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Category: housing

  • MIL-OSI Security: Frankville — Antigonish County District RCMP charge man with attempted murder

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Antigonish County District RCMP has charged a man with attempted murder after a shooting in Havre Boucher.

    On September 19, at approximately 7:30 p.m., Antigonish County District RCMP responded to a report that a woman had been shot at a home on Havre Boucher Rd. in Frankville. Multiple additional RCMP units responded, including Pictou County District RCMP, Inverness County District RCMP, RCMP Police Dog Services, and Northeast Traffic Services. The suspect, a 28-year-old man of Frankville, was safely arrested at the scene.

    Preliminary investigation indicates there were several adults and children at the home at the time of the incident. No one else was physically injured.

    Francis Scott Durley has been charged with:

    • Attempted Murder
    • Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose
    • Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
    • Pointing a Firearm (four counts)
    • Uttering Threats (two counts)

    Durley appeared in Antigonish Provincial Court this morning, September 20, and will remain in custody pending a court appearance on September 25.

    The investigation remains ongoing and is being assisted by the Antigonish Street Crime Enforcement Unit and RCMP Forensic Identification Services.

    Durley and the victim are known to each other. This was an isolated incident and was not a random act.

    File #: 2024-1384457

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Lauren Boebert Votes to End Bailouts for Sanctuary Cities

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lauren Boebert (Colorado, 3)

    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Congresswoman Lauren Boebert (CO-03) released the following statement after voting in favor of the “No Bailout for Sanctuary Cities Act.” The House of Representatives passed this legislation by a vote of 219-186, with 12 Democrats voting to advance the bill. 

    “Kamala Harris’s reign as Border Czar has been one of the most detrimental decisions for our national security in American history. Colorado’s sanctuary policies for illegals encourage the surge from the Southern Border to our communities, like Aurora. 

    That’s why I’m proud to have voted in favor of Congressman LaLota’s ‘No Bailout for Sanctuary Cities Act’ today. His legislation will prohibit federal funds from being used to bail out sanctuary cities. We need to disincentivize illegal immigration, and this bill is a great step in the right direction,” said Congresswoman Boebert.

    Background, courtesy of the House Majority Whip’s office: 

    This legislation holds sanctuary cities accountable for exacerbating the Biden-Harris Border Crisis and flouting federal immigration law by prohibiting the use of taxpayer dollars to fund housing, healthcare, and other benefits for illegal immigrants in such municipalities. 

    • Despite the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act explicitly prohibiting any restriction on communication between state or local entities and federal immigration authorities relating to an individual’s immigration status, many Democrat-led jurisdictions like New York and California refuse to cooperate and enforce federal immigration law.
    • Sanctuary policies incentivize illegal immigration, which has already hit historic levels thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration’s open borders policies, by promising free taxpayer-funded benefits.  Woke mayors and governors are prioritizing illegal immigrants at the expense of residents, who are facing overburdened schools, hospitals, and other social services. They are also endangering the safety of both community members and the law enforcement officers who protect them by permitting criminal aliens to roam freely.
    • American taxpayers should not foot the bill for Democrat’s radical immigration policies. H.R. 5717 will ensure American families don’t bear this burden by prohibiting sanctuary cities from receiving federal funding intended to be used for the benefit of illegal immigrants, including for the provision of food, shelter, healthcare services, legal services, and transportation.

    Full text of the No Bailout for Sanctuary Cities Act can be found HERE.  

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    For updates, subscribe to Congresswoman Boebert’s newsletter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (22-27 Sept. 2024)

    Source: Republic of France in English
    The Republic of France has issued the following statement:

    The 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) is taking place at the UN Headquarters in New York from 22 to 27 September 2024. This year, the theme for the debate will be “Leaving no one behind: acting together for the advancement of peace, sustainable development and human dignity for present and future generations”.

    The UNGA was created under the Charter of the United Nations in 1945. It is the decision-making and representative body of the United Nations and now comprises 193 Member States. The UNGA adopts resolutions that help establish the standards of international law, on the basis of representativeness (1 State = 1 vote) and debate.

    During the 79th UNGA High-level Week, Heads of State and Government and other national representatives will gather to set out their priorities and discuss global challenges in order to advance peace, security and sustainable development.

    As the international community faces unprecedented challenges, this major diplomatic event will provide an opportunity for France to reaffirm its commitment to strong and effective multilateralism.

    France’s priorities for this UNGA are:

    • Addressing the main security crises

      France will reaffirm its support for Ukraine, advocate for an end to the crises in Gaza and Sudan, and mobilize to uphold international humanitarian law;
    • Fighting inequality linked to climate change and striving for environmental protection.

      France intends to increase the international community’s ambitions in relation to crucial issues such as the reduction of greenhouse gases, adaptation to climate change, and preservation of the oceans and biodiversity;
    • Fighting hate speech and disinformation

      France and its partners are working to combat disinformation and interference campaigns, which present a challenge to democracy;
    • Reforming the international system’s governance, in line with the Summit of the Future, to lead to institutions that are more efficient, equitable and representative of the diversity of our societies, including by promoting the participation of women in all decision-making processes.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Malliotakis Statement on House’s Passage of The Enhanced Presidential Security Act of 2024

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11)

    (WASHINGTON, DC) – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis issued the following statement regarding the House’s unanimous passage of H.R. 9106, the Enhanced Presidential Security Act of 2024. 

    “I’m pleased the House unanimously passed legislation I cosponsored with Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY) and Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY) to give President Trump and all major presidential candidates the same security as the sitting President. There is no greater threat to our democracy than an attempt to assassinate a presidential candidate, right before an election.”

    The legislation will direct the Director of the United States Secret Service to apply the same standards for determining the number of agents required to protect Presidents, Vice Presidents, and major Presidential and Vice Presidential candidates.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grants to Revitalize Communities Across New York

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that applications for the $50 million Round 9 of the Restore New York Communities Initiative grant program will launch on Monday, September 23. The funding, which was included as part of the FY25 Enacted Budget, supports municipalities’ efforts to demolish, rehabilitate, and restore blighted structures and transform them into vibrant residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments. The program is administered by Empire State Development (ESD) and, in this round, priority will be given to projects designed to address recovery efforts related to tornado and storm damage that occurred on July 15-16, 2024.

    “We are revitalizing communities across New York State through the Restore New York Communities Initiative – giving towns and cities the chance to build a future that is safer, more affordable, and more livable,” Governor Hochul said. “With Upstate municipalities still working to recover from major damage caused by July’s extreme weather, we’re prioritizing those projects and looking to other transformational opportunities that will better the lives of residents and businesses everywhere.”

    The goal of Restore New York is to help municipalities attract residents and businesses by redeveloping residential, commercial, and mixed-use properties. Each project should align with the strategic plan of the community’s Regional Economic Development Council and projects should be either architecturally consistent with nearby properties or the municipality’s local revitalization or urban development plan. Communities interested in applying are encouraged to register for ESD’s instructional webinar, scheduled for Wednesday, September 25. An intent to apply form must be received by ESD by Wednesday, October 23. The program application and guidelines will be available Monday.

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Restore New York is a pillar of Governor Hochul’s community revitalization efforts and promotes projects that address urban decay to promote vibrant neighborhoods and new and dynamic housing. The funding awarded to municipalities through this program is vital to generating new investments that welcome visitors and new residents and support regional economic growth.”

    Restore New York grants can be used for vacant, abandoned, condemned, or surplus buildings and these properties can be demolished, deconstructed, rehabilitated, or reconstructed. Emphasis will be placed on projects in economically distressed communities, projects that leverage other state or federal redevelopment funds, and the project’s feasibility and readiness. Eligible applicants include counties, cities, towns, and villages within New York State based on the following criteria:

    • Cities with populations over 100,000 may apply for up to $2 million for one project. However, cities with populations exceeding one million residents and counties therein must apply for projects in a distressed area of the city.
    • Cities and villages with populations between 40,000 and 99,999 may apply for one project up to $1.5 million.
    • All other municipalities may apply for one project, up to $1 million.
    • The amount for which a county is eligible to apply is based upon the municipality within which the project is located.

    ESD may award a limited number of Special Project designations. Municipalities and counties with populations of one million or less residents per the latest census may apply for an additional $3.5 million for either a second project, or as part of a larger project in addition to the program’s funding limits. Special Projects are those where the property causes severe economic injury to the community, leaving a highly visible and blighted property or properties in the central business district of a highly or moderately-distressed community, which creates a depressing effect on the overall economic development potential of the community.

    In July, Governor Hochul announced more than $64.1 million in Restore New York grants was awarded to support 43 projects across nine regions of the state. Round 8 included a $10 million Special Project designation to support the demolition of Albany’s Central Warehouse. These projects complement Governor Hochul’s economic development vision by making strategic investments in communities across the state which revitalize the economy and create more opportunities for New Yorkers. The FY25 Enacted Budget also includes $100 million for the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and $100 million for NY Forward. These programs help local municipalities promote quality of life, foster socio-economic development, and create more walkable, livable, and safer neighborhoods in every corner of the state.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Murray, Rosen, Baldwin Lead Introduction of Resolution Affirming Access to Emergency Health Care, Including Abortion

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    September 20, 2024
    Washington, D.C. –  U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, Patty Murray, D-Wash., Jacky Rosen, D-Nev., and Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., today introduced a resolution that would protect the right to emergency health care, including abortion care, for all patients, regardless of where they live. 
     
    The Every Woman Has the Right to Emergency Health Care resolution comes as new reporting from ProPublica shows Republican abortion bans are preventing women from receiving lifesaving emergency health care and resulting in preventable deaths. 
     
    “As Donald Trump brags about overturning Roe, women are dying because they’re not receiving the health care they need. Doctors are fearing jail time for doing their jobs,” Wyden said. “The fight to restore reproductive health care protections and the right of women everywhere to make choices about their own bodies is the fight of a lifetime – we can’t let Donald Trump and Republicans roll back the clock.”
    “I introduced this resolution alongside my colleagues to simply reaffirm the basic principle that when you go to the ER, doctors should be allowed to treat you, and when you need emergency care—including abortion care—no politician should stop you from getting it,” Murray said. “Yet here in America, in the 21st century, pregnant women die—not because doctors don’t know how to save them, but because doctors don’t know if Republicans will let them. Democrats will keep pressing to fully restore reproductive freedoms for every woman in America and we will continue to put a white-hot spotlight on the devastating, deadly fallout of Donald Trump’s abortion bans.”
    “Since Roe v. Wade was overturned more than two years ago, extreme abortion bans across our nation are restricting women’s ability to get life-saving care,” Rosen said. “All women, regardless of where they live, should be able to access the emergency medical care they need, which is why I’m helping introduce this resolution. I’ll continue standing up for women’s freedom to make decisions over their own bodies and working to restore Roe.”
    “Under our state’s 1849 criminal abortion ban, Wisconsinites learned firsthand what it meant to not have the right to access lifesaving abortion care. For 15 months, we heard stories about women with unviable pregnancies or suffering miscarriages who were denied care until they were on the brink of death all because Republicans overturned Roe v. Wade. These are not exaggerations, they are real stories about what it means when we strip Americans of their freedom to control their own bodies,” Baldwin said. “I’m in this fight until every woman has the freedom to decide what is best for her health, family, and future, without interference from judges and politicians – and that most certainly means when her life depends on it.”
    Since the overturn of Roe v. Wade more than two years ago, nearly two dozen US states led by Republicans have passed, banned, or severely restricted access to abortion. These strict laws have created confusion around the treatment doctors can provide even when a pregnant patient’s life is in danger, as physicians fear they may lose their medical license, be sued, or even be charged with a felony if they perform life-saving emergency care. Despite federal requirements that Medicare-participating hospitals treat and stabilize pregnant patients in need of emergency medical care, women are being turned away from emergency rooms following the Dobbs decision.
    In Moyle v. United States, the U.S. Supreme Court had the opportunity to reaffirm that federal law requires pregnant patients to have access to life-saving emergency care in every state, but instead, the Court dismissed the case and sent it back to the lower courts, effectively punting on making a decision on the case itself. While the litigation continues in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, the health and lives of women remain at risk as uncertainty around emergency abortion care persists. A total of 121 Congressional Republicans, including 26 Senators, filed an amicus brief arguing incorrectly that federal law does not require hospitals to provide abortion care as emergency stabilizing care in order to save a patient’s life. 
    In addition to Senators Wyden, Murray, D-Wash., Rosen, D-Nev., and Baldwin, D-Wis., the resolution is cosponsored by Senators Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., Michael Bennet, D-Colo., Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., Cory Booker, D-N.J., Laphonza Butler, D-Calif., Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., Ben Cardin, D-Md., Tom Carper, D-Del., Bob Casey, D-Pa., Chris Coons, D-Del., Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev., Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., Dick Durbin, D-Ill., John Fetterman, D-Pa., Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., Maggie Hassan, D-N.H., Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., George Helmy, D-N.J., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawai’i, Tim Kaine, D-Va., Angus King, I-Maine, Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., Alex Padilla, D-Calif., Gary Peters, D-Mich., Jack Reed, D-R.I., Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., Brian Schatz, D-Hawai’i, Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., Tina Smith, D-Minn., Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., Mark Warner, D-Va., Raphael Warnock, D-Ga., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., Peter Welch, D-Vt., and Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I.
    The resolution is endorsed by Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Center for Reproductive Rights, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, Reproductive Freedom For All (formerly NARAL Pro-Choice America), American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, National Women’s Law Center, Physicians for Reproductive Health, Power to Decide, National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice, Guttmacher Institute, National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association, All* Above All, National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum, URGE: Unite for Reproductive and Gender Equity, National Council of Jewish Women, and National Partnership for Women and Families.
    Last week, U.S. Representatives Emilia Sykes, D-Ohio, and Mikie Sherrill, D-N.J., introduced the House companion to today’s Senate resolution. 
    The text of the resolution is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Huizenga Bill to Improve Retirement Savings, Strengthen Economic Security, Confront ESG Mandates Passes U.S. House

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-02)


    Huizenga Bill to Improve Retirement Savings, Strengthen Economic Security, Confront ESG Mandates Passes U.S. House | Congressman Bill Huizenga

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Eshoo Statement on One-Year Anniversary of Azerbaijani Assault on Artsakh

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Anna Eshoo (D-CA)

    Washington, D.C. – Representative Anna G. Eshoo (CA-16) released the following statement today recognizing the one-year anniversary of Azerbaijan’s ethnic cleansing of Artsakh:

    “One year ago today, Azerbaijan initiated an unprovoked military assault on civilians in Artsakh in flagrant violation of international law. More than 120,000 Armenians were forced to flee their homeland where their families had lived for centuries. They remain refugees today and Azerbaijan has yet to face meaningful consequences for engaging in ethnic cleansing.

    “The U.S. needs to sanction Azerbaijani officials responsible for atrocities, end all U.S. military aid to Azerbaijan, and provide additional humanitarian aid for Artsakh’s refugees. A just peace in the Caucasus can only be achieved through genuine accountability.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: West Park Man Pleads Guilty To Filing Thousands Of Fraudulent COVID-19 Testing Reimbursement Claims In The Names Of Homeless, Incarcerated And Deceased Individuals, Agrees To Forfeit Over $5.6 Million And Properties

    Source: United States Department of Justice (National Center for Disaster Fraud)

    Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Willie F. Murray, Jr. (55, West Park) today pleaded guilty to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. Murray faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison for the wire fraud offense and a consecutive two years’ imprisonment for the aggravated identity theft offense. Murray has also agreed to forfeit $5,671,611.74 in U.S. currency, $1,578,925.56 from a bank account, and seven real properties located in Punta Gorda, Fort Lauderdale, Belle Glade, Hollywood, and South Bay, which are traceable to proceeds of the offense.

    According to the plea agreement, Murray was the registered agent and manager of Lab Tess, LLC, a Florida company that purportedly provided its customers with COVID-19 testing services. In fact, Lab Tess provided no such services. Murray used Lab Tess to submit fraudulent claims for reimbursement to the Health Resources and Services Administration for COVID-19 testing services supposedly provided to uninsured individuals. To complete the scheme, Murray used personal identifying information of individuals incarcerated by the Florida Department of Corrections, individuals falsely reported as having been tested at homeless shelters and electrical substations, and deceased individuals. Murray submitted more than 126,000 fraudulent claims and received reimbursement in the approximate amount of $5,671,611.74, which he used, in part, to purchase real properties in South Florida.

    This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Greg Pizzo and Suzanne Nebesky.

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Announces $2.4 Million to Protect Lake Michigan Shoreline, Improve Access in Green Bay

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
    GREEN BAY, WI  – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) announced the City of Green Bay will receive $2.4 million in federal funding to install a wildlife viewing platform and shoreline walk at the Bay Beach Amusement Park on Lake Michigan, enhancing recreation, learning, and community opportunities within the Bay. Funding comes from the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI), which Baldwin has worked to secure continued funding for in the annual appropriations process and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.  
    “Wisconsin’s fresh coasts and the communities on them are not only home to so many Wisconsin families, they are a critical driver for our economy and tourism,” said Senator Baldwin. “I’m proud to champion the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative and deliver funding that will bring economic, health, and recreational benefits to the City of Green Bay, while preserving our freshwater resources and protecting habitats for generations to come.”
    “The City of Green Bay is thrilled to accept these funds to jumpstart our long-planned efforts to improve our shoreline and provide enhanced access to the Bay, home to the largest freshwater estuary in the world!” said Mayor Eric Genrich. “Special thanks to Senator Baldwin for her steadfast support for our Great Lakes and our Bay, Administrator Regan for his forward-looking leadership, and the Biden-Harris administration for the priority they’ve placed on strengthening local communities across the country.”
    Funding for the City of Green Bay will be used to build a wildlife viewing platform and shoreline walk with a related retaining wall and fence at Bay Beach Amusement Park within the Lower Green Bay and Fox River Area of Concern, or environmentally degraded sites along the Great Lakes. Once installed, the project will address two Beneficial Use Impairments (BUIs) associated with Degraded Fish and Wildlife Populations, and Loss of Fish and Wildlife Habitat. The project will bring enhanced recreation, learning opportunities, wildlife viewing, fishing opportunities, and waterfront access at the park and within the Bay.
    Earlier this year, Senator Baldwin, a member of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force, introduced the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Act of 2024, which extends this critical program for another five years through 2031 and increases its annual funding. The Baldwin-backed Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is also making a $1 billion investment in the Great Lakes to clean up Areas of Concern.
    One independent economic study found that for every dollar the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative invests, it produces an additional $3.35 of economic activity. According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, more than $816 million in GLRI funding has made over 1,200 projects possible throughout Wisconsin’s Great Lakes basin.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Passes Lankford’s Bill to Reduce Dependence on China and Other Adversarial Nations for Critical Minerals

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Oklahoma James Lankford

    OKLAHOMA CITY, OK —The Senate passed legislation authored by Senators James Lankford (R-OK), Gary Peters (D-MI), and Mitt Romney (R-UT) to reduce American reliance on China and other adversarial nations for critical minerals.

    “The United States should not depend on communist China to keep our critical mineral supply chain running. Relying on China for critical minerals means relying on our adversary for batteries, medical supplies, and military equipment,” said Lankford. “We need to prioritize American-produced energy solutions and give US suppliers a seat at the table.”   

    “America must reduce its reliance on China and other adversaries for critical minerals and rare earth metals in order to stay competitive on the global economic stage —especially when it comes to the future of electric vehicles and the auto industry,” said Peters. “Our nation’s dependence on foreign sources for these materials creates a serious threat to our national and economic security. My bipartisan legislation will mitigate this growing threat by strengthening our domestic supply chain and creating more good paying jobs here at home.”  

    “By relying on China for critical minerals, we continue to put our economic and national security at risk,” Romney said. “Today’s passage of our legislation is a strong step in the right direction to shore up our supply chains and bolster production of critical minerals here in the United States. I hope to see it passed by the House and signed into law by the President soon.” 

    Critical minerals and rare earth metals are used to manufacture electric vehicle batteries, military equipment, and other technology that is vital to American economic competitiveness and homeland security. China remains the largest source for more than half of the critical minerals on the US Geological Survey’s 2022 list that the United States imports, such as lithium and cobalt. The Senators’ bill would address this threat to our manufacturing supply chains by creating an intergovernmental task force to identify opportunities to increase domestic production and recycling of critical minerals. The bill now moves to the House for consideration.  

    The Intergovernmental Critical Minerals Task Force Act creates a presidential task force with representatives from federal agencies who must consult with state, local, territorial, and Tribal governments to determine how to address national security risks associated with America’s critical mineral supply chains. The task force will also identify new domestic opportunities for mining, processing, refinement, reuse, and recycling of critical minerals. The legislation would also require the task force to publish a report to Congress and publish findings, guidelines, and recommendations to combat the United States’ reliance on China and other foreign nations for critical minerals.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Butler Joins Senate Resolution: “Every Woman Has the Right to Emergency Health Care”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for California – Laphonza Butler

    Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.) joined Senators Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) in introducing a resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that every patient has the basic right to emergency health care, including abortion care, regardless of where they live. The introduction comes as new reporting from ProPublica makes plain that Republican abortion bans are preventing women from receiving lifesaving emergency health care and resulting in preventable deaths.

    Since the overturn of Roe v. Wade over two years ago, nearly two dozen US states led by Republicans have passed, banned, or severely restricted access to abortion. These strict laws have created confusion around the treatment doctors can provide even when a pregnant patient’s life is in danger, as physicians fear that they may lose their medical license, be sued, or even charged with a felony if they perform life-saving emergency care. Despite the federal Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act’s (EMTALA) requirements that Medicare-participating hospitals treat and stabilize pregnant patients in need of emergency medical care, women are being turned away from emergency rooms following the Dobbs decision.

    In Moyle v. United States, the U.S. Supreme Court had the opportunity to reaffirm that federal law requires pregnant patients to have access to life-saving emergency care in every state, but instead, the Court sent the case back to the lower courts, effectively punting on the issue. Senator Butler was one of 258 Congressional Democrats who filed an amicus brief urging the Supreme Court to clarify that hospitals must provide abortion care as emergency stabilizing care in order to save a patient’s life. While the litigation continues in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, the health and lives of women remain at risk as uncertainty around emergency abortion care persists. 

    In addition to Senators Butler, Murray, Rosen, Baldwin, and Wyden the resolution is cosponsored by Senators Schumer (D-N.Y.), Bennet (D-Colo.), Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Booker (D-N.J.), Cantwell (D-Wash.), Cardin (D-Md.), Carper (D-Del.), Casey (D-Pa.), Coons (D-Del.), Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Duckworth (D-Ill.), Durbin (D-Ill.), Fetterman (D-Pa.), Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Hassan (D-N.H.), Heinrich (D-N.M.), Helmy (D-N.J.), Hirono (D-Hawaii), Kaine (D-Va.), King (I-Maine), Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Merkley (D-Ore.), Padilla (D-Calif.), Peters (D-Mich.), Reed (D-R.I.), Sanders (I-Vt.), Schatz (D-Hawaii), Shaheen (D-N.H.), Smith (D-Minn.), Stabenow (D-Mich.), Van Hollen (D-Md.), Warner (D-Va.), Warnock (D-Ga.), Warren (D-Mass.), Welch (D-Vt.), Whitehouse (D-R.I.).

    The resolution is endorsed by Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Center for Reproductive Rights, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, Reproductive Freedom For All (formerly NARAL Pro-Choice America), American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, National Women’s Law Center, Physicians for Reproductive Health, Power to Decide, National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice, Guttmacher Institute, National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association, All* Above All, National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum, URGE: Unite for Reproductive and Gender Equity, National Council of Jewish Women, and National Partnership for Women and Families.

    Last week, U.S. Representatives Emilia Sykes (D-Ohio-13) and Mikie Sherrill (D-N.J.-11) introduced the House companion to today’s Senate resolution.

    The full text of the resolution can be read HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Cortez Masto Delivers Remarks at the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute 47th Annual Awards Gala

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    In Case You Missed It, Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) delivered remarks at the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) 47th Annual Awards Gala as celebrations of Hispanic Heritage Month kick off across the United States. Cortez Masto celebrated the Latino community’s immeasurable contributions to our country and discussed Congressional Democrats’ fight to continue delivering for all American families.
    A third generation Nevadan, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto is the first and only Latina in the U.S. Senate and the highest ranking Hispanic Senator in the Democratic Caucus. She passed a bipartisan resolution recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month in the Senate. She helped create a new series of commemorative circulating coins highlighting remarkable American women trailblazers in the U.S.—including Latinas like Celia Cruz, Nina Otero-Warren, and Jovita Idar. And she’s leading the charge in the Senate to build the National Museum of the American Latino on the National Mall.
    Below are her remarks as prepared for delivery.
    I want to thank CHCI Chair Representative Adriano Espaillat, CHCI’s President and CEO Marco Davis, and all the CHCI staff for inviting me and putting such a great event together.
    Looking out at this crowd, I feel so much pride in our Latino community and how much it’s grown.
    When my grandfather, a baker from Chihuahua, Mexico, came to Nevada to pursue the American Dream, the Latino community was pretty small.
    As my father grew up and became a larger part of the community, he started regularly getting together with a key group of Latinos in Southern Nevada to discuss how to promote Latino businesses, education, and workers.
    That was 40-50 years ago. Today, Latinos make up one third of the population in Nevada! It’s incredible.
    The Latino community is growing throughout this country. But we all know we continue to face challenges to our success.
    That’s why the CHC is working together with the Biden-Harris administration to lower costs for Latino families, create clean energy jobs that will help us address the climate crisis, build more homes that working Latinos can afford, and ensure our small businesses have the resources they need to thrive.
    Latino families deserve every opportunity – just look at how much we’ve contributed to this country! The 2024 report on U.S. Latino GDP was just released, and from 2019 to 2022, the Latino GDP in the United States grew faster than the GDP of any of the world’s top 10 economies – including China and India!
    And yet, we still have a huge pay gap in this country. Imagine how much it would help Latino families if we close that gap.
    It’s our goal as the CHC to close that gap by ensuring every Latino across this country has a seat at the table.
    And what better way to continue to promote who we are than by celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month?
    This is our time to share our achievements as Latinos, our culture, our food – to share who we are with this country we love so much.
    And our stories deserve to be told! That’s why we’re working to build a The Museum of the American Latino on the National Mall here in Washington! And it’s why we passed a bill out of Congress to put Latinas like Celia Cruz, Jovita Idar, and Nina Otero-Warren on American quarters!
    But the CHC is just getting started.
    We will continue to stand with Latinos across this country as we fight to restore a woman’s right to choose, bring down prices at the grocery store, expand affordable housing, and create a pathway to citizenship for our Dreamers and their families.
    Together, we will keep working to ensure future generations of Latinos can live, work, and thrive in this country.
    Thank you!

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: September 20th, 2024 Heinrich Delivers Over $5.4 Million to Strengthen Maternal and Newborn Care, Expand Mental Health Care & Substance Use Treatment in Rural Communities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced three Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) grants he secured totaling $5,416,000 to strengthen maternal and newborn care, improving outcomes for mothers and babies in rural New Mexico, and to expand mental health care and substance use disorder treatment in Gallup and Carlsbad. 

    Heinrich secured these three grants in the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.

    “Every New Mexican should be able to access affordable, high-quality health care, in their home communities,” said Heinrich. “These investments will help ensure that more mothers and their newborns can access the health care they need closer to home, and more folks can access the mental health care and substance use treatment when and where they need it.”

    Heinrich fought for and secured $3,900,000 for the University of New Mexico’s Neonatal Opiate Withdrawal Syndrome (NOWS) Project to improve prenatal, delivery, and post birth care for babies and mothers in rural New Mexico. Currently, there is a crisis in rural maternity care in New Mexico. By supporting rural providers, families can access maternity care closer to home – improving outcomes for families and babies in rural New Mexico.

    Additionally, Heinrich fought for and secured $516,000 for Gallup Community Health to expand its mental health services to include onsite behavioral health and substance use disorder counseling and case management.

    Heinrich also fought for and secured $1,000,000 for Carlsbad Lifehouse to develop a certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic in Southeastern New Mexico.

    This is the latest example of Heinrich’s longtime work to provide New Mexicans better access to mental health care and substance use disorder treatment. 

    Heinrich negotiated and passed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which included a provision that paved the way for New Mexico to be added to the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic Medicaid Demonstration Program. This program provides states with funding to expand access to mental health care and substance use services.  In the FY23 Appropriations Bills, Heinrich also secured a $450,000 Congressionally Directed Spending grant for Family and Youth Innovations Plus (FYI+) in Las Cruces to become the first CCBHC in New Mexico, which was instrumental in helping New Mexico eventually qualify for the CCBHC Medicaid Demonstration Program.  

    Find an extensive list of Heinrich’s actions to improve access to mental health care in New Mexico here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Southern California Man Pleads Guilty to Preparing False Tax Returns

    Source: US State of California

    A Southern California man pleaded guilty yesterday to preparing and filing false tax returns for his clients.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, starting in 2013, Salvador Gonzalez, of Corona, operated Grace’s Lighthouse Resource Center Inc., a return-preparation business. Since then, Gonzalez has prepared or assisted in the preparation of more than 11,000 tax returns that requested refunds from the IRS totaling more than $38 million. 

    Consistently, Gonzalez directed his clients to create a phony corporation and to title their homes, cars and other assets in the name of the corporation. Gonzalez then referred those clients to an associate to prepare these sham corporation’s tax returns. The associate would provide the clients with a blank spreadsheet and request that they input their business expenses into that spreadsheet. At Gonzalez’s direction, the clients would include personal expenses, such as their mortgage payments, car payments and utility bills, and then provide the spreadsheet to the associate. The associate would, in turn, use the spreadsheet to prepare the business tax returns, which inevitably would show a loss.

    Gonzalez then prepared the clients’ individual income tax returns, which incorporated the fraudulent business losses and offset their income. To further reduce the clients’ taxes owed to the IRS, Gonzalez also fabricated deductions on the personal returns such as unreimbursed employee expenses, cash contributions to charity and medical and dental expenses. As a result of Gonzalez’s fraudulent return-preparation practices, his clients paid less taxes than they owed.

    Gonzalez profited from his return-preparation business. Before 2019, he typically charged clients a flat fee of $500 per tax return. In 2019, he started charging clients 1% of their gross income as a fee for his services.

    Gonzalez is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 7 and faces a maximum penalty of three years in prison for each of the three counts of aiding and assisting in the preparation of false tax returns to which he has pleaded guilty. He also faces a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and any other statutory factors.  

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada for the Central District of California made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Lauren K. Pope of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Eli A. Alcaraz for the Central District of California are prosecuting the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: CNO Remarks at Lone Sailor Awards Dinner

    Source: United States Navy

    Good evening, everyone! Wow – what a fantastic video highlighting out Navy in action!

    It is an honor to be here with such a distinguished group of leaders, members of Congress, Industry partners, Department of the Navy civilians, Flag and General Officers, MCPONs lots of MCPONs, veterans, and our servicemen and women – here to celebrate our Navy – and most importantly, our people – tonight.

    Let me start by saying thank you very much to Admiral John Nowell and to the Navy Memorial team for putting together this spectacular event year after year. And thank you for bringing to life our Navy story and the stories of all our Sailors and all the people in the sea services day in and day out at the Navy Memorial, which is the home to one of the largest maps in the world, the “Granite Sea,” where you already heard that I danced with many veterans from the Armed Forces Retirement Home, and I had a really good time thanks to them and the Navy Band.

    If you haven’t seen the “Granite Sea” or been to the Navy Memorial, I encourage you to do so. The Granite Sea,” it’s a map and it really show the sheer size, the expansiveness and the interconnectedness of the world’s oceans. And the sheer responsibility we have to keep them free and open for all.

    Tonight, we are here to celebrate the contributions of Sailors, past and present and let me say right upfront there is a lot to celebrate.  After visiting our Navy team around the world and then just watching them again in that video I am filled with pride. I could not be more proud of our active and Reserve Sailors, our civilians, our Navy – Marine Corps team that is out there executing our Navy’s mission every single day – operating far forward, from seabed to space to deter aggression, to promote our Nation’s prosperity and security, and provide options to our Nation’s decision makers.

    So, tonight, it is both an honor and a privilege for me to be here to recognize the bold and daring actions of our Sailors the ones you just saw in the video from Carrier Strike Group TWO. There are Sailors from – the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower the aircraft carrier – Carrier Air Wing 3 and its nine squadrons. We have The Philippine Sea a guided missile cruiser. Destroyers from Destroyer Squadron Twenty Two – the Gravely,  the Mason, the Laboon, and USS Carney. USS Florida, a guided missile submarine. All joined by a full complement of logistics ships run by our amazing civilian mariners – USNS Supply, Kanawha, and Alan Shepard – who did their part to deliver fuel, supplies, munitions, other goods, and of course mail to sustain our people and our Fleet at sea. How about a big round of applause for all those Sailors out there.  

    Every one of them played a critical role in what I like to call a “Deployment of Firsts”: The first shoot down of an anti-ship ballistic missile; the first SM-6 engagement. the first air-to-air engagement of a hostile Unmanned Aerial Vehicle; and, the first employment of a hellfire against naval surface threats in combat.

    And while I could go on and on and on about their contested straits transits and the number of threats intercepted, but I instead want to tell you about the story of this amazing team as I saw it.

    For nine months our incredible Sailors prevailed operating inside an adversary Weapons Engagement Zone with an intensity not seen since WWII. They were saving lives, preventing the escalation of conflict, escorting merchants, ensuring the free flow of commerce, defending and working alongside our Allies and partners, and standing up for the values that we all hold so dear.

    For nine months, they demonstrated to the American people that naval power is – and will continue to be – an essential element of our nation’s security.

    And for nine months, these Sailors proved to our adversaries that we are truly the world’s preeminent fighting force and that no other Navy can train, deploy and sustain such a lethal, combat force at the scale and the tempo that we do. 

    These Sailors are truly America’s Warfighting Navy.

    And again, I could not be more excited to recognize some of those courageous IKE Strike Group Sailors here with us tonight teammates please stand. Please join me in giving them a round of applause.

    The story of the IKE Strike Group and the story of these warfighters is one of many stories across America’s Warfighting Navy it’s a Navy that works around the globe and around the clock. And tonight, thousands more of our Navy Sailors, our Marines, our Coast Guardsmen and actually all of our servicepeople are operating far forward at risk in multiple weapons engagement zones around the world.

    From the Eastern Mediterranean to the Indo-Pacific, from the Atlantic Ocean to the Red Sea, and everywhere in between our Sailors are standing the watch in every domain ready to preserve the peace, to respond in crisis, and if necessary, win decisively in war. 

    So, as we recognize the outstanding achievements of these Sailors here tonight, of our Lone Sailor Award recipients I ask that we also take a moment to reflect on all of our Sailors, our Marines, our service members, and their families. They serve everyday with Honor, Courage, and Commitment and it is because of their selfless service to our Nation that we can be here tonight to enjoy this wonderful evening.

    Thank you very much.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NREL Research Points Path to Higher Blends of Biodiesel

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    NREL researchers have identified strategies to blend more biomass-based diesel fuel into petroleum diesel. Photo from National Biodiesel Board, NREL

    Barriers that are currently preventing the use of greater percentages of biomass-based diesel fuel blended into petroleum diesel have been identified, along with strategies to overcome them, according to researchers at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).

    The bio-derived diesel fuel in use today is blended into petroleum diesel at a relatively low percentage, typically from 5% to 20%. An NREL team investigated the performance of much higher blends of biodiesel into both renewable diesel and petroleum diesel. They specifically examined blends of 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80%. A switch to using higher percentages of biomass-based diesel fuels would reduce the amount of greenhouse gasses emitted by the transportation sector. Biodiesel is an oxygenate made from fats, oils, and greases. Renewable diesel is made from the same feedstocks but processed to be a hydrocarbon chemically similar to petroleum diesel.

    “It’s amazing to me, but there are thousands of papers published every year on biodiesel, and almost nobody looks at blends over 20%,” said NREL Senior Research Fellow Robert McCormick, corresponding author of the newly published research paper “Properties That Potentially Limit High-Level Blends of Biomass-Based Diesel Fuel,” which appears in the journal Energy & Fuels. “This research addresses a major data gap about biodiesel blends, both because it looks at high-level blends and because it looks at blends with renewable diesel as well as petroleum diesel. Biodiesel blends with renewable diesel are 100% renewable.”

    The paper was coauthored by researchers Gina Fioroni, Nimal Naser, and Jon Luecke, all also from NREL.

    The researchers examined biodiesel produced from soybean oil, which is the most common feedstock used in the United States to make the fuel. They pointed out that a detailed understanding about the properties of biodiesel blended at levels above 20% is lacking.

    Heavy-duty long-haul trucks and off-road equipment, marine shipping, and commercial aircraft are expected to continue requiring liquid fuels even as electrification of smaller vehicles ramps up. These fuels will need to be low-net greenhouse gas emissions—such as biodiesel and renewable diesel—and compatible with existing engines. The use of biodiesel and renewable diesel is forecast to reduce transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions from 40% to 86% compared to petroleum diesel, depending upon the feedstock used. 

    McCormick said with a biodiesel blend greater than about 50%, “you start to have property differences with petroleum that that could be problematic.” At less than 50%, the differences do not pose much of a challenge. 

    Challenges with biodiesel blends greater than 50% can be mitigated, however. For example, diesel fuels must be reformulated in winter months to ensure that the cloud point—the temperature where wax begins to form—is below the expected ambient temperature. Wax can cause fuel filter clogging such that the engine cannot operate. Biodiesel cloud point can be as low as 20°F but for soy biodiesel is around 32°F, making the use of 100% biodiesel problematic in areas with colder winters.  

    “This issue can be managed by reducing the blend level or by blending the biodiesel into different hydrocarbon blendstocks with a lower cloud point during the winter months—as is commonly done today for B20 [a blend of 20% biodiesel and 80% petroleum diesel],” McCormick said. “A similar strategy could be used to mitigate the high boiling point of biodiesel, which is near the top of the diesel boiling range.” 

    A hydrocarbon blendstock with a lower boiling point, such as kerosene, could be used for biodiesel blends over 50%, alleviating challenges in cold starting the engine, accumulation of fuel in the engine lubricant, and potentially failure of emission control catalysts to “light-off” or achieve high enough temperature.

    The research, which was funded by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Vehicle Technologies Office, also examined other fuel properties such as density, oxidation stability, and water content to determine whether these might limit the blending of biodiesel. Oxidation stability, for example, may be reduced as more biodiesel is blended, but the problem can be overcome by using higher levels of antioxidant additives.

    Significant future research is needed to address the challenges of high level biodiesel blends, particularly on how they impact diesel engine emission control systems. The NREL paper serves as a research road map for addressing these challenges.

    Learn more about NREL’s sustainable transportation and mobility research. Sign up for NREL’s quarterly transportation and mobility research newsletter, Sustainable Mobility Matters, to stay current on the latest news.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sens. Tim and Rick Scott Introduce Legislation to Bolster Security for Presidential Nominees Following Trump Assassination Attempts

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Senator Rick Scott (R-Fla.) led 11 of their senate colleagues in introducing the Protect Our Presidents Act, which will enhance the U.S. Secret Service (USSS) protection for presidential nominees to the same level currently provided to a sitting U.S. president.

    “Over the past three months, we’ve seen two assassination attempts on a presidential candidate; it is clear action needs to be taken,” said Senator Tim Scott. “I am glad to join the efforts to beef up protections for presidential candidates at a time when reckless, inflammatory rhetoric is inciting acts of violence. This commonsense legislation needs to be taken up immediately.”

    “Over the course of just 65 days, two deranged individuals have tried to kill President Donald Trump, and one was able to shoot him in the head. It is unthinkable that this could happen in America today, and it demands the immediate action of Congress. Today, I am leading 12 of my Republican colleagues to introduce the Protect Our Presidents Act which mandates that the USSS provide the same level of protective services to presidential nominees that it affords to sitting presidents. President Trump has great officers and agents working around the clock to keep him safe, but it’s clear that the vile rhetoric on the left toward President Trump has made him a target and more resources are required to ensure the safety of him and his family. I urge Senate Democrats to join Republicans to quickly pass this bill that will support the protection of President Trump and all future presidential nominees,” said Senator Rick Scott.

    “The past two assassination attempts on President Trump have been alarming. It is clear safeguards are needed to ensure presidential nominees are safe from violence. I urge my colleagues to pass this bill to provide additional protection to presidential nominees,” said Senator Rubio.

    “The two attempts on President Trump’s life and the failures of the U.S. Secret Service have put the threat of assassination at the forefront of Americans’ concerns. With the Protect Our Presidents Act, will ensure American Presidents and presidential candidates receive the highest level of security. We cannot let our guard down,” said Senator Risch.

    “After two assassination attempts and very real threats directed at President Trump, it is long past time that all nominees receive the highest level of presidential protection. If we cannot keep all candidates safe, our entire system of government will be in peril. That’s why I’m proud to join Senator Rick Scott’s effort to protect candidates for the highest office in the land,” said Senator Budd.

    Senator Barrasso wrote, “Our nation has witnessed two horrifying assassination attempts on President Trump. We were merely inches away from a catastrophic event that would have changed the course of our history. This cannot happen again. The Protect Our Presidents Act will ensure all presidential nominees receive the same level of protection provided to the president. This will give law enforcement the resources they need to keep President Trump and all of the candidates safe.”

    “Ideas we do not align with and policies we do not agree with are not threats to democracy.  Allowing would-be assassins the opportunity to shoot a former president in the ear or to get within firing range to attempt to do so again within the span of just a few short weeks is.  President Trump should have the same level of protective service he had while President, and so should all future presidential nominees from any party.  This should not be political,” said Senator Crapo.

    “In two months, there have been two unprecedented assassination attempts on President Trump’s life. Enough is enough, the current level of Secret Service protection around President Trump is insufficient. It is clear to every American that the threats to President Trump have reached a level that warrants additional security. That’s why we are demanding that President Trump receive the same amount of security resources as the President and Vice President,” said Senator Marshall.

    “The two confirmed assassination attempts against former President Trump have made it abundantly clear that we need to shore up protection details for presidential candidates. What President Trump and his family have gone through in the last 65 days is unimaginable. No presidential candidate should fear for their safety or the wellbeing of their family. I am partnering with Senator Rick Scott to ensure President Trump and all future presidential nominees have the protection they need so they can focus on promoting their respective platforms, not fearing for their safety,” said Senator Lummis.

    Senators Tim Scott and Rick Scott are joined in introducing the legislation by Senators Roger Marshall, Jim Risch, James Lankford, Marco Rubio, Josh Hawley, Ted Budd, Mike Crapo, John Barrasso, Cynthia Lummis, Ted Cruz, and Mike Braun.

    Specifically, the Protect Our Presidents Act would:

    • Require the USSS to provide presidential nominees the same level of protection provided to the president, as well as any necessary protective measures.
      • The nominee may decline the increased protection if they so choose. 
    • Mandate regular reporting:
      • The USSS must brief and report on the status of the presidential nominee’s protection to the Speaker of the House, the House Minority Leader, the Senate Majority Leader, the Senate Minority Leader, members of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and the House of Representatives Homeland Security Committee every 15 days during a presidential election year.
      • This report will include the threat level for each presidential nominee, the security measures being implemented, associated costs, the number of personnel permanently assigned to each protective detail, and any unmet security needs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CFTC Staff Extends Temporary No-Action Letter Regarding Capital and Financial Reporting for Certain Non-U.S. Nonbank Swap Dealers Domiciled in the EU and the UK

    Source: US Commodity Futures Trading Commission

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s Market Participants Division (MPD) today announced it issued a temporary no-action letter extending CFTC Staff Letters No. 21-20 and 22-10 to certain nonbank swap dealers (SDs) domiciled in the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom (UK) that are the subject of pending CFTC reviews for comparability determinations regarding capital and financial reporting requirements. 

    As part of the capital and financial reporting requirements for nonbank SDs, the CFTC adopted a substituted compliance framework that permits certain nonbank SDs to rely on compliance with home-country capital and financial reporting requirements in lieu of meeting all or parts of the CFTC’s capital adequacy and financial reporting requirements, provided the CFTC finds the home-country requirements comparable to the CFTC’s requirements. 

    Through CFTC Staff Letter No. 24-13, issued today, MPD is extending a no-action position to eligible nonbank SDs domiciled in the EU and the UK that are not covered by existing CFTC orders addressing capital and financial reporting requirements. The no-action position is conditioned upon the nonbank SDs remaining in compliance with applicable home-country capital and financial reporting requirements and submitting certain financial reporting information to the CFTC.   

    The no-action position will expire by December 31, 2026 or the effective date of any final CFTC action addressing the comparability of capital and financial reporting requirements applicable to the relevant nonbank SDs. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Hanover Bank Hosts Celebration to Thank Community

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MINEOLA, N.Y., Sept. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Michael P. Puorro, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Hanover Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq: HNVR), the bank holding company for Hanover Community Bank, announced they hosted a cocktail party at their Hauppauge Business Banking center on Thursday, September 19, 2024 to thank the many people and businesses who have contributed to their success and welcomed them to Suffolk County.

    Hanover Bank recognizes that success is never accomplished alone. Since its expansion into Suffolk County, Hanover has received an enormous amount of support from its clients, the community, the businesses, and the leaders of this region. The scores of people and businesses that rolled out the red carpet for Hanover are all a part of the fabric and foundation that makes Suffolk County one of New York’s most vibrant business hubs. With a philosophy that success comes through helping others succeed, Hanover wishes to recognize all this support by showing its appreciation and celebrating so many friends and associates.

    Michael Puorro stated, “Being a part of the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge was the perfect choice for us when we decided to expand into Suffolk County. We have experienced such a tremendous amount of goodwill and enthusiasm that hosting this celebration is our way of thanking and honoring the many people who help us grow and succeed every day. This entire evening is dedicated to showing our appreciation and gratitude for the overwhelming warmth and welcome we have received.”

    The Hanover Bank building was developed and built as a state-of-the-art office facility and is located at 410 Motor Parkway, Hauppauge, NY. The developer and owner of this property, Craig Padover, President of Aresco 410 LLC, worked closely with Kelly Murphy, Executive Director and CEO, Suffolk County Industrial Development Association (IDA) to take this vacant lot and transform it into a Class-A office building.

    “Much like the theme behind this celebration, the development of this beautiful, thoughtful building is the true definition of collaboration and partnership,” said Suffolk County Industrial Development Agency CEO/Executive Director Kelly Murphy. “This newest addition serves as the official gateway into the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge and represents endless opportunity for those who walk through its doors. Long Islanders pride themselves on their quality of life and Hanover Bank’s building mirrored that sentiment with their employee-focused design and amenities. We congratulate Hanover Bank for anchoring this property now and into the future as we wish them continued success in the years to come,” stated Ms. Murphy.

    “In a project spearheaded and implemented by the Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim, our building was one of the first in the Innovation Park at Hauppauge to fully understand and take advantage of the Town of Smithtown overlay zone change along with the Suffolk County sewer expansion allowing the building to rise over sixty feet. Further, we are thrilled that Hanover Bank is a part of 410 Motor Parkway’s success,” stated Craig Padover.

    Hanover Bank is so proud to contribute to the local and regional economy by employing approximately sixty-five people that operate from this business center. Logistically, this location allows us to further service the Long Island community with commercial, municipal, and consumer retail banking products. By contributing to the local economy, and by working and transacting business with many of Long Island’s most successful organizations and municipalities, our Hauppauge Business Banking Center allows us to leverage our existing relationships across business lines to deliver unparalleled service to this region.

    “There is much to celebrate and so many individuals to thank. We felt it was only fitting to recognize “the village” of people who have supported our growth, and last night was our way of showing our gratitude and letting them know how important they all are to us,” concluded Michael Puorro.

    About Hanover Community Bank and Hanover Bancorp, Inc.

    Hanover Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: HNVR), is the bank holding company for Hanover Community Bank, a commercial community bank focusing on highly personalized and efficient services and products responsive to client needs. Management and the Board of Directors are comprised of a select group of successful local businesspeople committed to the success of the Bank by knowing and understanding the metro-New York area’s financial needs and opportunities. Backed by state-of-the-art technology, Hanover offers a full range of financial services. Hanover employs a complete suite of consumer, commercial, and municipal banking products, and services, including multi-family and commercial mortgages, residential loans, business loans and lines of credit. Hanover also offers its customers access to 24-hour ATM service with no fees attached, free checking with interest, telephone banking, advanced technologies in mobile and internet banking for our consumer and business customers, safe deposit boxes and much more. The Company’s corporate administrative office is in Mineola, New York where it also operates a full-service branch office along with additional branch locations in Garden City Park, Hauppauge, Forest Hills, Flushing, Sunset Park, Rockefeller Center and Chinatown, New York and Freehold, New Jersey.

    Hanover Community Bank is a member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and is an Equal Housing/Equal Opportunity Lender. For further information, call (516) 548-8500 or visit the Bank’s website at https://hanoverbank.com.

    Media and Press Contact:
    Annette Esposito
    First Vice President – Director of Marketing
    (516) 548-8500

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tillis, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Repeal COVID-Era Employee Retention Tax Credit

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Thom Tillis, alongside Senators Mitt Romney (R-UT) and Joe Manchin (I-WV), recently introduced the Employee Retention Tax Credit Repeal Act, bipartisan legislation that would disallow the processing of Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) claims filed after January 31, 2024, and increase penalties for fraud.
    “Repealing the ERTC is a critical step towards addressing America’s debt crisis,” said Senator Tillis. “It’s past time to eliminate this fraud-ridden pandemic-era policy so we can concentrate on getting our fiscal house in order.”
    Background:
    The Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC)—created by the CARES Act and furthered expanded by the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan—is a refundable credit available to qualifying businesses who paid wages to employees during the COVID-19 pandemic.
    In October 2021, the IRS issued a notice warning employers of “third parties promoting improper Employee Retention claims.” These “promoters” often use aggressive and deceptive marketing tactics to convince businesses to allow them to file ERTC claims on their behalf. According to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), “promoters typically charge a large upfront fee, sometimes upwards of 30-40% of the expected credit amount” as payment for their services. The program has seen a high volume of fraudulent claims.
    Estimates suggest the credit has added $230 billion to the deficit through Fiscal Year 2023 and could eventually cost up to $550 billion. Further, in June 2024, the IRS announced that between 10% and 20% of claims showed “clear signs of being erroneous” while another 60% to 70% showed an “unacceptable risk” of being improper. Unless Congress acts, applications for the credit are available until April 15, 2025.
    Full text of the bill can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven Secures Nearly $12 Million DCIP Grant to Establish Grand Sky, GFAFB Fire Station

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
    09.20.24
    EMERADO, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today announced that he has secured an $11.6 million grant to establish a fire station serving Grand Sky and the Grand Forks Air Force Base. As a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee, Hoeven worked to advance the award under the Defense Community Infrastructure Program (DCIP), which the senator has supported through annual appropriations legislation. Hoeven also made the case for the project to Department of Defense (DoD) officials, including General Kenneth Wilsbach, Commander of the Air Combat Command, who the senator hosted in Grand Forks earlier this year. In particular, the senator stressed to DoD officials:
    The need to reduce the current 20-minute response time for local fire services to reach the base, particularly operations in the southern portion of the base.
    The importance of providing adequate emergency services for:
    The critical space and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities housed in Grand Forks, which support DoD missions around the globe.
    The more than $4 billion in DoD assets at Grand Sky, including the Test Resource Management Center’s (TRMC) Range Hawk Program.
    General Atomics’ MQ-9 training services for NATO partners operating that aircraft.

    “This nearly $12 million grant to establish fire protection facilities at Grand Sky and the Grand Forks Air Force Base supports our ongoing work to expand the existing Air Force, DoD and Space Development Agency operations in this region, as well as secure future missions and partnerships for the base, the tech park, private industry and institutions like the University of North Dakota,” said Hoeven. “By building a fire station that is dedicated to serving the base as well as Grand Sky, we are providing greater certainty for these critical missions. At the same time, we are helping position Grand Forks to continue growing as a key player in missions around the globe, supporting operations from the ground all the way up into space.”
              This comes as the latest in Hoeven’s efforts to strengthen existing missions at, and bring new operations to, Grand Forks Air Force Base and the adjacent technology and business park, Grand Sky. The fire protection station will serve as a vital asset helping ensure the security of current missions, while ensuring the base has the resources needed to support the growth of future operations. Among other priorities, Hoeven is working to:
    Secure future ISR missions for Grand Forks Air Force Base.
    Forge further partnerships between the Air Force and institutions like the University of North Dakota and Grand Sky to:
    Strengthen U.S. counter-unmanned aerial systems (c-UAS) capabilities.
    Demonstrate and validate UAS applications for the military through Project ULTRA.
    Maximize the value of Grand Sky’s Enhanced Use Lease with the base.

    Expanding the Space Development Agency (SDA) satellite mission with Advanced Fire Control (AFC) operations at the base.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven Meets with General Brown, Chairman of Joint Chiefs of Staff on Updating U.S. Forces

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
    09.20.24
    Leaders Discuss Importance of Nuclear Modernization & New UAS Technologies in Protecting the Nation
    WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven this week met with Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Charles Brown on supporting Israel and Ukraine, and the importance of updating U.S. forces and developing new capabilities to ensure the U.S. has the tools and resources necessary to keep the nation safe. Hoeven stressed the role of nuclear modernization and developing new unmanned aerial systems (UAS) technologies in deterring threats and protecting the nation, including:
    Utilizing Project Ultra and new technologies being developed and tested at Grand Forks Air Force Base and Grand Sky to advance U.S. drone capabilities. As the Air Force works to develop drone and counter drone capability, the senator highlighted the infrastructure in place in North Dakota to efficiently advance these drone programs.
    The need to concurrently upgrade U.S. nuclear forces as a way of providing the most timely and cost-effective deterrent. Minot Air Force Base houses two of the three legs of the nuclear triad and Hoeven has worked to secure funding to keep nuclear modernization efforts on track. 
                “I had a great conversation with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Brown,” said Hoeven. We discussed what’s happening in Ukraine and Israel, as well as the need for DoD to have the necessary flexibility to develop new systems to strengthen national security and defend against our adversaries. Our discussion focused on how we can update and upgrade our armed forces here in the United States. Both Minot Air Force Base and Grand Forks Air Force Base are playing a key role in that effort.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth, Durbin Join Murray, Senate Democrats in Introducing Resolution to Recognize Patients’ Rights to Emergency Health Care

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
    September 20, 2024
    Abortion Bans Have Delayed Emergency Medical Care. In Georgia, Experts Say Were This Mother’s Death Was Preventable.
    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) joined U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) and 38 of their Democratic colleagues in introducing a Senate resolution to reinforce the standard that every patient has the basic right to emergency health care, including abortion care, regardless of where they live. The introduction comes as new reporting from ProPublica makes plain that Republican abortion bans are preventing women from receiving lifesaving emergency health care and resulting in preventable deaths.
    “When we warned Donald Trump and Senate Republicans that women would die if they succeeded in overturning Roe, they called us fearmongers. Tragically, it’s now painfully obvious that we were right,” Duckworth said. “We cannot wait for more women to die a preventable death because of Republicans’ draconian abortion bans—we must protect reproductive rights and women’s access to emergency medical care nationwide, and Democrats are working tirelessly to do just that.”
    “When a woman arrives at the emergency room, she should not be worried about whether or not she will receive necessary medical treatment.  Her family should not have to worry that their loved one may die because politics interfered with medical decision making.  But because the right-wing supermajority on the Supreme Court overruled Roe v. Wade, as Donald Trump promised, that is exactly what is happening,” said Durbin.  “I’m joining my colleagues in introducing this legislation to make clear that we will not give up the fight for women to receive the medical care they need, especially in emergency circumstances where access to care is a matter of life and death.”
    Since the overturn of Roe v. Wade over two years ago, nearly two dozen US states led by Republicans have passed, banned or severely restricted access to abortion. These strict laws have created confusion around the treatment doctors can provide even when a pregnant patient’s life is in danger, as physicians fear that they may lose their medical license, be sued, or even charged with a felony if they perform life-saving emergency care. Despite the federal Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act’s (EMTALA) requirements that Medicare-participating hospitals treat and stabilize pregnant patients in need of emergency medical care, women are being turned away from emergency rooms following the Dobbs decision.
    In Moyle v. United States, the U.S. Supreme Court had the opportunity to reaffirm that federal law requires pregnant patients to have access to life-saving emergency care in every state, but instead, the Court dismissed the case and sent it back to the lower courts, effectively punting on making a decision on the case itself. While the litigation continues in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, the health and lives of women remain at risk as uncertainty around emergency abortion care persists. 121 Congressional Republicans, including 26 Senators, filed an amicus brief arguing that EMTALA does not require hospitals to provide abortion care as emergency stabilizing care in order to save a patient’s life.
    In addition to Duckworth, Durbin and Murray, this resolution is co-led by U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Ron Wyden (D-OR) and co-sponsored by U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Laphonza Butler (D-CA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Tom Carper (D-DE), Bob Casey (D-PA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), John Fetterman (D-PA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Marin Heinrich (D-NV), George Helmy (D-NJ), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tina Smith (D-MN), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI).
    The resolution is endorsed by Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Center for Reproductive Rights, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, Reproductive Freedom For All (formerly NARAL Pro-Choice America), American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, National Women’s Law Center, Physicians for Reproductive Health, Power to Decide, National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice, Guttmacher Institute, National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association, All* Above All, National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum, URGE: Unite for Reproductive and Gender Equity, National Council of Jewish Women and National Partnership for Women and Families.
    Last week, U.S. Representatives Emilia Sykes (D-OH-13) and Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ-11) introduced the House companion to yesterday’s Senate resolution.
    The full text of the resolution can be found on Senator Murray’s website.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada Announces Significant Funding to Unlock More Critical Minerals Development in Northern British Columbia and the Yukon

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    September 20, 2024                                         Vancouver, British Columbia                                                                              Natural Resources Canada

    Investments in critical minerals infrastructure are essential to enable Canada to seize the generational opportunity of the transition to a low-carbon economy and capitalize on our rich mineral resources. Canada is well positioned to be a global leader and first-class producer of a wide variety of critical minerals that are essential to power the clean economy and, in turn, create good jobs and support economic opportunities across critical mineral value chains — from upstream exploration and extraction to downstream processing, manufacturing and recycling.

    Today, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, with the Honourable Josie Osborne, British Columbia’s Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation, and the Honourable Ranj Pillai, Premier of the Yukon, announced up to $60 million in funding, pending final due diligence from Natural Resources Canada, for two critical minerals infrastructure developments in B.C.’s Golden Triangle and the Yukon. This funding would be provided through the Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund (CMIF).

    Galore Creek Mining Corporation (Galore Creek) is planning to construct a 43-kilometre access road to support the development of its copper mine located in Tahltan Territory in northwest B.C. The Galore Creek deposits contain over 12 billion pounds of copper and, once in production, will significantly increase Canada’s annual copper supply. The construction of the Galore Creek Access Road would link the mine project to existing road infrastructure, provide ground access to proposed mill and processing facilities, and provide the electricity transmission corridor allowing the Galore Creek mine to operate using BC Hydro’s low-emission electricity grid. Road improvements are integral to advancing critical minerals development in B.C.’s northwest, in partnership with First Nations. Pending final due diligence, Natural Resources Canada has conditionally approved an investment of up to $20 million under the CMIF for this project.

    The Government of Yukon is seeking to undertake pre-feasibility activities to advance a 765-kilometre, high-voltage transmission line network that would connect the Yukon electrical grid to the North American grid in B.C. This regional project has proposed energy infrastructure located in two priority regions for critical minerals development — Yukon’s Cassiar and Tanana regions and B.C.’s Golden Triangle. The transmission line could support projects producing critical minerals such as cobalt, copper, molybdenum, nickel, platinum group metals, tungsten and zinc in the Yukon and northern B.C. Pending final due diligence, Natural Resources Canada has conditionally approved an investment of up to $40 million under the CMIF for this project.

    The Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund is a key program under the Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy to address infrastructure gaps and enable sustainable critical minerals production and connect resources to markets through various clean energy, electrification and transportation infrastructure projects. Future funding decisions for projects under the CMIF to further critical minerals infrastructure development are also expected in the coming months.

    These projects — which benefit from close collaboration under the B.C. and Yukon Regional Energy and Resource Tables — are, in addition to the recently announced Northwest BC Highway Corridor Improvements Project, key to facilitating critical minerals development in the Golden Triangle and Yukon. B.C.’s Golden Triangle has considerable mineral potential and holds approximately 75 percent of Canada’s known copper reserves. Copper is crucial in various industrial processes and a fundamental component in electrical wiring, electronics and renewable energy systems, including solar panels and wind turbines.

    Critical minerals are essential components in products used for clean energy technologies such as electric vehicles, electrical transmission lines and batteries. B.C. and the Yukon’s mining sectors provide many of the building blocks of clean technologies needed to fight climate change and build a clean economy. Across the country, clean energy solutions are providing enormous economic opportunity for Canada.

    Quotes

    “These two projects, under the Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy’s flagship program, will develop the necessary infrastructure to access and transport our rich critical mineral resources in northern B.C. and the Yukon. Developments like these help mines get built faster, and they are a key element in seizing the generational opportunity before us. These investments are needed to support critical minerals development in the region, improve community access and safety, and create good mining jobs across British Columbia and the Yukon.”

    The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson

    Minister of Energy and Natural Resources

    “B.C. has the critical minerals that Canada and the world needs to build a clean economy. We have a generational opportunity to create good jobs, not only in northwest B.C. but also in communities across the province that supply and provide services to our mining sector. That’s why we are working with Canada and First Nations on key infrastructure upgrades needed to unlock billions of investments in new critical mineral mines like Galore Creek and provide new opportunities for people and communities.”

    The Honourable Josie Osborne

    B.C. Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation

    “The Grid Connect Project is more than an energy initiative: it presents a transformative opportunity for all Yukoners. By delivering clean, affordable and reliable clean energy, this project will not only power our homes but also drive economic and social growth. I thank our partners in British Columbia and the federal government for their collaboration on this important project, which will positively impact our northern communities. This is a proud milestone for our government on the path toward a more sustainable energy future.”

    The Honourable Ranj Pillai

    Premier of the Yukon 

    “This project will connect Canada’s two most western jurisdictions, helping bring the Yukon on to the North American power grid. It marks a significant step in our shared journey to build a more connected and resilient energy landscape for Yukoners while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. I extend my deepest thanks to everyone whose hard work and determination made this vision a reality. I look forward to seeing how it will enhance clean energy in the Yukon, help protect our incredible natural landscapes and fuel new opportunities for economic growth.”

    The Honourable John Streicker

    Yukon’s Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources

    “We’d like to thank Minister Wilkinson and the Government of Canada for their contribution to developing the Galore Creek Mine and, by extension, Canada’s critical minerals industry. Canada’s support for Galore Creek represents confidence in our project, our owners, the relationships we have fostered with the Tahltan Nation and our commitment to responsibly developing a world-class copper–gold mine.”

    Rob Mean

    General Manager, Galore Creek Mining Corporation

    “Galore Creek has the potential to significantly increase Canada’s production of the copper needed for the energy transition and global development, generating jobs and economic activity, in alignment with Teck’s focus as a Canadian-based energy transition metals company. This investment by the Government of Canada will support the development of infrastructure needed to advance critical mineral projects and strengthen the nation’s mining sector.”

    Jonathon Price

    President and Chief Executive Officer, Teck Resources Limited

    “Newmont is a 50/50 partner of the Galore Creek Project with Teck Resources. Galore Creek stands as Canada’s largest undeveloped copper project, poised to play a crucial role in the transition to a low-carbon economy. As global demand for copper surges, we will soon face a supply deficit that underscores the project’s significance. The investment through Canada’s Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund in a vital road for Galore Creek will help unlock the project and the broader region’s substantial critical mineral potential in northwest B.C.”

    Bernard Wessels

    Managing Director North America, Newmont Corporation

    Quick facts

    • Canada has developed its own critical minerals strategy with the aim of advancing the development of these resources and related value chains to drive the transition to a low-carbon economy and support advanced technology and manufacturing.

    • The Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy addresses five core objectives:

      o   supporting economic growth, competitiveness and job creation;

      o   promoting climate action and strong environmental management;

      o   enhancing global security and partnerships with allies;

      o   advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples; and

      o   fostering diverse and inclusive workforces and communities.

    • Canada’s whole-of-government approach to critical mineral development is collaborative, forward-looking, iterative, adaptive and long-term. The initiatives presented in the Strategy will be implemented and refined in collaboration with provincial, territorial, Indigenous, industry and other Canadian and international partners.

    • The CMIF is a key program under the Strategy to support enabling clean energy and transportation infrastructure projects necessary to increase Canada’s supply of responsibly sourced critical minerals.

    • The CMIF supports strategic priorities such as decarbonizing industrial mining operations, strengthening supply chains through transportation infrastructure and advancing economic reconciliation by supporting the participation of Indigenous Peoples in infrastructure and critical minerals projects.

    • In addition, the federal government is helping to develop Canada’s abundant critical minerals through NRCan’s Regional Energy and Resource Tables. These regional tables are joint partnerships with individual provinces and territories — in collaboration with Indigenous partners and with the input of key stakeholders — to identify and accelerate shared economic priorities for a low-carbon future in the energy and resource sectors.

    Associated links

    Contacts

    Natural Resources Canada
    Media Relations
    343-292-6100
    media@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca

    Cindy Caturao
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources
    613-795-5638
    cindy.caturao@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy Statement on Rodanthe Home Collapse Crisis

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Stephanie Murphy (D-Fla)

    Washington, D.C. — Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. issued the following statement on the crisis of homes being swept into the ocean in Rodanthe, NC.

    “The fact that homeowners have to wait until their property falls into the ocean before they can utilize the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is ridiculous,” said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. “Every additional home that is swept into the sea understandably concerns individuals who want to see action taken. I continue to advocate vigorously in Congress for My Prevent Environmental Hazards Act which would allow folks insured by the NFIP to act before an emergency occurs. This is better for those with at-risk homes, and would save taxpayer dollars and protect the environment.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Capito, Manchin, W.Va. Officials Announce Form Energy Selection for $150 Million to Build Out Battery Factory in Weirton

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Today, U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, and Joe Manchin (I-W.Va.), and a number of West Virginia officials announced that Form Energy has been selected for an award negotiation of up to $150 million from the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Battery Materials Processing and Battery Manufacturing and Recycling programs to support Form Factory 1 in Weirton, W.Va. The funding is part of the more than $6 billion included in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) to support a strong domestic battery supply chain.
    “When I was crafting and negotiating the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), delivering support for manufacturing initiatives in West Virginia was an impact I knew we could make. Form Energy is providing a needed boost to the manufacturing industry in our state, specifically to the Weirton community. During my visit to the facility this summer, I saw how their embrace of new technological capabilities will help America continue to lead the way in energy innovation. This grant through the IIJA will expand Form Energy’s production and workforce, and will help continue West Virginia’s proud tradition of being an energy state,” Ranking Member Capito said. 
    “West Virginian workers and families have made the hard sacrifices to power our country to greatness and become a global energy leader. With today’s investment from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are continuing to ensure that we are producing the materials needed to protect our nation’s energy independence right here in the Mountain State,” Senator Manchin said. “I was proud to secure this funding and I am thrilled that Form Energy will be able to utilize it to create good-paying jobs in Weirton and help preserve our legacy as America’s Energy Powerhouse for decades to come.” 
    “We are incredibly grateful to the Department of Energy, Senator Manchin, Senator Moore Capito, and the many state and local leaders from West Virginia who provided pivotal support on the path to this award selection. This selection will enable us to more rapidly scale up our manufacturing capabilities and hire hundreds of skilled workers at Form Factory 1. We’re proud to help contribute to the growth of a clean, domestic, and independent energy economy in America. And we’re honored to do it alongside a strong local workforce, right here from West Virginia.” Mateo Jaramillo, Co-Founder and CEO of Form Energy, said . 
    “With its investment in Form Energy and Weirton, the U.S. Department of Energy is acknowledging that West Virginia is an ideal place to locate all-of-the-above energy development and manufacturing,” West Virginia Secretary of Economic Development Mitch Carmichael said. “Thanks to the encouragement and support of Senators Manchin and Capito, this backing will ensure even greater success in the Mountain State.”
    “With our robust history and past successes in heavy industry, the Northern Panhandle has paved the way for Form Energy and other innovative companies to be successful here in West Virginia,” Anthony Clements, Executive Director of the Business Development Corporation of the Northern Panhandle, said. “This funding from the U.S. Department of Energy shows the unanimous support from our state and our United States Senators Manchin and Capito for our region. I am thrilled we have the opportunity to see Form Energy grow right here in West Virginia.”
    “For years as a result of the decline and closure of its steel industry, the people of Weirton believed that its days as a manufacturing hub were over,” West Virginia State Senator Ryan Weld said. “Now, thanks to significant investments made by the State of West Virginia and the U.S. Department of Energy, along with the leadership of Senators Manchin and Capito, there is a renewed excitement for Weirton’s future and the products that will be made here.”   
    BACKGROUND:
    This announcement comes after Ranking Member Capito, Senator Manchin, and a group of their bipartisan colleagues sent a letter to DOE urging them to include alternative battery types, like the iron-air batteries manufactured by Form, in their grant awards. Once awarded, Form plans to use the funding to more rapidly scale up its commercial-scale manufacturing lines to produce up to 20 GWh/yr iron-air batteries and employ at least 600 employees to operate them.
    To learn more about the IIJA, click here.
    To learn more about DOE’s Battery Manufacturing and Recycling Grants, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Sanders, Vermont State Dental Society, University of Detroit Mercy, and Welch Announce Historic Effort to Advance Dental Care and Education Across State

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders
    BURLINGTON, Vt., Sept. 20 — Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), the Vermont State Dental Society (VSDS), University of Detroit Mercy (UDM), and Sen. Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today announced their historic effort to establish an innovative, new dental clinic and training program in Vermont. Through a VSDS-University of Detroit Mercy partnership, the initiative will bring UDM students to Vermont to complete their final years of training – strengthening the dental care provider pipeline and expanding access to much-needed care across the state. Vermont currently has no dental school.
    Sanders and Welch are working to secure $4.6 million in federal funding through the FY25 Congressionally Directed Spending process to support this initiative. The funding recently was approved by the Appropriations Committee and next needs to pass the House and the Senate before being signed into law by President Biden.
    “The suffering that the dental care crisis causes Vermonters and people across this country too often goes unseen and unaddressed,” said Sanders. “Far too many, especially in rural areas like Vermont, do not have access to a dentist, which forces them to either travel long distances or go without the care they need. In some Vermont counties, there is a year-long wait list. In others, there are no dentists at all who treat kids with Medicaid. And because we don’t have a dental school in the state, there’s no natural pipeline for dentists to train and eventually work in our communities. It is time for that to change. This historic initiative brings me a lot of hope for the care and education opportunities we can deliver to Vermont. I am proud to partner with the Vermont Dental Society, University of Detroit Mercy, and Senator Welch to make this a reality. Let’s get it done.”
    At a press conference on Friday, VSDS, UDM, Sanders, and Welch celebrated the program receiving its accreditation from the Commission of Dental Accreditation (CODA) – an essential step in establishing the teaching program in Vermont.
    “By partnering with University of Detroit Mercy, we are opening doors to educational opportunities that haven’t existed before in Vermont, and increasing access to oral health care for Vermonters as well,” said Justin Hurlburt DMD, board president of the Vermont State Dental Society. “We are excited to partner with Detroit Mercy on this opportunity to expand the dentistry workforce in the state,” he added.
    “University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry has a long tradition of graduating practice-ready clinicians and it is an honor to help bring the Detroit Mercy DDS program to the Green Mountain State,” said Mert N. Aksu DDS, JD, MHSA, Cert DPH dean of Detroit Mercy Dental. “UDM recognizes the need for dentists in Vermont, and looks forward to providing a program to educate and graduate dentists in the state.”
    “This accreditation is an important step forward in the process to expand access to dentists here in Vermont, so every patient can get the care they need. I look forward to working with Senator Sanders on this important issue, and will continue to advocate for more federal funding to support workforce development in dentistry and health care across our state,” said Welch.
    Left untreated, dental issues can lead to larger health problems. Nearly half of adults in the United States have some form of periodontal disease, which makes them two to three times more likely to have a heart attack, stroke, or other serious cardiovascular event. In 2019, there were 1.8 million visits to emergency rooms across the country for preventative dental conditions – a 62% increase from 2014.
    This new initiative will go a long way to increase oral health education opportunities and address the statewide dental provider shortage. Beginning in the fall of 2025, the partnership between VSDS and UDM will include two years of foundational and preclinical education at the UDM School of Dentistry campus in Detroit, Michigan, followed by two years of clinical and didactic education at a new dental clinic based in Chittenden County. Students would choose the Vermont residency option upon enrollment, increasing the likelihood that students will remain in Vermont to practice post-residency.
    University of Detroit Mercy-Vermont will house modern classrooms with on-site clinics to support its clinical education program and serve as a public health, Medicaid clinic to provide dental care to qualifying individuals. These students will not only work and learn in the new facility in Chittenden County, they will also do rotations in underserved areas around the state, including at Federally Qualified Health Centers and private dental practices. Current estimates show each class of students would see about 3,500 patients over a two-year period.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Urges Small Businesses to Strengthen Resilience During National Disaster Preparedness Month

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    WASHINGTON – This month, Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman, head of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the voice in President Biden’s Cabinet for America’s more than 34 million small businesses, is encouraging small businesses to take proactive steps to safeguard their operations from potential natural disasters. This year’s theme is “Prepare Now, Recover Faster.” 

    “As the frequency and intensity of natural disasters rise due to climate change, it is more critical than ever for Americans to be prepared,” said Administrator Guzman. “This Disaster Preparedness Month, we encourage all small businesses, homeowners, renters, and non-profits to take advantage of the SBA’s resources to create emergency response plans so that they can recover more quickly when disaster strikes, minimizing disruptions in communities and the economy.”

    With a wide range of resources and support services, the SBA is committed to helping businesses and communities across the country prepare for, respond to, and recover from unexpected events. Homeowners, renters, and businesses of all sizes are eligible for SBA assistance and can learn more here and by utilizing the Business Resilience Guide.

    “A natural disaster can occur anytime, anyplace, and climate change has only added to the problem,” said Francisco Sánchez Jr., Associate Administrator of SBA’s Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience. “That’s why it is important to remember that proper planning and preparation can mitigate a disaster’s impact. ‘Prepare Now, Recover Faster’ highlights the benefits that preparedness offers – that putting in the work now can lead to a quicker recovery and a return to normalcy later.”

    In 2023, the SBA lent nearly $3 billion to disaster survivors nationwide – including over $670,000 for small businesses and over $2.3 million for homeowners and renters – to help them recover from the financial and physical impacts of manmade and natural disasters. Currently, the SBA is responding to 34 disaster declarations across the country.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James’ Office of Special Investigation Releases Report on Death of Elijah Muhammad

    Source: US State of New York

    NEW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James’ Office of Special Investigation (OSI) today released its report on the death of Elijah Muhammad, who died on July 10, 2022 while incarcerated in the George R. Vierno Center (GRVC) on Rikers Island. Following a comprehensive investigation, including review of Department of Correction (DOC) staff incident reports and security camera footage, witness interviews, and comprehensive legal analysis, OSI concluded that a prosecutor would not be able to prove beyond a reasonable doubt at trial that the correction officer staffed on Mr. Muhammad’s unit committed a crime, and therefore criminal charges would not be pursued.

    At 3:00 p.m. on July 10, 2022, the correction officer staffed on Mr. Muhammad’s unit witnessed Mr. Muhammad in a severely disoriented state. Mr. Muhammad appeared to have difficulty keeping his eyes open and standing upright, at one point slumping to the floor in a seated position. After being alerted by other incarcerated people in the housing unit, the correction officer held open Mr. Muhammad’s cell door while two incarcerated people helped him into his cell. However, in violation of DOC rules, the correction officer failed to call a medical emergency. He also failed to take any other action to assist Mr. Muhammad, such as administering Narcan.

    The correction officer continued to check on Mr. Muhammad periodically for two hours, until 5:13 p.m., sometimes stepping into Mr. Muhammad’s cell. The correction officer then did not check on Mr. Muhammad until 9:43 p.m.

    Other people housed in Mr. Muhammad’s unit continued to check on him throughout the evening. Beginning around 8:00 p.m., the incarcerated people who came to Mr. Muhammad’s door appeared to grow increasingly alarmed by what they saw through his cell window and began knocking on and kicking at his door. At 9:43 p.m., the correction officer went into Mr. Muhammad’s cell, where he found Mr. Muhammad unconscious, cold, and foaming at the nose. The officer recruited another correction officer to help, and together they moved Mr. Muhammad out of his cell and onto the ground to begin rendering aid. The correction officers called for medical staff, who then called for emergency medical services. Mr. Muhammad was declared dead in the housing unit at 10:30 p.m. The medical examiner found that the concentration of Fentanyl in Mr. Muhammad’s blood was a fatal dose.

    Following a preliminary assessment of the incident, OSI determined that the failure of the correction officer to call a medical emergency or provide immediate aid to Mr. Muhammad qualified as an omission, or failure to perform a duty imposed by law, which contributed to Mr. Muhammad’s death. Therefore, OSI conducted this investigation pursuant to Executive Law Section 70-b.

    Under New York law, proving criminally negligent homicide as an omission would require proving beyond a reasonable doubt, among other things, that the correction officer caused Mr. Muhammad’s death. In this case, the medical examiner determined that while providing Narcan when Mr. Muhammad was first observed in a disoriented state, or in the ensuing hours when the officer failed to check on Mr. Muhammad, might have increased his chance of survival, there is no guarantee that it would have saved his life. OSI concluded that although the correction officer’s failure to call a medical emergency or render aid contributed to his death, a prosecutor would not be able to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that this failure caused Mr. Muhammad’s death. 

    MIL OSI USA News –