Category: housing

MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: OPINION | Sarah Huckabee Sanders: My State is Taking On the Middlemen Who Inflate Drug Prices

Source: US State of Arkansas

ICYMI: OPINION | Sarah Huckabee Sanders: My State is Taking On the Middlemen Who Inflate Drug Prices

The New York Times published “My State is Taking On the Middlemen Who Inflate Drug Prices,“ an op-ed by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders on what Arkansas is doing to fight anti-competitive practices by Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs):

Behind inflated prescription prices, complicated insurance plans and dying local pharmacies, there is a little-known culprit: pharmacy benefit managers that operate as self-serving middlemen between drug manufacturers, insurance companies and you. Now my home state, Arkansas, is taking action against them.

I am proud to be the first governor in the country to ban the anticompetitive practices that allow P.B.M.s to dominate the prescription drug market, and to encourage other states and Congress to follow Arkansas’s lead.

P.B.M.s started as a good idea that quickly went sour. They initially served as negotiators between pharmacies and insurance companies. P.B.M.s are supposed to keep track of fast-changing drug prices, insurance plans and government regulations, and are intended to keep patient costs low and prescriptions filled. But anyone who has had to pay an insurance premium or co-pay recently likely knows they don’t always work as intended.

Instead, some of these P.B.M.s opened their own pharmacies and others were acquired by existing pharmacy chains, in both cases creating huge conflicts of interest. The result: P.B.M.s forcibly steer patients away from independent operators and inflate drug prices in the vacuum left behind. That consolidation has only hastened in recent years. Today the nation’s three largest P.B.M.s process 80 percent of all prescriptions, and their affiliated pharmacies bring in 70 percent of all specialty drug revenue. They bring in steep profits, too: Pharmacies associated with the nation’s largest P.B.M.s received $1.6 billion in excess revenue from just two cancer drugs in under three years.

Especially in places like rural Arkansas, that puts patients at risk. I heard from one woman in Camden, Ark., who was a longtime patient at a community pharmacy where she always picked up her prescription in person.

But when she developed a life-threatening breathing disorder that required an inhaler, she ran into problems with her health plan, which is administered by one of the largest P.B.M.s in the country, CVS Caremark.When it came time for her routine refill, her claim was denied. She was told she had to use one of CVS’s pharmacies (which share a parent company with the P.B.M.), the closest of which was an hour and a half drive away.

She had three options: drive three hours round-trip, pay hundreds of dollars out-of-pocket at her trusted local pharmacy or risk enrolling in mail-order prescriptions.

She reluctantly chose mail-order, which required jumping through various hoops, including a new doctor’s appointment and onerous paperwork, only to encounter delays that left her without an inhaler for weeks. After finally getting an inhaler, she went to refill the prescription and was told it was no longer covered for mail orders.

This red tape isn’t just annoying; it’s also life-threatening. And the only purpose it serves is to line the pockets of corporate suits who stand between patients and the care they need.

Arkansas is fixing this problem. The legislation I just signed makes it so that a P.B.M. cannot also own a pharmacy. They can still operate in our state; they just can’t continue to mistreat patients and box out other pharmacies.

Not surprisingly, these multibillion-dollar companies are engaging in an all-out broadside against our new law. CVS flooded Arkansas airwaves with hair-on-fire ads before the legislation was signed. Now, CVS is threatening to close down every pharmacy it operates in our state — preferring to take its ball and go home rather than divest from its P.B.M. and actually serve the patients it claims to care about.

CVS and another major P.B.M., Express Scripts, are using all the legal firepower their money can buy to take Arkansas to court. And I have no doubt that lobbyists in other states and Washington, D.C., are about to make a pretty penny representing these panicked corporations.

Arkansas isn’t scared. We won’t sacrifice our veterans, seniors or rural patients in service of P.B.M. stock prices.

If you’d asked me a year ago if we could change these entrenched interests, I’m not sure I would have thought it possible. But with President Trump in office, everything is changing. He signed an executive order last month that targets P.B.M.s. “We’re going to cut out the middlemen,” he promised in a recent news conference.

Republicans have a chance to lead on this issue — but we have to act now. My fellow governors and congressional lawmakers should ignore the fear mongering from P.B.M.s and stand up for patients and local pharmacists to end these anti-competitive practices and fix the broken, backward system that has tarnished America’s health care for too long.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Congress’ Failure and Devastating, Cruel Bill Could Lead to Tens of Thousands of Coloradans Losing Health Coverage in 2026

Source: US State of Colorado

DENVER – This week, the Colorado Division of Insurance (DOI) informed health insurance companies that the agency was revising the expected impact of Colorado’s Reinsurance Program to reflect the Republican controlled Congress’s failure to extend enhanced tax credits for the Affordable Care Act (ACA) market. Governor Jared Polis wrote to Colorado’s Congressional delegation urging them and Congress to help keep thousands of Coloradans on their health care coverage by extending tax credits for those buying insurance off the health exchange. House Speaker Julie McCluskie and Senator Dylan Roberts also expressed concerns.

Since the inception of the bipartisan reinsurance initiative from 2020 through 2025, Coloradans will have saved over $2.1 billion dollars. Failing to extend these enhanced tax credits that are scheduled to expire at the end of the year, when combined with harmful provisions of the Reconciliation bill, will increase costs on Colorado families and individuals.

“On top of the destructive proposed cuts to Medicaid, which will throw hundreds of thousands of Coloradans off of their health care, failure of the Republican controlled Congress to extend these ACA tax credits, which have saved Colorado families hundreds of millions in premiums, will throw even more people off of health insurance who rely on reinsurance and marketplace coverage to save money. While Republicans fight with each other, hardworking Coloradans are focused on keeping health care that is accessible and affordable, and want to see costs go down, not up. The Senate should take action to extend these critical tax credits for hardworking families and start from scratch on the reconciliation bill,” said Governor Jared Polis.

The Republican controlled House passed Trump’s “big, beautiful bill” by a one-vote margin, 215 – 214. Representatives Pettersen, Neguse, DeGette, and Crow voted no, while Representatives Hurd, Evans, Crank and Boebert voted yes.

Governor Polis wrote to Colorado’s members of Congress today: “Amongst its many failures, the Reconciliation bill passed by the House fails to extend the enhanced tax credits that Coloradans rely on to make their health insurance affordable. If the Republican controlled Congress allows those cuts to go into effect, tens of thousands of Coloradans will no longer be able to afford their health care.

Coloradans who receive enhanced tax credits will see net premiums increase on average by 104%, simply due to the expiration of these credits. The end of enhanced tax credits will effectively be a tax increase for Coloradans and, moreover, will usher in the return of the “subsidy cliff” – where Coloradans making more than 400% of the federal poverty level (household income of $84,600 for a family of two) are left paying the full cost of their health insurance premiums without any assistance. The combined effect will disproportionately impact households with enrollees over age 55.

The end of the enhanced tax credits would significantly reduce the positive benefits of Colorado’s reinsurance initiative by materially reducing the federal support received to reduce individual market rates. Since the inception of the bipartisan reinsurance initiative in 2020 through 2025, Coloradans will have saved over $2.1 billion dollars. The reinsurance initiative operates under an ACA Section 1332 waiver, and is funded by the dollars that would otherwise flow through premium tax credits without increasing costs for the federal government. If the enhanced tax credits are not extended, state reinsurance initiative would have less funding available to lower premiums for all consumers in the market.”

The reconciliation bill would also increase red tape for Coloradans and create new barriers to enrollment.

“Between the cuts to Colorado’s Medicaid coverage and the cuts to Colorado’s ACA market, this bill will dramatically increase the uninsured rate in Colorado, rip away people’s access to health care, and lead to a substantially higher amount of uncompensated care that must be absorbed by Colorado’s hospitals and health care providers. That, in turn, will mean that employers will see their health insurance premiums rise as well. No corner of our health care system will be safe from the damage that this bill will inflict,” the Governor continued. “I urge you to take action, either through amendments to the reconciliation bill or through standalone legislation, to extend these enhanced premium tax credits and to scrap additional provisions in the reconciliation bill that will further raise health insurance costs and make health care unaffordable for many Coloradans.”

“If Congressional Republicans fail to extend the enhanced ACA tax credits, many Coloradans who buy their own health insurance will lose the coverage they rely on and many more will see their premiums go up, especially in the high country and rural parts of our state,” said Speaker Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon. “These premium increases and the loss of insurance coverage, on top of the proposed cuts to Medicaid, will be devastating for families and destabilize rural health care systems that cannot absorb the cost of more uninsured patients at their facilities. In Colorado, we’ve worked together to lower costs for families with the successful reinsurance program. Washington Republicans must extend these ACA credits, or Colorado families will be stuck with the bill.”

“It is hard to overstate the negative impact that losing health insurance affordability tax credits would have on Coloradans, especially those in our rural and mountain communities,” said State Senator Dylan Roberts (D-Frisco). “Colorado’s bipartisan leadership in using savings from the ACA to create the Reinsurance and Colorado Option programs has kept insurance rates from spiking and allowed tens of thousands of more Coloradans to have access to the financial security of health insurance coverage. Slashing these tax credits will undermine all of that, spike health insurance rates, and lead to more Coloradans being uninsured, particularly the rural residents our state’s Republican members of Congress represent. It’s truly baffling they’d harm their constituents like this.”

###

MIL OSI USA News –

June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta, DA Partners Announce $275,000 Settlement with Magazine Billing Company for Misleading California Consumers

Source: US State of California

Announcement comes following robust joint state-local investigation

OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta along with San Diego District Attorney Summer Stephan, Alameda District Attorney Ursula Jones Dickson, Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman, Marin County District Attorney Lori E. Frugoli, San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, and Sonoma District Attorney Carla Rodriguez, today announced a settlement with Pacific Magazine Billing, resolving allegations that the company deceptively disguised solicitation mailers for magazine subscriptions as bills. As part of the settlement announced today, Pacific Magazine Billing agreed to pay $275,000 and is banned from participating in the mail order magazine solicitation industry.

“In California, we boast nation-leading consumer protection laws — robust tools my office and the offices of local law enforcement partners can use to protect our residents. Pacific Magazine Billing used dishonest tactics to trick recipients into thinking they owed money to get consumers to sign up for a magazine subscription,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “Today, the settlement secured by my office and our law enforcement partners sends a clear message to companies looking to make a buck off unsuspecting Californians: If you deceive consumers, we will go after you, it’s that simple.”

“Deceptive business practices that exploit unsuspecting people in Alameda County will not be tolerated, and this joint settlement shows business owners will be held to account for their actions,” said Alameda District Attorney Ursula Jones Dickson.

“My office will not tolerate unscrupulous companies profiting from deception,” said Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman. “Pacific Magazine Billing is accused of disguising third party offers as legitimate invoices in order to trick consumers into paying fake bills — conduct specifically prohibited by state and federal consumer protection laws. Our office will protect consumers from being tricked by these large companies. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office vigorously fights for consumers in our county, and when companies violate consumer protection laws across the state, we proudly partner with fellow district attorneys and the Attorney General to hold violators accountable.”

“The Company’s business model was a scheme built on deception,” said Marin County Deputy District Attorney Michael Wear. “Consumers believed they were paying legitimate bills, when in fact they were being scammed. Our action puts a stop to Pacific Magazine Billing’s fraudulent practices.”

“My office is committed to protecting consumers in San Francisco and around the State from direct mailers that are deceptive or misleading,” said San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins. “I encourage any consumer who receives an unsolicited mailer that seems confusing or just not right to contact my office’s consumer protection unit. I also want to thank my fellow District Attorneys and our partners in the Attorney General’s Office for working jointly to address the conduct alleged in this case.”

“Our Environmental and Consumer Law Division is committed to holding businesses and individuals accountable when they mislead California consumers,” said Sonoma District Attorney Carla Rodriguez. “We are pleased that we were able to work with the California Attorney General and other California District Attorneys around the state to stop this practice.”

Spurred by consumer complaints, in late 2022 the District Attorneys’ offices and the California Department of Justice launched a joint investigation into Pacific Magazine Billing. The investigation revealed that between 2016 and 2022 the company blasted out tens of millions of mailers that looked like bills for existing magazine subscriptions, when the mailers were in truth solicitations designed to deceive consumers into unknowingly starting or renewing subscriptions.

The settlement announced today resolves allegations that in sending the mailers, Pacific Magazine Billing misled consumers and violated California’s False Advertising and Unfair Competition Laws. As part of the settlement, Pacific Magazine Billing will pay a total of $275,000 in combined civil penalties and other payments that will be used to fund the enforcement of consumer protection laws. The company has also agreed to strong injunctive terms that permanently stop it from issuing solicitations for any magazine subscriptions and mailing solicitations designed as bills in any other business effort.

Attorney General Bonta is committed working with law enforcement partners up and down the state to protect California consumers. In April, Attorney General Bonta in partnership with Napa County District Attorney Allison Haley and Santa Barbara County District Attorney John T. Savrnoch, announced a settlement with HomeOptions, a realty company based in Oakland that engaged in a predatory real estate scheme impacting over 500 California homeowners, and its Chief Executive Officer. In 2024, Attorney General Bonta, along with Los Angeles City Attorney Hydee Feldstein Soto, announced a $500,000 settlement with Tilting Point Media LLC resolving allegations that the company violated state and federal laws by collecting and sharing children’s data without parental consent in their popular mobile app game “SpongeBob: Krusty Cook-Off.” In 2023, Attorney General Bonta, along with District Attorneys from Merced, Ventura, and Yolo Counties, announced a settlement against Walmart over allegations that illegal weapons were sold to California consumers by Walmart and by third-party sellers through Walmart’s website.

A copy of the complaint and final judgement can be found here and here. The settlement is pending court approval.

MIL OSI USA News –

June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Sixth Person Convicted in Connection with Fatal Kidnapping in Wilmington, Delaware
Source: Office of United States Attorneys

WILMINGTON, Del. – Dylan J. Steinberg, Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that, on June 5, 2025, a federal jury convicted a Philadelphia man for participating in the kidnapping and murder of a Wilmington resident in July 2021.

According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Dwayne Alexander, 41, was a high-ranking member of the Shotgun Crips street gang. In the summer of 2021, a lower-ranking Shotgun Crip named Kimon Burton-Roberson became embroiled in a dispute with a Wilmington man. A group of Shotgun Crips then invaded the man’s home, beat him with multiple blunt objects, bound his hands behind his back with zip ties, and drove him to Alexander’s home in Philadelphia. After picking up Alexander, the gang then drove the victim to an industrial park in Yeadon, Pennsylvania, where they executed the victim by shooting him in the head. Alexander supplied the murder weapon and approved the killing.

Alexander is the sixth person convicted in connection with the fatal kidnapping. Other persons convicted federally include:
- Kimon Burton-Roberson – pending sentencing
- Stephanie Bultes-Ramirez – pending sentencing
- Rodney Chambers – pending sentencing
- Jamil Salahuddin – pending sentencing
A sixth person, Josiah Rivera, who was a minor at the time of the crime, has been convicted in the Superior Court for the State of Delaware.

Acting U.S. Attorney Steinberg stated, “This conviction marks yet another step forward on the path toward securing full justice for the victim of a brutal and senseless crime. We thank our law enforcement partners for their tireless work on the case. Together, we have sent a message that we hope reaches every corner of Delaware: violent gang activity in this State will be detected, investigated vigorously, and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

“We appreciate the continued commitment of the U.S. Attorney’s Office to hold each party responsible for their role in this kidnapping and murder,” said Wilmington Police Chief Wilfredo Campos. “It is our hope that this latest conviction will continue to offer some degree of comfort to the family of the victim, that the law enforcement community will leave no stone unturned in delivering justice in this case.”

“Dwayne Alexander committed a horrific and ruthless murder with his fellow gang members. This guilty verdict is the result of years of painstaking investigation and constant collaboration between our dedicated law enforcement partners and the FBI’s Delaware Violent Crime and Safe Streets Task Force,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Amanda M. Koldjeski of the FBI Baltimore Field Office. “Together we will relentlessly pursue justice and ensure that dangerous criminals who target our communities are held accountable.”

The FBI, the Wilmington Police Department, the Yeadon Borough Police Department, the Pennsylvania State Police, and Delaware Probation and Parole investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michelle L. Morgan and Benjamin L. Wallace are prosecuting the case.

MIL Security OSI –
June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Bacon, Min Reintroduce Orozco Act

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Don Bacon (2nd District of Nebraska)

Bacon, Min Reintroduce Orozco Act

The legislation allows immediate relatives of first responders who die in the line of duty to continue to process their immigration application in a timely manner despite the death of their loved one.

Washington – Yesterday, Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE-02), along with Rep. Dave Min (D-CA-47), re-introduced H.R. 3832, the “Kerrie Orozco First Responders Family Act.” This legislation allows immediate relatives of first responders who die in the line of duty to continue to process their immigration application in a timely manner despite the death of their loved one. It simply extends the privilege to first responders that current law affords to spouses of U.S. military serving our country.

The legislation is named after Omaha Police Officer Kerrie Orozco, who was gunned down ten years ago on May 20 while serving a felony arrest warrant as part of the city’s gang unit. Orozco, who had delayed her maternity leave until her premature baby girl Olivia could come home, was due to pick her up hours later that day. In addition to her husband Hector, she was survived by her stepchildren Natalie and Santiago.

“Four years ago, when Officer Kerrie Orozco was killed, her husband Hector was going through the immigration process. His immigration status should not have been put in jeopardy because his wife made the ultimate sacrifice protecting our community,” said Rep. Bacon. “Our first responders put their lives on the line every time they go to work ensuring our families and communities are safe. If they are killed in the line of duty, we owe them peace of mind knowing their families will be taken care of and not forgotten.”

“Law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe,” said Rep. Min. “The families of the officers who make the ultimate sacrifice for us shouldn’t be forced to deal with extra red tape as they’re grieving. I’m proud to support this common-sense legislation to support the brave law enforcement families around our nation.”
Under current law, the surviving family members of first responders who have pending immigration applications face delays in the naturalization process.

The legislation is supported by: American Business Immigration Coalition (AIBC), FWD.us, National Immigration Forum, Police Officers’ Defense Coalition, and the U.S. Deputy Sheriff’s Association.

“This bill is a compassionate, commonsense step toward honoring those who make the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country and local communities, and the families who carry their legacy forward. It recognizes that many of our country’s heroes are part of immigrant families, and that their spouses and children are deeply rooted in our communities. These families embody the strength and values that hold our country together. Protecting them isn’t just the right thing to do, it reflects who we are as a nation,” said ABIC CEO, Rebecca Shi.

“In the aftermath of a line of duty death, the FOP, the fallen heroes department and the community grieve together and do what they can to support the family and loved ones they leave behind. In the tragic case of Officer Kellie Orozco, who was shot and killed just days before she was to bring home her baby—a daughter that was born prematurely—she left behind a husband who faced a lengthy nationalization process while caring for their three children as a single parent. Modeled on the Gold Star Families program, the legislation would provide that a surviving spouse, child or parent of a U.S. citizen public safety officer who died in service or as a result of their service to apply for U.S. citizenship more quickly by waiving the five-year continuous residence and the 30-month physical presence requirements for naturalization. The FOP is proud to support the bill,” said Patrick Yoe, National President of the Fraternal Order of Police.

“The National Immigration Forum supports The Kerrie Orozco First Responders Act, a commonsense, bipartisan immigration reform that recognizes the sacrifice of fallen first responders and their family members. This bill helps surviving non-citizen spouses, parents, or children of U.S. citizen public safety officers by streamlining their process for obtaining citizenship, providing them a measure of stability and peace of mind. This compassionate and sensible reform would afford these family members a more direct path to permanent status and citizenship, an important and well-deserved gesture at a particularly difficult time,” said Jennie Murray, President and CEO of the National Immigration Forum.

“This important legislation stands as a profound and compassionate testament to the brave men and women who make the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. By allowing the spouse, child, or parent of a U.S. citizen public safety officer to be naturalized- provided the officer’s death resulted from a line-of-duty injury and all relevant immigration law requirements are met-this bill affirms a deep moral truth: that our nation not only values the lives of those who serve, but also honors and supports the families they leave behind,” said Bert Eyler, President of the Police Officers’ Defense Coalition.

This legislation is part of Rep. Bacon’s overall approach to immigration, which includes securing our borders and fixing our broken immigration system.

Click here to read the legislation.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: World’s most powerful ex-New Yorker gets a DC military parade, not a ticker-tape celebration in Manhattan’s Canyon of Heroes

Source: The Conversation – USA – By Lincoln Mitchell, Lecturer, School of International and Public Affairs, Columbia University

Heavy equipment and military vehicles arrive in Jessup, Md., for the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary parade on June 14, 2025, which coincides with President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday. Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images

Donald Trump’s plan for a military parade on June 14, 2025, officially to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army as well as coinciding with the president’s 79th birthday, is yet another indication of his affinity for authoritarian leaders and regimes.

Although the parade, which will include 6,000 soldiers, 150 military vehicles and 50 helicopters − and will temporarily close Reagan National Airport and cost more than US$45 million − is ostensibly to celebrate the military, the idea is pure Trump.

When pressed about his desire for the parade, the president has explained his reasoning for having the parade.

“We had more to do with winning World War II than any other nation. Why don’t we have a Victory Day? So we’re going to have a Victory Day for World War I and for World War II.”

While big military parades in Washington, D.C., other than immediately following a major military victory, are largely without precedent, there is another American city that has a much richer tradition of parades. That city is New York.

Melania Trump and President Donald Trump joined French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte Macron, to watch the annual Bastille Day military parade in Paris on July 14, 2017, an event that inspired Trump to seek a parade in Washington, D.C.
Mustafa Yalcin/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images

Trump vs. NYC

New York is a parade town. It’s also a city with which Trump has a long, complex relationship.

Trump was born in New York and began his business career there. Before Trump was a politician, or even a reality TV star, he was a fixture in the New York tabloids. His marriages, divorces, dating life and business successes and failures were splashed across more headlines than can be easily counted beginning in the early 1980s, but Trump was always presented as a clownish figure, albeit a very rich one.

In those years, continuing into the first decade of this century, the local media always presented him as gaudy, loud and not quite as business savvy as he claimed – hence the coverage of his bankruptcies.

While much of the rest of the country bought the Trump narrative that he was a brilliant businessman surrounded by beautiful women, doting staff and fawning celebrities, many New Yorkers never did.

New Yorkers, including me, remembered an earlier Trump who almost ran the family business into the ground over many years. Nonetheless, New York has always been important to Trump. Although he still is a well-done steak with ketchup kind of guy, while New York is a soup dumplings, or bagels and lox, or arroz con pollo, or even caviar kind of town, Trump still has a connection to this city and wants to be celebrated here.

Politicians, heroes and ticker tape

And the city celebrates with big parades honoring everything from sports championships, which used to be much more common for New York teams, to the U.S. winning wars, most recently following the first Gulf War in 1991. Additionally, New York has parades for many of the hundreds of ethnic groups that make up the city.

For decades on Thanksgiving Day, as they roast their turkey, prepare the stuffing and finalize preparations for the traditional feast, millions of Americans have watched the Thanksgiving parade, which is always held in Manhattan, frequently referred to as the Macy’s Day parade because Macy’s has long sponsored the event.

In many of New York City’s legendary parades, including those celebrating LGBTQ+ pride, the Puerto Rican Day Parade, St. Patrick’s Day, West Indian American Day and others, politicians march, often in the lead, alongside their constituents.

Some, like the Thanksgiving parade, have their own rituals, such as watching the balloons being inflated behind the American Museum of Natural History on the evening before Thanksgiving.

However, the most famous of all parade types in New York is the ticker-tape parade. Dating from the days when paper, not computers, dominated trading floors and offices, people would throw ticker tape and other papers out their windows as the parade passed through the Financial District area that became known as the Canyon of Heroes.

Not all New York parades are the same. Some, like the Thanksgiving parade, are simply fun and celebratory. Ticker-tape parades honor individuals or groups that have accomplished something significant, like landing on the Moon or winning the Super Bowl. They can recognize important foreign guests and dignitaries, while other parades celebrate the contributions of various peoples or groups of New Yorkers.

But New Yorkers never throw parades for their politicians and tend to favor drums and floats rather than tanks and soldiers at these events.

An avalanche of confetti rains down on Aug. 13, 1969, honoring the three astronauts of the Apollo 11 mission, who became the first people to walk on the Moon.
Bettman/Getty Images

No ticker tape for Trump

While there are parades for all kinds of people and events in New York, there has never been a parade there for Donald Trump. There was a pretty massive street party in the city when it was announced that Trump had lost the 2020 election.

Although Trump changed his primary residence to Florida in 2019, Trump was a New Yorker for many years and like many longtime residents had the chance to see many heroes – Mickey Mantle, John Glenn, Tom Seaver, Derek Jeter, Eli Manning, Nelson Mandela, American war veterans, numerous foreign leaders and many others – feted with a parade down the Canyon of Heroes. Jeter was celebrated five times, John Glenn and Mickey Mantle twice.

It is impossible to know Trump’s motivations for pushing the parade in the nation’s capital. But we also know that he is a man who holds himself in high regard and craves attention. Trump will likely never get a parade in his erstwhile hometown, so Washington must be the next best thing.

Trump’s newfound parade fetish underscores his love-hate relationship with New York.

New York is the city that made him famous and made his family, primarily because of his father’s work, very rich. It is also the city that has repeatedly rejected Trump. It is the home of some of his worst real estate deals, the place where the business community lost patience with his antics and unwillingness to pay contractors, and where three times the voters turned out in huge numbers against him.

A Washington, D.C., parade celebrating an unappreciated New Yorker who years ago decamped to Florida and Washington is a pale imitation of the Canyon of Heroes, where New Yorkers honor beloved leaders, war heroes, explorers and their favorite sports stars. But it is all Trump has.

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

– ref. World’s most powerful ex-New Yorker gets a DC military parade, not a ticker-tape celebration in Manhattan’s Canyon of Heroes – https://theconversation.com/worlds-most-powerful-ex-new-yorker-gets-a-dc-military-parade-not-a-ticker-tape-celebration-in-manhattans-canyon-of-heroes-258110

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Reaching out for a clearer view of the economy
Source: Bank of Canada

We’re gathering more information

Traditional data on inflation, jobs and housing are key to our decisions about whether to lower, raise or maintain our policy interest rate. But they often just give the big picture. And they show what has already happened, weeks later.

Non-traditional data can help us see what’s happening under the surface—and in a timelier way. That’s especially helpful in uncertain and rapidly changing situations.
- At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, we used data on restaurant reservations, flight bookings and credit card transactions to see how consumer spending patterns were shifting in real time.
- Today, to gauge the early impact of tariffs, we’re looking at changes in the number of trucks crossing the Canada-US border and the volume of ships entering and leaving ports.
Similarly, our surveys give us a clearer sense of the evolution of the economy, and timelier insights from Canadians across regions and sectors. The quarterly Business Outlook Survey (BOS), the monthly Business Leaders’ Pulse (BLP) and the quarterly Canadian Survey of Consumer Expectations have been especially helpful in recent years.

MIL OSI Canada News –
June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Bank of Canada holds policy rate at 2¾%

Source: Bank of Canada

The Bank of Canada today maintained its target for the overnight rate at 2.75%, with the Bank Rate at 3% and the deposit rate at 2.70%.

Since the April Monetary Policy Report, the US administration has continued to increase and decrease various tariffs. China and the United States have stepped back from extremely high tariffs and bilateral trade negotiations have begun with a number of countries. However, the outcomes of these negotiations are highly uncertain, tariff rates are well above their levels at the beginning of 2025, and new trade actions are still being threatened. Uncertainty remains high.

While the global economy has shown resilience in recent months, this partly reflects a temporary surge in activity to get ahead of tariffs. In the United States, domestic demand remained relatively strong but higher imports pulled down first-quarter GDP. US inflation has ticked down but remains above 2%, with the price effects of tariffs still to come. In Europe, economic growth has been supported by exports, while defence spending is set to increase. China’s economy has slowed as the effects of past fiscal support fade. More recently, high tariffs have begun to curtail Chinese exports to the US. Since the financial market turmoil in April, risk assets have largely recovered and volatility has diminished, although markets remain sensitive to US policy announcements. Oil prices have fluctuated but remain close to their levels at the time of the April MPR.

In Canada, economic growth in the first quarter came in at 2.2%, slightly stronger than the Bank had forecast, while the composition of GDP growth was largely as expected. The pull-forward of exports to the United States and inventory accumulation boosted activity, with final domestic demand roughly flat. Strong spending on machinery and equipment held up growth in business investment by more than expected. Consumption slowed from its very strong fourth-quarter pace, but continued to grow despite a large drop in consumer confidence. Housing activity was down, driven by a sharp contraction in resales. Government spending also declined. The labour market has weakened, particularly in trade-intensive sectors, and unemployment has risen to 6.9%. The economy is expected to be considerably weaker in the second quarter, with the strength in exports and inventories reversing and final domestic demand remaining subdued.

CPI inflation eased to 1.7% in April, as the elimination of the federal consumer carbon tax reduced inflation by 0.6 percentage points. Excluding taxes, inflation rose 2.3% in April, slightly stronger than the Bank had expected. The Bank’s preferred measures of core inflation, as well as other measures of underlying inflation, moved up. Recent surveys indicate that households continue to expect that tariffs will raise prices and many businesses say they intend to pass on the costs of higher tariffs. The Bank will be watching all these indicators closely to gauge how inflationary pressures are evolving.

With uncertainty about US tariffs still high, the Canadian economy softer but not sharply weaker, and some unexpected firmness in recent inflation data, Governing Council decided to hold the policy rate as we gain more information on US trade policy and its impacts. We will continue to assess the timing and strength of both the downward pressures on inflation from a weaker economy and the upward pressures on inflation from higher costs.

Governing Council is proceeding carefully, with particular attention to the risks and uncertainties facing the Canadian economy. These include: the extent to which higher US tariffs reduce demand for Canadian exports; how much this spills over into business investment, employment and household spending; how much and how quickly cost increases are passed on to consumer prices; and how inflation expectations evolve.

We are focused on ensuring that Canadians continue to have confidence in price stability through this period of global upheaval. We will support economic growth while ensuring inflation remains well controlled.

Information note

The next scheduled date for announcing the overnight rate target is July 30, 2025. The Bank will publish its next MPR at the same time.

MIL OSI Canada News –

June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Care Reform (Scotland) Bill passed
Source: Scottish Government

Transforming social care.

Plans to transform social care across Scotland will be progressed after the Scottish Parliament approved the Care Reform (Scotland) Bill.

Thousands of people with experience of accessing, delivering and receiving social care, social work and community health services have helped co-design the legislation, putting people at the heart of reform.

The Bill will bring forward a number of enhancements to social care that include:
- enshrining Anne’s Law into legislation to uphold the rights of people living in adult care homes to see loved ones and identify an essential care supporter
- strengthening support for unpaid carers by establishing a legal right to breaks, following the additional £13 million already allocated for up to 40,000 carers to take voluntary sector short breaks
- empowering people to access information on their care and improving the flow of information across care settings
- improving access to independent advocacy to guarantee people are heard and involved in decisions about their own care
- creating a National Chief Social Work Adviser role to provide professional leadership and champion the sector, as part of plans for a new National Social Work Agency.
Alongside the Bill, an advisory board will be established to drive progress and scrutinise reform, replacing an interim board that met for the first time in May.

Social Care Minister Maree Todd said: “More than 200,000 people across Scotland access care each year.

“Anyone may need care during their lives, and that care should be high quality and delivered consistently across Scotland. That is why we have been so determined to bring forward much-needed reform, alongside the work we are already doing through the near £2.2 billion total investment in social care and integration in 2025-26.

“Reform is not easy to deliver and it is being made more challenging by recent UK Government changes to Employer National Insurance Contributions and changes to migration. These will undoubtedly impact on care delivery.

“However, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to deliver the sustainable change to social care that people urgently need.

“This is a significant step that will strengthen the rights of people living in care homes, support unpaid carers and social workers and improve experiences for the many people who access social care across Scotland.”

Background
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Israel and the OPTs: Minister for the Middle East Statement

Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

Written statement to Parliament

Israel and the OPTs: Minister for the Middle East Statement

Minister for the Middle East statement to Parliament on UK sanctions on Israeli government ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich

With permission, Mr Speaker, I will make a statement on Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

The two-state solution is in peril.

Catastrophic conflict in Gaza…

and a shocking deterioration in the West Bank.

This is an affront to the rights of Palestinians…

but is also against the interests of Israelis…

against their long-term security and their democracy.

Today, I will update the House on new actions we are taking…

to uphold human rights…

and defend the vision and viability of two sides living side-by-side in peace.

Mr Speaker, 2024 saw the worst settler violence against Palestinians in the West Bank in the last two decades.

2025 is on track to be just as violent.

Between 1996 and 2023, an average of seven illegal settler outposts were established annually.

In 2024, settlers erected 59.

These outposts are illegal under both Israeli and international law.

Two weeks ago, the Israeli government itself announced 22 new settlements in the West Bank.

Every outpost…

every building the settlers erect…

is a flagrant breach of international law…

and disregards the views of Israel’s partners.

There are now in excess of five hundred thousand settlers living in the West Bank…

and over 100,000 in East Jerusalem…

the territory that must form the heart of a sovereign, viable and free Palestine.

Mr Speaker, the sharp growth in settlements alone is dangerous enough.

But it has been accompanied by a steep rise in settler violence and extremist rhetoric.

Itamar Ben-Gvir has led seven provocative intrusions into Haram Al Sharif/Temple Mount since 2022.

In 2023, settlers rampaged through the village of Huwara…

in what Israel’s own West Bank military commander described as a “pogrom done by outlaws”.

Last month, the villagers of Mughayyir ad-Deir fled their homes in fear after the construction of an illegal outpost 100m away.

This month, settlers attacked the town of Deir Dibwan…

setting fire to houses and injuring residents.

This violence and rhetoric is deeply concerning.

An assault not just on Palestinian communities…

but on the very fundamentals of a two-state solution.

An attempt to entrench a one-state reality, where there are no equal rights.

The two-state solution remains the only viable framework for a just and lasting peace…

I know it is supported on every side of this House.

Israelis living in secure borders…

recognised and at peace with their neighbours…

free from the threat of terrorism.

Palestinians living in their own state…

with dignity and security…

free of occupation.

Mr Speaker, we are steadfastly committed to defending that vision…

not just with words, but with action.

That is why we have pledged £101m in additional support to the Palestinian people this year.

Why we are working to strengthen and reform the Palestinian Authority…

Why My Right Honourable Friend the Foreign Secretary signed a landmark agreement with Prime Minister Mustafa…

and why my Right Honourable Friend the Prime Minister welcomed him to Downing Street.

Why we are clear that Hamas must release the hostages immediately and unconditionally, and that Hamas can have no role in Palestinian governance.

Why we are committed to working with civil society – Israeli and Palestinian – to support those who believe in peace and coexistence.

However, Mr Speaker, the gravity of the situation demands further action.

The reality is that these human rights abuses…

incitement to violence…

the extremist rhetoric…

comes not just from an uncontrolled fringe…

but from individuals who are Ministers in this Israeli government.

We have to hold them to account and protect the viability of the two-state solution.

And so today, we are sanctioning Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir…

acting alongside Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and Norway…

who have also announced their own measures today.

These two men are responsible for inciting settler violence against Palestinian communities in the West Bank…

violence which has led to the deaths of Palestinian civilians and the displacement of whole towns and villages.

This violence constitutes an abuse of Palestinians human rights.

It is cruel and degrading…

and completely unacceptable.

We have told the Israeli Government repeatedly that we would take tougher action if this did not stop.

It still didn’t.

The appalling rhetoric has continued unchecked.

Violent perpetrators continue to act with encouragement and impunity.

So let me tell the House now…

when we say something, we mean it.

Today, with our partners…

we have shown the extremists we will not sit by while they wreck the prospects of future peace.

Mr Speaker, our actions today do not diminish our support for the security of Israel and the Israeli people.

The agendas of these two men are not even supported by the majority of Israelis…

Israelis recognise that these individuals are not working in their interest.

As the Foreign Secretary said to this House last month…

we want a strong friendship with Israel based on shared values and our many close ties.

Our condemnation of Hamas, a proscribed organisation…

and the appalling attacks of October 7th is unequivocal.

Our commitment to Israel’s security and future is unwavering.

We will continue to press for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza…

the release of the hostages still held so cruelly by Hamas…

a ramping up of aid to those Gazans in desperate need.

The repeated threats by Hamas to the lives of the hostages are grotesque…

and prolongs the agony of their families and loved ones.

Hamas should release all the hostages immediately and unconditionally.

Mr Speaker, the situation in the West Bank cannot be seen in isolation from events in Gaza.

Extremist rhetoric advocating forced displacement of Palestinians…

denial of essential aid…

the creation of new Israeli settlements in the Strip…

is equally appalling and dangerous.

This Government will never accept the unlawful transfer of Gazans from or within Gaza…

nor any reduction in the territory of the Gaza Strip.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains catastrophic.

While Israel’s ground and air operations expand, Gazans have been pushed into less than 20% of the territory.

Hospitals have been destroyed and damaged.

Gaza’s entire population is at risk of famine.

Meanwhile, Israel’s newly introduced measures for aid delivery endanger civilians and foster desperation.

They are inhumane.

The Red Cross Field Hospital in Rafah reported last week that it has responded to an unprecedented five mass casualty incidents in the two weeks prior…

in each case, Palestinians have been killed or injured trying to access aid sites in Gaza.

Desperate civilians who have endured twenty months of war should never face the risk of death or injury simply to feed themselves and their families.

We need further action from the Israeli government now…

to lift all restrictions on aid…

to enable the UN and aid partners to do their work…

and to ensure food and other critical supplies can reach people safely wherever they are.

We will continue to support the UN and other trusted NGOs as the most effective and principled partners for aid delivery.

Our support has meant over 465,000 people have received essential healthcare…

640,000 have received food…

and 275,000 people have improved access to water, sanitation and hygiene services.

We support the efforts led by the United States, Qatar and Egypt to secure an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

And we welcome France and Saudi Arabia’s initiative to chair an international conference later this month to advance a two-state solution.

Mr Speaker, it is a two-state solution that is the only way to bring the long-lasting peace that both Israelis and Palestinians deserve.

But it must not remain an empty slogan…

repeated by generations of diplomats and politicians…

but increasingly divorced from the reality on the ground.

Mr Smotrich said there is no such thing as a Palestinian nation.

Mr Ben Gvir has spoken of his rights in the West Bank…

a territory his government is occupying…

as more important than the rights of millions of Palestinians.

Their own words condemn them, Mr Speaker.

To defend those Palestinians’ rights…

to protect the two-state solution…

to see Israelis and Palestinians living side by side in safety and security…

this Government is taking action.

I commend this statement to the House.

Updates to this page

Published 10 June 2025

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Talking to Canadians: How real-world insights shape monetary policy

Source: Bank of Canada

Surveying Canadians

Now on to another important tool: surveys.

Like other central banks, the Bank conducts a number of surveys with the financial sector. The results provide us with information on important issues like lending conditions as well as the demand for and supply of credit. We also gain important insights on risks and resiliency in the financial system. And we talk to financial market professionals to hear their views on where the economy and inflation are headed.

But today, in talking about surveys, I want to focus more on how our regional offices inform our monetary policy deliberations by reaching out to households and businesses.

Since the late 1990s, the Bank has been expanding its reach into the diverse regions that make up this great country. This work has included opening regional offices, and surveying businesses and consumers about their economic views. Our regional staff are well positioned to strengthen our ties with key local stakeholders such as industry, government, educational institutions and community organizations.

Currently, the Bank’s regional offices conduct three key macroeconomic surveys: the Business Outlook Survey, the Business Leaders’ Pulse and the Canadian Survey of Consumer Expectations.^, ^,

I’ll go over each one in greater detail in a moment. But overall, surveys like these accomplish three main goals.

First, they help inform our outlooks for the economy and inflation. We hear from individuals and businesses about how they’re feeling—a measure of their current levels of confidence. We also ask what they expect to happen to prices and their own spending in the future.

This gives the Bank forward-looking views on economic activity, demand, capacity pressures and inflation. That makes surveys particularly helpful in providing early indications of how the economy is reacting during times of great uncertainty, like the current trade conflict.

Surveys also shine a light on trends that may be simmering beneath the surface. They help us understand behavioural changes that don’t always show up in aggregated data reports—at least not immediately.

Finally, these surveys help us gather a wide range of views on how current economic conditions are playing out in communities across Canada.

Our national economy is made up of diverse regional economies. Economic conditions may differ across regions, and regions may respond differently to broad-based upswings and downturns. Survey data give us a clearer view of the differences in how households and businesses are experiencing the economy.

Let me now turn to each of the surveys.

The Business Outlook Survey—or BOS for short—is a quarterly survey of businesses across the country. It has existed since 1997, which provides us a rich, long dataset for comparisons.

Staff in our regional offices meet with local business leaders to discuss their views on the economy. We ask about their expectations for sales and demand, as well as their investment intentions. We probe their views about labour shortages, as well as hiring and wages. And we ask for their outlooks on costs and pricing, as well as economy-wide inflation. This gives us a broad range of perspectives about how businesses view the economy.

For example, the results of the BOS for the fourth quarter of 2021 helped us better understand how the COVID-19 pandemic was affecting firms. For the first time since the start of the pandemic, we saw that businesses were planning to pass along cost increases stemming from supply chain pressures. They had concluded that customers understood these pressures and were willing to accept price increases.

More recently, firms told us that uncertainty about tariffs has been affecting them in multiple ways. These impacts include weaker demand from their business customers that would be directly affected by tariffs.

Now on to the Business Leaders’ Pulse, or BLP for short. This is our newest survey, created in 2021. It’s a short monthly online questionnaire to assess firms’ expectations for growth in sales and employment. It also asks about perceived risks to their business outlook, and poses other topical questions.

The BLP provides a flexible and nimble pulse of evolving situations. It complements the BOS with timely feedback from firms about the effects of rapid changes in the economy.

And the BLP has been very helpful in monitoring effects from the situation south of the border. For example, businesses were reporting an increase in both uncertainty and inflation expectations as early as November 2024. In December, we also began noting a decline in business sentiment—even before the new US administration was sworn in.

MIL OSI Canada News –

June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Republican Colleagues Demand End to Biden-Era Flood Insurance Premiums

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) led the charge of nine Republican Senators in demanding the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) finally end the Biden era policy, Risk Rating 2.0, which caused flood insurance premiums to skyrocket.
“Since the Biden Administration’s rollout of Risk Rating 2.0, premiums under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) increased in every state. By FEMA’s own estimates, 77 percent of all NFIP policies now pay more than under the old system,” said the senators.
“The lack of transparency surrounding Risk Rating 2.0 is beyond troubling. FEMA has never allowed for meaningful public comment nor has it published the underlying data or assumptions used to justify the steep premium increases and refuses to disclose its actuarial model. Without transparency, communities cannot plan mitigation projects, lenders cannot accurately underwrite mortgages, and citizens cannot appeal punitive rate increases. Worse still, rising costs encourage policy lapses—shifting risk back to taxpayers when disasters strike,” continued the senators.
Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senators John Kennedy (R-LA), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Jim Justice (R-WV), Katie Britt (R-AL), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), and John Cornyn (R-TX).
Read the full letter here or below:
Dear Acting Administrator Richardson,
We write to draw your urgent attention to the increasingly untenable flood insurance premiums paid by American homeowners as a result of the Biden era policy, Risk Rating 2.0, administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). We respectfully ask for your leadership to halt further premium increases under Risk Rating 2.0 and implement much needed transparency from FEMA.
On January 20, 2021, President Biden issued Executive Order (EO) 13990, directing every federal agency to target and modify Trump era regulations under the auspice of combating climate change. A few months later, Biden signed EO 14030, requiring agencies to integrate up-to-date flood risk considerations into federal actions. Collectively, both of these EOs laid the groundwork for FEMA’s implementation of a new rating system known as Risk Rating 2.0, which was enacted on October 1, 2021.
Since the Biden Administration’s rollout of Risk Rating 2.0, premiums under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) increased in every state. By FEMA’s own estimates, 77 percent of all NFIP policies now pay more than under the old system. According to a 2023 Government Accountability Office (GAO) report, premiums on primary residences under Risk Rating 2.0 are subject to a maximum 18 percent increase each year until such premiums reflect “the full risk loss of the insured property,” as determined by FEMA.
Families in the following Republican states are especially hard-hit.
Louisiana:
It is estimated that 80 percent of Louisiana NFIP policyholders experienced monthly premium increases in 2025 as a result of Risk Rating 2.0.
In 2023 alone, the average flood insurance premium in our state jumped by 234 percent, forcing more than 52,000 Louisianans—many of them seniors on fixed incomes—out of the program.
Coastal parishes, which depend on flood insurance to secure mortgages and rebuild after storms, are now facing premiums that exceed 2 percent of median household income—a threshold that federal guidance deems “cost prohibitive.”
West Virginia:
It is estimated that 83% of West Virginia NFIP policyholders experienced monthly premium increases in 2025 as a result of Risk Rating 2.0.
As of August 2023 (the latest available FEMA data), Risk Rating 2.0 would increase annual NFIP premiums for homeowners in West Virginia by ~176%.
Over the last 12 months, ~600 West Virginians have left the NFIP as a result of premium increases.
Texas:
It is estimated that 86% of Texas NFIP policyholders experienced monthly premium increases in 2025 as a result of Risk Rating 2.0.
As of August 2023 (the latest available FEMA data), Risk Rating 2.0 would increase annual NFIP premiums for homeowners in Texas by ~53%.
Over the last 12 months, ~26,300 Texans have left the NFIP as a result of premium increases.
Alabama:
It is estimated that 79% of Alabama NFIP policyholders experienced monthly premium increases in 2025 as a result of Risk Rating 2.0.
As of August 2023 (the latest available FEMA data), Risk Rating 2.0 would increase annual NFIP premiums for homeowners in Alabama by ~106%.
Over the last 12 months, ~1,200 Alabamians have left the NFIP as a result of premium increases.
Mississippi:
It is estimated that 84% of Mississippi NFIP policyholders experienced monthly premium increases in 2025 as a result of Risk Rating 2.0.
As of August 2023 (the latest available FEMA data), Risk Rating 2.0 would increase annual NFIP premiums for homeowners in Mississippi by ~103%.
Over the last 12 months, ~2,200 Mississippians have left the NFIP as a result of premium increases.
Rural and low-income homeowners, along with high-risk coastal areas, are being priced out at far higher rates than urban or wealthier communities. In ten states, full risk NFIP premiums today exceed 2 percent of median household income.  This undermines home values, depresses property tax revenues, and ultimately inflates federal disaster assistance costs when uninsured homeowners cannot rebuild.
The lack of transparency surrounding Risk Rating 2.0 is beyond troubling. FEMA has never allowed for meaningful public comment nor has it published the underlying data or assumptions used to justify the steep premium increases and refuses to disclose its actuarial model. Without transparency, communities cannot plan mitigation projects, lenders cannot accurately underwrite mortgages, and citizens cannot appeal punitive rate increases. Worse still, rising costs encourage policy lapses—shifting risk back to taxpayers when disasters strike.
The President has long championed policies that reduce federal overreach and protect everyday Americans from burdensome costs. To limit the damage caused by this harmful Biden era policy, we urge you to:
Direct FEMA to terminate the Risk Rating 2.0 pricing methodology.
Require FEMA to publish all actuarial inputs and outputs of future flood insurance premium increases exceeding the 5% statutory minimum so stakeholders can verify fairness and accuracy.
Restore targeted affordability measures for coastal, low income, and historically underinsured communities—ensuring NFIP remains accessible to those who need it most.
Time is of the essence. Each month that Risk Rating 2.0 continues unchecked, more families are forced to abandon their insurance coverage, neighborhoods face economic strain, and entire communities risk collapse after the next disaster. We respectfully urge you to act now—before further harm is done—to protect vulnerable Americans, preserve homeownership, and ensure the NFIP fulfills its mission as Congress intended.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.

MIL OSI USA News –

June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Warner & Kaine Condemn Provisions on GOP Tax Plan that Would Eliminate Gun Safety Measures

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) issued the following statement condemning provisions in the Republican tax plan that would weaken gun safety measures that have been in place since 1934 by eliminating registration and ownership requirements for gun silencers under the National Firearms Act, increasing danger for law enforcement officers while saving gun manufacturers millions in unpaid manufacturer taxes:
“The Republican tax plan being pushed through Congress not only cuts critical services Virginians rely on in order to give huge tax breaks to billionaires, but it also makes our communities less safe by weakening gun safety measures on silencers. Part of the reason that these registration and ownership requirements exist is because silencers, like the one that was used in the Virginia Beach mass shooting, make it harder for law enforcement to locate and respond to an active shooter. Americans deserve to feel safe in their communities, and we will oppose this disastrous bill when it comes to the Senate floor.”
A gun silencer, also known as a suppressor, is attached to the barrel of a firearm in order to curb its sound, muzzle flash, and kickback. A silencer poses great danger to the public and makes it more difficult for law enforcement officers to detect the location of and respond to an active shooter. A silencer also diminishes the effectiveness of gunshot detection technology that relies on audio sensors to record the sound, time, and location of loud noises. A gun silencer was used in the Virginia Beach mass shooting on May 31, 2019. Law enforcement has historically supported silencer regulations because silencers make it harder, if not impossible, to figure out where the shooter is in an active shooter situation.
Sens. Warner and Kaine have been sounding the alarm about the effects of the GOP plan on Virginia families if Republicans in Congress continue to insist on gutting vital programs in order to pay for tax breaks for the richest Americans. The senators have noted that the GOP bill would strip health insurance from more than 262,000 Virginians, cut SNAP benefits for more than 204,000 people in Virginia, raise energy costs for Virginia households, and jeopardize more than 20,000 Virginia jobs. The bill would also raise the deficit by $3.8 trillion, eliminate a program allowing Americans to file federal taxes for free, and raise taxes on minimum-wage workers while giving the richest 0.1% a $188,000 tax cut.

MIL OSI USA News –

June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven Advances Ranching, Grasslands Priorities with USDA Under Secretary Nominee

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
06.06.25
Senator Urges Nominee to Ensure USFS Works with North Dakota Ranchers on Grazing Access, Wildfire Management & Pest Control
WASHINGTON – At a hearing of the Senate Agriculture Committee this week, Senator John Hoeven advanced key priorities for North Dakota ranchers with Michael Boren, the nominee to serve as the Under Secretary of Agriculture for Natural Resources and Environment. In this role, Boren will oversee the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), which includes the national grasslands in North Dakota. Accordingly, Hoeven urged Boren to work with him on:
Ensuring access to USFS lands for multiple use, including grazing and energy production.
Hoeven stressed to Boren that section line rights-of-way are critical for enabling ranchers to access their cattle in the Little Missouri National Grasslands.

Coordinating with local ranchers and rural fire departments on wildfire management, including protecting against impacts from controlled burns on federal lands.
Better management of pests on USFS lands, such as prairie dogs and noxious weeds.
Hoeven and Boren discussed the need for adequate buffers on federal lands to help prevent damage to private and state-held lands.
Hoeven previously worked with USFS Deputy Chief Chris French on efforts to address noxious weeds on the Dakota Prairie Grasslands and urged Boren to maintain these efforts.

“North Dakota is home to the largest national grasslands in the country, with the USFS managing more than a million acres of land in our state. That creates real challenges that require the federal government to work cooperatively with our local stakeholders, including our ag and energy producers,” said Hoeven. “In both the committee hearing and my meeting with Michael Boren, we drove home the importance of ensuring access to the grasslands for our grazers. Fair grazing agreements are essential, as is access through section lines to ensure ranchers can actually get to their cattle. At the same time, we’ve seen poor land management on federal acreage impacting private and state lands through the spread of noxious weeds, uncontrolled prairie dog colonies and wildfires. I appreciate Mr. Boren’s commitment to work with us on these critical issues.”

MIL OSI USA News –

June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: China to Build National Heritage Route Along Ancient Silk Road

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

LANZHOU, June 10 (Xinhua) — China plans to build its first national heritage route along the historically significant Hexi Corridor in northwest China within the next 10 years, part of its goal to strengthen the protection, preservation and utilization of cultural and natural heritage.

The plan was announced on Tuesday at a press conference by the people’s government of Gansu Province in northwest China.

According to He Xiaozu, head of the provincial department of culture and tourism, a series of projects will be implemented in Gansu focusing on heritage protection and utilization, infrastructure construction, tourism facility distribution, and international exchanges and cooperation. They will cover a total of 52 representative cultural and natural heritage sites and 20 national-level intangible cultural heritage projects along the Hexi Corridor, he said.

The total investment to support the implementation of 120 specific tasks related to the construction of the route will amount to 610 million yuan (US$84.9 million), He Xiaozu said.

For many years, China has carried out large-scale work to preserve and rationally utilize the cultural heritage in the Hexi Corridor. Thus, the Chinese government has invested a total of 540 million yuan in preserving the cultural heritage of the relevant section of the Great Wall of China and has facilitated the implementation of more than 110 protection and restoration projects.

The Hexi Corridor, part of the ancient Silk Road and stretching for nearly 1,000 km across Gansu Province, is home to five UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 53 grottoes.

“The national heritage route will be built in strict accordance with the principle of minimal interference and will become an important platform for China to share cultural achievements with the rest of the world and promote exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations,” said Qiu Jian, head of the Gansu Provincial Cultural Heritage Administration. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Trahan, Massachusetts Delegation Demand Reversal of Trump Administration’s Disastrous Job Corps Center Closures

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lori Trahan (D-MA-03)

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03) was joined by fellow members of the Massachusetts Congressional Delegation, including Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Edward J. Markey (D-MA) as well as Representatives Richard E. Neal (MA-01), Jim McGovern (MA-02), Jake Auchincloss (MA-04), Katherine Clark (MA-05), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Stephen F. Lynch (MA-08) and Bill Keating (MA-09) in demanding that the Trump administration reverse its decision to cancel federal Job Corps funding, threatening the abrupt closure of 99 contractor-operated Job Corps centers nationwide.
The letter sent today to U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez DeRemer highlights the impact to Massachusetts’ three Job Corps centers: Shriver Job Corps Center in Devens, Grafton Job Corps Center in North Grafton, and Westover Job Corps Center in Chicopee.
“We are writing to express our deep concerns regarding the Department of Labor’s recent decision to pause operations at Job Corps centers across the country. We urge you to consider the long-standing value and potential of the Job Corps program in offering young people a critical second chance at personal and professional success,” the lawmakers wrote.
On May 29, 2025, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced a pause in operations at contractor-run Job Corps centers across the U.S. With more than 120 centers nationwide, the Job Corps program provides opportunities for low-income and at-risk youth to gain the skills necessary to begin successful careers in a skilled trade or other profession.
“With 92,000 Massachusetts residents aged 18 to 24 living in poverty, the Shriver, Grafton, and Westover Job Corps Centers stand as vital resources for economic mobility and career development. Combined, they contribute an estimated $80 million to the local economy annually and across the state, we have seen the impact. Graduates have become union carpenters, plumbers, bricklayers, police officers, cybersecurity professionals, and entrepreneurs. This is not just an investment in the local talent pipeline for employers but an investment in our communities as many of these graduates stay in the region to live, work, and raise their families. Pausing operations at these centers at the end of the month will directly detract from workforce training and discourage economic development in communities across the country like Devens, North Grafton, and Chicopee,” the lawmakers continued.
The decision to close Job Corps centers was met with swift legal opposition. On June 3, 2025, the National Job Corps Association, a trade organization representing Job Corps centers nationwide, filed a lawsuit against the DOL, arguing that the closure of the country’s largest residential career training program was both unlawful and based on misleading data about its performance. The following evening, U.S. District Court Judge Andrew L. Carter Jr. issued a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction, blocking the DOL from suspending program operations.
“The Job Corps program is built on second chances, and we urge you to offer this program the same opportunity to adapt and grow that it has provided its students for the last 60 years,” the lawmakers concluded.
A copy of the letter sent today can be accessed HERE.
###

MIL OSI USA News –

June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Nobody beats Alberta drilling
Alberta is home to the best drilling expertise in the world. Decades of oil and gas development has made the province a proven drilling leader, while Alberta-led advancements in geothermal, lithium and other areas continue growing Alberta’s reputation as a powerhouse in energy innovation.

However, many promising technologies and products have challenges reaching the market due to high costs and limited access to demonstration sites where testing can be done in real-world settings. With the right resources, Alberta’s energy developers can bring drilling technologies to market faster and more affordably.

Alberta’s government is investing more than $20 million in industry-funded TIER dollars to launch the Alberta Drilling Accelerator program and keep pushing Alberta’s drilling expertise to greater heights. Delivered through Emissions Reduction Alberta, this funding will help Alberta companies advance new and emerging technologies, reduce emissions and, ultimately, increase responsible energy production around the world.

“Alberta’s drilling expertise is second to none. The world needs energy and Alberta has the experience, geology, expertise and innovative spirit needed to deliver it. This funding is all about getting the next generation of drilling tech out of the lab and into the field, powering the world and Alberta’s economy at the same time.”

Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas

“Drilling technology is highly relevant to Emissions Reduction Alberta’s mandate, as it offers a potential pathway to direct emissions reduction in the oil and gas sector while also playing a critical role in commercializing technologies in emerging areas like geothermal and critical minerals extraction. We look forward to sharing the scope of this funding in the fall.”

Justin Riemer, CEO, Emissions Reduction Alberta

This new funding program will help speed up the development of geothermal, helium, critical minerals, carbon capture, utilization and storage, and other technologies and commodities that rely on Alberta’s world-class drilling expertise, further establishing Alberta’s global leadership in providing affordable, reliable, responsibly produced energy.

More details on the program will be announced when it officially launches this fall.

This is phase one of the province’s Alberta Drilling Accelerator. Future phases and initiatives will be developed as government continues accelerating new technologies that rely on Alberta’s world-class drilling expertise.

Quick facts
- The Alberta Drilling Accelerator program will launch in fall 2025, with planning and engagement taking place this summer.
- Funding for the program comes from the industry-funded Technology Innovation and Emissions Reduction (TIER) fund.
- Demand for new and more efficient technologies is rising globally, and Alberta is well-positioned to capitalize. For example, cumulative geothermal investment is poised to reach $1 trillion by 2050, while investment for oil and gas, carbon capture and storage and other sectors continues to grow.
MIL OSI Canada News –
June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Welch, Hawley Lead Bipartisan Bill to Raise the Federal Minimum Raise

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee,today joined Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) in introducing the Higher Wages for American Workers Act of 2025, bipartisan legislation to raise the federal minimum wage to $15 per hour and allow the federal minimum wage to increase with inflation in subsequent years. When adjusted for inflation, the current federal minimum wage is lower than at any point since the 1940s. Meanwhile, the cost of housing, health care, and education has skyrocketed, leaving millions of full-time workers struggling to make ends meet.
“We’re in the midst of a severe affordability crisis, with families in red and blue states alike struggling to afford necessities like housing and groceries. A stagnant federal minimum wage only adds fuel to the fire. Every hardworking American deserves a living wage that helps put a roof over their head and food on the table—$7.25 an hour doesn’t even come close,” said Senator Welch. “Times have changed, and working families deserve a wage that reflects today’s financial reality. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan effort to raise the minimum wage nationwide to help more folks make ends meet.”
“For decades, working Americans have seen their wages flatline. One major culprit of this is the failure of the federal minimum wage to keep up with the economic reality facing hardworking Americans every day. This bipartisan legislation would ensure that workers across America benefit from higher wages,” Senator Hawley said.
Senator Welch has championed efforts in the Senate to boost the minimum wage and help more Vermonters make ends meet. In April, Senator Welch cosponsored the Raise the Wage Act, bicameral legislation to ensure American workers make a living wage, drive economic growth, and reduce income inequality by raising the minimum wage to $17 for all workers by 2030. The bill would also gradually eliminate subminimum wages for tipped workers, workers with disabilities.
Last Congress, Senator Welch joined colleagues in introducing the PRO Act to protect the right to unionize and stop predatory behavior from companies trying to hinder workplace organizing. Senator Welch also supported the Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act, bipartisan and bicameral legislation that would guarantee the right of public sector employees to organize, act concertedly, and bargain collectively in states that currently do not afford these basic protections.
Read and download the full text of the bill.

MIL OSI USA News –

June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: PKK’s decision to disband shows the benefit of engaging in politics rather than an armed struggle

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Rebecca Lucas, Senior Analyst – Defence Economics and Acquisition, RAND Europe

The recent decision by the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) to disarm and disband has important lessons for any country facing a seemingly intractable insurgency. On May 12, the group stated that following its 12th Congress it will “dissolve the PKK’s organizational structure and end the armed struggle method”. The organisation has said that it will now pursue its goals “through democratic politics”.

The PKK’s decision follows talks between the Turkish government and the group’s leader, Abdullah Ocalan, who has been in Turkish custody since 1998. Regional dynamics, Turkish domestic politics, and personal ambition have all played key roles in bringing the conflict to this point.

Much uncertainty remains. The PKK and Turkey have embarked on peace processes before, only to return to conflict. But the group’s formal announcement of its intention to disband marks an important step towards ending an insurgency that has lasted over 40 years. If so, it will bring to an end a conflict that has cost all sides involved tens of thousands of lives.

The possibility of ending this insurgency not only raises questions about this specific conflict, but also what we know more broadly about how insurgencies end.

Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

The PKK has a long track record of combining military action with political struggle. As with many other insurgent organisations, the group has worked to gain and maintain public support among ethnic Kurds, despite its use of violence.

Its strategy has also evolved over the years to adapt to circumstances. It moved away from the its original Marxist beginnings with the end of the cold war and over the years changed its fundamental aim from separatism to increased regional autonomy and local government, through the system of what it calls democratic confederalism. Over the decades the group and its affiliates have also decreased their use of terrorism in Europe and western Turkey.

This is in keeping with characteristics that researchers have found facilitate the transformation of organisations from armed groups to participants in institutional politics. There are a large number of cases in which insurgencies or terrorist organisations shifted – successfully or unsuccessfully – to either transform into a political party or combine with one.

There’s no doubt that military pressure has been important in downgrading the PKK as an insurgency. But military victories over the PKK have failed to end the conflict – in fact military oppression against the PKK has often backfired and reinforced public support for the group.

Many of the factors that have made it possible for the PKK to transform itself have been political, rather than narrowly military. Research by the RAND Corporation thinktank has found that rather than simply aiming to defeat an insurgency, it’s usually more effective to combine military pressure with political reform that aims to remove the reasons for the insurgency.

Combining armed force with political pressure

Turkey has taken this mixed approach, something many analysts have attributed to the foreign minister, Hakan Fidan. Ankara has pursued parallel tracks of negotiation and force. This has included improved counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency techniques, investment in drones and other military pressure.

But Ankara has in parallel cut off financial flows to the organisation, while strengthening economic opportunities for Kurdish citizens – particularly in western Turkey. Many Kurds moved west to escape violence in the traditionally Kurdish regions in Turkey’s southeast: Istanbul is now the city with the largest Kurdish population in Turkey.

The Turkish government has also strengthened its relationships with other Kurdish groups, primarily the Kurdistan Democratic Party in northern Iraq, to provide both military and political support.

This case is another example of the importance of blending strictly military tactics with diplomacy, economic policy and strategic communications. The celebrated Prussian military theorist, Carl von Clausewitz said that war is politics by other means – and many insurgencies are fundamentally political in nature. So this requires multiple lines of effort to be pursued in parallel to effectively respond to this – with an emphasis on political solutions rather than just the use of force.

This has been seen in conflicts with a number of insurgent groups in recent years – including the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (Farc) or the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (Biaf) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front in the Philippines. In all of these cases, central governments have engaged in constructive political dialogue, providing amnesty and other incentives for fighters to demobilise while offering broader concessions in order to build a more sustainable peace.

Successfully bringing insurgencies to and through a negotiated settlement requires long-term investment and effort. The issues that caused the insurgency in the first place do not simply disappear when the document is signed. In the case of the PKK, there are a number of ways in which this recent progress could be reversed. Concerns have been raised about whether the Turkish government will deliver on promised constitutional reforms or prisoner releases. There is also the question of whether PKK fighters will be willing and able to demobilise and reintegrate into society.

Research has indicated that states with flawed democracies have more difficulty ending insurgencies on favourable terms. Freedom House and similar organisations currently rank Turkey as “Not Free”. The country has been backsliding for years under the presidency of Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

Despite these misgivings, the initial success of Turkey’s approach support previous research on how insurgencies end, and how armed groups might turn instead to politics. For the governments of countries facing insurgency, it means taking a comprehensive and multi-sectoral approach to encourage this to happen. Governments may also need to move away from a binary definition of “winning” or “losing” to a more nuanced understanding of how all parties stand to gain from the end of an insurgency.

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

– ref. PKK’s decision to disband shows the benefit of engaging in politics rather than an armed struggle – https://theconversation.com/pkks-decision-to-disband-shows-the-benefit-of-engaging-in-politics-rather-than-an-armed-struggle-258221

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: FBI Cleveland Focuses on Missing Northern Ohio Children During Outreach Event
Source: US FBI

Members of the community are invited to learn about child safety
FBI Cleveland, together with the Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office, the Cleveland Division of Police, Bellefaire JCB, and the Canopy Child Advocacy Center, will staff a community table to spread awareness of missing children in our area and share child safety information with the community.

Who: FBI Cleveland, Law Enforcement and Community Partners

What: National Missing Children’s Day

When: Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Where: Westown Square (10820 Lorain Avenue)

Time: 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 pm.

While National Missing Children’s Day was May 25, the FBI wants to help the public understand that every day, children either go missing or remain missing, and someone either knows something about a disappearance or knows of someone who has information to bring that child home. It is important to know that the FBI will look at all tips and leads, and people who submit information can do so anonymously.

“When the FBI receives a call that a child has gone missing, we know the clock is ticking. Our mission is to identify, locate, and recover the child victim,” said FBI Cleveland Special Agent in Charge Greg Nelsen. “That is why our business and law enforcement partnerships are a vital component to the work we do and, our partnership with the community is crucial for helping us locate missing children.”

During the event, the FBI and its partners will provide important safety information for parents, guardians, and caregivers to keep children safe and share posters of many of the still-missing children from across Northern Ohio. Many don’t realize that a child can be “missing” when the child has run away, is lost, or otherwise abducted—not only by a stranger but also by a family member, for example, a non-custodial parent or, in some cases, a family member who poses an extreme risk to the child, such as a registered sex offender.

How the FBI is involved

The FBI was given jurisdiction under the “Lindbergh Law” in 1932 to immediately investigate any reported mysterious disappearance or kidnapping involving a child of “tender age”—usually 12 or younger. However, the FBI goes one step further:
- When any child is missing under the age of 18, the FBI can become involved as an assisting agency to the local police department.
- There does not have to be a ransom demand.
- The child does NOT have to cross the state lines or be missing for 24 hours.
Research indicates the quicker the reporting of the mysterious disappearance or abduction, the more likely the successful outcome in returning the child unharmed.

To report a missing child
- National Center for Missing and Exploited Children: 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678)
- FBI: 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324)
MIL Security OSI –
June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor Statement on the Passing of Councilwoman Gwendolyn Henderson

Source: United States House of Representatives – Reprepsentative Kathy Castor (FL14)

U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor Statement on the Passing of Councilwoman Gwendolyn Henderson

WASHINGTON, D.C., June 10, 2025

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) released the following statement today on the passing of Tampa City Councilwoman Gwendolyn Henderson:

“I am deeply saddened to learn of the sudden loss of Councilwoman Gwen Henderson. Gwen was a devoted public servant, a passionate advocate for Tampa’s neighborhoods and a fierce voice for Tampa families.

“Her love for her hometown was evident in every action she took—from championing affordable housing and public safety to standing up for seniors and small businesses. Gwen fought for the hopes and dreams of her community, including advocating for the rebuilding and expansion of the Fair Oaks Recreation Center in East Tampa. As the owner of the Black English Bookstore in Tampa Heights, she preserved Black history for future generations. I have been proud to work closely with Gwen often—from securing federal support for important community initiatives to supporting students and parents with free laptops when the COVID-19 pandemic forced remote learning.

“Tampa has lost a beloved neighbor and tireless advocate. My thoughts are with her daughter Ariel, her family, her friends and the neighbors she served so faithfully. May Gwen’s memory be a call to continue the work she so proudly led.”

MIL OSI USA News –

June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Goldman, Bonamici Introduce Legislation to Safeguard Summer EBT Benefits for Children
Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

MEALS Act Would Reimburse Stolen Summer EBT Benefits

At Least $40 Million in Food Assistance Benefits Have Been Stolen from New Yorkers in Recent Years, 20% of Nationwide Claims

New York Currently Forbidden from Refunding Stolen Summer EBT Benefits Using Federal Funds

Nearly 2 Million New York Children Depend on Summer EBT Benefits for Nutritious Meals During Summer Months

Read the MEALS Act Here

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) and Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) introduced the Mitigating Electronic Access Losses for Students (MEALS Act), which would ensure working families who rely on Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) benefits to make ends meet can be reimbursed if their benefits are stolen via EBT card skimming and fraud.

“It is unconscionable that any child should go hungry in the wealthiest nation on earth,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. ”As lawmakers, we have a moral and legislative duty to ensure that every child has access to nutritious food year-round, especially during the summer months, when free or reduced-price school meals are unavailable. The Summer EBT program is a proven tool for combating food insecurity, yet far too often, these essential benefits are stolen through no fault of the families who rely on them. This is unacceptable. We must create a clear and efficient process to replace skimmed Summer EBT benefits quickly and in their entirety so that no child suffers due to theft or bureaucratic failure.”

Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici said, “Students should not have to go hungry if their families fall prey to scammers who install illegal skimming devices at the places where they buy groceries. The MEALS Act is commonsense legislation that will prevent the theft of S-EBT benefits and restore those that are stolen. This legislation will help keep hungry kids fed when school is out during the summer.”

The Summer EBT program provides eligible families with funds to purchase groceries when school is out of session. For many children, summer can be a particularly challenging time because they lose access to school meals, which are often a critical source of daily nutrition. Through Summer EBT, eligible families can receive $120 per child, which can be used at participating grocery stores to buy nutritious food, helping bridge the gap during these months. Over 2 million children are eligible for Summer EBT benefits in New York State. These benefits are often stolen via skimming, cloning, or similar fraud.

Congressman Goldman previously urged USDA to investigate the Summer EBT theft in NY-10, highlighting seventeen instances of Summer EBT theft in Brooklyn’s Sunset Park community alone, totaling over $1600 worth of stolen benefits. He also requested the federal reimbursement for victims of Summer EBT fraud, however, USDA ultimately issued guidance prohibiting states from replacing stolen Summer EBT benefits using federal funds.

Last summer, Rep. Goldman joined Governor Hochul in announcing the rollout of the Summer EBT program in New York and continues to champion food assistance relief for New Yorkers. As Congressman Goldman pushes to reauthorize federal reimbursement of SNAP refunds, this bill would provide critical relief for families during the hungry summer months.

Specifically, the MEALS Act would:
1. Require the Secretary of Agriculture to
  1. Issue guidance to State agencies and covered Indian Tribal organizations (ITOs) in detecting and preventing theft of summer EBT benefits, and issue a rule for participating State agencies and ITOs to take appropriate security measures and implement procedures for the replacement of summer EBT benefits;
  2. Coordinate with the Office of Family Assistance at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Attorney General to determine how summer EBT benefits are being stolen and establish measures to prevent summer EBT benefits from being stolen and establish standard reporting methods;
  3. Submit a report to Congress that includes the prevalence of summer EBT theft and measures establishes by the Secretary and AG;
  4. Replace stolen summer EBT benefits, and State agencies and covered ITOs to submit claims for replacement benefits that include a signed statement by the affected household, data reports on benefit theft, and planned use of benefit theft prevention measures;
2. Require GAO to submit a report to Congress that examines the risks related to summer EBT benefit payment system security and policy recommendations to improving the summer EBT payment system.
Protecting food assistance benefits, including SNAP, from skimming and theft has been a focal point of Congressman Goldman’s time in office.

In March, Congressman Goldman hosted a press conference to demand a comprehensive change to state and federal law to address the urgent issue of stolen EBT benefits.

In the Fall of 2024, Congressman Goldman led an effort to extend critical protections to victims of food stamp theft that are set to expire at the end of September without further action. The lawmakers sent a letter to Congressional leadership urging them to include a provision in a forthcoming stop-gap funding bill that would allow victims to continue to be reimbursed from federal funds.

In Summer of 2023, Congressman Goldman introduced the ‘SNAP Theft Protection Act,’ which aimed to update SNAP to allow states to use existing SNAP funding to refund stolen benefits to victims of SNAP-related scams.

###

MIL OSI USA News –
June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Strong, Crank Form House Golden Dome Caucus

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Dale Strong (Alabama)

WASHINGTON — Today, Representative Dale Strong (AL-05) and Representative Jeff Crank (CO-05) announced the formation of the House Golden Dome Caucus.

The caucus will serve as a bipartisan member organization dedicated to ensuring the robust defense of the United States homeland through land and space-based capabilities. The caucus will be a pivotal platform for Members of Congress to advocate for the necessary policies, funding, and next-generation defense capabilities to protect the nation from rapidly evolving threats.

“The current threat landscape demands immediate and decisive action. President Trump has artfully highlighted the nation’s critical need for a next-generation missile defense, and we can’t risk this vision not becoming a reality. The formation of the House Golden Dome Caucus signals a new era of Congressional commitment to this national security initiative,” said Rep. Dale Strong.

“North Alabama has played a key role in every former and current U.S. missile defense program and will undoubtedly be pivotal to the success of Golden Dome,” continued Strong.

“Golden Dome will only be successful if we meet President Trump’s timeline,” said Rep. Jeff Crank. “This means that is imperative that we, Members and stakeholders, are well informed and working together to revolutionize missile defense of our great nation.”

BACKGROUND:

The establishment of the caucus follows President Trump’s Executive Order, issued on January 27, 2025, directing the implementation of a “next-generation missile defense shield for the United States against ballistic, hypersonic, advanced cruise missiles, and other next-generation aerial attacks.”

The House Caucus will work closely with the Senate Golden Dome Caucus, chaired by Senator Tim Sheehy (R-MT).

MIL OSI USA News –

June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Nick Langworthy Introduces Stop Dangerous Sanctuary Cities Act of 2025; Stands with ICE and Condemns Violent Political Protests

Source: US Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) introduced the Stop Dangerous Sanctuary Cities Act of 2025 to block federal funding for sanctuary jurisdictions that prohibit or restrict local law enforcement from sharing immigration status information or cooperating with federal immigration enforcement efforts. Sanctuary cities are actively undermining federal immigration enforcement by refusing to cooperate with ICE detainer requests and releasing dangerous criminals back onto our streets. It’s time to hold them accountable.

“The violence we are seeing happen in LA right now is a cautionary tale for New York, another sanctuary state catering to criminal illegal immigrants and left-wing extremists,” said Congressman Langworthy. “State and local governments MUST comply with federal immigration enforcement efforts, and if they don’t, the Stop Dangerous Sanctuary Cities Act would withhold federal financial assistance from them. We must stand with our heroic ICE officers, our men and women in blue, and with the American people who cry out for safety and common sense in their local governments.”

Additionally, this legislation clarifies legal authority for local and state law enforcement to honor federal immigration detainer requests by deeming officers who comply to be acting as federal agents. It protects law enforcement by shielding officers and jurisdictions from liability when they cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. The bill also encourages compliance with federal immigration law by targeting jurisdictions that defy lawful detainer requests and shield illegal immigrants from removal.

Read the bill text here.

Original cosponsors of this legislation in the House include Reps. Byron Donalds (R-FL), Buddy Carter (R-GA), Clay Higgins (R-LA), Chuck Edwards (R-NC), Dave Taylor (R-OH), Derek Schmidt (R-KS), Diana Harshbarger (R-TN), Elise Stefanik (R-NY), John McGuire (R-VA), Lauren Boebert (R-CO), Mike Collins (R-GA), Pat Harrigan (R-NC), John Rose (R-TN), Pete Stauber (R-MN), Van Orden (R-WI), and William Timmons (R-SC).

“Sanctuary cities in New York State shield criminal illegals while hurting law-abiding citizens,” said Chairwoman Stefanik. “Under the failed Far Left Democrat leadership of Governor Kathy Hochul, sanctuary cities incentivize illegal migration into New York State overrunning social services, drive up housing costs, and reduce wages.”

The Senate companion, led by Senator Ted Cruz, has the support of Republican Senators Tim Sheehy (MT), Ron Johnson (WI), James Lankford (OK), Ted Budd (NC), Chuck Grassley (IA), Pete Ricketts (NE), Rick Scott (FL), Shelley Moore Capito (WV), Kevin Cramer (ND), Deb Fischer (NE), Bill Hagerty (TN), John Hoeven (ND), Cindy-Hyde Smith (MS), Jim Banks (IN), Eric Schmitt (MO), Bernie Moreno (OH), and Katie Britt (AL).

Read the Fox News exclusive here.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Tenney Leads Legislation to Support Water Infrastructure Projects

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-22)

Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24), along with Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-4), today reintroduced the Financing Lead Out of Water (FLOW) Act to reduce red tape and enable more municipalities to finance water projects focused on replacing lead service lines. The legislation will help shore up Upstate New York’s aging water infrastructure and ensure communities can provide safe, clean drinking water.

Additional cosponsors of the legislation include Representatives Mike Kelly (PA-3) and Haley Stevens (MI-11).

Lead service lines, which are often jointly owned by local governments and private homeowners, are expensive to replace—but they can be financed using tax-exempt bonds. Unfortunately, current law requires water utilities to prove these bonds do not primarily benefit private entities if used on private property—a burdensome and costly process that delays critical infrastructure upgrades.

The FLOW Act would eliminate this barrier by allowing public water utilities to use tax-exempt bonds to replace privately owned lead service lines without triggering the IRS’s “private business use” restrictions.

“Replacing hazardous lead pipes in our communities is a costly, time-consuming process burdened by unnecessary federal hurdles,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “The FLOW Act cuts red tape and eliminates excessive documentation requirements, making it easier for communities to access affordable financing for critical water infrastructure projects. Reducing ineffective bureaucracy will allow more New Yorkers in NY-24, and Americans nationwide, to replace dangerous lead pipes and gain access to safe, clean water.”

“As a mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, I am focused on ending the lead epidemic so we can protect the potential of every child in Milwaukee. In Congress, I am working to advance proposals that can help our communities remove this toxin. That’s why I am supporting the FLOW Act, which would allow local governments to better leverage tax-exempt municipal bonds, to fund lead service line replacement projects. We need every tool available to tackle this health crisis,” said Congresswoman Moore.

“In Michigan, we’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact that led-contaminated water can have on families, from Flint to Benton Harbor and beyond. Communities across our state are working hard to replace aging lead service lines, but federal red tape has made that work slower and more expensive than it needs to be. The FLOW Act will cut unnecessary barriers and unlock affordable financing tools to get these dangerous pipes out of the ground faster. I’m proud to be an original cosponsor of this bipartisan bill to help Michigan and communities across the country deliver safe, clean drinking water to every household,” said Congresswoman Stevens.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Lawler, Gottheimer Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect LIHEAP from Staffing Cuts

Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

Washington, D.C. – 6/10/25… Yesterday, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) and Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05) introduced new bipartisan legislation to protect the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which helps millions of families across the country afford their energy bills and stay safe during extreme weather.

The bipartisan legislation would establish a minimum staffing threshold to administer the program, following the Trump Administration’s moves to lay off the entire federal LIHEAP staff earlier this year. This decision, in addition to the Administration eliminating the program entirely in the President’s FY2026 budget request, has put the program’s future in jeopardy, threatening heating and cooling assistance for millions of families, just as summer begins.

“I’m proud to co-lead this bipartisan bill to fix LIHEAP’s staffing crisis, ensuring Hudson Valley families get the energy assistance they need to stay warm this winter. With minimum staffing requirements and smart use of contractors, we’re tackling inefficiency and protecting our most vulnerable who depend on it,” said Congressman Mike Lawler, Co-Chair of the Extreme Heat Caucus.

“Nearly 6 million families nationwide — and 240,000 in Jersey — rely on LIHEAP to keep the heat on in the winter and the AC running in the summer,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05). “President Trump is hell-bent on dismantling this critical program, firing its entire staff back in April and proposing to eliminate LIHEAP completely in his budget to Congress. My new bipartisan bill will stop these reckless cuts and ensure that no family is left in the cold or heat without help. I’ll keep fighting to protect LIHEAP, lower utility bills, and stand up for hardworking Jersey families.”

LIHEAP, established in 1981 with bipartisan support, is a federally funded program that helps low-income households cover heating and cooling costs. In 2025, New Jersey received $120 million in LIHEAP funding.

Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

###

Full text of the bill can be found HERE.

MIL OSI USA News –

June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Speaker Johnson: The One Big Beautiful Bill Delivers Much Needed Reinforcements to ICE, Law Enforcement

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04)

WASHINGTON — This morning, at the weekly House Republican Leadership press conference, Speaker Johnson condemned the ongoing LA riots and Governor Gavin Newsom’s failed leadership, advocated for swift passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill to provide resources to besieged federal law enforcement officers, and discussed the House’s multi-pronged approach to reducing the deficit.

Watch the Speaker’s full remarks here

On the LA riots:

While the rioters have been burning police cars and looting storefronts and physically assaulting law enforcement officers, it’s important to remember how we got to this point, to this level of chaos, because this didn’t happen overnight. Four quick points to make us all remember. You know, we’re in a busy news cycle and people sometimes forget the facts, but the Biden Administration welcomed maybe as many as 20 million illegal aliens across that border and into our country in a four-year period. Sanctuary states like California rolled out the welcome mat. They embraced it. They offered aliens protection from federal law, think of it, they’re on the wrong side of the law. And they provided them with healthcare and housing and taxpayer-funded benefits. It’s truly almost unbelievable what these Democrat leaders of these cities and states have done.

President Trump delivered on an ironclad mandate from the American people, and just as we said, throughout the entire Biden administration disaster, the law always allowed the president to stop it. And President Trump did it. With bold visionary leadership, he stopped the invasion of our country and he engaged in the largest mass deportation effort in U.S. history. We’re in the midst of that right now. Rioters, acting on the words of politicians like AOC and Hakeem Jeffries, are trying to stop this effort by burning store fronts and endangering the lives of patriotic law enforcement officers. The contrast cannot be more clear.

On the failed leadership of Democrat leaders like Gavin Newsom:

Time and time again, innocent hardworking Americans have been harmed by the failed leadership of Democrat governors like Gavin Newsom. President Trump was absolutely right to send in the National Guard and to clean up for the governor’s failures. You know, Gavin Newsom has been in this effort for the last several months to try to reinvent himself, to rebrand himself. It’s pretty difficult to do when your state is a safe haven to violent criminal illegal aliens and you’re the one at the helm. You can’t hide this stuff. The President of the United States has a responsibility to maintain law and order, particularly when the lives and livelihoods of federal law enforcement officers are threatened. What we’re doing there with the federal forces is we are protecting federal buildings and property and personnel, and the President is showing strong leadership in doing so.

On passing the One Big Beautiful Bill to deliver resources to ICE and border patrol:

Because, you know, it’s those men and women, the federal law enforcement officers who deserve our support right now. And the One Big Beautiful Bill as Leader Scalise noted, delivers much-needed reinforcements. In this bill, we have funding to hire a minimum of 10,000 new ICE agents. We’re going to provide a $10,000 bonus to Border Patrol and ICE agents on the front lines. We’re going to include $45 billion to expand ICE detention capacity and $14.4 billion for air and ground transport to carry out at least one million deportations every single year. We’ll have to do that for quite some time because they let so many people in. We’re starting with the dangerous illegal aliens and that is exactly who the rioters and the politicians in California are trying to protect, and it’s incredible.

While Republicans are supporting the men and women of ICE through the One Big Beautiful Bill. Democrats are fighting for those illegal aliens and against law enforcement agents. They’re defending the violent anti-ice protesters in LA. They visited a violent MS-13 gang member and human trafficker in El Salvador. They charged an ICE facility and clashed with ICE officers – that was members of the House of Representatives doing that. They’re advocating for people to dox ICE agents and making them targets for threats from radicals. And they’re calling for the elimination of ICE.

On reducing the deficit:

This rescission package is a critical step, and it’s one of many. There will be several of these that will come from the White House, will work together with the administration to cut out all the fraud, waste, and abuse. We’re fighting a multi-front war against the deficit. Don’t get lost in this, okay? This is a multi-step process. I’ve tried to explain on all the interviews I’ve done over the last couple of weeks. The One Big Beautiful Bill is going to reduce spending by over $1.6 trillion, as has been noted this morning. The rescissions package will rescind $9.4 billion in wasteful spending, the first of many of those. The annual appropriations process will allow Republicans to further codify DOGE cuts and spend less money and be careful stewards of each dime. And the revenues found from the President’s tariff agenda will also reduce the deficit by $2.8 trillion over 10 years.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Tennessee Private Nonprofits Affected by Tropical Storm Helene

Source: United States Small Business Administration

ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Tennessee of the July 9 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by Tropical Storm Helene occurring Sept. 26, 2024.

The disaster declaration covers the counties of Carter, Claiborne, Cocke, Grainger, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Jefferson, Johnson, Sullivan, Unicoi and Washington.

Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to PNPs providing non-critical services of a governmental nature with financial losses directly related to the disaster. Example of eligible non-critical PNPs include, but are not limited to, food kitchens, homeless shelters, museums, libraries, community centers, schools and colleges.

EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

“SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”

The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 3.25% and terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

The deadline to return economic injury applications is July 9, 2025.

###

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 or 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 –

June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Rutherford Opens U.S. Service Academy Application for Class of 2030
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Rutherford (4th District of Florida)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Tuesday, U.S. Congressman John H. Rutherford (FL-05) announced the opening of Florida’s Fifth District’s U.S. Service Academy nomination process for the Class of 2030.

“One of my greatest privileges as a member of Congress is nominating talented young men and women from Northeast Florida to attend America’s military academies,” said Rutherford. “Attending a military service academy is more than attending college, it’s making a commitment to serve our great nation. I look forward to nominating students who exemplify the values of hard work, excellence, and integrity to serve our country.”

The U.S. Service Academies include the U.S. Military Academy (West Point), the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Please note, candidates applying to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy do not need a congressional nomination for appointment.

America’s military academies offer a prestigious, fully funded education, along with a monthly stipend in exchange for a commitment to mandatory service upon commissioning. They are consistently ranked among the most esteemed colleges and universities in the United States.

Congressional nominations are selective and chosen based on personal merit. Some criteria include evidence of character, leadership, academic excellence, physical aptitude, and extracurricular activities.

Candidates must exemplify good moral character and meet several requirements. Candidates must be:
- U.S citizens
- Unmarried without dependents
- Between the ages of 17-23
Applicants must receive nominations from their member of Congress, U.S. Senators, and/or the Vice President of the United States to be eligible for an appointment to a U.S. Service Academy.

To apply, visit Congressman John H. Rutherford’s website here. Completing the online form initiates the Congressional Nomination process.

All completed packets must be submitted by Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at 4 p.m.

Additional details and instructions are available to help guide applicants through the nomination application process. For further inquiries, please contact FL05.ServiceAcademy@mail.house.gov or by calling Congressman Rutherford’s District Office at (904) 831-5205.

MIL OSI USA News –
June 11, 2025
MIL-OSI: Striim Expands SQL2Fabric-X to Azure Databricks, Enabling Seamless Real-Time Data Modernization for Databricks Customers
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

PALO ALTO, Calif., June 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Modern enterprises know that the future of AI and innovation hinges on real-time data, but integrating legacy operational data with low latency is a major challenge. For organizations running mission-critical workloads on Microsoft SQL Server, unlocking that data for modern platforms like Azure Databricks is often a slow, fragmented process. Traditional data integration relies on brittle batch-based pipelines and delayed ingestion cycles that cannot keep up with the demands of modern AI, real-time analytics, or dynamic decision-making. The result? A widening gap between where the data lives and where AI and Analytics value is created.

To address this challenge, Striim expanded its SQL2Fabric-X support for Azure Databricks, enabling organizations to stream operational SQL Server data into Azure Databricks’ Lakehouse architecture in real time, with full support for change data capture (CDC), inline transformations, and schema evolution. Striim’s Cloud Platform also supports added capabilities for AI-based RAG, sensitive data governance, and predictive analytics.

Striim’s SQL2Fabric-X allows customers to eliminate batch delays and pipeline complexity, creating a frictionless path to AI-ready data on Azure Databricks.

Key capabilities and outcomes enabled by Striim SQL2Fabric-X include:
- Sub-second data movement from SQL Server to Azure Databricks to support AI/ML models, lakehouse analytics, and real-time dashboards.
- Automated schema evolution and metadata management to reduce maintenance and operational overhead.
- Inline data enrichment and vector embeddings to fuel Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) and generative AI use cases natively within Databricks.
- Additional options for End-to-end data security and compliance, including in-flight PII detection, encryption, and integration with customer-managed keys.
- Flexible deployment via Azure Marketplace as a fully managed SaaS.
“At Microsoft Ignite 2024, we proudly launched our strategic partnership with Microsoft to replicate SQL Server data in real time through Fabric Open mirroring. This extension reflects strong feedback from early customers who wanted more than OneLake integration via Fabric Mirroring —they wanted the ability to unlock operational SQL Server data for real-time analytics and AI use cases in Azure Databricks. Based on that interest, we are delighted to expand the original SQL2Fabric offering to support Azure Databricks,” said Alok Pareek, co-founder and Executive Vice President of Engineering and Products at Striim. With this SQL2Fabric-X release, we’re delivering flexible, low-latency data pipelines that not only simplify modernization but accelerate the path to AI.”

For more information about SQL2Fabric-X, including how to get started with real-time data pipelines into Azure Databricks, visit www.striim.com/sql2fabric-x or contact our team at info@striim.com.

ABOUT STRIIM, INC.
Striim pioneers real-time intelligence for AI by unifying data across clouds, applications, and databases via a fully managed, SaaS-based platform. Striim’s platform, optimized for modern cloud data warehouses, transforms relational and unstructured data into AI-ready insights instantly with advanced analytics and ML frameworks, enabling swift business action. Striim leverages its expertise in real-time data integration, streaming analytics, and database replication, including industry-leading Oracle, PostgreSQL, MongoDB CDC technology, to achieve sub-second latency in processing over 100 billion daily events for ML analytics and proactive decision-making. To learn more, visit www.striim.com.

Media Contact:
Dianna Spring, Vice President of Marketing at Striim
Phone: (650) 241-0680 ext. 354
Email: press@striim.com

Source: Striim, Inc.

The MIL Network –
June 11, 2025