace identification papers, apply for benefits and deal with insurance claims. The hardest hit and the most vulnerable communities can be struggling to fully recover for even longer or in some cases may never fully regain their normal lives. Legal aid providers in Florida are still assisting victims impacted by Hurricane Ian, which hit the Ft. Myers area two years ago.

The complications of seeking assistance and barriers to obtaining relief for disaster survivors can constitute a second disaster for survivor victims, especially for the elderly, disabled and persons who have limited proficiency in English. Unique complications also exist for those who live in rural areas, where distance or lack of broadband can create additional barriers to accessing legal help, or where damage to agricultural industries can create complex harms.

Simply put, legal aid and pro bono assistance must be a central element of efforts to rebuild and support communities after a natural disaster.

That’s what you’re demonstrating here in Florida. Today, I had the opportunity to participate in a Disaster Relief Legal Aid Roundtable hosted by CLS staff and joined by other members of the Florida Disaster Umbrella Group.

I learned how the Umbrella Group collaborates to address common legal problems impacting low-income communities and how it fosters and promotes better coordination and communication between civil legal aid providers, pro bono volunteers, emergency managers and other advocates from across the state, to ensure that low-income disaster survivors receive the legal assistance they need.

The Umbrella Group also helps educate the emergency management community about the importance of integrating legal services providers into their work and is an impressive model of collaboration and communication that can be implemented in other states to address natural disasters.

And here in Florida you’re also demonstrating how pro bono volunteers — like those we celebrate tonight — play an essential role in helping people navigate a maze of post-disaster bureaucracy — including disputes with landlords, insurers and contractors.

Like everyone in the state during an emergency, legal aid organizations have their resources stretched to the limit as they seek to respond to the overwhelming need of disaster survivors. Pro bono volunteers play an invaluable role in relieving the pressure on legal aid organizations during a disaster and in assisting those that would otherwise be forced to weather the storm alone.

Initiatives like the Disaster Relief Hotline launched this month by the Florida Bar Young Lawyers Division are an innovative way to coordinate pro bono resources in the wake of a disaster. The hotline connects survivors with the help they need when they need it most and supports the legal community by making it easier to volunteer.

The Office for Access to Justice is also focused on doing what we can to help ensure access to justice for disaster survivors. As one example, our Federal Government Pro Bono Program recently hosted a training for federal government employees on how to volunteer to provide legal help in the midst of a disaster. That training featured participation from legal services providers who specialize in this type of work. We were thrilled to be joined by Legal Services of North Florida, who I know collaborates closely with CLS.

And next week, we will host the annual Federal Government Pro Bono Week, where we’ll provide a variety of trainings and clinic opportunities for federal employees, lift up their role as collaborators in closing justice gaps and recruit and expand the ranks of the federal volunteer workforce.

Our Office will continue to promote pro bono volunteerism by federal government employees in the midst of a disaster and to develop resources that advance access to justice for disaster survivors.

Florida has seen terrible tragedies this past month. But it has also been at the heart of incredible resilience and creative problem solving, producing unique and effective legal assistance programs that help bring people back from most difficult days of their lives. Programs that would not be possible without the vision, hard work and dedication of the legal aid providers and pro bono attorneys in this room and across the state.

So I once again want to thank the awardees we have gathered tonight to celebrate. And as you continue in this difficult mission and this awesome responsibility, please know that the Office for Access to Justice stands shoulder to shoulder with you as a partner and ally.

Thank you.

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Virtual reality and wearable technology pilot to cut drug deaths
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

The government will fund research into wearable technology, virtual reality and artificial intelligence in a bid to support people with drug addictions.
Government funds research into wearable technology, virtual reality and artificial intelligence to support people with drug addictions and save lives

Projects include body-worn devices which alert emergency services if overdose is expected

11 projects across UK could be rolled out more widely if successful

Thousands of lives could be saved through the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and wearable technology designed to reduce drug deaths and improve outcomes.

The government has awarded £12 million to projects across the UK that are researching innovative technology to support people with addictions.

One of the chosen projects, called PneumoWave ALERT, pairs a chest-worn sensor that monitors breathing to a mobile device that sends out an immediate alert to nearby antidote carriers and emergency services if an overdose is detected, helping people get potentially life-saving treatment as soon as possible.

Another study will look at using virtual reality to help people overcome their triggers for cocaine addiction. People will be assessed using watch-like devices to determine which cues in their environment lead to a drug craving, by measuring physical changes to the body.

Virtual reality will then be used to create realistic situations to repeatedly expose people to triggers in a safe environment. Previous research shows cue exposure treatment (CET) can significantly reduce the level of craving and relapse among alcoholics, but it has not yet been fully explored for people experiencing a cocaine addiction until now.

Minister for Public Health and Prevention, Andrew Gwynne said:

Drug addiction devastates lives and rips apart families, and this government is committed to gripping this problem.

We’re determined to harness the full potential of cutting-edge technology to save thousands of lives across the country. I want the UK to lead the way in championing innovation to end the harmful effects of addiction.

The research is being funded through the Addiction Healthcare Goals programme, which is run by the Office for Life Sciences (OLS). Around £12 million has been awarded to 11 projects across eight organisations in the UK. The projects were selected as part of the Reducing Drug Deaths Challenge and the NIHR i4i Addiction: Innovation for Treatment and Recovery Awards, which are being run in partnership with the Scottish government and National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).

The funding will also support research to improve the accessibility of the life-saving drug naloxone. Naloxone rapidly reverses heroin and opioid overdose but is typically available as an injection or nasal spray which have limitations and cannot always be used in time. Kings College London is looking into naloxone wafers which melt in the mouth and provide rapid access to this emergency medicine and can fit easily in a wallet or purse.

Several of the projects are based in Scotland which has the highest rate of drug deaths in Europe.

These include a wristband to monitor vital signs such as blood oxygen levels, heart rate and body temperature. If an overdose is suspected, the device, named “Saving Sam”, will send out an alert to a trusted contact. This research is being run by the University of Edinburgh and NHS Fife.

The technology being researched could be rolled out to more sites across the UK if successful. The projects support the government’s Health Mission – building an NHS fit for the future – by helping to embed a greater focus on prevention and supporting services.

It also helps establish the UK as a global leader for innovative treatments and technologies, supporting the UK’s Growth Mission – for sustained economic growth, good jobs and increased productivity across the country – by inspiring healthcare companies to invest in the UK, while supporting people back into stable work.

Science Minister Lord Vallance said:

The UK’s life sciences sector plays a critical role in finding new ways to tackle the biggest challenges facing healthcare, including the devastating impact of addiction. The Addiction Healthcare Goals Programme is testament to our commitment to bringing together researchers, clinicians, and innovators to create real change.

From wearable technology to AI-powered tools, these innovative projects highlight the power of collaboration in delivering life-saving treatments. By investing in these partnerships, we are tackling addiction head-on and ensuring that cutting-edge science reaches those who need it most, improving public health across the UK.

Professor Mike Lewis, NIHR’s Scientific Director for Innovation, said:

Innovation in managing addiction is needed to break the pattern of prison relapse and rebound and the wider impacts of addiction on society.

Through the NIHR i4i Addiction: Innovation for Treatment and Recovery Awards, successful projects have been awarded funding to develop approaches to improve treatment and recovery outcomes.

Interventions, including AI, that allow management in the community need this research to validate their potential so we can implement them at scale.

Professor Dame Anna Dominiczak, Chief Scientific Advisor for Health, Scottish Government, said:

Tackling drug-related deaths is a priority for the Scottish Government and NHS Scotland and we are committed to tackling these issues through targeted research, innovation and support.

As part of phase two of the Reducing Drug Deaths Innovation Competition, funding has been awarded to develop seven prototypes aimed at reducing drug deaths.

These innovative solutions include wearable sensors, digital monitoring and alert applications as well as novel antidote delivery systems.

By harnessing the expertise we have in Scotland and across the rest of the UK, we can continue to develop new technologies to drive prevention initiatives.

Professor Anne Lingford-Hughes, Chair of the Addiction Healthcare Goals, said:

New approaches to treat drug addiction and reduce drug related deaths, particularly from overdose, are urgently needed. The Addiction Healthcare Goals programme is pleased to fund promising innovations that have brought together partnerships between industry, academia and organisations involved in delivering treatment and care for those experiencing drug addictions.

Establishing such collaborations also enhances the UK’s research capacity and ability to deliver novel patient research. This lays firm foundations for the UK to accelerate the development and testing of effective innovations to use in routine care to save lives, reduce harms, and benefit society.

Notes to editors:

Further information on some of the projects is available below:

Reducing Drug Deaths Innovation Challenge

Pneumowave ALERT

PneumoWave ALERT is a remote monitoring platform designed to make opioid usage safer by detecting the onset of life-threatening respiratory problems caused by opioid-induced overdose. The platform consists of a discreet, chest-worn biosensor paired with a mobile device, which allows for the immediate alerting of nearby naloxone carriers and emergency medical services. The research involves conducting end-to-end monitoring, detection, and alerting in 200 high-risk patients residing in homeless accommodation, in collaboration with the University of Dundee, King’s College London, and Third Sector partners HumanKind, Thames Reach, and Hillcrest Futures.

NOMW Health

NOMW Health, in collaboration with Greater Glasgow and Clyde Innovation Hub and The University of Southampton, previously conducted a feasibility study on LifeSavr, an innovative wearable device aimed at addressing the opioid overdose crisis. The Scotland-based team is now advancing the development of LifeSavr to prepare it for consumer availability in the UK, Europe, and globally. LifeSavr features monitoring of oxygen saturation, heart rate, body movements and respiratory rate for accurate overdose detection. It is based on NASA research and uses a self-contained design that eliminates the need for a mobile phone. The device aims to reduce the burden on emergency services and long-term care.

Kings College London

Kings College London is developing rapid-dispersal naloxone wafers to improve the accessibility and portability of this life-saving emergency antidote medication. Naloxone rapidly reverses heroin/opioid overdose, but current forms (injection and nasal spray) have limitations, such as requiring healthy nasal passages and consistent carrying by users. The proposed naloxone wafers disintegrate within seconds and can easily fit into a wallet or purse, addressing the current low carriage rates which are around 15-20%.

EMoodie – Saving SAM System for Alert and Monitoring of Potential Overdoses

‘Saving SAM’ is an innovative, low-cost digital tool developed by eMoodie Limited to help prevent drug overdoses and save lives. The tool consists of a wristband that monitors vital signs such as blood oxygen levels, heart rate, body temperature, and movement patterns to detect potential overdose risks. If an overdose is suspected, the wristband sends an alert to the Saving SAM app on the user’s smartphone, alerting a trusted contact. The app also offers mental health support and well-being programs for people who use drugs. Co-created with people with lived experience, “Saving SAM” is an overdose detection tool that combines wearables, remote monitoring, artificial intelligence (AI), and a smartphone app with gamified digital therapeutics.

Mesox-Ltd

MESOX has developed a wearable patch of the antidotes Naloxone and Flumazenil for the rising number of drug deaths from mixed overdosing of opioids and benzodiazepines. The skin patch is designed for wide application by non-professionals in the community, avoiding the challenges of existing routes of administration and complexity of injectable antidotes. In the next phase of development on the programme, MESOX will work closely with NHS Fife and other sub-contractors to design acceptability studies with patients across all four UK nations.

Science & Engineering Applications Ltd (Scienap)

Scienap, in collaboration with ambulance services led by the Scottish Ambulance Service, has designed a low-cost alert and responder pathway to create effective responses to potentially fatal overdose events. The project includes a new Alert App for self-monitoring by drug users, automatically raising an alarm if they become unresponsive, and a Care & Respond App for trusted supporters to provide coordinated help, administer life-saving drugs, and be supported by emergency services when appropriate.

University of Glasgow

The University of Glasgow presents a significant advancement in wearable sensor technology for detecting and preventing overdoses. The soft sensor, designed for seamless body integration, provides real-time respiratory monitoring to identify early signs of overdose episodes. The team will test the usability and acceptability of the refined prototype with people with lived/living experience of substance use through an iterative co-design process supported by the West of Scotland NHS Innovation Hub.

NIHR i4i Addiction Innovation: Innovation for Treatment and Recovery Awards

Kings College London – is developing a Virtual Reality-enhanced cue exposure treatment integrated with a wearable device to address craving, prevent relapse and improve treatment outcomes of people with cocaine dependence.

A key challenge in helping people to recover for cocaine addiction (or dependence) is their craving for the drug that can be triggered by ‘cues’ in their environment, such as situations or objects, which remind them of the pleasurable effects of cocaine. This process is known as ‘classical conditioning’ and the aim of this study is to reduce the risk of relapse to cocaine through use of novel technologies to reduce craving. This research will test the ability of technology-enhanced CET to reduce craving and relapse to cocaine use, compared to people receiving usual care.

Another project led by Kings College London, The Prison Release Engagement Trial will refine and test an interactive smartphone app to improve Continuity of Care post-release for prisoners working to stay drug free.

For the full list of projects that have been successful in receiving funding across both competitions, please see the NIHR publications and the Scottish Government publications.

Further information

The Addiction Healthcare Goals is being delivered by the Office for Life Sciences (OLS) alongside the Dementia, Mental Health, Cancer and Obesity Healthcare Goals. The Addiction Healthcare Goals programme is working to make the UK a globally leading location for researchers and industry to develop, trial and deploy innovative treatments and technologies which will help people recover from drug and alcohol addictions, save lives, and benefit society.

Alongside funding innovative research, the Addiction Healthcare Goals programme is aiming to support the training of research leaders across the UK and is exploring ways to make better use of addiction healthcare data to enable researchers to develop better treatments. The programme has also been working with the James Lind Alliance to identify the key research priorities within the UK community and will be publishing this list in 2025 with the aim of influencing future research funding priorities.

The projects were selected as part of the Reducing Drug Deaths Challenge and the NIHR i4i Addiction: Innovation for Treatment and Recovery Awards, which were run in partnership with the Scottish government and National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). The successful Reducing Drug Deaths projects builds on feasibility funding awarded through phase 1 of the Reducing Drugs Deaths Challenge last year.

The Addiction Healthcare Goals form a part of the Department of Health and Social Care’s ambition to deliver a world-class treatment and recovery system for people experiencing drug and alcohol addictions.

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Published 18 October 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Natural Gas Producer Agrees to Settlement to Reduce Emissions in New Mexico

Source: US State of California

Settlement Includes $9.4M Civil Penalty and Compliance Measures that Will Result in Reduction of Over 113,000 Tons’ Worth of CO2 Pollution

The Justice Department, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) today announced a settlement with Hilcorp Energy Company resolving Clean Air Act and New Mexico state law violations at the company’s oil and gas production operations in New Mexico.

Under the settlement, Hilcorp agreed to pay a civil penalty of $9.4 million for violations resulting from Hilcorp’s failure to reduce emissions during well completion operations. The civil penalty will be split between the U.S. and the State of New Mexico. In addition, the company must employ an EPA-approved third-party auditor to ensure compliance with all applicable Clean Air Act and New Mexico Air Quality Control Act requirements.

Hilcorp is further directed to account for the excess volatile organic compound (VOC) and methane emissions released through improper well completions by replacing, on a faster timeline than federal regulations require, old process control equipment with equipment that does not emit air pollution. This mitigation project will occur on Tribal lands of the Jicarilla Apache Nation Reservation, in Rio Arriba County, and on Navajo Nation Off-Reservation Trust Land in San Juan and Sandoval counties; all of these areas have potential environmental justice concerns.

The work that Hilcorp will do under this agreement will result in the equivalent of over 113,000 tons of reduced carbon dioxide emissions over the next three years, similar to the number of reductions achieved by taking 24,000 cars off the road for one year. The settlement will also eliminate nearly 583 tons of VOC emissions annually.

The case is the first to address violations of the Clean Air Act New Source Performance Standards covering well completions following hydraulic fracturing, commonly referred to as “fracking.”

“Hilcorp is a large, sophisticated natural gas producer and should know better than to violate Clean Air Act requirements to capture and control gas produced as a result of fracking,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “We are committed to upholding the rule of law and holding industry accountable. Today’s settlement importantly includes commitments to make infrastructure upgrades that will result in significant reductions of methane and VOC emissions.”

“Oil and gas production results in significant air pollution, including emissions of methane that are one of the leading sources of near-term climate change, which makes today’s settlement with Hilcorp Energy a huge win for the environment and the planet,” said Assistant Administrator David M. Uhlmann of EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “EPA is requiring Hilcorp to pay a $9.4 million penalty and make substantial investments in Clean Air Act compliance, which will reduce climate damaging emissions and improve air quality for all New Mexico residents, including communities with environmental justice concerns.”

“This settlement holds one of the San Juan Basin’s largest polluters accountable for their contribution to climate change and ozone pollution,” said Secretary James Kenney of the New Mexico Environment Department. “If we want to make New Mexico’s air safe for future generations then Houston-based Hilcorp Energy Corporation executives need to step up their game and comply with federal and state rules.”

Federal Clean Air Act and New Mexico state air regulations require oil and gas producers to capture gas that flows back to the surface following fracking using equipment that can accommodate flowback and to implement a reduced emission completion control, commonly referred to as a green completion. Producers have several green completion options to choose from. If none are technically feasible, producers may route the captured gas to a pollution control device like a flare.

Based on EPA’s and NMED’s investigations, the U.S. and the state allege that Hilcorp conducted at least 192 well completion operations in Rio Arriba and San Juan counties from Aug. 2, 2017, through Aug. 1, 2019.

At 145 of these well completions, Hilcorp captured none of the gas and instead released into the atmosphere all gas that flowed back following fracking. At the remainder of well completions, Hilcorp captured a portion of the gas and directed it to a flare but did not demonstrate that all green completion options were infeasible. Hilcorp’s actions resulted in thousands of tons of harmful methane and VOC emissions being released into the environment. Methane is a climate super pollutant and potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change, and VOCs adversely affect human health in multiple ways, including being involved in the formation of ground level ozone.

Hilcorp is one of the nation’s largest privately-owned oil and gas exploration and production companies, and a top producer of natural gas in New Mexico from 2018-2021. New Mexico is one of the top ten producing states for natural gas in the United States for 2018-2023. In 2022, on-shore oil and gas industry data reported to EPA showed that Hilcorp’s San Juan Basin operation emitted the most methane in the U.S. among all oil and gas operations.

The settlement is part of EPA’s Mitigating Climate Change National Enforcement and Compliance Initiative, which focuses, in part, on reducing methane emissions from oil and gas and landfill sources. Like all EPA’s national enforcement initiatives, the Mitigating Climate Change initiative prioritizes communities already overburdened by pollution and other potential environmental justice concerns.

More information on the settlement agreement is available on EPA’s Hilcorp Energy Company webpage.

The consent decree was filed with the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico and is subject to a 30-day comment period. Information on providing public comment and the complaint and proposed consent decree are available on the Justice Department’s website at www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees.

EPA and NMED investigated the case.

Attorneys of the Environment and Natural Resources Division’s Environmental Enforcement Section are handling the case.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Administrator Surveys Virginia Counties and Meets with Survivors and Local Community Officials Recovering from Helene

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: FEMA Administrator Surveys Virginia Counties and Meets with Survivors and Local Community Officials Recovering from Helene

FEMA Administrator Surveys Virginia Counties and Meets with Survivors and Local Community Officials Recovering from Helene

WASHINGTON — As FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell continues to lead the federal response to Helene and Milton in six states, today she is in Virginia to meet survivors and local officials as they continue their recovery from Helene.

In Virginia, the administrator visited affected communities with Gov. Glenn Youngkin. Earlier in the week she and North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper in Buncombe County to speak with disaster survivors and meet staff at a local high school as part of the recovery.

Critical services continue being restored. The Commonwealth of Virginia is focused on debris removal, particularly in lakes that provide the commonwealth a source of drinking water. Removing debris will also reduce threats to public health and safety. In Florida—hit by both storms—power outages have been reduced to about 17,000, down from a peak of 3.2 million. And in North Carolina, approximately 13,000 customers remain without power, down from a peak of about 1 million customers without power.

In total, about 433,000 households have been approved for nearly $619 million in FEMA assistance for their Helene recovery while 61,000 households have received $54 million for Milton. Survivors are using these funds to replace essential items, pay for somewhere to stay and make home repairs.

Hurricane Milton survivors in 34 Florida counties and one Tribal Nation can register for federal disaster assistance. On Oct. 11, President Jospeh R. Biden, Jr., approved a major disaster declaration for Florida following the hurricane. President Biden previously approved federal disaster assistance in six states affected by Helene. This opens up federal help for survivors in designated areas in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia.

In addition, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced the Operation Blue Tarp which is a free service to homeowners. Residents impacted by Hurricane Milton can sign-up at www.blueroof.gov, or by calling 888-ROOF-BLU (888-766-3258). The initial sign-up period is set for 21 days and ends Nov. 5. The Florida counties impacted by Hurricane Milton currently identified for the program include: Brevard, Citrus, Charlotte, DeSoto, Hardee, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Manatee, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Lucie, Sumter and Volusia.

FEMA encourages Helene and Milton survivors to apply online as this remains the best way to apply for disaster assistance. Here are the ways to apply for federal assistance:

·         Apply online at disasterassistance.gov

·         Call 800-621-3362

·         Use the FEMA App

·         Visit a Disaster Recovery Center to talk with FEMA and state agency officials and apply for assistance

In total, over 8,200 federal personnel—including 4,300 FEMA staff—are in communities in these states supporting the ongoing response and recovery efforts.

These photos highlight response and recovery efforts across states impacted by Helene and Milton.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56489″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/51c770e055bfac2bdf77a115b7d1e1e9.jpg?itok=d6OkGMpD” alt=”Caption: Lee County, Va. – A group comprised of staff from the Lee County 911, Virginia Department of Emergency Management, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and FEMA was conducting Preliminary Damage Assessments to survey properties affected by Tropical Storm Helene in September.” class=”image-style-large”>
Lee County, Va. – A group comprised of staff from the Lee County 911, Virginia Department of Emergency Management, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and FEMA was conducting Preliminary Damage Assessments to survey properties affected by Tropical Storm Helene in September.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56511″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/0ac80a360274e00254b29ac8e241b18a.jpg?itok=d3rO453K” alt=”Caption: Burnsville, N.C. – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper visit the Pensacola Volunteer Fire Department to talk with staff and disaster survivors.” class=”image-style-large”>
Burnsville, N.C. – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper visit the Pensacola Volunteer Fire Department to talk with staff and disaster survivors.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56462″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/7037f02841813c689a6e8dc2d71c40b7.jpg?itok=p12cSWX5″ alt=”Caption: Buncombe County, NC – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper tour recovery operations at a local high school, fire station and community care station to talk with staff and disaster survivors.” class=”image-style-large”>
Buncombe County, NC – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper tour recovery operations at a local high school, fire station and community care station to talk with staff and disaster survivors.

BUNCOMBE COUNTY, North Carolina – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell visits with staff and disaster survivors about recovery operations at a local high school, fire station and community care station. (Source: FEMA)

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56452″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/a0cbc8cb1e9938b50f025fa483a0d283.jpg?itok=pClsD1s-” alt=”Caption: Buncombe County, NC – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper tour recovery operations at a local high school, fire station and community care station to talk with staff and disaster survivors.” class=”image-style-large”>
Buncombe County, NC – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper tour recovery operations at a local high school, fire station and community care station to talk with staff and disaster survivors.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56481″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/80ff6cd868da9e52fceb6d20106f1667.jpg?itok=9Hhe7DBi” alt=”Caption: Swannanoa, NC – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance staff help survivors at a Community Care Station. FEMA, Buncombe County, City of Asheville and the private sector have worked together to offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, hot food, water, Wi-Fi, and medicine.” class=”image-style-large”>
Swannanoa, NC – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance staff help survivors at a Community Care Station. FEMA, Buncombe County, City of Asheville and the private sector have worked together to offer showers, laundry, bathrooms, access to cell towers, hot food, water, Wi-Fi, and medicine.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56531″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/50d8ffc037538c49d382007aa1769886.jpg?itok=xW7qucuF” alt=”Caption: Sarasota, Fla. (Oct. 17, 2024) – U.S. Army Corps of Engineers assist a family of survivors in their first Blue Roof Project in Sarasota, Florida in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton.” class=”image-style-large”>
Sarasota, Fla. (Oct. 17, 2024) – U.S. Army Corps of Engineers assist a family of survivors in their first Blue Roof Project in Sarasota, Florida in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56426″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/6ed91d66e28321cf80a1887989c06c4a.jpg?itok=qM79h6sL” alt=”Caption: Palm Beach County, Fla. (Oct. 15, 2024) – DSA crews canvas an area of The Acreage in Palm Beach County Florida.” class=”image-style-large”>
Palm Beach County, Fla. (Oct. 15, 2024) – DSA crews canvas an area of The Acreage in Palm Beach County Florida.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56473″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/cf9d4bec75102ebbb97b6fc199bfe0d0.jpg?itok=9VB86i5n” alt=”Caption: Columbia, S.C. (Oct. 14, 2024) – FEMA’s Director of Disability Integration and Coordination, Sherman Gillums, Jr., visits the Association for Better Living and Education to show support for their ongoing efforts in supporting the disabled community. Director Gillums met with Dori Tempio, Sr., Director of Community Education, and Mandy Halloran, Director of Public Health.” class=”image-style-large”>
Columbia, S.C. (Oct. 14, 2024) – FEMA’s Director of Disability Integration and Coordination, Sherman Gillums, Jr., visits the Association for Better Living and Education to show support for their ongoing efforts in supporting the disabled community. Director Gillums met with Dori Tempio, Sr., Director of Community Education, and Mandy Halloran, Director of Public Health.

View Original‘ data-align=”center” data-asset-link=”1″ data-entity-type=”emerald” data-image-style=”large” data-asset-type=”imageasset” data-asset-id=”56471″ src=”https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/externals/9050b3d4f1ac9a6e2bd7cdfbf7ae3a71.jpg?itok=o0HpV_iy” alt=”Caption: Sandersville, Ga. (Oct. 14, 2024) – FEMA opens a Disaster Recovery Center in Sandersville, Georgia to register members of the community and surrounding counties effected by Hurricane Helene for disaster assistance.” class=”image-style-large”>
Sandersville, Ga. (Oct. 14, 2024) – FEMA opens a Disaster Recovery Center in Sandersville, Georgia to register members of the community and surrounding counties effected by Hurricane Helene for disaster assistance.

FEMA’s Disaster Multimedia Toolkit page provides graphics, social media copy and sample text in multiple languages. In addition, FEMA has set up a rumor control web page to reduce confusion about its role in the Helene response.

amy.ashbridge
Thu, 10/17/2024 – 22:12

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Floridians May be Eligible for Transitional Sheltering in Hotels

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: Floridians May be Eligible for Transitional Sheltering in Hotels

Floridians May be Eligible for Transitional Sheltering in Hotels

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.- FEMA has activated Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) for Floridians displaced by Hurricane Helene or Hurricane Milton in 52 counties and for tribal members of the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians.

Residents in these counties who have applied for disaster assistance may be eligible to stay temporarily in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA. Applicants do not need to request this assistance. FEMA will notify them of their eligibility through an automated phone call, text message, and/or email, depending upon the method of communication they selected at the time of application for disaster assistance.

Applicants may be eligible if they cannot return to their disaster-damaged home and their housing needs cannot be met by insurance, shelters or rental assistance provided by FEMA or another agency.

Under the TSA program, FEMA pays the cost of room, taxes and non-refundable pet fees directly to participating hotels and motels. Pet fees will only be paid up to the approved limit of assistance for individual rooms. Survivors are responsible for all other costs, including laundry, restaurant/room service, parking, telephone or movie rental.

Continued eligibility is determined on an individual basis. When eligibility ends, survivors will be notified by FEMA seven days prior to checkout date.

TSA is limited to participating hotels and motels in Florida, Alabama and Georgia. Applicants must refer to the TSA Locator to find a hotel, which will be visible to them when they go to DisasterAssistance.gov.

TSA participants may also be eligible for other FEMA financial help, including Displacement Assistance, Rental Assistance, Home Repair Assistance and other aspects of the Individual Assistance program.

Floridians can apply for either storm online at DisasterAssistance.gov. They can also apply using the FEMA mobile App or by calling FEMA’s helpline toll-free at 800-621-3362. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you choose to apply by phone, please understand calls to FEMA’s helpline are experiencing delays because of the increased volume due to multiple recent disasters. The fastest way to apply is online or through the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube.

For the latest information about Florida’s Hurricane Helene recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834.Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

kirsten.chambers
Thu, 10/17/2024 – 22:53

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Murphy Statement On Death Of Yahya Sinwar

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

October 17, 2024

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near East, South Asia, Central Asia and Counterterrorism, on Thursday released the following statement on the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar.
“Yahya Sinwar was a brutal U.S.-designated terrorist and the mastermind of the October 7th terror attacks. His death provides an important measure of justice for the 1,200 innocent Israelis murdered that day, their families, and the more than 100 hostages still being held in Gaza. With Sinwar’s death, Hamas’s military command structure has been decimated and the group no longer has the capability to stage another attack like October 7th. It is time to redouble efforts to secure an agreement to end this war and bring home all of the hostages.”

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025

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