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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mike Levin Reintroduces Bicameral Legislation to Fight Child Hunger

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

    May 07, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Reps. Mike Levin (CA-49) and Jahana Hayes (CT-05) reintroduced H.R. 3217, the Stop Child Hunger Act, to provide families who have children eligible for free and reduced-price school meals with an electronic benefit transfer (EBT) card to use when school is not in session. The EBT card could be used during summer or winter break, or when schools are operating remotely or are closed for a natural disaster. The bill was reintroduced alongside the Senate companion sponsored by Senator Patty Murray (WA).

    Approximately 29.6 million students are eligible to receive free or reduced-price school meals each day during the school year. School nutrition programs provide critical nourishment to students to support healthy living and improve cognitive function throughout the school day. A lapse in these benefits during vacations and school closures can have a drastic impact on low-income families. Rep. Levin led the effort to establish a permanent Summer EBT program that passed in the Fiscal Year 2023 omnibus government funding package in December 2022. This bill would expand on the Summer EBT program to cover all school breaks longer than five days and would increase the benefit amount families receive.

    “While Congressional Republicans and the Trump Administration gut food assistance programs, I’m doing everything I can to make sure kids are able to get the food they need to thrive,” said Rep. Levin. “This bill strengthens and expands existing nutritional programs to ensure that families and children have food year-round, including during school closures and holidays. As a parent, I know how important it is for kids to have access to nutritious food. We need to do everything we can to fight child hunger. I thank Rep. Hayes and Sen. Murray for their partnership on this bill, and I look forward to pushing it forward through the legislative process.”

    “No kid in America should go hungry—it’s really that simple,” said Sen. Murray. “I’ve been fighting for more than a decade to ensure that kids who rely on free and reduced-price meals during the school year don’t lose access to nutritious meals when school is out, and we took a huge step forward when we passed the Summer EBT program into law—which helped feed nearly 600,000 kids in Washington state last summer. Our legislation would build on that progress and make sure that kids whose families are on the tightest budgets still have access to nutritious meals when school is closed for a week or more, including for winter and spring breaks. While the Trump administration and Republicans in Congress are working overtime to rip away nutrition benefits from moms and kids, and cut programs families rely on to meet their basic needs, Democrats are fighting to make sure every child is fed and has the support they need to succeed.”

    “For many students, school is the only place they consistently receive a hot meal. While Summer EBT was expanded in 2023, vital programs like SNAP are still under threat of cuts from Republicans in Congress,” said Rep. Hayes. “The Stop Child Hunger Act provides a crucial solution by making Summer EBT permanent and nationwide, giving eligible children year-round access to nutritious food with EBT benefits matching the value of school meals for school closures over five days. This is a vital step towards addressing child hunger and a necessary investment in public health and equity for our most vulnerable children.”

    The Stop Child Hunger Act builds on the permanent Summer EBT program to establish a permanent nutrition program for children from low-income families for all school closures. Specifically, it would:

    • Expand the new permanent Summer EBT program to all school closures longer than five consecutive days.
    • Increase the value of the benefit to cover the cost of breakfast, lunch, and a snack for every day school is closed. The FY23 omnibus government funding package only authorized funding for $40 a month per child.
    • Allow eligible households to use EBT cards for the purchase of food from retail food stores that have been approved for participation in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
    • Provide grants to states to support the development of data systems or upgrades to existing data systems to carry out this program more effectively.

    “Millions of children lose access to free and reduced-price meals when schools close,” said Crystal FitzSimons, Interim President of the Food Research & Action Center (FRAC). “The Stop Child Hunger Act builds on the Summer EBT program to help families keep food on the table during school breaks, increasing the benefit levels and covering state’ cost. FRAC urges Congress to pass this bill without delay. Hungry children can’t wait.” 

    “With the Stop Child Hunger Act of 2025, Senator Murray is acting on one of the most critical needs in Washington state right now, where families with children are often twice as likely to be food insecure. This bill builds on the success of the SUN Bucks EBT program in 2024, which delivered a one-time $120 benefit per year per eligible child, so nearly 600,000 families were able to buy groceries last summer. Senator Murray’s leadership on child hunger is unmatched with real solutions and real results for Washington families,” said Megan Blado Cooper, Interim CEO of Food Lifeline.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Alberta has long accused Ottawa of trying to destroy its oil industry. Here’s why that’s a dangerous myth

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Ian Urquhart, Professor Emeritus, Political Science, University of Alberta

    “Alberta is a place soaked in self-deception.” Those words began Alberta-based journalist Mark Lisac’s 2004 book aimed at shattering the myths that have unhelpfully animated too much of Alberta’s politics over the past few decades.

    Current and former Alberta politicians are once again embracing and treating separatist grievances seriously. That means it’s time once again to highlight and challenge political misconceptions that have the potential to destroy Canada.

    Oil is the root of one such myth. The misconception? That Ottawa perenially opposes the oil and gas sector and is determined to stop its continued growth. The National Energy Program (1980), the Northern Gateway pipeline project (2016), the Energy East Pipeline (2017) and the proposed greenhouse gas pollution cap allegedly prove Ottawa’s hostility.

    Notably missing from these grievances is the Keystone XL pipeline and the Trans Mountain Expansion Project. Ottawa supported these projects aimed at transporting Alberta oilsands crude to foreign markets. The federal government even purchased the Trans Mountain project from Kinder Morgan in 2018 — not to kill it, but to build it.



    Read more:
    Justin Trudeau’s risky gamble on the Trans Mountain pipeline

    As for Keystone XL, Alberta Premier Jason Kenney thanked Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for supporting the project. This doesn’t fit the separatist narrative, so it’s largely ignored.

    Oilsands booster

    No one should dispute the National Energy Program’s devastating impact on Alberta’s conventional oil and gas sector 40 years ago. But the oilsands, not conventional oil, propelled Canada to its position as the world’s fourth largest oil producer.

    Has Ottawa facilitated or obstructed the spectacular post-1990 growth of oilsands production?

    The record shows that, since the mid-1970s, Ottawa has facilitated and supported the oilsands sector. The federal government helped keep the Syncrude project alive in 1975 when it took a 15 per cent interest in Canada’s second oilsands operation.

    Ironically, Ottawa’s enthusiasm for more, not less, petroleum from the oilsands also appeared in 1980 via the National Energy Program (NEP), the devil in Alberta’s conservative catechism. What most accounts of the NEP don’t mention is that Ottawa offered tax benefits to oilsands companies while stripping them from conventional oil producers.

    Furthermore, the NEP’s “made-in-Canada” pricing effectively guaranteed Syncrude would receive the world price for its production. At $38 per barrel, Syncrude received more than double what conventional producers received. If the NEP was harsh on conventional oil producers, it helped create a golden future for the oil sands.

    In the mid-1990s, Ottawa helped propel the post-1995 oilsands boom. The industry-dominated National Task Force on Oil Sands Strategies sought federal tax concessions to promote oilsands growth. The federal government delivered them in its 1996 budget, despite Prime Minister Jean Chretien’s general concern with cutting the deficit.

    Again, these measures clearly contradict the myth of federal opposition to the oil industry.

    Generous emissions caps

    Ottawa’s policy favouritism towards the oilsands didn’t end there. It has consistently animated the federal government’s treatment of the oilsands in its climate change policies.

    The federal Climate Change Plan for Canada (2002) treated oil and gas leniently. Its measures for large industrial emitters bore a striking resemblance to the climate change policy preferences of the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers. Suncor and Syncrude, the two leading oilsands producers, estimated these federal proposals would add a pittance, between 20 and 30 cents, to their per barrel production costs.

    Justin Trudeau’s response to Alberta’s 2015 oilsands emissions cap also underlined Ottawa’s favouritism, not hostility, to the dominant player in Canada’s oil patch.

    Rachel Notley’s NDP government set this cap at 100 million tonnes of GHG per year, plus another 10 million tonnes allowed to new upgrading and co-generation facilities. This cap was a whopping 39 million tonnes or 55 per cent higher than what the oilsands emitted in 2014.

    This generous cap contributed to a tremendous increase in oilsands production. Healthy profits became record profits in 2022. Ottawa embraced Alberta’s largesse, incorporating the province’s cap into its post-2015 climate policies.

    Furthermore, Ottawa increased its leniency towards the oilsands by exempting new in-situ (non-mining) oilsands projects in Alberta from the federal Impact Assessment Act. This exemption applies until Alberta’s emissions cap is reached. Canada’s latest National Inventory Report on greenhouse gas emissions reported record oilsands GHG emissions of 89 million tonnes in 2023, still 11 million tonnes shy of the 100 million tonne threshold.

    Weaponizing myths

    Finally, we have today’s proposed national cap on greenhouse gas emissions. Alberta is apoplectic about the cap. But whether or not it’s intentional, Premier Danielle Smith’s outrage feeds into secessionist sentiment by seemingly misrepresenting the cap’s impact on oil and gas production.

    Smith and her environment minister use the work of the Parliamentary Budgetary Officer (PBO) to nurture their “Ottawa hates oil” narrative. They claim the officer’s analysis of the cap’s economic impact showed it “will cut oil and gas production by five per cent, or more than 245,000 barrels per day.”

    This is simply not true.

    In fact, the PBO concluded that, with the cap, oilsands production “is projected to remain well above current levels” — 15 per cent higher than in 2022. The proposed federal emissions cap, like the Alberta NDP’s cap of a decade ago, is higher than current oilsands emissions levels. The PBO concluded the proposed ceiling for oilsands emissions would be six per cent higher than 2022 emissions.

    Ottawa’s proposed cap, in fact, continues its decades-long support of the oilsands.

    Myths are central to our being. When I tell my grandsons about the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, I hope to inspire curiosity, imagination and interest in their grandmother’s Irish heritage.

    But in politics, fanciful stories can be dangerous. Some weaponize myths, using the fictions at their core to encourage followers to let falsehoods rule their behaviour. That seems to be playing out yet again in Alberta. We must demand better from the political class.

    Ian Urquhart 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. Alberta has long accused Ottawa of trying to destroy its oil industry. Here’s why that’s a dangerous myth – https://theconversation.com/alberta-has-long-accused-ottawa-of-trying-to-destroy-its-oil-industry-heres-why-thats-a-dangerous-myth-255908

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Tenney Announces FY26 Community Project Funding Submissions

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

    Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today announced the 15 projects she has submitted to the House Appropriations Committee in the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Community Project Funding (CPF) process. 

    The CPF process allows municipalities and non-profits to submit federal funding requests for high-priority community projects with strong local support in New York’s 24th Congressional District. Each application was subjected to a rigorous review process to ensure that it is a sound use of taxpayer dollars and that applicants have a clear and accountable plan to spend funds on targeted projects within a year.  

    A list of Rep Tenney’s submitted FY26 projects can be found below:

    • $2,000,000 for the City of Lockport’s Phase III – Erie Canal Flight of Five Locks
    • $1,000,000 for the City of Oswego Police Department’s New Police Station
    • $4,275,000 for Jefferson County’s Installation of Runway 10 Omni-Directional Approach Lights at Watertown International Airport
    • $2,000,000 for Orleans County’s Public Safety Building Vital Improvements for Safety and Security
    • $2,000,000 for Schuyler County’s Emergency Operations Center
    • $5,000,000 for the Town of Lyons’ Resurgence of the Town of Lyons Canal Street District
    • $3,300,000 for the Town of Phelps’ Sanitary Sewer Distribution Project
    • $1,000,000 for the Town of Throop’s Water Improvements Project
    • $2,475,000 for the Town of Torrey’s Water District #2 Resource Improvements      
    • $10,000,000 for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ work on Genesee County’s water needs
    • $3,000,000 for the Village of Geneseo’s Water and Sewer System Improvements
    • $1,500,000 for the Village of Mexico’s Water System Improvements
    • $3,000,000 for the Village of Waterloo’s Sewer System Improvements and Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades
    • $4,000,000 for Wayne County’s Rural Health Services Building Renovation
    • $3,000,000 for Wyoming County’s Silver Lake Dredging Project    

    “The Community Project Funding Process allows Congress to hear directly from municipalities and community leaders about their needs. This year, I submitted 15 projects on behalf of our district to improve essential infrastructure, enhance public safety, and revitalize our local communities. I remain committed to advocating for these projects throughout the appropriations process and will continue to be a strong voice for protecting your hard-earned tax dollars while representing our district in Congress,” said Congresswoman Tenney.

    Community leaders who submitted and worked with Rep Tenney’s office on various funding proposals expressed their appreciation for her advocacy:

    “On behalf of Genesee County, I extend our sincere thanks to Congresswoman Tenney for championing this critical investment in our region’s infrastructure. The proposed water project will play a vital role in strengthening our water system—not only for the City of Batavia, but for communities, farms, and businesses throughout Genesee County. This funding brings us one step closer to securing long-term reliability, capacity, and growth potential for the entire county,” said the Genesee County Legislature Chair, Shelley Stein. 

    “The Town of Lyons and the Wayne County Regional Land Bank greatly appreciate Congresswoman Tenney’s commitment to our Resurgence of the Town of Lyons Canal Street District project. This neighborhood revitalization addresses legacy community needs by transforming blighted properties in the heart of downtown into quality housing, commercial space, enhanced infrastructure, and improved access to essential services,” said the Town of Lyons Supervisor, Jim Brady.

    “The Flight of Five is more than a historic marvel — it’s the beating heart of Lockport’s canal heritage and a cornerstone of our tourism future. With possible Phase III funding on the horizon, we’re poised to take the next critical step in fully restoring this 19th-century engineering wonder. This investment not only honors the legacy of the Erie Canal, but positions Lockport as a must-see destination for millions of visitors exploring the Niagara region,” said the President/CEO Greater Lockport Development Corporation, Vicki Smith.

    “We sincerely thank Congresswoman Tenney for selecting Oswego as one of 15 projects in the FY26 Appropriations Bill. This vital support moves us closer to replacing our 150-year-old police station with a modern facility that will enhance public safety, support emergency response, and provide space for community outreach and critical services. This project will help build a stronger, safer Oswego for all,” said the City of Oswego Police Chief, Phil Cady.

    “On behalf of the residents of the Town of Phelps, I would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Congresswoman Claudia Tenney for her support of our Route 14 wastewater infrastructure project. We deeply appreciate Congresswoman Tenney’s efforts in advancing our funding request to the Appropriations Committee for review and consideration. Her advocacy brings us one step closer to a much-needed sewer line project that will significantly enhance development opportunities not only within our town but in the Town and City of Geneva. Federal funding is essential to ensure the timely construction of this project, which will serve thousands of visitors to the Finger Lakes region while supporting long-term growth for our community. We are especially grateful for Representative Tenney’s commitment, hard work, and her willingness to listen to the needs of our residents. Her support reflects a strong partnership between federal leadership and local priorities,” said the Town of Phelps Town Supervisor, Bill Wellman.

    “We are thankful for Congresswoman Tenney continuous support of Watertown International Airport, these lights are so important to airport users. The runway 10 lights help decrease delays and keep airplanes landing when visibility is limited. It’s vital for our residents, tourism, business, and DOD communities that rely on the airport for safe and reliable air transportation,” said the Watertown International Airport Director of Aviation, Grant Sussey.

    “This investment in critical infrastructure keeps villages like Geneseo moving forward while keeping tax rates and housing affordable. Most importantly, you are replacing lead water service pipes and ensuring that our sanitary sewer is safe, and keeping it separate from our storm sewer. Finishing the project will leave us ADA compliant and offer enhanced walkability to our village,” said the Geneseo Village Mayor, Christopher Ivers.

    “First, we would like the thank Congresswoman Tenney for including us in the Appropriations bill. We are deeply grateful for her advocacy, commitment, and unwavering support of our community. This funding will have a transformative impact on our community that will enable us to expand critical infrastructure, enhance resources, and provide greater opportunities for those we serve. The project we are looking to fund will foster long-term growth and positive changes for Waterloo,” said the Mayor of Waterloo, Walt Bennett.

    “The Town of Torrey is thrilled to have been selected by Congresswoman Tenney to provide funding through the Congressional Appropriations process for the Town’s Water District #2 serving the Perry Point area. This funding will provide the residents of the district with a reliable and safe supply of water at a reasonable cost while protecting the waters of Seneca Lake. The Town of Torrey is very appreciative of the efforts that Congresswoman Tenney has made on behalf of Torrey residents and the 24th Congressional District,” said the Supervisor of the Town of Torrey, Peter Martini. 

    “On behalf of the residents of Wyoming County, especially those living around Silver Lake, and the Board of Supervisors, I extend our sincere appreciation for Congresswoman Tenney’s selection of the Silver Lake dredging project to submit to the House Appropriations Committee. Congresswoman Tenney understands and shares the values we hold as part of our proud agricultural heritage. An integral part of the environmental stewardship we are tasked with is to fulfill our mission of a healthier and more resilient Silver Lake. It is not only an essential component of our county’s robust tourism industry, but is also a prime drinking water source for multiple communities spanning Wyoming and Livingston counties. This important funding will help to preserve sensitive habitats, protect water quality and enhance public waterway access. We are deeply grateful to Congresswoman Tenney for her unwavering support in this project and for Wyoming County,” said the Chairwoman of the Wyoming County Board of Supervisors, Rebecca Ryan.

    “The Village of Mexico would like to take this opportunity to express their appreciation for Congresswomen Claudia Tenney’s continued support of the Village and Town of Mexico. This project if awarded would help insure continued safe and accessible water far into the Future,” said the Mayor of the Village of Mexico, Terry Grimshaw.

    “Wayne County is humbled and so very grateful by this support from Congresswoman Tenney’s office to be selected as one of the 15 projects submitted for consideration. The House Appropriations funding opportunity provides a meaningful modernization of a rural facility offering healthcare and behavioral health treatment and services. Wayne County Health Building renovations would help expand support and treatment to all ages for critical outpatient treatment and support services in our rural community,” said Wayne County Public Health Director Diane Devlin, Aging & Youth Director Amy Haskins, and Interim County Administrator Mark Humbert.

    “The town of Throop is incredibly grateful to Congresswoman Tenney for selecting Throop’s Water District #3 project as a candidate for Community Project Funding. This investment will provide safe, reliable drinking water, as well as fire protection to residents who’ve long relied on aging private wells with poor water quality. Investing in this project will significantly improve the quality of life, health, and public safety for residents within this proposed water district. This project also has broader implications to the entire water system. This water district will vastly improve the area’s water infrastructure resiliency by completing a critical loop to an existing main line, creating essential system redundancy that benefits the broader network. Congresswoman Tenney has a steadfast commitment to ensuring all communities are supported, especially those in rural areas. Rural communities are the backbone of this region, and Congresswoman Tenney’s continued support for them is invaluable. Her support for this project is a powerful example of how by working together, elected officials can strengthen our infrastructure, safeguard our future, and impact the lives of our residents,” said the Town of Throop Supervisor, Eric Ridley. 

    “On behalf of Schuyler County, I want to say thank you to Congresswoman Tenney for supporting our project submission to improve our county’s Emergency Operations Center. This new Emergency Operations Center will house our county’s Emergency Management department, 911/Dispatch, Schuyler County Sheriff’s Office, and the Schuyler County Public Health Office to improve emergency response times and recovery efforts for our taxpayers and visitors. Thank you again to Congresswoman Tenney for advocating for the project. We are appreciative of your efforts in supporting critical emergency infrastructure projects NY-24,” said the Chairman of the Schuyler County Legislator, Carl H. Blowers

    “We very much appreciate the fact that Congresswoman Tenney recognizes the infrastructure needs of local governments and is working to secure $2 million in funding for the Orleans County Public Safety Building. Fixing a roof may be not be the most exciting project, but it was very necessary to maintaining that building and ensuring safe working conditions for our public safety team. We are very thankful Congresswoman Tenney delivered for us,” said the Orleans County Legislature Chairman, Lynne Johnson. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Province taking further steps to improve outcomes on DTES

    The Province is taking further steps to address systemic challenges and improve the quality of life in the Downtown Eastside (DTES) for all those that are living, working and visiting in the neighbourhood.

    The Province has taken significant action to respond to the challenges facing the community, including building new housing projects, helping people move from encampments to shelter and transitional housing, opening the new Road to Recovery treatment service at St. Paul’s Hospital, and ongoing support for safety related initiatives. 

    However, systemic challenges remain and incidents continue to occur that affect people’s sense of safety in the neighbourhood. Through engagement with service providers, law enforcement, community members and First Nations, government will continue towards making the neighbourhood safer, while ensuring people have the services they need to overcome challenges and build good lives for themselves. In addition, work will continue to support small businesses and  thriving commercial areas.

    This medium- and long-term strategic work builds on the actions the Province has already taken to improve life for people in the DTES. 

    The Province has engaged a third-party, Michael Bryant, to:

    • facilitate discussions with government and non-government sectors for the purposes of aligning DTES activities and approaches and provide public-policy advice focused on co-ordinating and advancing improvements for the DTES and its residents; and 
    • support the development of operational frameworks to address systemic challenges in the DTES and prepare reports to the Cabinet Committee on Community Safety and the Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. 

    Bryant will provide strategic advice to the Cabinet Committee on Community Safety, the Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction and Premier David Eby, as required.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: One Former Federal Bureau of Prisons Official Sentenced for Federal Civil Rights Violation for Failing to Obtain Medical Care for an Inmate Who Died

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    She and a Second Official Also Sentenced for Making False Statements in the Federal Investigation

    Former Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) lieutenant Shronda Covington, 49, was sentenced yesterday to 12 months in prison followed by 12 months of home confinement and three years of supervised release for violating the civil rights of an inmate in her custody and control by showing deliberate indifference to the inmate’s serious medical needs, resulting in the inmate suffering, bodily injury, and for lying to federal investigators about the offense. The inmate later died of injuries he sustained over the course of a 30-hour period spanning Jan. 9 and 10, 2021.

    Former BOP nurse Tonya Farley, 54, was also sentenced today to six months in prison, six months of home confinement, and three years of supervised release for lying to federal investigators about the circumstances of the death of the inmate, who was entrusted to her care.

    According to court documents and evidence introduced at trial, Covington was on duty and working in her official capacity at the Federal Correctional Institution at Petersburg, Virginia, on Jan. 9, 2021. She willfully failed to ensure that the inmate, a 47-year-old man identified as W.W., was provided with necessary medical care during her shift, even though she knew that W.W. had serious medical needs, and W.W. suffered bodily injury as a result. Covington was also found guilty of making false statements to federal agents about the incident.

    Another BOP official, former lieutenant Michael Anderson, previously pleaded guilty for his role in the inmate’s death and was sentenced to three years in prison.

    “Federal correctional officials who fail to do their jobs at the cost of inmate safety should be held accountable,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Further, officials who obstruct investigations of their misconduct violate the public’s trust.”

    “Custody includes a responsibility for safety and wellbeing,” said U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Corrections staff must uphold that responsibility for persons in their care – or they will be held accountable for their failure to do so, like the defendants in this case.”

    “This case is a powerful reminder that BOP officials who disregard their responsibility to provide a humane environment for inmates will be held accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge Tim Edmiston of the Justice Department’s Office of the Inspector General Mid-Atlantic Region.

    Evidence presented at trial established that, in the early morning hours of Jan. 9, 2021, W.W.’s cellmate reported to facility staff that W.W. was exhibiting unprecedented behavior, including that he was suddenly disoriented, unable to talk, unable to stand or walk without falling, and unable to control his bladder. Over the course of two days, BOP officials knew of but disregarded W.W.’s symptoms.

    Without medical attention to address his medical crisis, W.W. fell into walls and other objects numerous times, causing significant bruising and bleeding to his head and body. Although BOP policy requires staff to provide necessary medical care to inmates, defendant Covington failed to respond to repeated calls for help from the officers she supervised during her shift on the morning of Jan. 9, 2021.

    On the morning of Jan. 10, 2021, W.W. finally fell head-first into a wall and then to the floor in an observation cell, where — despite inmate-observers’ continued calls for help — he lay for an hour and 40 minutes before officers rendered aid. An autopsy concluded that W.W. died of blunt force trauma to his head and that the lack of medical assistance he received during his series of falls and after his last fall contributed to his death.

    Farley was the last medical provider to see W.W. before his death. Despite BOP policies requiring her to confer with a physician about W.W.’s care, and despite Farley’s admission that she should have conferred with a physician and sent W.W. to the hospital, Farley failed to take these steps. She then falsely told federal investigators that she had conferred with a physician, even though she had not done so. Farley also misled investigators about her conversations with another prison official.

    The Justice Department’s Office of the Inspector General investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas A. Garnett for the Eastern District of Virginia and Special Litigation Counsel Kathryn E. Gilbert and Trial Attorney Katherine McCallister of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section prosecuted the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray, Booker, Lieu Reintroduce Legislation to Ban Conversion Therapy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Cory Booker (D-NJ), and Congressman Ted W. Lieu (D, CA-36) reintroduced their Therapeutic Fraud Prevention Act, legislation that would ban so-called “conversion therapy,” a practice fraudulently claiming to change an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity. The practice has been recognized by the national community of professionals in health, education, social work, and counseling as being both dangerous and useless. Senator Murray first introduced the legislation in the 114th Congress and has pushed to pass it every Congress since.
    “Conversion therapy is based on the hateful idea that being part of the LGBTQ+ community is an illness that requires treatment. It’s a dangerous sham practice that has been completely debunked and should be banned nationwide—and that’s what our legislation would do,” said Senator Murray. “Our kids deserve to be raised and taught in loving environments that affirm who they are. I’ll keep fighting for a world where every person, no matter their gender or sexual orientation, can live with dignity and without fear.”
    “There is no place in health care for practices rooted in hateful ideology that harms vulnerable children who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community,” said Senator Booker. “Being LGBTQ+ is not an illness, and conversion therapy is a fraudulent treatment that tells children their identity is an illness that must be cured. This legislation would clarify that under the FTC that ‘conversion therapy’ in exchange for monetary compensation is illegal, and ensure that no child is a victim to this discredited, harmful practice.”
    “Conversion therapy is a scam that hurts LGBTQ kids,” said Rep. Lieu. “Using fake science and unearned credentials, conversion therapists prey on vulnerable kids to convince them that who they are is not okay. Major medical organizations oppose the practice because it is harmful and ineffective. We’re overdue for a national ban and I am pleased to once again partner with Senators Murray and Booker on this bill.”
    In addition to Senators Murray and Booker, the Therapeutic Fraud Prevention Act was cosponsored by Senators Baldwin, Bennet, Blumenthal, Cantwell, Coons, Cortez-Masto, Duckworth, Durbin, Fetterman, Gillibrand, Hassan, Heinrich, Hickenlooper, Hirono, Kaine, Kelly, Kim, King, Klobuchar, Lujan, Markey, Merkley, Murphy, Padilla, Reed, Rosen, Sanders, Schiff, Shaheen, Slotkin, Smith, Van Hollen, Warren, Welch, Whitehouse, and Wyden. The legislation was introduced in the House with 70 original cosponsors.
    The Therapeutic Fraud Prevention Act is endorsed by the Congressional Equality Caucus, Human Rights Campaign, PFLAG, American Academy of Pediatrics, Equality California, National Association of School Psychologists, Christopher Street Project, and Advocates for Trans Equality.
    “The American Psychological Association thanks Representative Ted Lieu, Senator Patty Murray, and Senator Cory Booker for the reintroduction of the Therapeutic Fraud Prevention Act,” said American Psychological Association CEO Arthur C. Evans Jr., PhD. “This bill would ban so-called conversion therapy by labeling it a fraudulent practice under the Federal Trade Commission’s authority. APA has a long history of opposing sexual orientation change therapy based on peer-reviewed research studies. APA has also adopted several policies concluding that there is insufficient scientific evidence to support the use of psychological interventions to change sexual orientation. We support this bill and stand ready to advocate for its passage.”
    “The reintroduction of the Therapeutic Fraud Prevention Act is a critical step forward in protecting LGBTQ+ individuals, especially our youth, from the dangerous and discredited practice of conversion therapy. The bill affirms that no one should profit from misleading and dangerous attempts to change something that is not a choice: a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity. The scientific and medical communities have overwhelmingly rejected conversion therapy, and this bill further ensures that practices that cause real long-term harm have no place in our society. We thank Senators Murray and Booker and Representative Lieu for their leadership on this issue,” said Human Rights Campaign Director of Government Affairs Jennifer Pike Bailey.
    “We all want kids to be healthy and safe. Yet LGBTQ+ youth across the country are in crisis today as they hear messages of rejection — not just from peers or online bullies, but from adults and systems meant to protect them. All young people deserve to live authentically as who they are and be protected from dangerous, discredited conversion therapy practices that are associated with greater suicide risk and have been condemned by every major U.S. professional medical and mental health association,” said Mark Henson, Interim Vice President of Advocacy & Government Affairs, The Trevor Project. “No amount of talk or pressure can make someone change their sexual orientation or gender identity—decades of research show it simply doesn’t work . The Trevor Project applauds the reintroduction of the Therapeutic Fraud Prevention Act of 2025, which will help protect LGBTQ+ youth from being subjected to these harmful practices and instead celebrate them for who they are.”
    “Like most people with health questions, the LGBTQ+ people, parents and allies of PFLAG work together with their doctors, who follow standards of care and clinical guidelines that have been recognized as authoritative for decades by trusted mainstream medical organizations like the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Psychological Association. These and every mainstream medical association denounce practices of so-called conversion ‘therapy’ as discredited and dangerous,” said Brian K. Bond (he/him/his), CEO of PFLAG National. “The Therapeutic Fraud Prevention Act would protect vulnerable people who are seeking trusted help from being lured into a pretense for dangerous conversion therapies. PFLAG National thanks Congressman Lieu and Senator Murray for their leadership in reintroducing this important bill.”
    Text of the legislation is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray Grills Kristi Noem on Frozen Disaster Relief, Slams Trump’s Lawless, Inhumane Immigration Policy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    ICYMI: In Senate Floor Speech, Senator Murray Calls Out Trump’s Staggeringly Lawless and Inhumane Immigration Policy
    ***WATCH: Senator Murray’s remarks and questioning***
    Washington, D.C. — Today, at a Senate Appropriations Homeland Security Subcommittee hearing on the FY26 budget for the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, blasted the Trump administration’s lawless and inhumane immigration policies and grilled Secretary Kristi Noem on her Department’s sweeping funding freeze, including Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) disaster relief and public safety grants, and its plans to weaken FEMA and recent denials of disaster declarations.
    In opening comments, Vice Chair Murray said:
    “As Senator Murphy mentioned in his opening statement, Secretary Noem, under your leadership, we have seen you ignore our appropriations laws, our constitution, common sense, and even basic humanity.
    “Like a lot of Americans, I really have been horrified by the lawlessness, incompetence, and cruelty we have all witnessed.
    “And for all the talk about going after criminals—you have sidetracked DHS staff who are investigating drug dealers, terrorists, human traffickers.
    “And rather than photo ops, we need more of your focus on providing basic diligence, because your crackdown has roped in American citizens and people who are here legally, with no criminal record.
    “Now, I’m not going to ask you whether that was right or wrong—I know it’s wrong. The world knows it’s wrong.
    “And I think the first thing history is going to say about your leadership is that you were responsible for so many of these travesties, so I’m deeply concerned.
    “You have deported a four-year-old U.S. citizen with cancer, you’ve disappeared people to a notorious prison in El Salvador, and you have spent $100 million in taxpayer dollars to air TV ads thanking President Trump.
    “That is really reckless, it’s unacceptable, and in my opinion, cannot continue. The American people are paying for this with our taxpayer dollars—and with their most basic rights.”
    [DEVASTATING FEMA FUNDING FREEZE]
    Senator Murray began her questioning by detailing how Secretary Noem and the Trump administration have so far frozen or cancelled over $100 billion in FEMA disaster relief and grants approved by Congress, stating: “We are talking about everything from disaster relief to grants that keep people safe. But when my staff has requested information on the status of this unacceptable hold-up, the Department failed to provide any acceptable justification. This illegal freeze—and it is illegal—is taking a real toll on communities who are waiting on the investments that Congress has delivered.” Senator Murray asked Secretary Noem, “Will you commit to immediately unpausing these funds?”
    Secretary Noem dodged, stating: “Well, Senator, thank you for covering a lot of topics there. Let me touch on a few of those right away. What the Trump administration is doing, I know he’s targeting the law for the first time…”
    Senator Murray interjected: “I’m asking you about the funds that are out there.”
    Secretary Noem again completely demurred: “Under the Biden administration, illegal aliens were prioritized over American citizens. Now the scales of justice have been leveled, citizens are treated the same.”
    Senator Murray continued to push, “Madam Chair, I am going to reclaim my time, because I asked you a specific question. Madam Secretary, I know your answer—I heard it previously. I’m asking you a specific question.”
    “The grants that you are referencing have been paused and reevaluated to make sure that they are truly being spent in the way to which they were appropriated,” replied Secretary Noem. “Many of these grants were being diverted—”
    Senator Murray interjected, “Madam Secretary, these funds were passed on a bipartisan basis by members in this Congress.”
    Secretary Noem continued to refuse to answer the question directly, and Senator Murray responded: “Madam Chair, we are talking about $100 billion [in frozen FEMA funding and grants]. It is not credible that all the recipients—it is not credible that $100 billion is used to break the law—that just cannot be true.”
    [OVERSPENDING AT DHS]
    Senator Murray moved on, stating: “On the other hand, I am very concerned that DHS is now dramatically overspending funding that Congress has not provided. If you were a CEO doing that, I don’t think you’d be in your job long. We need accountability, and we need answers. And that includes informative responses to oversight questions sent to the department over the last three months. I am ranking member on this committee. I have worked with every member of this committee. We take our responsibility seriously to fund your department and others. We need to have answers, we need to have accountability, and we need to make sure you’re not overspending money that you were not allocated.”
    Secretary Noem said, “Well, thank you for that question… I’ve worked many, many jobs in my life, but I also have been a CEO.”
    “I’m not questioning your credentials, I’m questioning your spending,” Senator Murray responded.
    Secretary Noem avoided answering the question directly, but conceded that as her Department spends at a rate beyond what Congress has appropriated, she is hopeful Republicans will provide new funding mid-way through the fiscal year through their partisan reconciliation process, stating: “We are prioritizing where our security needs are in this country, and we are hoping that this body will agree that reconciliation is necessary to address the things that have been neglected in this country for too long, that we have the technology upgrades, the manpower upgrades that are necessary. So, the $170 billion request for the Department of Homeland Security is incredibly important to make sure we have the tools that we need.”
    “The fact is that you’ve not been given this funding. Saying that it’s going to come in reconciliation that has not passed is not an acceptable answer,” replied Senator Murray.
    [DISASTER RELIEF]
    Senator Murray turned to discussing FEMA and disaster relief, stating: “A lot of disaster relief has been politicized. You’ve endorsed eliminating FEMA outright. We have seen an upheaval at FEMA that is going to put lives in jeopardy. One in five FEMA employees have been pushed out, taking this administration’s so-called buyout offer. We are losing indispensable staff just weeks away from fire and hurricane season, and over $100 billion in disaster relief and FEMA grants are still being held up. DHS is making it a lot harder to qualify for relief, something people in my home state of Washington are experiencing firsthand. Multiple requests from governors have been rejected in recent weeks, including a request from our state, and we haven’t been given any response about this. And I’m watching this and I’m thinking: has President Trump directed you to prioritize funding for Republican states?”
    “Absolutely not,” said Secretary Noem.
    “Have you directed your staff to prioritize funding to Republican led states over Democratic states?” Senator Murray asked.
    “Absolutely not. Under this administration, there will not be any politicization of support, relief, FEMA assistance, or grants given based on politics. Every single person will be treated the same,” committed Secretary Noem, in part.
    “Madam Secretary, there is a clear trend of Republican led states getting very fast responses and funding. Democrat led states are being forced to wait. We have never treated FEMA as a partisan issue in this country,” concluded Senator Murray.
    Last month, Senator Murray took to the Senate floor to slam Trump’s lawless immigration policy, highlighting the absence of any semblance of due process, and demanding full details of the secret agreement with El Salvador and the names and status of all the individuals sent to El Salvador. In April, she also met with farmworkers, advocates, and community members in Washington state to listen to their concerns amid a recent spike in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity—including large-scale raids and the detention of local activists and leaders. Senator Murray has championed comprehensive, humane, and fair immigration reform throughout her Senate career, repeatedly pushing for legislative solutions that would offer a fair pathway to citizenship for the more than 11 million undocumented immigrants living in America, including Dreamers, farmworkers, and those with Temporary Protected Status. During Trump’s first administration, Senator Murray helped lead the charge in pushing back against Trump’s appalling treatment of migrant children and families at the southern border—cosponsoring the Fair Day in Court for Kids Act, which would require unaccompanied children and vulnerable individuals to be provided with legal assistance during immigration court proceedings, the Stop Cruelty to Migrant Children Act to end family separations at the border, and legislation to prevent the separation of families at sensitive locations such as schools, religious institutions, and hospitals, among many other efforts.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Norcross Returns Home After Recent Medical Incident

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Donald Norcross (1st District of New Jersey)

    CHERRY HILL, NJ — Today, Congressman Donald Norcross returned home following his brief stay at a rehabilitation facility. His recovery has been going incredibly smoothly and his “Jersey fight” is on full display. In the coming weeks he is expected to continue outpatient rehabilitation and his medical team will be removing his gallbladder. He continues to stay in constant contact with his staff and is engaging in various meetings in South Jersey and on the issues in Washington D.C. 

    “It is good to be home. I owe a debt of immense gratitude to the incredible health professionals at Cooper Hospital who saved my life and have been instrumental in helping me recover so quickly,” said Congressman Donald Norcross. “I want to sincerely thank the incredible South Jersey community for the outpouring of prayers, cards, calls and well wishes. Be assured that I will continue to fight for our seniors, veterans and hard working families each and every day.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Property Market – Renters could be $700/year better-off with decade-high rental stock

    Source: Brainchild for RealEstate.co.nz

    • Supply of rental properties the highest for any April since 2016 
    • Weekly rent softens by an average of $14/week nationally  
    • Cost of living crisis keeps would-be renters at home while investors retain properties 

    Friday 9 May, 2025 – Renters have more money in their pocket and more properties to choose from as latest data from realestate.co.nz shows the supply of rental properties in New Zealand reaches the highest level for any April in almost a decade.  

    April abundance: market awash with rentals

    The total number of new rental listings on the market last month was 5,868, up 24.1% year-on-year from 4,729. But we need to look back as far as April 2016 (6,836) to see numbers that can match the current level of supply.

    Regions leading the charge with the greatest number of new listings are, to be expected, New Zealand’s big three: Auckland (2,375, up 8.6% year-on-year), Canterbury (704, up 39.4% year-on-year), and Wellington (691, up 196.6% year-on-year).  

    Vanessa Williams, spokesperson for realestate.co.nz, says three key trends over the past 18 months have contributed to this rental market:

    Short to long-term rentals: “The number of holiday homes and Airbnbs that are being converted back from short-term rentals into long-term rentals.”
    Cost of living crisis: “When we look at our typical rental demographic (those aged 18-25), they’re doing one of two things: staying at home with their parents because of the cost of living or departing New Zealand shores and moving overseas.” 

    Investors holding tight: “A slower sales market over the last 2.5 years has seen investors holding onto their properties.”

    Renters reap benefits as rates reduce

    Further good news for renters is the softening in rental price, with the national average down by $14 per week year-on-year. The capital city had one of the highest falls in rental prices, with a year-on-year reduction of 7.2% or $50 per week ($647/week in April 2025 compared to $697/week in April 2024). 
    Subsequent rate falls occurred in the Central North Island, down 6.9% on April last year, and Taranaki, down 5.7% year-on-year.

    Williams says $14 extra in a tenant’s pocket per week over a 52-week period can result in a saving upwards of $700.  

    “That’s a nice three-seater sofa for the flat or a weekend away. In today’s current economic climate, $700 can go a long way.”    

    Central Otago and Lakes bucks the trend

    As to be expected there’s always a region that bucks the trend. Central Otago and Lakes reported an all-time high with an average rental price of $870 per week in April, a 3.0% increase year-on-year.

    Although the region’s 148 new listings reported in April was a 22.1% drop from the 190 listings in March, the region’s April numbers reflect a 35.8% year-on-year increase.

    “Central Otago and Lakes’ rental activity corresponds with our sales property data, which confirms the region’s reputation as one of the most highly valued markets in the country,” says Williams. “It’s not surprising to see this region continue to command top dollar with its beautiful homes, attractive lifestyle, and strong tourist market.”   

    About realestate.co.nz 

    We’ve been helping people buy, sell, or rent property since 1996. Established before Google, realestate.co.nz is New Zealand’s longest-standing property website and the official website of the real estate industry.  

    Dedicated only to property, our mission is to empower people with a property search tool they can use to find the life they want to live. With residential, lifestyle, rural and commercial property listings, realestate.co.nz is the place to start for those looking to buy or sell property.

    Market insights: Search by suburb to see median sale prices, popular property types and trends over time. 

    Sold properties: Switch your search to sold to see the last 12 months of sales and prices. 
    Valuations: Get a gauge on property prices by browsing sold residential properties, with the latest sale prices and an estimated value in the current market. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: One Former Federal Bureau of Prisons Official Sentenced for Federal Civil Rights Violation for Failing to Obtain Medical Care for an Inmate Who Died

    Source: United States Attorneys General 1

    She and a Second Official Also Sentenced for Making False Statements in the Federal Investigation

    Former Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) lieutenant Shronda Covington, 49, was sentenced yesterday to 12 months in prison followed by 12 months of home confinement and three years of supervised release for violating the civil rights of an inmate in her custody and control by showing deliberate indifference to the inmate’s serious medical needs, resulting in the inmate suffering, bodily injury, and for lying to federal investigators about the offense. The inmate later died of injuries he sustained over the course of a 30-hour period spanning Jan. 9 and 10, 2021.

    Former BOP nurse Tonya Farley, 54, was also sentenced today to six months in prison, six months of home confinement, and three years of supervised release for lying to federal investigators about the circumstances of the death of the inmate, who was entrusted to her care.

    According to court documents and evidence introduced at trial, Covington was on duty and working in her official capacity at the Federal Correctional Institution at Petersburg, Virginia, on Jan. 9, 2021. She willfully failed to ensure that the inmate, a 47-year-old man identified as W.W., was provided with necessary medical care during her shift, even though she knew that W.W. had serious medical needs, and W.W. suffered bodily injury as a result. Covington was also found guilty of making false statements to federal agents about the incident.

    Another BOP official, former lieutenant Michael Anderson, previously pleaded guilty for his role in the inmate’s death and was sentenced to three years in prison.

    “Federal correctional officials who fail to do their jobs at the cost of inmate safety should be held accountable,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Further, officials who obstruct investigations of their misconduct violate the public’s trust.”

    “Custody includes a responsibility for safety and wellbeing,” said U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Corrections staff must uphold that responsibility for persons in their care – or they will be held accountable for their failure to do so, like the defendants in this case.”

    “This case is a powerful reminder that BOP officials who disregard their responsibility to provide a humane environment for inmates will be held accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge Tim Edmiston of the Justice Department’s Office of the Inspector General Mid-Atlantic Region.

    Evidence presented at trial established that, in the early morning hours of Jan. 9, 2021, W.W.’s cellmate reported to facility staff that W.W. was exhibiting unprecedented behavior, including that he was suddenly disoriented, unable to talk, unable to stand or walk without falling, and unable to control his bladder. Over the course of two days, BOP officials knew of but disregarded W.W.’s symptoms.

    Without medical attention to address his medical crisis, W.W. fell into walls and other objects numerous times, causing significant bruising and bleeding to his head and body. Although BOP policy requires staff to provide necessary medical care to inmates, defendant Covington failed to respond to repeated calls for help from the officers she supervised during her shift on the morning of Jan. 9, 2021.

    On the morning of Jan. 10, 2021, W.W. finally fell head-first into a wall and then to the floor in an observation cell, where — despite inmate-observers’ continued calls for help — he lay for an hour and 40 minutes before officers rendered aid. An autopsy concluded that W.W. died of blunt force trauma to his head and that the lack of medical assistance he received during his series of falls and after his last fall contributed to his death.

    Farley was the last medical provider to see W.W. before his death. Despite BOP policies requiring her to confer with a physician about W.W.’s care, and despite Farley’s admission that she should have conferred with a physician and sent W.W. to the hospital, Farley failed to take these steps. She then falsely told federal investigators that she had conferred with a physician, even though she had not done so. Farley also misled investigators about her conversations with another prison official.

    The Justice Department’s Office of the Inspector General investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas A. Garnett for the Eastern District of Virginia and Special Litigation Counsel Kathryn E. Gilbert and Trial Attorney Katherine McCallister of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brownley, Pingree Reintroduce Legislation to Make Composting a Federally Approved and Funded Practice

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

    Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) and Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-ME) introduced the Cultivating Organic Matter through the Promotion Of Sustainable Techniques (COMPOST) Act, legislation that recognizes the environmental benefits of composting and establishes composting as a conservation practice for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) conservation programs. 

    “While several states already have programs that recognize the many benefits of composting, there is no federal policy to encourage or provide sufficient resources to move a national composting effort forward,” said Congresswoman Julia Brownley. “With food production and subsequent food waste contributing immensely to greenhouse gas emissions, many states without clear composting guidelines or practices have fallen behind in the collective effort to meet our 2050 net-zero emission goals.”

    “We must continue to take bold action in the fight to lessen the impacts of climate change and protect our resources and our environment for future generations,” continued Brownley. “My bill seeks to do just that by incentivizing farmers to implement more sustainable farming practices like composting. Expanding access to composting practices is of immense value to farmers who rely on soil health and the climate resiliency of their land, both of which are strengthened through composting. And, by diverting food and organic waste from going to the landfill and being incinerated, the expansion of composting practices helps support our local environment, local jobs, and local, healthy food production, making this legislation a true win-win for our communities.”

    “Wasted food doesn’t just fill up landfills—it fuels the climate crisis. As co-founder of the bipartisan Congressional Food Recovery Caucus, I’m proud to support Congresswoman Brownley’s legislation to expand composting through conservation programs at the Department of Agriculture,” said Congresswoman Chellie Pingree. “This is a commonsense step toward a more sustainable food system.”

    Background

    Composting is one of the most environmentally friendly means of disposing of food waste and other organic waste. Not only does composting emit a smaller quantity of greenhouse gases compared to alternative disposal methods, it also yields a valuable soil additive that enhances soil health, which in turn makes the soil a better absorber of carbon, while also making the land more resilient to climate change-fueled disasters like wildfires and floods. Additionally, while there is growing interest by individuals and businesses across the country to compost food scraps and compostable packaging, there is not enough composting infrastructure in the U.S. to meet this demand.

    Unfortunately, under current law, this important conservation practice is not eligible for federal funding or assistance. In fact, composting is not an approved conservation practice (like cover crops or no-tilling systems) for USDA conservation programs, including under the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) or the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).

    This bill would add composting as a conservation practice for USDA conservation programs. Both the act of producing compost from organic waste and using compost on a farm would qualify as a conservation practice.

    Read the full text of the bill here.

    ###

    Issues: 119th Congress, Environment

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Pressley Rallies at 24-Hour Vigil to Defend Medicaid, Protect Vulnerable Communities

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

    With Republicans threatening massive cuts to Medicaid in their reconciliation bill, Pressley is standing with seniors, folks with disabilities, children, and everyone whose lives depend on it

    “Medicaid is not some line item on a spreadsheet. Medicaid is healthcare. Medicaid is a lifeline. No one should be in the business of taking away health care from people.”

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) rallied with caregivers, advocates, and fellow lawmakers at a 24-hour vigil to protect Medicaid from Republicans’ cruel budget cuts that would devastate communities across this country. Congresswoman Pressley made clear that Medicaid isn’t just a line item in the Republican budget, but a lifeline for millions of families who call this country home.

    “Half of the children in America are covered by Medicaid. It allows people with complex chronic conditions to afford the medications they need to stay alive. And 10% of Medicaid enrollees are over the age of 60. It allows our elders and our neighbors with disabilities to receive care in their homes and to stay in their communities. This Republican reconciliation bill guts the programs that hold our communities together – Medicaid, but also SNAP, Head Start, and the VA – programs that give people a fighting chance,” Congresswoman Pressley declared. “Again, the cruelty is the point. Calling Medicaid a lifeline is not exaggeration, it is a fact.”

    With Republicans proposing disastrous cuts to essential, life-saving programs including Medicaid, SNAP, Head Start, and the VA, Congresswoman Pressley has been speaking out and leveraging every tool to defend vulnerable communities that stand to be harmed by Republican’s reckless budget.

    In the House Financial Services Committee’s markup of Republicans’ reconciliation bill, Rep. Pressley shared the a powerful story of a family from a Republican district at risk from the proposed Medicaid cuts. In the House Oversight Committee’s markup of the bill, she challenged Republicans to oppose devasting cuts to food assistance – only to be met with silence.

    A full transcript of her remarks at today’s Medicaid vigil is available below and video is available here.

    Transcript: Pressley, Lawmakers, Advocates Rally in 24-Hour Vigil to Defend Medicaid, Protect Vulnerable Communities
    U.S. Capitol Building
    May 8, 2025

    They kept thanking me for being here – I said, “Are you kidding me?” This is my family right here – my movement family. There’s no place I’d rather be – and I had to be.

    I wanted to thank you all for being here. I’m so grateful for you justice-seekers, you freedom-fighters – you could’ve chosen to be anywhere else, but you chose to be here.

    Not because of your jobs, your titles – I’m not here because I’m your Congresswoman, I’m here because I’m your sister in struggle and solidarity. I’m here because I’m a human being who gives a damn about other human beings. 

    Because we are one human family – and our destinies are truly tied.

    I am so inspired by all of you. I have long believed that every great movement requires three things: imagination, strategy, and stamina.

    Can you all give yourselves permission to radically dream that every person who needs care, can get it?

    You are employing the strategy of peaceful protest and civil disobedience, which has been proven throughout history to be the way that we resist tyranny, that we resist oppression, that we advance progress.

    And many of you have been here for 24 hours – so you are certainly demonstrating your stamina.

    So imagination – I am just audacious enough to believe that we can protect Medicaid.

    That we can have care, not cuts.

    I’m just audacious enough to dream and to imagine that everyone deserves care.

    We are joined together by a moral purpose and a moral moment: to defend Medicaid and the people we love from a Republican budget that is cruel by design.

    The cruelty is the point.

    A budget that would rip $880 billion from Medicaid – not to save money, but to bankroll tax cuts for Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s billionaire friends. Billionaires who don’t need another dime. People who will never face the agony of choosing between medicine and rent, groceries and insulin.

    Medicaid is not some line item on a spreadsheet.

    Medicaid is health care. Medicaid is a lifeline. No one should be in the business of taking away health care from people.

    This is not about Democrats versus Republicans. This is about right and wrong, good and evil – it is as simple that.

    Denying people healthcare – that’s wrong. That’s evil.

    Republicans are firing food inspectors in the Department of Agriculture. They are dismantling public health agencies like the CDC and NIH. They are bringing back measles.

    All this as a part of the so-called DOGE initiative.

    How frightening that these clueless DOGE bros are determining the future of our country.

    Suddenly, our greatest wealth as a nation is the health of our people.

    I’m all for a government that is more efficient – but this ain’t it.

    There is nothing efficient about making people sicker.

    There is nothing efficient about making people hungrier.

    There is nothing efficient about making people poorer.

    There is nothing efficient about making people more vulnerable. 

    There is nothing efficient about buying more toy rockets for Elon Musk while working parents can’t afford baby formula or blood pressure medication.

    The shame and the sham of it all.

    Cutting Medicaid would hurt folks from every walk of life and at every stage of their life.

    Medicaid covers 2 out of 5 births in this country. Slashing Medicaid will only accelerate the maternal health crisis and widen the racial disparities that already harm Black women in my district – the MA 7th – and across the country.

    Donald Trump is a dictator, y’all. And the reason why Republicans is because they want a citizenry that is ignorant and uninformed.

    They want a citizenry that is indifferent to the suffering of their neighbors.

    They want a citizenry that is inactive.

    The only way to beat a dictator is with defiance.

    And that’s what you’re doing here today.

    So I thank you – I thank you on behalf of the children of this country.

    Half of the children in America are covered by Medicaid. It allows people with complex chronic conditions to afford the medications they need to stay alive.

    And 10% of Medicaid enrollees are over the age of 60. It allows our elders and our neighbors with disabilities to receive care in their homes and to stay in their communities.

    This Republican reconciliation bill guts the programs that hold our communities together – Medicaid, but also SNAP, Head Start, and the VA – programs that give people a fighting chance.

    Again, the cruelty is the point.

    Calling Medicaid a lifeline is not exaggeration, it is a fact.

    Policy is not abstract. It is not neutral. 

    Policy and budgets determine who lives.

    Policy and budgets determine who dies.

    Policy and budgets determine who survives, who thrives.

    This is policy violence.

    This is a fight for dignity. It is a fight for justice. And we will do everything we can to stop this cruel budget from becoming law.

    Again, we are appealing to people of conscience.

    It only takes four Republicans to do the right thing, y’all.

    Four to stand with the people that they serve, instead of being a cult of cowards, complicit in the wholesale harm of our people.

    It just takes four Republicans of conscience to do the right thing, to stand up for the people they serve.

    Four to show a shred of humanity. Four to protect Medicaid.

    Let’s make sure they hear us. Today, tomorrow, and every day until they do.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Read More (Rep. Steube Introduces ELECT Act to End Taxpayer-Funded Presidential Campaigns)

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Greg Steube (FL-17)

    May 08, 2025 | Press ReleasesWASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) today announced the introduction of the House companion to the Eliminating Leftover Expenses for Campaigns from Taxpayers (ELECT) Act of 2025, legislation originally introduced in the Senate by Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa). The bill would permanently terminate the outdated and wasteful Presidential Election Campaign Fund and return any remaining balances to the Treasury to reduce the national deficit.
    “For decades, American taxpayers have been forced to subsidize presidential campaigns, even those they fundamentally oppose,” said Rep. Steube. “This fund is a relic of the past, riddled with abuse and irrelevant in today’s campaign financing landscape. It’s long past time we ended this unnecessary waste of taxpayer dollars and put the money toward reducing our nation’s ballooning deficit.”
    “The last thing we need to use tax dollars for is to line the pockets of political consultants,” said Senator Ernst. “There is no better way to pay down the $36 trillion debt than by defunding welfare for political campaigns. Washington should be working to benefit all Americans instead of itself.”
    The ELECT Act eliminates the ability for taxpayers to designate $3 on their federal tax return to fund presidential campaigns and nominating conventions. It also shutters the Presidential Election Campaign Fund and directs all remaining funds to the U.S. Treasury for deficit reduction.
    Background:Despite being created in the 1970s as a means of campaign finance reform, the system has been largely abandoned by modern candidates. No major party presidential nominee has participated in the public financing system since 2008.
    Read the full bill here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 100 Months in Prison

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    FORT WAYNE–Yesterday, Jakwan D. Braster, 30 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after his guilty plea to maintaining a drug-involved premises, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

    Braster was sentenced to a total of 100 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.

    According to documents in the case, Braster maintained a drug house in Fort Wayne from February through August 2020 for the purpose of distributing and manufacturing controlled substances.  In August 2020, he illegally possessed firearms despite his prior felony conviction for resisting law enforcement, and he possessed those firearms in order to facilitate and protect his drug trafficking at his drug house.   

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Fort Wayne Safe Streets Gang Task Force, which includes the FBI, the Indiana State Police, the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, and the Fort Wayne Police Department.  Also assisting in this investigation were the Drug Enforcement Administration’s North Central Laboratory, the Indiana State Police Laboratory, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anthony W. Geller and Teresa L Ashcraft.

    This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    This case was also part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Draganfly Announces First Quarter Results of 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Vancouver, BC., May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO) (CSE: DPRO) (FSE: 3U8) (“Draganfly” or the “Company”), an award-winning, industry-leading drone solutions and systems developer, is pleased to announce its first quarter financial results.

    Key Financial and Operational Highlights for Q1 2025:

    • Revenue for the first quarter of 2025 was $1,547,715 which represents a 16% year over year increase. Product sales of $1,541,811 were up 24.5% over the same period last year.
    • Gross profit for Q1 2025 was $310,088 up 10.7% from $280,011 for the same period last year. Gross margin percentage for Q1 2025 was 20.0% compared to 21.1% in Q1 2024. Gross profit would have been $271,422 and gross margin would have been 17.5%, not including a one-time non-cash recovery of a write down of inventory of $38,666. The decrease is due to the sales mix of the products sold.
    • The comprehensive loss for the period of $3,433,712 includes non-cash changes comprised of a positive change in fair value derivative of $157,830, a recovery of a write down of inventory of $38,666, and an impairment gain on notes receivable of $25,951 and would otherwise be a comprehensive loss of $3,656,159 vs an adjusted comprehensive loss of $3,559,976 for the same period last year. Contributors to the slight year-over-year increase are increased research and development, office and miscellaneous, professional fees, share based payments, and wages offset by change in derivative liability.
    • Cash balance on March 31, 2025 of $2,126,103 compared to $6,252,409 on December 31, 2024.
    • Volatus Aerospace partnered with Draganfly to integrate Volatus’ advanced Bathymetric LiDAR technology with Draganfly’s Heavy Lift Drone for a pilot project in oil and gas exploration. This collaboration aims to enhance precision data acquisition in energy markets. Additionally, Volatus became an OEM-approved dealer for Draganfly’s UAV platforms, including the Heavy Lift Drone, Commander 3XL, and Apex Drones.
    • Draganfly obtained a waiver from the FAA under 14 CFR §§ 107.39 and 107.145, allowing its drones to operate over people and moving vehicles. This waiver enables Draganfly to conduct flights beyond standard operational restrictions, facilitating advanced UAV operations in complex urban environments.
    • Building upon their existing partnership, Volatus Aerospace and Draganfly announced an expanded collaboration to address the growing demand for automated geospatial data collection and analysis solutions in the utility infrastructure sector. This strategic alliance combines Volatus’ operational expertise with Draganfly’s advanced sensor technology to enhance services for high-value power utility customers.
    • Draganfly announced the establishment of a new U.S. facility in Tampa, Florida, strategically positioned near key military and government clients. This expansion includes a demonstration and live-fire testing facility, reinforcing Draganfly’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge drone solutions to its U.S. customers and bolstering national security and defense partnerships.
    • The Massachusetts Department of Transportation’s Aeronautics Division selected Draganfly to conduct a drone medical delivery demonstration, which was successfully completed. The demonstration involved the simulated delivery of medical supplies to support home-based healthcare, showcasing the potential of UAVs in enhancing healthcare logistics.
    • Draganfly appointed Christopher C. Miller, former Acting U.S. Secretary of Defense under President Donald Trump, to its Board of Directors. Miller brings extensive experience in defense and intelligence, which is expected to guide Draganfly’s strategic initiatives in government, defense, and aerospace sectors.

    Draganfly will hold a shareholder update and earnings call on May 8, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. PDT / 5:30 p.m. EDT.

    Registration for the call can be done Here

    Selected financial information is outlined below and should be read with Draganfly’s consolidated financial statements for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, and associated management discussion and analysis, which will be available under the Company’s profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and filed on EDGAR at www.sec.gov.

        Three months ended March 31,
                2025     2024  
    Total revenues         $ 1,547,715   $ 1,329,581  
    Gross Margin (as a % of revenues) (1)           20.0 %   21.1 %
    Net income (loss)           (3,424,825 )   (1,863,808 )
    Net income (loss) per share ($)                
              (0.63 )   (0.85 )
              (0.63 )   (0.85 )
    Comprehensive income (loss)           (3,433,712 )   (1,884,416 )
    Comprehensive income (loss) per share ($)                
              (0.63 )   (0.86 )
              (0.63 )   (0.86 )
    Change in cash and cash equivalents         $ (4,126,306 ) $ 1,246,124  

    (1) Gross Profit (as a % of revenues) would have been 17.5% and 32.2% not including a non-cash recovery of a write down of inventory of $38,666 and a non-cash write down of inventory of $148,760 respectively for the three month period ending March 31 2025 and 2024, respectively.

    As at           March 31, 2025   December 31, 2024
    Total assets         $ 6,919,097 $ 10,200,088
    Working capital           705,243   3,846,283
    Total non-current liabilities           296,067   342,013
    Shareholders’ equity         $ 1,476,648 $ 4,621,783
    Number of shares outstanding   5,433,824   5,427,795

    Shareholders’ equity and working capital as at March 31, 2025, includes a fair value of derivative liability of $2,040,291 (2024 – $2,198,121) and would otherwise be $3,516,939 (2024 – $6,819,904) and $2,745,534 (2024 – $6,044,404), respectively.

        2025 Q1   2024 Q4   2024 Q1
    Revenue $ 1,547,715   $ 1,613,162   $ 1,329,581  
    Cost of sales(2) $ (1,237,627 ) $ (1,397,422 ) $ (1,049,570 )
    Gross profit(3) $ 310,088   $ 215,740   $ 280,011  
    Gross margin – percentage   20.0 %   13.4 %   21.1 %
    Operating expenses $ (3,911,035 ) $ (4,085,766 ) $ (3,530,933 )
    Operating income (loss) $ (3,600,947 ) $ (3,870,026 ) $ (3,250,922 )
    Operating loss per share – basic $ (0.66 ) $ (0.91 ) $ (1.47 )
    Operating loss per share – diluted $ (0.66 ) $ (0.91 ) $ (1.47 )
    Other income (expense) $ 176,122   $ (851,896 ) $ 1,387,114  
    Change in fair value of derivative liability (1) $ 157,830   $ (946,116 ) $ 1,817,569  
    Other comprehensive income (loss) $ (8,887 ) $ 5,991   $ (20,608 )
    Comprehensive income (loss) $ (3,433,712 ) $ (4,715,931 ) $ (1,884,416 )
    Comprehensive income (loss) per share – basic $ (0.63 ) $ (1.11 ) $ (0.86 )
    Comprehensive income (loss) per share – diluted $ (0.63 ) $ (1.11 ) $ (0.86 )

    (1) Included in other income (expense).

    (2) Cost of goods sold includes non-cash inventory write downs of, $167,515 in Q4 2024 and a recovery of a write down of inventory of $38,666 in Q1 2025 and would have been $1,229,907 in Q4 2024 and $1,276,293 in Q1 2025 before these write downs.
    (3) Gross profit would have been $383,255 in Q4 2024 and $271,422 in Q1 2025 without the write downs in number 2 above. 
    (4) Cost of goods sold includes non-cash inventory write downs of $148,760 in Q1 2024 and would have been $900,810 in Q1 2024 before these write downs.
    (5) Gross profit would have been $428,771 in Q1 2024 without the write downs in number 4 above.

    About Draganfly

    Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO; CSE: DPRO; FSE: 3U8) is the creator of quality, cutting-edge drone solutions, software, and AI systems that revolutionize the way organizations can do business and service their stakeholders. Recognized as being at the forefront of technology for over 25 years, Draganfly is an award-winning industry leader serving the public safety, public health, mining, agriculture, industrial inspections, security, mapping, and surveying markets. Draganfly is a company driven by passion, ingenuity, and the need to provide efficient solutions and first-class services to its customers around the world with the goal of saving time, money, and lives.

    Media Contact
    Erika Racicot
    Email: media@draganfly.com

    Company Contact
    Email: info@draganfly.com

    Note Regarding Non-GAAP Measures

    In this press release we describe certain income and expense items that are unusual or non-recurring. There are terms not defined by International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). Our usage of these terms may vary from the usage adopted by other companies. Specifically, gross profit and gross margin are undefined terms by IFRS that may be referenced herein. We provide this detail so that readers have a better understanding of the significant events and transactions that have had an impact on our results.

    Throughout this release, reference is made to “gross profit,” and “gross margin,” which are non-IFRS measures. Management believes that gross profit, defined as revenue less operating expenses, is a useful supplemental measure of operations. Gross profit helps provide an understanding on the level of costs needed to create revenue. Gross margin illustrates the gross profit as a percentage of revenue. Readers are cautioned that these non-IFRS measures may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies. Readers are also cautioned not to view these non-IFRS financial measures as an alternative to financial measures calculated in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”). For more information with respect to financial measures which have not been defined by GAAP, including reconciliations to the closest comparable GAAP measure, see the “Non-GAAP Measures and Additional GAAP Measures”‎ section of the Company’s most recent MD&A which is available on SEDAR.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This release contains certain “forward looking statements” and certain “forward-looking information” as ‎defined under applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements and information can ‎generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “may”, “will”, “expect”, “intend”, ‎‎“estimate”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “continue”, “plans” or similar terminology. Forward-looking statements ‎and information are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and ‎assumptions that, while believed by management to be reasonable, are inherently subject to significant ‎business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Forward-looking statements and ‎information are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond ‎the ability of the Company to control or predict, that may cause the Company’s actual results, ‎performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied thereby, and are ‎developed based on assumptions about such risks, uncertainties and other factors set out here in, ‎including but not limited to: the Company’s arrangement with Volatus Aerospace to integrate Volatus’ advanced Bathymetric LiDAR technology with Draganfly’s Heavy Lift Drone for a pilot project in oil and gas exploration as well as the expanded collaboration to address the growing demand for automated geospatial data collection and analysis solutions in the utility infrastructure sector; the obtention of a waiver from the FAA under 14 CFR §§ 107.39 and 107.145, allowing its drones to operate over people and moving vehicles; the establishment of a new U.S. facility in Tampa, Florida, strategically positioned near key military and government clients‎; and financial condition, the successful integration of technology, the inherent risks involved in ‎the general securities markets; uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in ‎the future; the inherent uncertainty of cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and ‎expenses, currency fluctuations; regulatory restrictions, liability, competition, loss of key employees and ‎other related risks and uncertainties disclosed under the heading “Risk Factors“ in the Company’s most ‎recent filings filed with securities regulators in Canada on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com. The ‎Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information except as required by ‎applicable law. Such forward-looking information represents managements’ best judgment based on ‎information currently available. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed and actual future results ‎may vary materially. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking ‎statements or information.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrest after stolen vehicle located in Elizabeth Vale

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Man arrested in Elizabeth Vale after fleeing in a stolen car.

    About 12.30am this morning Friday 9 May, police observed a stolen car travelling on Henley Beach Road, Mile End.

    The Honda sedan took off from patrols and was last seen in the back streets of Mile End.

    Police sighted the car a short time later travelling on South Road towards the Port River Expressway.

    With the assistance of PolAir and Dog Operations Unit the car was tracked to Main North Road where it was successfully spiked at the intersection of Park Terrace, Salisbury.

    The car was dumped and three people were seen running from the car into nearby backstreets.

    With the continued assistance of PolAir and Dog Operations PD Arlo located a 22-year-old man from Solomon Town nearby on Chaddenwick Road where he was arrested. He has been charged with unlawful possession and his bail has been refused and he will appear in the Elizabeth Magistrates Court later today.

    Police conducted a search of the area and were unable to locate the following two suspects.

    Police conducted vehicle checks on the Honda which showed that it had been stolen from a Brompton home last month.

    Police ask anyone who may have CCTV or dash cam footage which may assist in the investigation to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Boston, federal partners arrest fugitive convicted of murder in Brazil

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    MILFORD, Mass. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, in partnership with federal law enforcement partners from the FBI, apprehended a Brazilian fugitive wanted by authorities in his native country to serve a sentence following his conviction for murder. Officers with ICE Boston and agents with FBI Boston arrested Fernando Antonio Vieira-Martins, 34, in Milford May 1.

    “Fernando Antonio Vieira-Martins murdered someone in his home country and attempted to subvert justice by fleeing to the United States. He represents a significant hazard to the residents of Massachusetts,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde. “While some in New England may be perfectly fine with criminal alien offenders settling in our communities, ICE Boston will continue to prioritize the safety of our law-abiding public by arresting and removing such criminal alien threats to our neighbors.”

    Brazilian authorities convicted Vieira-Martins June 29, 2022, for murder, and sentenced him to 24 years and nine months in prison. He fled Brazil after that conviction.

    Vieira-Martins illegally entered the United States March 9, 2023, near Calexico, California, without being inspected, admitted or paroled by a U.S. immigration official.

    On May 10, 2023, Brazilian authorities issued a criminal arrest warrant for Vieira-Martins for failure to serve a sentence for a murder conviction.

    Since his May 1 arrest, ICE has held Vieira-Martins in custody, where he will remain pending removal proceedings.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our communities on X: @EROBoston.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Ready Capital Corporation Reports First Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    – GAAP EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS OF $0.47 –
    – DISTRIBUTABLE LOSS PER COMMON SHARE OF $(0.09) –
    – DISTRIBUTABLE EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE BEFORE REALIZED LOSSES OF $0.00 –

    NEW YORK, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ready Capital Corporation (“Ready Capital” or the “Company”) (NYSE: RC), a multi-strategy real estate finance company that originates, acquires, finances, and services lower-to-middle-market (“LMM”) investor and owner-occupied commercial real estate loans, today reported financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    “Market volatility, tariff implementations, declining consumer confidence and increased recession expectations provide headwinds for our business”, said Thomas Capasse, Ready Capital’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “Despite this challenging macroeconomic environment, the Company continues to take decisive actions to reset the balance sheet and restore profitability.”

    First Quarter Highlights

    • LMM commercial real estate originations of $79 million
    • Small Business Lending (“SBL”) loan originations of $387 million, including $343 million of Small Business Administration 7(a) loans
    • Declared and paid dividend of $0.125 per share in cash
    • Book value of $10.61 per share of common stock as of March 31, 2025
    • Completed the acquisition of United Development Funding IV, a real estate investment trust providing capital solutions to residential real estate developers and regional homebuilders
    • Acquired approximately 3.4 million shares of the Company’s common stock at an average price of $5.02 per share as part of stock repurchase program
    • Closed a private placement of $220 million in aggregate principal amount of its 9.375% Senior Secured Notes due 2028

    Subsequent Events

    On April 16, 2025, ReadyCap Holdings issued an additional $50.0 million in aggregate principal amount of its 9.375% Senior Secured Notes due 2028. The Company used the net proceeds from the issuance of such notes to repay its indebtedness.

    Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information

    In addition to the results presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP, this press release includes distributable earnings, formerly referred to as core earnings, which is a non-U.S. GAAP financial measure. The Company defines distributable earnings as net income adjusted for unrealized gains and losses related to certain mortgage backed securities (“MBS”) not retained by us as part of our loan origination business, realized gains and losses on sales of certain MBS, unrealized gains and losses related to residential mortgage servicing rights (“MSR”) from discontinued operations, unrealized changes in our current expected credit loss reserve, unrealized gains or losses on de-designated cash flow hedges, unrealized gains or losses on foreign exchange hedges, unrealized gains or losses on certain unconsolidated joint ventures, non-cash compensation expense related to our stock-based incentive plan, and one-time non-recurring gains or losses, such as gains or losses on discontinued operations, bargain purchase gains, or merger related expenses.

    The Company believes that this non-U.S. GAAP financial information, in addition to the related U.S. GAAP measures, provides investors greater transparency into the information used by management in its financial and operational decision-making, including the determination of dividends. However, because distributable earnings is an incomplete measure of the Company’s financial performance and involves differences from net income computed in accordance with U.S. GAAP, it should be considered along with, but not as an alternative to, the Company’s net income computed in accordance with U.S. GAAP as a measure of the Company’s financial performance. In addition, because not all companies use identical calculations, the Company’s presentation of distributable earnings may not be comparable to other similarly-titled measures of other companies.

    In calculating distributable earnings, Net Income (in accordance with U.S. GAAP) is adjusted to exclude unrealized gains and losses on MBS acquired by the Company in the secondary market but is not adjusted to exclude unrealized gains and losses on MBS retained by Ready Capital as part of its loan origination businesses, where the Company transfers originated loans into an MBS securitization and the Company retains an interest in the securitization. In calculating distributable earnings, the Company does not adjust Net Income (in accordance with U.S. GAAP) to take into account unrealized gains and losses on MBS retained by us as part of the loan origination businesses because the unrealized gains and losses that are generated in the loan origination and securitization process are considered to be a fundamental part of this business and an indicator of the ongoing performance and credit quality of the Company’s historical loan originations. In calculating distributable earnings, Net Income (in accordance with U.S. GAAP) is adjusted to exclude realized gains and losses on certain MBS securities considered to be non-distributable. Certain MBS positions are considered to be non-distributable due to a variety of reasons which may include collateral type, duration, and size.

    In addition, in calculating distributable earnings, Net Income (in accordance with U.S. GAAP) is adjusted to exclude unrealized gains or losses on residential MSRs, held at fair value from discontinued operations. Servicing rights relating to the Company’s small business commercial business are accounted for under ASC 860, Transfer and Servicing. In calculating distributable earnings, the Company does not exclude realized gains or losses on commercial MSRs, as servicing income is a fundamental part of Ready Capital’s business and is an indicator of the ongoing performance.

    To qualify as a REIT, the Company must distribute to its stockholders each calendar year at least 90% of its REIT taxable income (including certain items of non-cash income), determined without regard to the deduction for dividends paid and excluding net capital gain. There are certain items, including net income generated from the creation of MSRs, that are included in distributable earnings but are not included in the calculation of the current year’s taxable income. These differences may result in certain items that are recognized in the current period’s calculation of distributable earnings not being included in taxable income, and thus not subject to the REIT dividend distribution requirement until future years.

    The table below reconciles Net Income computed in accordance with U.S. GAAP to Distributable Earnings.

    (in thousands) Three Months Ended March 31, 2025
    Net Income $ 81,965  
    Reconciling items:  
    Unrealized loss on MSR – discontinued operations   8,952  
    Unrealized loss on joint ventures   5,639  
    Decrease in CECL reserve   (112,127 )
    Increase in valuation allowance   99,718  
    Non-recurring REO impairment   2,346  
    Non-cash compensation   1,785  
    Merger transaction costs and other non-recurring expenses   2,993  
    Bargain purchase gain   (102,471 )
    Realized losses on sale of investments   20,084  
    Total reconciling items $ (73,081 )
    Income tax adjustments   (4,744 )
    Distributable earnings before realized losses $ 4,140  
    Realized losses on sale of investments, net of tax   (15,524 )
    Distributable loss $ (11,384 )
    Less: Distributable earnings attributable to non-controlling interests   1,985  
    Less: Income attributable to participating shares   2,228  
    Distributable loss attributable to common stockholders $ (15,597 )
    Distributable earnings before realized losses on investments, net of tax per common share – basic and diluted $ 0.00  
    Distributable loss per common share – basic and diluted $ (0.09 )

    U.S. GAAP return on equity is based on U.S. GAAP net income, while distributable return on equity is based on distributable earnings, which adjusts U.S. GAAP net income for the items Din the distributable earnings reconciliation above.

    Webcast and Earnings Conference Call

    Management will host a webcast and conference call on Friday, May 9, 2025 at 8:30am ET to provide a general business update and discuss the financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2025. During the conference call, the Company may discuss and answer questions concerning business and financial developments and trends that have occurred after quarter-end. The Company’s responses to questions, as well as other matters discussed during the conference call, may contain or constitute information that has not been disclosed previously.

    The Company encourages use of the webcast due to potential extended wait times to access the conference call via dial-in. The webcast of the conference call will be available in the Investor Relations section of the Company’s website at www.readycapital.com. To listen to a live broadcast, go to the site at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time in order to register, download and install any necessary audio software.

    To Participate in the Telephone Conference Call:

    Dial in at least five minutes prior to start time.

    Domestic: 1-877-407-0792
    International: 1-201-689-8263

    Conference Call Playback:

    Domestic: 1-844-512-2921
    International: 1-412-317-6671
    Replay Pin #: 13750797

    The playback can be accessed through May 23, 2025.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This press release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements,” as such term is defined in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and such statements are intended to be covered by the safe harbor provided by the same. These statements are based on management’s current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of trends and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements; the Company can give no assurance that its expectations will be attained. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations include, but are not limited to, applicable regulatory changes; general volatility of the capital markets; changes in the Company’s investment objectives and business strategy; the availability of financing on acceptable terms or at all; the availability, terms and deployment of capital; the availability of suitable investment opportunities; changes in the interest rates or the general economy; increased rates of default and/or decreased recovery rates on investments; changes in interest rates, interest rate spreads, the yield curve or prepayment rates; changes in prepayments of Company’s assets; the degree and nature of competition, including competition for the Company’s target assets; and other factors, including those set forth in the Risk Factors section of the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC, and other reports filed by the Company with the SEC, copies of which are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.

    About Ready Capital Corporation

    Ready Capital Corporation (NYSE: RC) is a multi-strategy real estate finance company that originates, acquires, finances and services lower-to-middle-market investor and owner occupied commercial real estate loans. The Company specializes in loans backed by commercial real estate, including agency multifamily, investor, construction, and bridge as well as U.S. Small Business Administration loans under its Section 7(a) program and government guaranteed loans focused on the United States Department of Agriculture. Headquartered in New York, New York, the Company employs approximately 500 professionals nationwide.

    Contact
    Investor Relations
    Ready Capital Corporation
    212-257-4666
    InvestorRelations@readycapital.com

    Additional information can be found on the Company’s website at www.readycapital.com.

     
    READY CAPITAL CORPORATION
    UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
     
    (in thousands) March 31, 2025   December 31, 2024
    Assets      
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 205,917     $ 143,803  
    Restricted cash   39,603       30,560  
    Loans, net (including $2,018 and $3,533 held at fair value)   4,354,017       3,378,149  
    Loans, held for sale (including $81,789 and $128,531 held at fair value and net of valuation allowance of $158,068 and $97,620)   528,726       241,626  
    Mortgage-backed securities   31,415       31,006  
    Investment in unconsolidated joint ventures (including $6,371 and $6,577 held at fair value)   170,920       161,561  
    Derivative instruments   6,907       7,963  
    Servicing rights   129,814       128,440  
    Real estate owned, held for sale   199,910       193,437  
    Other assets   399,702       362,486  
    Assets of consolidated VIEs   3,723,738       5,175,295  
    Assets held for sale   185,782       287,595  
    Total Assets $ 9,976,451     $ 10,141,921  
    Liabilities      
    Secured borrowings   2,713,415       2,035,176  
    Securitized debt obligations of consolidated VIEs, net   2,574,139       3,580,513  
    Senior secured notes, net   671,510       437,847  
    Corporate debt, net   817,156       895,265  
    Guaranteed loan financing   668,847       691,118  
    Contingent consideration   15,982       573  
    Derivative instruments   575       352  
    Dividends payable   23,929       43,168  
    Loan participations sold   98,128       95,578  
    Due to third parties   1,071       1,442  
    Accounts payable and other accrued liabilities   185,533       188,051  
    Liabilities held for sale   156,614       228,735  
    Total Liabilities $ 7,926,899     $ 8,197,818  
    Preferred stock Series C, liquidation preference $25.00 per share   8,361       8,361  
           
    Commitments & contingencies      
           
    Stockholders’ Equity      
    Preferred stock Series E, liquidation preference $25.00 per share   111,378       111,378  
    Common stock, $0.0001 par value, 500,000,000 shares authorized, 172,507,227 and 162,792,372 shares issued and outstanding, respectively   17       17  
    Additional paid-in capital   2,302,101       2,250,291  
    Retained earnings (deficit)   (450,276 )     (505,089 )
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (21,673 )     (18,552 )
    Total Ready Capital Corporation equity   1,941,547       1,838,045  
    Non-controlling interests   99,644       97,697  
    Total Stockholders’ Equity $ 2,041,191     $ 1,935,742  
    Total Liabilities, Redeemable Preferred Stock, and Stockholders’ Equity $ 9,976,451     $ 10,141,921  
     
     
    READY CAPITAL CORPORATION
    UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
     
      Three Months Ended March 31,
    (in thousands, except share data)   2025       2024  
    Interest income $ 154,967     $ 232,354  
    Interest expense   (140,466 )     (183,805 )
    Net interest income before recovery of loan losses $ 14,501     $ 48,549  
    Recovery of loan losses   109,568       26,544  
    Net interest income after recovery of loan losses $ 124,069     $ 75,093  
    Non-interest income      
    Net realized gain (loss) on financial instruments and real estate owned   10,669       18,868  
    Net unrealized gain (loss) on financial instruments   (1,750 )     4,632  
    Valuation allowance, loans held for sale   (99,718 )     (146,180 )
    Servicing income, net of amortization and impairment of $5,294 and $3,697   6,456       3,758  
    Gain on bargain purchase   102,471       —  
    Income (loss) on unconsolidated joint ventures   (3,982 )     468  
    Other income   11,590       15,826  
    Total non-interest income (expense) $ 25,736     $ (102,628 )
    Non-interest expense      
    Employee compensation and benefits   (21,254 )     (18,414 )
    Allocated employee compensation and benefits from related party   (3,276 )     (2,500 )
    Professional fees   (5,488 )     (7,065 )
    Management fees – related party   (5,577 )     (6,648 )
    Loan servicing expense   (15,844 )     (12,794 )
    Transaction related expenses   (2,694 )     (650 )
    Impairment on real estate   (2,346 )     (16,972 )
    Other operating expenses   (16,123 )     (13,215 )
    Total non-interest expense $ (72,602 )   $ (78,258 )
    Income (loss) from continuing operations before benefit (provision) for income taxes   77,203       (105,793 )
    Income tax benefit   5,207       30,211  
    Net income (loss) from continuing operations $ 82,410     $ (75,582 )
    Discontinued operations      
    Income (loss) from discontinued operations before benefit for income taxes   (594 )     1,887  
    Income tax benefit (provision)   149       (472 )
    Net income (loss) from discontinued operations $ (445 )   $ 1,415  
    Net income (loss) $ 81,965     $ (74,167 )
    Less: Dividends on preferred stock   1,999       1,999  
    Less: Net income attributable to non-controlling interest   2,460       117  
    Net income (loss) attributable to Ready Capital Corporation $ 77,506     $ (76,283 )
           
    Earnings per common share from continuing operations – basic $ 0.47     $ (0.45 )
    Earnings per common share from discontinued operations – basic $ 0.00     $ 0.01  
    Total earnings per common share – basic $ 0.47     $ (0.44 )
           
    Earnings per common share from continuing operations – diluted $ 0.46     $ (0.45 )
    Earnings per common share from discontinued operations – diluted $ 0.00     $ 0.01  
    Total earnings per common share – diluted $ 0.46     $ (0.44 )
           
    Weighted-average shares outstanding      
    Basic   165,166,276       172,032,866  
    Diluted   167,723,519       173,104,415  
           
    Dividends declared per share of common stock $ 0.125     $ 0.30  
     
     
    READY CAPITAL CORPORATION
    UNAUDITED SEGMENT REPORTING
     
      Three Months Ended March 31, 2025
    (in thousands) LMM
    Commercial
    Real Estate    		   Small Business
    Lending    		   Corporate-Other   Consolidated
    Interest income $ 124,973     $ 29,994     $ —     $ 154,967  
    Interest expense   (120,354 )     (20,112 )     —       (140,466 )
    Net interest income before recovery of (provision for) loan losses $ 4,619     $ 9,882     $ —     $ 14,501  
    Recovery of (provision for) loan losses   117,941       (8,373 )     —       109,568  
    Net interest income after recovery of (provision for) loan losses $ 122,560     $ 1,509     $ —     $ 124,069  
    Non-interest income              
    Net realized gain (loss) on financial instruments and real estate owned   (14,600 )     25,269       —       10,669  
    Net unrealized gain (loss) on financial instruments   (604 )     (1,146 )     —       (1,750 )
    Valuation allowance, loans held for sale   (99,718 )     —       —       (99,718 )
    Servicing income, net   1,415       5,041       —       6,456  
    Gain on bargain purchase   —       —       102,471       102,471  
    Income (loss) on unconsolidated joint ventures   (4,005 )     23       —       (3,982 )
    Other income   3,037       7,262       1,291       11,590  
    Total non-interest income (loss) $ (114,475 )   $ 36,449     $ 103,762     $ 25,736  
    Non-interest expense              
    Employee compensation and benefits   (5,871 )     (15,304 )     (79 )     (21,254 )
    Allocated employee compensation and benefits from related party   (328 )     —       (2,948 )     (3,276 )
    Professional fees   (818 )     (2,905 )     (1,765 )     (5,488 )
    Management fees – related party   —       —       (5,577 )     (5,577 )
    Loan servicing expense   (15,064 )     (780 )     —       (15,844 )
    Transaction related expenses   —       —       (2,694 )     (2,694 )
    Impairment on real estate   (2,346 )     —       —       (2,346 )
    Other operating expenses   (3,336 )     (11,071 )     (1,716 )     (16,123 )
    Total non-interest expense $ (27,763 )   $ (30,060 )   $ (14,779 )   $ (72,602 )
    Income (loss) before provision for income taxes $ (19,678 )   $ 7,898     $ 88,983     $ 77,203  
    Total assets $ 7,897,270     $ 1,510,635     $ 382,764     $ 9,790,669  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: TC Energy announces 2025 annual meeting Board of Directors election results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CALGARY, Alberta, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — News Release – TC Energy Corporation (TSX, NYSE: TRP) (TC Energy or the Company) today announced that at its 2025 annual meeting of shareholders held earlier today, each of the following 13 nominees were elected as directors of TC Energy on a vote by ballot to serve until the next annual meeting of shareholders of TC Energy, or until their successors are elected or earlier appointed:

    Nominee # Votes
    For    		 % Votes
    For    		 # Votes
    Against    		 % Votes
    Against
    Scott Bonham 677,017,619 99.84 1,061,492 0.16
    Cheryl F. Campbell 673,225,982 99.28 4,853,157 0.72
    Michael R. Culbert 673,422,055 99.31 4,657,086 0.69
    William D. Johnson 665,190,544 98.10 12,887,833 1.90
    Susan C. Jones 673,349,772 99.30 4,729,368 0.70
    John E. Lowe 663,231,215 97.81 14,847,922 2.19
    Dawn Madahbee Leach 677,045,840 99.85 1,033,300 0.15
    François L. Poirier 673,662,897 99.35 4,415,592 0.65
    Una Power 666,886,403 98.35 11,192,739 1.65
    Mary Pat Salomone 669,245,147 98.70 8,833,994 1.30
    Siim A. Vanaselja 665,004,883 98.07 13,074,258 1.93
    Thierry Vandal 668,886,158 98.64 9,192,983 1.36
    Dheeraj “D” Verma 671,156,491 98.98 6,922,648 1.02

    Final voting results on all matters voted on at the meeting will be filed on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and EDGAR (www.sec.gov) and posted to the Investors section of the Company website at www.tcenergy.com by Friday, May 9, 2025.

    About TC Energy
    We’re a team of 6,500+ energy problem solvers connecting the world to the energy it needs. Our extensive network of natural gas infrastructure assets is one-of-a-kind. We seamlessly move, generate and store energy and deliver it to where it is needed most, to homes and businesses in North America and across the globe through LNG exports. Our natural gas assets are complemented by our strategic ownership and low-risk investments in power generation.

    TC Energy’s common shares trade on the Toronto (TSX) and New York (NYSE) stock exchanges under the symbol TRP. To learn more, visit us at TCEnergy.com.

    FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
    This release contains certain information that is forward-looking and is subject to important risks and uncertainties (such statements are usually accompanied by words such as “anticipate”, “expect”, “believe”, “may”, “will”, “should”, “estimate”, “intend” or other similar words). Forward-looking statements in this document are intended to provide TC Energy security holders and potential investors with information regarding TC Energy and its subsidiaries, including management’s assessment of TC Energy’s and its subsidiaries’ future plans and financial outlook. All forward-looking statements reflect TC Energy’s beliefs and assumptions based on information available at the time the statements were made and as such are not guarantees of future performance. As actual results could vary significantly from the forward-looking information, you should not put undue reliance on forward-looking information and should not use future-oriented information or financial outlooks for anything other than their intended purpose. We do not update our forward-looking information due to new information or future events, unless we are required to by law. For additional information on the assumptions made, and the risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ from the anticipated results, refer to the most recent Quarterly Report to Shareholders and Annual Report filed under TC Energy’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission at www.sec.gov.

    -30-

    Media Inquiries:
    Media Relations
    media@tcenergy.com
    403-920-7859 or 800-608-7859

    Investor & Analyst Inquiries:
    Gavin Wylie / Hunter Mau
    investor_relations@tcenergy.com
    403-920-7911 or 800-361-6522

    PDF available: http://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/1071dba2-fbc1-4544-9cd9-9c2c4c94f968

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: ECN Capital Reports US$0.03 in Adjusted Net Income per Common Share in Q1-2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ECN Capital Corp. (TSX: ECN) (“ECN Capital” or the “Company”) today reported financial results for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025.

    For the three-month period ended March 31, 2025, ECN Capital reported Adjusted net income (loss) applicable to common shareholders of $7.2 million or $0.03 per share (basic) versus $4.4 million or $0.02 per share (basic) for the previous three-month period and ($0.3) million or $0.00 per share (basic) for the prior year comparable period.

    “Our strong Q1 results, with adjusted net income at the top end of guidance, highlight ECN’s strength and resilience, even in the face of market volatility,” said Steven Hudson, CEO of ECN Capital Corp.

    Originations for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025 were $538.2 million, versus $547.6 million in the previous three-month period and $468.4 million for the prior year comparable period. Originations for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025 include $332.8 million of originations from our Manufactured Housing Finance segment and $205.4 million of originations from our Recreational Vehicle and Marine Finance segment.          

    Managed Assets as at March 31, 2025 were $7.2 billion versus $6.9 billion as at December 31, 2024 and $5.2 billion as at March 31, 2024.

    Adjusted EBITDA for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025 was $25.5 million versus $24.1 million for the previous three-month period and $21.8 million for the prior year comparable period.

    Operating Expenses for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025 were $29.4 million versus $31.2 million for the previous three-month period and $27.8 million for the prior year comparable period.

    Net loss attributable to common shareholders for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025 was ($2.5) million versus ($3.9) million for the previous three-month period and ($8.5) million for the prior year comparable period.

    Dividends Declared

    The Company’s Board of Directors has authorized and declared a quarterly dividend of C$0.01 per outstanding common share to be paid on June 30, 2025 to shareholders of record at the close of business on June 13, 2025. These dividends are designated to be eligible dividends for purposes of section 89(1) of the Income Tax Act (Canada).

    The Company’s Board of Directors has authorized and declared a quarterly dividend of C$0.4960625 per outstanding Cumulative 5-Year Rate Reset Preferred Share, Series C (TSX: ECN.PR.C) to be paid on June 30, 2025 to shareholders of record on the close of business on June 13, 2025. These dividends are designated to be eligible dividends for purposes of section 89(1) of the Income Tax Act (Canada).

    The Company’s Board of Directors has authorized and declared a semi-annual dividend of C$0.0603 per outstanding Mandatory Convertible Preferred Share, Series E to be paid on June 30, 2025 to shareholders of record on the close of business on June 13, 2025. These dividends are designated to be eligible dividends for purposes of section 89(1) of the Income Tax Act (Canada).

    Webcast

    The Company will host an analyst briefing to discuss these results commencing at 5:30 PM (ET) on Thursday, May 8, 2025. The call can be accessed as follows:

    A telephone replay of the conference call may also be accessed until June 8, 2025, by dialing 1-800-645-7964 and entering the passcode 5036#.

    Non-IFRS Measures

    The Company’s interim unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board and the accounting policies we adopted in accordance with IFRS.

    The Company believes that certain Non-IFRS Measures can be useful to investors because they provide a means by which investors can evaluate the Company’s underlying key drivers and operating performance of the business, exclusive of certain adjustments and activities that investors may consider to be unrelated to the underlying economic performance of the business of a given period. Throughout this news release, management uses a number of terms and ratios which do not have a standardized meaning under IFRS and are unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other organizations, including adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income, adjusted net income per common share and managed assets. A full description of these measures, along with a reconciliation to the most directly comparable IFRS measure, where applicable, can be found in the Management Discussion & Analysis (“MD&A”) that accompanies ECN Capital’s financial statements for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025.

    ECN Capital’s MD&A for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025 has been filed on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.com) and is available under the investor section of the Company’s website (www.ecncapitalcorp.com).

    About ECN Capital Corp.

    With managed assets of US$7.2 billion, ECN Capital Corp. (TSX: ECN) is a leading provider of business services to North American-based institutional investor, insurance company, pension plan, bank and credit union partners (collectively, its “Partners”). ECN Capital originates, manages and advises on credit assets on behalf of its Partners, specifically consumer (manufactured housing and recreational vehicle and marine) loans and commercial (floorplan and rental) loans. Its Partners are seeking high-quality assets to match with their deposits, term insurance or other liabilities. These services are offered through two operating segments: (i) Manufactured Housing Finance, and (ii) Recreational Vehicle and Marine Finance.

    Contact

    Forward-looking Statements

    This news release includes forward-looking statements regarding ECN Capital and its business. Such statements are based on the current expectations and views of future events of ECN Capital’s management. In some cases the forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as “may”, “will”, “expect”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “potential”, “estimate”, “believe” or the negative of these terms, or other similar expressions intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include those relating to the future financial and operating performance of ECN Capital, the strategic advantages, business plans and future opportunities of ECN Capital and the ability of ECN Capital to access adequate funding sources, identify and execute on acquisition opportunities and transition to an asset management business. The forward-looking events and circumstances discussed in this news release may not occur and could differ materially as a result of known and unknown risk factors and uncertainties affecting ECN Capital, including risks regarding the finance industry, economic factors, and many other factors beyond the control of ECN Capital. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. Forward-looking statements and information by their nature are based on assumptions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statement or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements or information. A discussion of the material risks and assumptions associated with this outlook can be found in ECN Capital’s MD&A for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025 and ECN Capital’s 2024 Annual Information Form dated February 27, 2025 for the year ended December 31, 2024 which have been filed on SEDAR+ and can be accessed at www.sedarplus.com. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements or information. Except as required by applicable securities laws, forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and ECN Capital does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Firm Capital Property Trust Reports Q1/2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Firm Capital Property Trust (“FCPT” or the “Trust”), (TSX: FCD.UN) is pleased to report its financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2025.

    PROPERTY PORTFOLIO HIGHLIGHTS
    The portfolio consists of 64 commercial properties with a total gross leasable area (“GLA”) of 2,513,445 square feet, five multi-residential complexes comprised of 599 units and four Manufactured Home Communities comprised of 537 units. The portfolio is well diversified and defensive in terms of geographies and property asset types, with 51% of NOI (43% of asset value) comprised of grocery anchored retail followed by industrial at 25% of NOI (30% of asset value). In addition, the portfolio is well diversified in terms of geographies with 37% of NOI (40% of asset value) comprised of assets located in Ontario, followed by Quebec at 36% of NOI (33% of asset value).

    TENANT DIVERSIFICATION
    The portfolio is well diversified by tenant profile with no tenant currently accounting for more than 12.9% of total net rent. Further, the top 10 tenants are comprised of large national tenants and account for 32.2% of total net rent.

    MANAGEABLE MORTGAGE MATURITY PROFILE GOING INTO 2025 AND 2026
    The Trust was able to refinance or repay in full all 2024 mortgage maturities. Going forward, the Trust has only $13.2 million and $41.9 million or 4.3% and 13.8% of its total outstanding mortgages coming due in 2025 and 2026, respectively. Senior management is currently in active discussions with its lenders regarding the 2025 maturities and does not anticipate any refinancing issues to occur.

    Q1/2025 HIGHLIGHTS

    Key highlights for the three months ended March 31, 2025 are as follows:

    • Adjusted Funds From Operations (“AFFO”) was approximately $4.3 million, a 3% decrease than the same period in 2024;
    • AFFO per Unit for Q1/2025 decreased 2% to $0.117 over Q1/2024.
    • AFFO Payout ratio increased to 111% for Q1/2025 from 108% over the same period in 2024;
    • Net income was approximately $4.4 million, compared to income of $9.9 million recorded for the same period in 2024;
    • $7.82 Net Asset Value (“NAV”) per Unit, a 3% increase from Q1/2024;
    • Net Operating Income (“NOI”) was approximately $9.4 million, a 1.5% increase from the same period in 2024;
    • Same Property NOI increased 1.1% over Q1/2024;
    • Commercial occupancy was 93.4%, Multi-Residential occupancy was 96.1% while Manufactured Homes Communities occupancy was 99.8%;
    • Conservative leverage profile with Debt / Gross Book Value (“GBV”) at 50.8%; and
    • The Trust declared and approved monthly distributions in the amount of $0.04333 per Trust Unit for Unitholders of record on July 31, 2025, August 29, 2025 and September 30, 2025, payable on or about August 15, 2025, September 15, 2025, and October 15, 2025, respectively.

    See chart below for additional information:

        Three Months Ended
        Mar 31, 2025 Mar 31, 2024 Change
    Rental Revenue   $15,533,650   $15,013,173 3%
    NOI – IFRS Basis     9,408,346   9,271,592 1%
    NOI – Cash Basis     9,566,843   9,414,912 2%
    Same-Property NOI     9,376,064   9,269,833 1%
    Net Income (loss)     4,412,482   9,884,839 (55%)
    FFO     4,348,260   4,552,640 (4%)
    AFFO     4,325,706   4,444,140 (3%)
             
    Total Assets     646,292,657   639,407,795 1%
    Total Mortgages     303,520,810   307,886,051 (1%)
    Credit Facility     25,000,000   24,300,000 3%
             
    Unitholders’ Equity     305,992,410   296,777,652 3%
    Units Outstanding (000s)     36,926   36,926 0%
             
    FFO Per Unit   $0.118   $0.123 (4%)
    AFFO Per Unit   $0.117   $0.120 (2%)
    Distributions Per Unit   $0.130   $0.130 0%
             
    FFO Payout Ratio     110%   105% 540 bps
    AFFO Payout Ratio     111%   108% 297 bps
    Wtd. Avg. Int. Rate – Mort. Debt     4.2%   3.9% 30 bps
    Debt to GBV     51%   52% (117) bps
             
    GLA – Commercial, SF     2,513,445   2,545,858 (1%)
    Units – Multi-Res     599   599 0%
    Units – MHCs     537   537 0%
             
    Occupancy – Commercial     93.4%   95.2% (180) bps
    Occupancy – Multi-Res     96.1%   99.1% (300) bps
    Occupancy MHCs     99.8%   100.0% (20) bps
             
    Rent PSF – Retail   $19.01   $18.96 0%
    Rent PSF – Industrial   $9.27   $8.33 11%
    Rent per month – Multi-Res   $1,626   $1,448 12%
    Rent per month – MHCs   $678   $624 9%
                 

    For the complete financial statements, Management’s Discussion & Analysis and supplementary information, please visit www.sedar.com or the Trust’s website at www.firmcapital.com

    DISTRIBUTION REINVESTMENT PLAN & UNIT PURCHASE PLAN
    The Trust has in place a Distribution Reinvestment Plan (“DRIP”) and Unit Purchase Plan (the “UPP”). Under the terms of the DRIP, FCPT’s Unitholders may elect to automatically reinvest all or a portion of their regular monthly distributions in additional Units, without incurring brokerage fees or commissions. Under the terms of the UPP, FCPT’s Unitholders may purchase a minimum of $1,000 of Units per month and maximum purchases of up to $12,000 per annum. Management and trustees have not participated in the DRIP or UPP to date and own or control approximately 10% of the issued and outstanding trust units of the Trust.

    ABOUT FIRM CAPITAL PROPERTY TRUST (TSX : FCD.UN)
    Firm Capital Property Trust is focused on creating long-term value for Unitholders, through capital preservation and disciplined investing to achieve stable distributable income. In partnership with management and industry leaders. The Trust’s plan is to own as well as to co-own a diversified property portfolio of multi-residential, flex industrial, and net lease convenience retail. In addition to stand alone accretive acquisitions, the Trust will make joint acquisitions with strong financial partners and acquisitions of partial interests from existing ownership groups, in a manner that provides liquidity to those selling owners and professional management for those remaining as partners. Firm Capital Realty Partners Inc., through a structure focused on an alignment of interests with the Trust sources, syndicates and property and asset manages investments on behalf of the Trust.

    FORWARD LOOKING INFORMATION

    This press release may contain forward-looking statements. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “expect”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “predict”, “potential”, “continue”, and by discussions of strategies that involve risks and uncertainties. The forward-looking statements are based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by the Trust. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions, inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, that contribute to the possibility that the predictions, forecasts, projections and various future events will not occur. Although management of the Trust believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements will occur as anticipated. Neither the Trust nor any other person assumes responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of any forward-looking statements, and no one has any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or such other factors which affect this information, except as required by law.

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, which may be made only by means of a prospectus, nor shall there be any sale of the Units in any state, province or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under securities laws of any such state, province or other jurisdiction. The Units of the Firm Capital Property Trust have not been, and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered, sold or delivered in the United States absent registration or an application for exemption from the registration requirements of U.S. securities laws.

    Certain financial information presented in this press release reflect certain non- International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) financial measures, which include NOI, Same Store NOI, FFO and AFFO. These measures are commonly used by real estate investment entities as useful metrics for measuring performance and cash flows, however, they do not have standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and are not necessarily comparable to similar measures presented by other real estate investment entities. These terms are defined in the Trust’s Management Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) for the year ended December 31, 2024 as filed on www.sedar.com.

    For further information, please contact:

    Robert McKee   Sandy Poklar
    President & Chief Executive Officer   Chief Financial Officer
    (416) 635-0221   (416) 635-0221
         

    For Investor Relations information, please contact:

    Victoria Moayedi
    Director, Investor Relations
    (416) 635-0221        

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gillibrand Sounds Alarm On Trump Tariffs Set To Make Cost Of Baby Necessities Skyrocket

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand
    Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand held a virtual press conference on the impact President Trump’s haphazard tariffs on China will have on the availability and cost of essential baby products, including strollers, car seats, and cribs. 
    Over the past weeks, the Trump administration has raised tariffs on Chinese goods imported to the United States by 145 percent and shipments of goods into the U.S. have plunged. China produces the overwhelming majority of strollers and car seats and is a major supplier of other baby essentials. Skyrocketing prices will force families to spend more or rely on older or pre-owned products that do not meet the most up-to-date safety standards.
    “American families will pay the price for President Trump’s chaotic and reckless tariff policies,” said Senator Gillibrand. “His 145% tariff on China is halting imports of basic necessities for new parents and babies and forcing companies to raise prices to compensate. The costs of raising a child are already astronomical, and the president should be finding ways to lower those costs, not raise them even further. President Trump must exempt all baby safety essentials from tariffs immediately.” 
    According to the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association, over 70% of baby essentials sold in the United States are made in China. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, China’s share of imports include 98% of car seats; 97% of strollers; 94% of beds, bassinets, and play pens; 92% of highchairs; 89% of baby care appliances including sterilizers and bottle warmers; and 46% of cribs. President Trump himself exempted certain baby safety products from tariffs he imposed during his first term.
    The full text of Senator Gillibrand’s letter to Trump administration officials is available here or below:
    Dear Ambassador Greer,  
    I write to express my deep concerns around the financial impact this administration’s exorbitant tariffs will have on our children and families. In a child’s first year, parents will spend on average 31 percent of their income on child-related costs, or $20,384.1 The administration’s 145 percent tariff on Chinese imports will cause this percentage to skyrocket and result in higher costs for new and expecting parents. It is imperative that you exempt child-related goods from these reckless tariffs to ensure that American families do not face additional unnecessary costs to care for their newborn or infant.  
    Parents across the country rely heavily on manufactured goods from China, particularly baby products like car seats, strollers, and cribs that are critical for child safety. According to BabyList, 97 percent of strollers and 87 percent of car seats are manufactured in China.2  
    While this administration’s intended purpose for these tariffs is to help domestic manufacturers be more competitive, existing supply chain constraints limit our ability to competitively produce these goods stateside.  
    With the implementation of the 145 percent tariffs against China, some baby goods companies have frozen large quantities of imports from China and have started adjusting the prices of essential products parents need to bring their baby home from the hospital. Parents are now seeing an average increase of 30 percent for baby essentials from baby product companies including UPPAbaby, Cybex, and Valco.3 Families cannot absorb this “baby tax” and has led to fears of panic buying and the possibility that parents will turn to unsafe cost-saving alternatives, such as using expired car seats or retaining recalled items.  
    Parents should not be forced to choose between safety and making ends meet. It is imperative that you exempt baby safety essentials like car seats, cribs and strollers from these tariffs and we urge you to take immediate action. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Locate Missing Michigan Teen in North Carolina, Arrest Person of Interest

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Detroit, MI – U.S. Marshals in North Carolina May 7 recovered a Roseville teen who was reported missing April 20 and arrested a person of interest in her disappearance.

    Roseville Police were contacted at approximately 8:20 a.m. Easter morning and, after working with several local agencies to locate the teenage child to no avail, referred the case to the Roseville detective bureau April 21. Roseville police obtained CCTV footage from a local gas station showing the teen purchasing a bottle of water before exiting the store.  

    April 30, based on a tip the child had been spotted in neighboring Clinton Township, detectives from Roseville Police, along with other local agencies, canvassed the area of Hayes and Clinton River roads and learned the child had been seen in a trailer park just days before.

    Roseville Police contacted the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) in the Eastern District of Michigan May 5 and requested assistance from the agency’s Missing Child Unit.  USMS investigators developed information that the child, deemed by the agency a critically missing and endangered, had been in the area as recently as May 4 and were able to obtain surveillance video of her.  

    After executing numerous search warrants, USMS investigators by May 7 had developed information regarding a person of interest they believed had come from North Carolina to Michigan and picked up the teen around 4:30 p.m. May 4.

    That same day, USMS investigators in Michigan developed information the person of interest was at an extended stay motel in the City of Raleigh, North Carolina, and sent a collateral lead to USMS investigators in the Eastern District of North Carolina, who, working with members of the Raleigh Police Department, went to the motel where they arrested the person of interest, who has been charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor. The teen was located, safely recovered and transported to the Raleigh PD Detectives Division as the investigation continued.

    “The U.S. Marshals Service holds the mission of locating and recovering critically missing children as the highest priority,” said Owen Cypher, U.S. Marshal for the Eastern District of Michigan. “It is our honor to protect our most vulnerable victims, we will continue to support our state and local partners with this endeavor.”

    “The safe recovery of this missing child reflects the power of strong partnerships,” said Glenn M. McNeill, U.S. Marshal for the Eastern District of North Carolina. “I commend the dedicated personnel from the United States Marshals Service and the Raleigh Police Department whose collaboration, focus, and swift action brought this case to a successful close. Their work is a clear example of what can be accomplished when agencies operate as one team, committed to protecting our most vulnerable.”

    “The Roseville Police Department is committed to investigating all cases of missing and runaway children who, regardless of age, face significant risks including homelessness,” said Roseville Police D/LT. Andrew Beemer. “We are grateful to the U.S. Marshals Service for their swift and professional work alongside our detectives to help bring (the teen) home.”

    “Protecting our children is one of our highest priorities, and we never take that responsibility lightly,” said Raleigh Police Department Chief Rico Boyce. “We are proud to have assisted in the investigation and safe recovery of a missing child.  The Raleigh Police Department is committed to standing with our community and our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to stop those who seek to harm our youth. This work depends on strong collaboration, trust, and shared dedication to keeping our neighborhoods safe.”

    In May 2015, the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act was passed and clarified the USMS’ discretionary authority to support law enforcement requests for assistance on any missing child cases. As such, the USMS assists state, local, and other federal law enforcement agencies, upon request, in locating and recovering missing children, while focusing agency resources on “critically missing child” cases – those that involve a suspected crime of violence or where factors are identified by law enforcement that indicate an elevated risk to a missing child. 

    In 2016, the Missing Child Unit was established within the USMS Sex Offender Investigations Branch to manage JVTA implementation. The MCU develops and manages training, guidance, and enforcement initiatives as well as provides overall oversight of the program. The MCU is in partnership with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and assists with missing child case information sharing. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hinson Helps Reintroduce Legislation to Support New & Expecting Moms

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-01)

    Washington, D.C. – Leading up to Mother’s Day this Sunday, Congresswoman Hinson (IA-02) helped introduced the More Opportunities for Moms to Succeed (MOMS) Act alongside Rep. Michelle Fischbach (MN-07). The legislation provides critical support to new moms during and after their pregnancy to empower women to choose life and raise happy, healthy babies. 

    “When a woman finds out she is pregnant, she should be surrounded with resources and support, and feel confident in her access to care. I’m proud to co-lead the MOMS Act to help more women choose life, have a healthy pregnancy, and create the foundation for strong families. This legislation will save moms and babies and help advance a culture of life of America. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and this administration to support expecting mothers and growing families.” – Congresswoman Ashley Hinson

    “For many women, finding out you are unexpectedly pregnant comes with fear, and for some, abortion may feel like the only option. I am committed to empowering all women and ensuring they feel supported in choosing life. The MOMS Act supports women before, during, and after they give birth. It improves access to resources and makes sure women have everything they need right at their fingertips to help them confidently carry to term and raise their child. As we go into Mother’s Day weekend, I am so proud to introduce legislation that supports new mothers and their children.” – Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach 

    This legislation is endorsed by Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, March for Life Action, Concerned Women for America, National Right to Life Committee, Americans United for Life, Students for Life Action, and Human Coalition.

    Background: 

    The More Opportunities for Moms to Succeed Act (MOMS) Act promotes health, education, and support for babies, mothers, and families. 

    Improving Access to Prenatal Telehealth Care: Creates a pilot grant program to provide support and equipment needed (blood pressure monitor, scale, portable fetal heart rate monitor, etc.) to community health centers and other rural healthcare providers to provide telehealth options for prenatal care.

    Positive Alternatives for Women: Creates a grant for community organizations that provide medical care, housing, employment, and childcare assistance, parenting education opportunities, and adoption services for those interested. It allows for hands-on, integrated support for women, children, and their families.

    Educated Decisions on Maternal Health: Makes information on fetal development, abortion risks, and resources available to pregnant women, which is critical to making an informed decision.

    Creates a new hotline: Provides access to personalized resources and services that will help support expecting and postpartum moms, as well young children.

    Child Support: Applies child support obligations to the time period during pregnancy.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: May 08, 2025 Rep. Mullin Cosponsors Legislation to Increase Affordable Housing through Expansion of Federal Tax Credit   Washington, D.C. – Rep. Kevin Mullin (CA-15) joined a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers in introducing the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act of 2025 (AHCIA), which would help millions of Americans by financing nearly 1.6 million affordable homes nationwide over 10… Read More

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Kevin Mullin California (15th District)

    Washington, D.C. – Rep. Kevin Mullin (CA-15) joined a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers in introducing the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act of 2025 (AHCIA), which would help millions of Americans by financing nearly 1.6 million affordable homes nationwide over 10 years. 

    Rep. Mullin is an original cosponsor of this critical legislation that would strengthen and expand the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC), the nation’s primary tool to finance the development and preservation of affordable rental housing over the last 40 years.  

    “As housing and construction costs continue to rise, more federal support is urgently needed to build homes for low-income families across the nation,” said Rep. Mullin. “One of the toughest challenges for nonprofit housing builders is piecing together a mix of federal, state and local funding sources. Expanding the Housing Credit is desperately needed and will help stabilize families who are struggling to make ends meet.” 

    Specifically, this bill would: 

    • Increase Housing Credit allocations and resources   
    • Provide states with additional flexibilities and streamline program rules 
    • Enable the Housing Credit to better serve hard-to-reach communities including rural, Native American, high-poverty, and high-cost communities, as well as extremely low-income and formerly homeless tenants. 
    • Make the Housing Credit a more effective tool for preserving existing affordable housing units. 
    • Support over 2.4 million jobs, almost $94 billion in additional tax revenue, and over $271 billion in wages and business income. 

    Established in 1986, the Housing Credit has financed more than 4 million affordable homes and served over 9.28 million low-income households, including veterans, seniors, people with disabilities, and working families with children.  

    The AHCIA of 2025 builds on prior versions of the AHCIA that have earned widespread bipartisan support since first introduced in 2016. Since then, key provisions from the bill have been included in tax legislation, including the Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act of 2024, which passed the House of Representatives with overwhelming support. Congress will also be considering tax legislation as part of its budget reconciliation efforts.  

    Besides receiving bipartisan support, the AHCIA has been lauded by affordable housing advocates for modernizing the support of rental housing for low-income families. 

    “Enacting the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act is the single most important thing Congress can do to increase the production of affordable homes in California,” said Matt Schwartz, President & CEO of the California Housing Partnership. “Passing AHCIA will result in the construction of an additional 15,000 affordable homes per year for California families, seniors and disabled struggling to afford high rents, roughly double today’s production. The California Housing Partnership lauds Congressman Mullin’s leadership in co-sponsoring this critical legislation to address California’s affordability crisis.” 

    “The Housing Credit is one of the most effective tools we have to solve our nation’s housing crisis,” said Matthew O. Franklin, President and CEO of MidPen Housing, a leading nonprofit that has developed more than 130 affordable communities serving 22,000 families and seniors. “We applaud the bipartisan cosponsors for teaming up on this critical effort, which will leverage private-sector capital to create homes and jobs across the U.S.” 

    “Passing this legislation is the single most important thing Congress can do to support affordable housing in California right now,” said J.T. Harechmak, Policy Director of Nonprofit Housing Association of Northern California. “The Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act will help California build and preserve hundreds of thousands of affordable homes over the next year – a critically important outcome at a critically important time.” 

    “We are thrilled by the overwhelming support for legislation that will increase the development of affordable housing,” said Affordable Housing Tax Credit Coalition (AHTCC) Chief Executive Officer Emily Cadik. “Now more than ever, it is vital for Congress to enact these long overdue measures, which leverage private sector investment to bolster affordable housing resources. We thank the growing number of bipartisan cosponsors for supporting this commonsense solution to expand and strengthen the Housing Credit.” 

    “With our nation’s housing crisis reaching record levels, there is a strong imperative for Congress to act. The affordable housing crisis affects every state and all types of communities,” said Dudley Benoit, President of the AHTCC Board of Directors and Executive Vice President of Walker & Dunlop. “The Housing Credit has proven to be an effective tool in urban and rural areas alike. Without action, this crisis will continue to spiral, leaving more families unable to find affordable housing in their communities and making it more difficult for those communities to support a workforce.” 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Montauk Renewables Announces First Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PITTSBURGH, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Montauk Renewables, Inc. (“Montauk” or “the Company”) (NASDAQ: MNTK), a renewable energy company specializing in the management, recovery, and conversion of biogas into renewable natural gas (“RNG”), today announced financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    First Quarter Highlights:

            • Revenues of $42.6 million, increased 9.8% compared to the first quarter of 2024

            • Net loss of $0.5 million, compared to net income of $1.9 million for the first quarter of 2024

            • Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA of $8.8 million, decreased 7.2% year-over-year

            • RNG production of 1.4 million MMBtu, flat compared to first quarter of 2024

            • RINs sold of 9.9 million, increased 2.0 million or 25.3% year-over-year

    Our profitability is highly dependent on the market price of environmental attributes, including the market price for RINs.  As we self-market a significant portion of our RINs, a decision to not to commit to transfer available RINs during a period will impact our revenue and operating profit.  As a result of our decision to not commit RINs available to be sold during the 2024 fourth quarter, we had approximately 6.8 million RINs available but unsold at year end.  Including these RINs, we have sold all RINs associated to our 2024 RNG production. We have subsequently entered into commitments to transfer the majority of our RINs in inventory as of March 31, 2025. The Environmental Protection Agency’s  (“EPA”) Biogas Regulatory Reform Rule became effective in 2025.  New rules requiring the separation of RINs after dispensing has delayed by approximately one month our ability to have RINs available for sale from current year production.  Additionally, the EPA extending the compliance period for 2024 has impacted the timing of obligated party purchases of RINs from 2025 production. 

    Related to our gas rights agreement with our landfill host at our Rumpke RNG location, in 2025, we began the process of planning the relocation of our existing Rumpke RNG facility.  The timing of this project and requirement to relocate the facility coincides with the landfills filling practices to move into the existing area of our now current Rumpke RNG facility and is contractually obligated.  We expect to begin capital expenditures for long lead time equipment in the second quarter of 2025 and expect to target a commissioning in 2028. Depending on the timing of capital expenditure and potential additional production capabilities in addition to RNG production related to the full design, we estimate capital expenditures to range between $80 million to $110 million. Finally, related to the development of our Blue Granite RNG project, we received notice from the utility that it will no longer accept RNG into its distribution system, which was in opposition to the letter of intent issue when we were awarded the gas rights to the site.  This notice led to our impairing of certain RNG equipment.  We continue to discuss with the landfill host various alternatives related to the site as we continue to own the rights to develop the site. 

    First Quarter Financial Results

    Total revenues in the first quarter of 2025 were $42.6 million, an increase of $3.8 million (9.8%) compared to $38.8 million in the first quarter of 2024. The increase is primarily driven by the monetization of the RINs sold in the first quarter of 2025 related to 2024 RNG production. Our average realized RIN price in the first quarter of 2025 was $2.46 which decreased approximately 24.3% compared to $3.25 in the first quarter of 2024. Natural gas index pricing increased approximately 62.9% during the first quarter of 2025 compared to the first quarter of 2024.  Operating and maintenance expenses for our RNG facilities in the first quarter of 2025 were $14.1 million, an increase of $2.0 million (16.1%) compared to $12.1 million in the first quarter of 2024. The primary drivers of this increase were timing of preventative maintenance, media changeout maintenance, and wellfield operational enhancement programs, at our Apex, McCarty, Rumpke, and Coastal facilities. Our Renewable Electricity Generation operating and maintenance expenses in the first quarter of 2025 were $3.4 million, an increase of $1.1 million (46.2%) compared to $2.3 million in the first quarter of 2024, primarily driven by non-capitalizable expenses at our Montauk Ag Renewables projects. Total general and administrative expenses were $8.8 million in the first quarter of 2025, a decrease of $0.6 million (7.1%) compared to $9.4 million in the first quarter of 2024. Operating income in the first quarter of 2025 was $0.4 million, a decrease of $2.0 million (82.7%) compared to $2.4 million in the first quarter of 2024. Net loss in the first quarter of 2025 was $0.5 million, a decrease of $2.4 million (125.1%) compared to net income of $1.9 million in the first quarter of 2024.

    First Quarter Operational Results

    We produced approximately 1.4 million Metric Million British Thermal Units (“MMBtu”) of RNG in the first quarter of 2025, flat compared to 1.4 million MMBtu produced in the first quarter of 2024. At our Rumpke facility, we produced 39 MMBtu more in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the first quarter of 2024 as a result of previously disclosed plant processing equipment failure that occurred in the first quarter of 2024. At our Apex facility, we produced 57 fewer MMBtu in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the first quarter of 2024 as a result of cold weather conditions impacting gas feedstock availability, wellfield extraction environmental factors, and plant processing equipment failures. We produced approximately 46 thousand megawatt hours (“MWh”) in Renewable Electricity in the first quarter of 2025, a decrease of 8 thousand MWh compared to 54 thousand MWh produced in the first quarter of 2024. Our Security facility produced approximately 6 thousand MWh less in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the first quarter of 2024 as a result of us ceasing operations in connection with the sale of gas rights back to the landfill host.

    2025 Full Year Outlook

    • RNG revenues are expected to range between $150 and $170 million
    • RNG production volumes are expected to range between 5.8 and 6.0 million MMBtu
    • REG revenues are expected to range between $17 and $18 million
    • REG production volumes are expected to range between 178 and 186 thousand MWh

    Conference Call Information

    The Company will host a conference call May 9th, 2025 at 8:30 a.m. Eastern time to discuss results. The registration for the conference call will be available via the following link:

            • https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BI3885b2c10f194fb3bc2e62b037d47425

    Please register for the conference call and webcast using the above link in advance of the call start time. The webcast platform will register your name and organization as well as provide dial-ins numbers and a unique access pin. The conference call will be broadcast live and be available for replay at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/5jzw2eww/ and on the Company’s website at https://ir.montaukrenewables.com after 11:30 a.m. Eastern time on the same day through May 9, 2026.

    Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    This press release and the accompanying tables include references to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA, which are Non-GAAP financial measures. We present EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA because we believe the measures assist investors in analyzing our performance across reporting periods on a consistent basis by excluding items that we do not believe are indicative of our core operating performance.

    In addition, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are financial measurements of performance that management and the board of directors use in their financial and operational decision-making and in the determination of certain compensation programs. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are supplemental performance measures that are not required by or presented in accordance with GAAP. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered alternatives to net (loss) income or any other performance measure derived in accordance with GAAP, or as an alternative to cash flows from operating activities or a measure of our liquidity or profitability.

    About Montauk Renewables, Inc.

    Montauk Renewables, Inc. (NASDAQ: MNTK) is a renewable energy company specializing in the management, recovery and conversion of biogas into RNG. The Company captures methane, preventing it from being released into the atmosphere, and converts it into either RNG or electrical power for the electrical grid (“Renewable Electricity”). The Company, headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has more than 30 years of experience in the development, operation and management of landfill methane-fueled renewable energy projects. The Company has current operations at 13 operating projects and on going development projects located in California, Idaho, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Texas. The Company sells RNG and Renewable Electricity, taking advantage of Environmental Attribute premiums available under federal and state policies that incentivize their use. For more information, visit https://ir.montaukrenewables.com.

    Company Contact:
    John Ciroli
    Chief Legal Officer (CLO) & Secretary
    investor@montaukrenewables.com 
    (412) 747-8700

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Georg Venturatos
    Gateway Investor Relations
    MNTK@gateway-grp.com 
    (949) 574-3860

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of U.S. federal securities laws that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical or current fact included in this report are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements refer to our current expectations and projections relating to our financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, strategies, future performance, and business. Forward-looking statements may include words such as “anticipate,” “assume,” “believe,” “can have,” “contemplate,” “continue,” “strive,” “aim,” “could,” “design,” “due,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “goal,” “intend,” “likely,” “may,” “might,” “objective,” “plan,” “predict,” “project,” “potential,” “seek,” “should,” “target,” “will,” “would,” and other words and terms of similar meaning in connection with any discussion of the timing or nature of future operational performance or other events. For example, all statements we make relating to our future results of operations, financial condition, expectations and plans, including those related to the Montauk Ag project in North Carolina, the Second Apex RNG Facility, the Blue Granite RNG Facility, the Bowerman RNG Facility, the delivery of biogenic carbon dioxide volumes to European Energy, the Emvolon collaboration and pilot project, the Tulsa facility project, the resolution of gas collection issues at the McCarty facility, the delays and cancellations of landfill host wellfield expansion projects, the mitigation of wellfield extraction environmental factors at the Rumpke and Apex facilities, how we may monetize RNG production and weather-related anomalies are forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those that we expect and, therefore, you should not unduly rely on such statements. The risks and uncertainties that could cause those actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements include but are not limited to: our ability to develop and operate new renewable energy projects, including with livestock farms, and related challenges associated with new projects, such as identifying suitable locations and potential delays in acquisition financing, construction, and development; reduction or elimination of government economic incentives to the renewable energy market, whether as a result of the new presidential administration or otherwise; the inability to complete strategic development opportunities; widespread manmade, natural and other disasters (including severe weather events), health emergencies, dislocations, geopolitical instabilities or events, terrorist activities, international hostilities, government shutdowns, political elections, security breaches, cyberattacks or other extraordinary events that impact general economic conditions, financial markets and/or our business and operating results; taxes, tariffs, duties or other assessments on equipment necessary to generate or deliver renewable energy or continued inflation could raise our operating costs or increase the construction costs of our existing or new projects; rising interest rates could increase the borrowing costs of future indebtedness; the failure to attract and retain qualified personnel or a possible increased reliance on third-party contractors as a result, and the potential unenforceability of non-compete clauses with our employees; the length of development and optimization cycles for new projects, including the design and construction processes for our renewable energy projects; dependence on third parties for the manufacture of products and services and our landfill operations; the quantity, quality and consistency of our feedstock volumes from both landfill and livestock farm operations; reliance on interconnections with and access to electric utility distribution and transmission facilities and gas transportation pipelines for our Renewable Natural Gas and Renewable Electricity Generation segments; our ability to renew pathway provider sharing arrangements at historical counterparty share percentages; our projects not producing expected levels of output; potential benefits associated with the combustion-based oxygen removal condensate neutralization technology; concentration of revenues from a small number of customers and projects; our outstanding indebtedness and restrictions under our credit facility; our ability to extend our fuel supply agreements prior to expiration; our ability to meet milestone requirements under our power purchase agreements; existing regulations and changes to regulations and policies that effect our operations, whether as a result of a new presidential administration or otherwise; expected impacts of the Production Tax Credit and other tax credit benefits under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022; decline in public acceptance and support of renewable energy development and projects; our expectations regarding Environmental Attribute volume requirements and prices and commodity prices; our expectations regarding the period during which we qualify as an emerging growth company under the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act (“JOBS Act”); our expectations regarding future capital expenditures, including for the maintenance of facilities; our expectations regarding the use of net operating losses before expiration; our expectations regarding more attractive carbon intensity scores by regulatory agencies for our livestock farm projects; market volatility and fluctuations in commodity prices and the market prices of Environmental Attributes and the impact of any related hedging activity; regulatory changes in federal, state and international environmental attribute programs and the need to obtain and maintain regulatory permits, approvals, and consents; profitability of our planned livestock farm projects; sustained demand for renewable energy; potential liabilities from contamination and environmental conditions; potential exposure to costs and liabilities due to extensive environmental, health and safety laws; impacts of climate change, extreme and changing weather patterns and conditions and natural disasters; failure of our information technology and data security systems; increased competition in our markets; continuing to keep up with technology innovations; concentrated stock ownership by a few stockholders and related control over the outcome of all matters subject to a stockholder vote; and other risks and uncertainties detailed in the section titled “Risk Factors” in our latest Annual Report on Form 10-K and our other filings with the SEC.

    We make many of our forward-looking statements based on our operating budgets and forecasts, which are based upon detailed assumptions. While we believe that our assumptions are reasonable, we caution that it is very difficult to predict the impact of known factors, and it is impossible for us to anticipate all factors that could affect our actual results. All forward-looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements as well as others made in our Securities and Exchange Commission filings and public communications. You should evaluate all forward-looking statements made by us in the context of these risks and uncertainties. The forward-looking statements included herein are made only as of the date hereof. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law.

    MONTAUK RENEWABLES, INC.  
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS  
       
                 
    (in thousands, except share data)            
                 
        as of March 31,     as of December 31,  
    ASSETS   2025     2024  
    Current assets:            
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 40,111     $ 45,621  
    Accounts and other receivables     8,491       8,172  
    Current restricted cash     8       8  
    Income tax receivable     344       41  
    Current portion of derivative instruments     401       471  
    Prepaid insurance and other current assets     2,824       2,911  
    Total current assets   $ 52,179     $ 57,224  
    Non-current restricted cash   $ 375     $ 375  
    Property, plant and equipment, net     259,678       252,288  
    Goodwill and intangible assets, net     17,881       18,113  
    Deferred tax assets     1,605       1,272  
    Non-current portion of derivative instruments     154       298  
    Operating lease right-of-use assets     7,095       7,064  
    Finance lease right-of-use assets     93       110  
    Other assets     15,166       12,271  
    Total assets   $ 354,226     $ 349,015  
                 
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY            
    Current liabilities:            
    Accounts payable   $ 16,411     $ 8,856  
    Accrued liabilities     10,232       10,069  
    Related party payable   —       625  
    Current portion of operating lease liability     2,378       2,049  
    Current portion of finance lease liability     76       76  
    Current portion of long-term debt     11,857       11,853  
    Total current liabilities   $ 40,954     $ 33,528  
    Long-term debt, less current portion     40,796       43,763  
    Non-current portion of operating lease liability     4,817       5,138  
    Non-current portion of finance lease liability     19       36  
    Asset retirement obligations     6,456       6,338  
    Other liabilities     2,997       2,795  
                 
    Total liabilities   $ 96,039     $ 91,598  
                 
    STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY            
                 
    Common stock, $0.01 par value, authorized 690,000,000 shares; 143,792,811 shares issued at March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively; 142,711,797 shares outstanding at March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively     1,426       1,426  
    Treasury stock, at cost, 2,308,524 shares March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively     (21,262 )     (21,262 )
    Additional paid-in capital     223,139       221,905  
    Retained earnings     54,884       55,348  
    Total stockholders’ equity     258,187       257,417  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 354,226     $ 349,015  
                 
    MONTAUK RENEWABLES, INC.
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
     
                 
    (in thousands, except for share and per share data)   Three Months Ended March 31,  
        2025     2024  
    Total operating revenues   $ 42,603     $ 38,787  
                 
    Operating expenses:            
    Operating and maintenance expenses     17,557       14,451  
    General and administrative expenses     8,754       9,427  
    Royalties, transportation, gathering and production fuel     7,571       6,518  
    Depreciation, depletion and amortization     6,264       5,434  
    Impairment loss     2,047       528  
    Transaction costs     –       61  
    Total operating expenses   $ 42,193     $ 36,419  
    Operating income   $ 410     $ 2,368  
                 
    Other expenses (income):            
    Interest expense   $ 1,243     $ 1,165  
    Other income     (52 )     (1,060 )
    Total other expenses   $ 1,191     $ 105  
    (Loss) income before income taxes   $ (781 )   $ 2,263  
                 
    Income tax (benefit) expense     (317 )     413  
    Net (loss) income   $ (464 )   $ 1,850  
                 
    (Loss) income per share:            
    Basic   $ (0.00 )   $ 0.01  
    Diluted   $ (0.00 )   $ 0.01  
                 
    Weighted-average common shares outstanding:            
    Basic     142,711,797       141,986,189  
    Diluted     142,711,797       142,369,219  
                     
    MONTAUK RENEWABLES, INC.  
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS  
       
                 
    (in thousands):            
        Three Months Ended March 31,  
        2025     2024  
    Cash flows from operating activities:            
    Net (loss) income   $ (464 )   $ 1,850  
    Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:            
    Depreciation, depletion and amortization     6,264       5,434  
    Provision for deferred income taxes     (333 )     249  
    Stock-based compensation     1,274       2,241  
    Derivative mark-to-market adjustments and settlements     214       (91 )
    Net loss on sale of assets     15       22  
    (Decrease) increase in earn-out liability     (425 )     (849 )
    Accretion of asset retirement obligations     118       108  
    Liabilities associated with properties sold     –       (225 )
    Amortization of debt issuance costs     97       90  
    Impairment loss     2,047       528  
    Cash provided (used) by changes in assets and labilities:            
    Accounts receivable     (319 )     3,083  
    Royalty offset long term receivable     (739 )     (1,600 )
    Income tax payables     (303 )     (411 )
    Critical spare inventory     (215 )     209  
    Accounts payable and Accrued liabilities     2,213       3,468  
    Other     (304 )     186  
    Net cash provided by operating activities   $ 9,140     $ 14,292  
    Cash flows from investing activities:            
    Capital expenditures   $ (11,632 )   $ (21,986 )
    Asset acquisition     —       (820 )
    Cash collateral deposits     —       20  
    Net cash used in investing activities   $ (11,632 )   $ (22,786 )
    Cash flows from financing activities:            
    Repayments of long-term debt   $ (3,000 )   $ (2,000 )
    Finance lease payments     (18 )     (20 )
    Net cash used in financing activities   $ (3,018 )   $ (2,020 )
    Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash   $ (5,510 )   $ (10,514 )
    Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period   $ 46,004     $ 74,242  
    Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period   $ 40,494     $ 63,728  
                 
    Reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at end of period:            
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 40,111     $ 63,277  
    Restricted cash and cash equivalents – current   8     8  
    Restricted cash and cash equivalents – non-current   375     443  
        $ 40,494     $ 63,728  
                 
    Supplemental cash flow information:            
    Cash paid for interest   $ 1,055     $ 1,237  
    Cash paid for income taxes     319       574  
    Accrual for purchase of property, plant and equipment included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities     8,534       7,492  
                 
    MONTAUK RENEWABLES, INC.  
    NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES  
       
    (in thousands):            
                 
    The following table provides our EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA, as well as a reconciliation to net (loss) income which is the most directly comparable GAAP measure for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively:  
                 
        Three Months Ended March 31,  
        2025     2024  
    Net (loss) income   $ (464 )   $ 1,850  
    Depreciation, depletion and amortization     6,264       5,434  
    Interest expense     1,243       1,165  
    Income tax (benefit) expense     (317 )     413  
    Consolidated EBITDA     6,726       8,862  
                  
    Impairment loss     2,047       528  
    Net loss on sale of assets     15       22  
    Transaction costs     —       61  
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 8,788     $ 9,473  
                 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Bipartisan Build America Caucus Launches to Support Pro-Growth Policies

    Source: US Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02)

    Watershed moment for the pro-growth, abundance movement as Congress readies federal action

    WASHINGTON – Today, more than a dozen bipartisan members launched the bipartisan Build America Caucus, a first-of-its-kind effort in Congress to advance pro-growth policies. While momentum for the abundance agenda has grown in cities and states, this caucus marks the first coordinated push to bring that vision to Capitol Hill. The caucus includes nearly 30 members from across the ideological spectrum, many of whom hold key committee assignments, putting the group in a strong position to pass meaningful legislation. Rep. Josh Harder will serve as Chair.

    The Build America Caucus will prioritize:

    • Unleashing American energy through permitting and transmission reform
    • Making housing affordable by incentivizing states and cities to build more homes
    • Speeding up American infrastructure projects by streamlining requirements and cutting red tape

    “This caucus isn’t about making government bigger or smaller. It’s about making government work better, so we can bring down the cost of housing, build schools for the next generation, and make sure clean energy projects are a reality – not just an idea,” said Rep. Seth Magaziner. “With my experience cutting through red tape as General Treasurer and getting projects over the finish line, I’m excited to be a part of a bipartisan coalition working to bring a results-oriented mentality to Washington.”

    “Voters have lost faith in government because they don’t see results – they see gridlock, red tape, and delay,” said Chair Josh Harder. “It’s time to get back to building. Housing costs are out of control, our energy grid is strained, and foreign adversaries are racing ahead in critical manufacturing. The Build America Caucus is bringing Republicans and Democrats together to deliver real, pro-growth solutions. Our mission is simple: pass effective legislation that unleashes America’s full potential.”

    “It’s time to rebuild America with purpose and urgency,” said Rep. Gus Bilirakis. “I am proud to be a part of the Build America Caucus which will bring together bipartisan voices committed to modernizing our infrastructure, removing needless bureaucratic red tape, reducing costs and ensuring taxpayer dollars go further. Our country needs smart investment, faster timelines, and real results that strengthen our economy and improve lives across the country.” 

    “One of the cruelest ironies in America is that we have more laws restricting the supply of affordable housing than expanding it,” said Rep. Ritchie Torres. “That’s neither progressive nor pro–working class. It’s time for every elected official to embrace an agenda of abundance—an abundance of opportunity for all Americans. The Build America Caucus is fighting to make America work for working people. It’s time to put building over bureaucracy—and progress over process.”

    “Too many families in the Central Valley are struggling due to slow-moving infrastructure projects and the growing unaffordability of housing costs and energy,” said Rep. David Valadao. “To revitalize the American Dream, we need to focus on growth by streamlining rules and regulations, prioritizing innovation, and incentivizing competition. I’m proud to join my colleagues on the bipartisan Build America Caucus to deliver real results for our hardworking families.”

    “Our communities need affordable housing, reliable infrastructure, and clean energy — and they need them now, not years from now,” said Rep. Sharice Davids. “I’m joining the bipartisan Build America Caucus to help cut unnecessary red tape and make sure we’re building a stronger, more affordable future for Kansas and the country.”

    “I am proud to join my colleagues on the Build America Caucus as we work to strengthen our economy and streamline pro-growth policies in Congress,” said Rep. Dan Newhouse. “By cutting bureaucratic red tape and onerous regulations we will identify real solutions to unleash American energy, mitigate the housing affordability crisis, and create good-paying jobs here at home.”

    “I came to Congress to solve problems, and I’m ready to work with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to get s**t done,” said Rep. George Whitesides. “We need to move from a focus on process to a focus on outcomes – how much housing are we building, how many roads are we fixing, how much clean energy infrastructure are we creating, how many rural homes are we connecting to broadband, how many acres of forest are we treating for wildfire risk? It is the outcomes that will dictate whether we are really creating positive impacts for our constituents, and I’m ready to make some progress!”

    “To meet America’s growing demand for energy, housing, and infrastructure, Congress needs to make sure that policies and regulations are supporting, not hindering, the ability to build what America needs,” said Rep. Chuck Edwards. “Unnecessary red tape slows down growth and stifles innovation. As a member of the Build America Caucus, I look forward to fixing how Washington works by making processes more efficient and reasonable so that energy production and the building of our nation’s houses and infrastructure are not stuck in bureaucracy.”

    “Building more affordable housing, developing clean energy, and improving our infrastructure are all key to American growth in the 21st century,” said Rep. Joe Neguse. “That’s why I’m proud to join with a bipartisan group of my colleagues in forming the Build America Caucus, to move America forward by investing in innovation and implementing practical solutions that address the consequential challenges of our time.”

    “America’s strength lies in our workers, our businesses, and our abundant natural resources, but outdated laws and regulations too often hold our country back,” said Rep. Michael McCaul. “I’m proud to join the bipartisan Build America Caucus to drive growth, restore U.S. energy leadership, and unleash our nation’s full potential.”

    “America was built by doers who put bold ideas into action. But for too long, American innovation and production has been tied up in overburdensome regulation and bureaucratic red tape,” said Rep. Adam Gray. “The status quo doesn’t work anymore. It’s time to enact pro-growth policies that will harness American energy resources, increase our housing supply and encourage economic development. I’m proud to represent the Central Valley as a member of the bipartisan Build America Caucus to finally deliver on America’s promise of opportunity for all.”

    “Building more housing, mass transit, and clean energy is essential to making life more affordable and connected. But outdated processes are driving up costs and delaying the projects communities desperately need,” said Rep. Laura Friedman. I’m proud to join the Build America Caucus to help break through the gridlock and give local governments the tools to build more homes, better infrastructure, and clean power — so we can actually meet this moment.”

    “Housing is unaffordable, federally funded projects are delayed, and we’re not thinking clearly about long-term solutions,” said Rep. Janelle Bynum. “We’ve got to cut the red tape, build smarter, and deliver real solutions for the Americans. That’s why I’m proud to join the bipartisan Build America Caucus to help tackle the structural challenges holding back our growth.”

    “To lower costs and compete with China, we need to build more — more housing, stronger roads and bridges, and better energy infrastructure,” said Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet. “Having worked in local government and led a local non-profit, I have seen firsthand how the best of ideas can be derailed by red tape. I look forward to working with Republicans and Democrats with the Build America Caucus to turbocharge American innovation, lower costs, and create good-paying jobs in mid-Michigan.”

    “America prides itself on accomplishing big things, whether it be winning world wars, sending man to the moon, or discovering the next medical breakthrough,” said Rep. Scott Peters. “Unfortunately, we have gotten in our own way with excessive red tape and process that delays progress. The Build America Caucus will be laser-focused on taking on our country’s most fundamental challenges, like the housing shortage, the need for a more reliable grid and cheaper energy, and ensuring America continues to be at the forefront of scientific discovery. I am excited to work with my colleagues from both parties to update our laws to meet the challenges of today and encourage America to build again.”

    “America needs to build 5 million homes and 5 Hoover Dams’ worth of nuclear power this decade,” said Rep. Jake Auchincloss. “The status quo won’t deliver that speed and scale, so Congress needs to take action and relieve bottlenecks in housing and energy that lower prices for the middle class.”

    “In my past life, I built things in Northeastern Pennsylvania, and I’m committed to building a bright future for our constituents,” said Rep. Rob Bresnahan. “I am ready to bring my real-world experience to the policy-making sphere, and I look forward to working with my fellow members of the Build America Caucus to find bipartisan ways to streamline permitting for transportation and energy projects, and ensure we have the workforce to deliver on these projects.”

    The members of the Build America Caucus are: Reps. Jake Auchincloss, Gus Bilirakis, Rob Bresnahan, Nikki Budzinski, Janelle Bynum, Sharice Davids, Chuck Edwards, Laura Friedman, Adam Gray, Josh Harder, Jim Himes, Jeff Hurd, Jen Kiggans, Seth Magaziner, Nicole Malliotakis, Celeste Maloy, Mike McCaul, Kristen McDonald Rivet, Joe Neguse, Dan Newhouse, Jay Obernolte, Scott Peters, Brittany Pettersen, Pat Ryan, Andrea Salinas, Haley Stevens, Ritchie Torres, David Valadao, and George Whitesides. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Young Kim Joins Bipartisan Push to Protect Forests and Wildland Firefighter Safety

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Young Kim (CA-39)

    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Young Kim (CA-40) joined fellow California Reps. Doug LaMalfa (CA-01) and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) to introduce the Forest Protection and Wildland Firefighter Safety Act. 

    This bipartisan bill ensures that federal, state, local and tribal firefighting agencies can use fire retardant, a vital tool used to contain or slow the spread of wildfires, without restraints from burdensome permitting regulations.  

    “We need all hands on deck and all the tools in our arsenal during a wildfire,” said Rep. Kim. “Fire retardant has proven to be safe and effective for containing and mitigating wildfires, and I’m proud to join Reps. LaMalfa and Panetta to ensure its continued use. As the representative of many wildfire-prone areas, including in the canyon communities of Orange County, I will keep fighting to support commonsense policies to protect our communities.”  

    “Fire retardant is one of the most effective tools we have to stop wildfires from turning into disasters—especially in the West,” said Rep. LaMalfa. “Trying to ban its use during fire season isn’t just ridiculous, it’s dangerous. These extremist environmental groups are more worried about trace amounts of retardant than the real damage caused by out-of-control fires. Entire forests, homes, wildlife, and human lives are at stake. The smoke alone from one major wildfire can choke the air for hundreds of miles. We should be focused on stopping fires early, not tying firefighters’ hands with red tape.” 

    “With nearly 9 million acres burned nationwide in 2024, the threat of wildfire is only growing,” said Rep. Panetta.  “This bipartisan legislation would make clear that fire retardant must remain a critical part of our wildfire response strategy.  Protecting our homes, our forests, and those on the front lines keeping us safe remains our top priority.” 

    Reps. David Valadao (CA-22), Ken Calvert (R-CA), Darrell Issa (CA-48), Tom McClintock (CA-05), Vince Fong (CA-20), Adam Gray (CA-13), and Jim Costa (CA-21) also cosponsor this bipartisan bill. 

    Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) introduced a companion bill in the Senate. 

    Background 

    In 2022, an environmental group sued the Forest Service over its use of aerial fire retardant, arguing it should be regulated under the Clean Water Act. A federal court ruled in 2023 that the Forest Service must obtain a NPDES permit from the EPA, but declined to issue an injunction that would have halted the use of retardant during fire season. The permitting process is expected to take years, and if future litigation results in a successful injunction, firefighters could be forced to ground aircraft or fly them with only water—putting lives, forests, and property at serious risk. 

    The Forest Service has made clear in testimony that aerial retardant is a critical part of its integrated wildfire strategy and that current operations already prohibit discharge into waterways or buffer zones. Over the past decade, less than 1% of fire retardant drops have affected waterways. 

    The bill builds on existing exemptions in the Clean Water Act for fire control activities and ensures continued use of fire retardants that are approved and listed on the Forest Service’s Qualified Products List. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Young Kim Leads REPORT Act to Restore Congressional Authority on Tariffs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Young Kim (CA-39)

    Washington, DC – As first reported in Spectrum News, today, U.S. Representative Young Kim (CA-40) introduced the Reviewing Economic and Protection Objectives for the Reciprocal Tariffs Act (REPORT) Act to restore Congressional oversight of the executive branch’s tariff authority.  

    The REPORT Act would:  

    • Require the President to notify Congress and provide a justification report of the economic and security objectives of an increase or decrease in tariff authority 48 hours before it takes effect; 
    • Direct the U.S. Trade Representative to testify to relevant committees once the tariffs take effect; and, 
    • Apply to future presidential administrations, regardless of political affiliation. 

    Rep. Jeff Hurd (CO-03) joined as an original cosponsor of the bill. 

    “While tariffs can be an important strategic tool to help level the playing field between the United States and other countries, long-term tariffs can be a tax that hike prices and hurt the bottom line for American families and small businesses,” said Rep. Young Kim. “The American people deserve certainty, which is why I’m proud to lead the REPORT Act to ensure the executive branch is transparent with the American people on the intended economic and security objectives behind enacting tariffs, especially in the long-term.” 

    “During my time in Congress, I have been a consistent advocate for Congress’s Article I, Section 8 authority when it comes to tariffs”, said Rep. Hurd. “I’m proud to support Rep. Kim’s REPORT Act, which ensures that Congress is notified and briefed on any tariff changes so that we can fulfill our constitutional oversight duties.” 

    Read the bill HERE. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Ivey Joins Maryland Delegation & Alsobrooks in Demanding Back Education Dollars Cut by Trump

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Glenn Ivey – Maryland (4th District)

    WASHINGTON, DC – As reported in The Washington Post, Senator Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.) led the Maryland Democratic Delegation – U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen and Representatives Steny Hoyer, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, Glenn Ivey, Sarah Elfreth, April McClain Delaney, and Johnny Olszewski (all D-Md.) in demanding that the Trump Administration release the $98 million promised for education funding in the state and urging the Department to work with the delegation to ensure Maryland receives this vital funding. 

    “Earlier this year, [Secretary McMahon testified that the President] wants to ‘return education to the states where it belongs.’ We believe that approving Maryland’s application for late liquidation of relief funds would do just that. We appreciate your offer to conduct a thorough review of the ESSER funds rescinded from Maryland and look forward to reaching a resolution in the best interest of the more than 860,000 students in our state who are depending on these Congressionally appropriated funds,” said the lawmakers. 

    “We stand ready to partner with the Department in ensuring the disbursement of this key funding to Maryland,” continued the lawmakers. 

    You can read the full letter to Secretary McMahon here or below:

    Dear Secretary McMahon:

    We write with deep concern regarding the Department of Education’s (the Department) recent letter to State Chiefs of Education, which modified the time period for states to liquidate obligations under the Education Stabilization Fund. The loss of these dollars would be catastrophic for the state of Maryland and its students. We appreciate the fact that the Department did leave an opportunity open for collaboration with states, affording them the chance to appeal for an extension to the liquidation period on a project-specific basis. As such, the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) has applied for an extension. We strongly support MSDE’s application and urge the Department to approve MSDE’s requests for full reimbursement.

    As you know, on January 22, 2025 – after President Trump was sworn into office – the Department approved MDSE’s late liquidation plan for American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds through March 28, 2026. Similarly, on March 17, 2025, the Department approved a late liquidation plan for the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSA) from MSDE through March 31, 2025. Yet on March 28, 2025, the MSDE received notice from the Department that the liquidation period for all pandemic recovery resources authorized in the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) fund was rescinded. This sudden reversal has caused a great deal of confusion and would hinder Maryland’s efforts to address pandemic learning loss.

    The impact of this reversal by the Department will indeed be devastating for Maryland schools. Pandemic relief funds were set to go towards capital projects including school heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning repair and replacement that have been delayed because of supply chain and construction issues, as well as new curricula and instructional materials that Maryland Local Education Agencies (LEAs) are still awaiting.

    As such, Maryland has submitted a late liquidation request to the Department for $98,706,860, which includes $42 million spent by LEAs that have not been submitted to the State for reimbursement, as well as $56.7 million remaining to liquidate. The remaining funding is obligated toward projects to provide temporary housing and mental health support for students experiencing homelessness; community school mental health services; tutoring and technology for students; professional development for staff; Grow Your Own projects, including tuition reimbursement programs for staff to attain teacher certifications; the replacement of older and non-working windows and doors; restroom repairs; and security camera updates to keep students safe. 

    MSDE and the state’s LEAs have utilized ESSER funds to recover reading scores, sustainably address the teacher shortages exacerbated by the pandemic, support student mental and emotional health, and fortify other key ingredients in learning. The state’s reapplication in compliance with the Department’s guidance issued on March 28, 2025, also includes key details of our educational systems’ efforts to modernize classroom infrastructure to mitigate the threat of infectious diseases. 

    We proudly represent a state that places tremendous emphasis on high-quality education and MSDE’s implementation of federal funds is fundamental to that mission. We urge the Department to approve MSDE’s latest reapplication for late liquidation of this vital funding. Like students across the country, the COVID-19 pandemic set young Marylanders back substantially on key metrics of student achievement. As your office has noted, recent National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) results have revealed that “gaps are growing between higher-performing and lower-performing students.” Further, chronic absenteeism still is too high with the latest data indicating “a majority of students still attended schools with 20% or higher levels of chronic absence… in stark contrast to 2019, when slightly over a quarter of schools experienced such high levels of chronic absence.” Years after the COVID-19 pandemic, our schools and communities still have much work to do to help students recover.

    Again, we want to continue to be collaborative and work together to improve Maryland schools. As you noted in your testimony to the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee earlier this year, President Trump wants to “return education to the states where it belongs.” We believe that approving Maryland’s application for late liquidation of relief funds would do just that. We appreciate your offer to conduct a thorough review of the ESSER funds rescinded from Maryland and look forward to reaching a resolution in the best interest of the more than 860,000 students in our state who are depending on these Congressionally appropriated funds. 

    We welcome a further conversation between the Department and the Maryland Congressional delegation on this process and would be happy to help support engagements between the Department and MSDE. We stand ready to partner with the Department in ensuring the disbursement of this key funding to Maryland.

    Sincerely, 

     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –