NewzIntel.com

Category: housing

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Rebuke to Trump’s Trade War, Reed Helps Pass Measure to Repeal Trump’s Costly Canadian Tariffs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC – Late last night, the U.S. Senate voted 51-48 to pass a bipartisan measure (S.J. Res 37) to effectively end President Trump’s steep new tariffs on Canadian goods, which amount to a 25 percent tax on a wide array of goods imported from one of America’s top trading partners and closest allies.  Tariffs are taxes on imports collected when foreign goods cross the U.S. border via Customs and Border Protection.  They are not paid for by a foreign country, but rather by U.S. importers, retailers, and consumers who actually purchase the products.
    The resolution would repeal the emergency declaration that allowed Trump to place tariffs on Canada.  This allowed Democrats to force a floor vote, with action on the joint resolution coming just after President Trump announced he is unilaterally imposing new blanket tariffs on nearly all imports coming into the United States.
    Every Democrat and independent member of the U.S. Senate voted for the resolution, along with Republican Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), Mitch McConnell (R-KY) Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Rand Paul (R-KY).
    U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), who helped pass the measure, stated: “President Trump’s chaotic, blanket tariffs are a backdoor tax increase on the American people.  They are going to raise consumer prices and lift small businesses’ costs.  The added uncertainty and chaos President Trump is creating is already forcing companies to layoff American workers, and could soon threaten a recession.  President Trump should reverse course and lay out a clear, competent strategy that would lower costs for everyday Americans – something he promised to do while campaigning for President.  But President Trump has made clear over the past two months that helping families afford rent, gas, and groceries isn’t his priority.  What he really wants is to consolidate power for himself, bypass Congress, and force entire industries to come to him and ask for favors or punish companies he doesn’t like.  It’s bad for our economy, bad for American households, and bad for democracy.  Congress needs to reassert its authority as an equal branch of government and this vote was a positive if likely symbolic step in the right direction.  I will continue working on a bipartisan basis to help lower costs, not increase them through higher tariff taxes and costly trade wars.”
    The resolution, which was sponsored by Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), was endorsed by a diverse group of economic and labor advocates, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the AFL-CIO, the United Steelworkers (USW), the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE), the National Retail Federation (NRF), the North America’s Building Trades Unions, the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA), the U.S. Conference of Mayors, Foreign Policy for America (FP4A), National Taxpayers Union, Taxpayers Protection Alliance, and Advancing American Freedom.
    It is unclear if the Republican-controlled U.S. House of Representatives will vote on the bill.  President Trump has threatened to veto the measure if it comes to his desk.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dr. Rand Paul Reintroduces Bill to Shield Americans from the High Costs of Tariffs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Rand Paul

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

    April 3rd, 2025

     Contact: Press_Paul@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343

     

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) reintroduced the No Taxation Without Representation Act, legislation aimed at protecting American families and businesses from the skyrocketing costs of tariffs imposed by executive action. The bill reasserts Congress’s constitutional authority over taxation and serves as a check on presidential overreach that threatens the economic wellbeing of every American.

    “The rallying cry of ‘no taxation without representation’ sparked a revolution—and it’s just as relevant today,” said Dr. Paul. “Unchecked executive actions enacting tariffs tax our citizens, threaten our economy, raise prices for everyday goods, and erode the system of checks and balances that our founders so carefully crafted.”

    About the No Taxation Without Representation Act:

    Dr. Paul’s legislation reins in the executive branch’s abuse of tariff authority by requiring Congressional approval before any new import taxes can be imposed. The bill aims to strengthen our system of checks and balances by requiring Congressional consent for any tariffs that significantly impact American businesses and consumers. By restoring the role of Congress in the taxation process, the bill ensures greater accountability, transparency, and long-term economic stability.

    Key Provisions:

     Congress Must Approve:

     The President may only impose new import taxes (tariffs) if:

    • The President submits a formal justification to Congress; and
    • Congress passes legislation approving the proposed tax.

     Applicable Laws:

    This requirement would apply to tariffs enacted under:

    • The Tariff Act of 1930
    • The Trade Expansion Act of 1962
    • The Trading with the Enemy Act
    • The International Emergency Economic Powers Act
    • Laws enacted to implement trade agreements involving the U. S.
    • Any other U.S. customs and trade laws and trade agreements.

     Embargoes Exempt:

    The No Taxation Without Representation Act doesn’t affect situations where the U.S. embargoes all goods or certain types of goods from a specific country from entering the country.

     No Taxation Without Representation Act is a critical step toward restoring transparency, reining in executive abuse, and shielding Americans from the hidden tax of tariffs.

    You can read the entire bill HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Secures Order Restoring $11 Billion in Critical Public Health Funding

    Source: US State of California

    Thursday, April 3, 2025

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

    OAKLAND — California Attorney General Bonta today issued a statement on the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island’s decision granting a temporary restraining order that immediately restores $11 billion in critical public health funding to state and local public health agencies across the country, including $972 million to California.

    “Two days after filing our 9th lawsuit against the Trump Administration, we have secured a temporary order that restores public health funding and ensures communities nationwide are prepared for public health threats,” said Attorney General Bonta. “As our lawsuit continues, we remain steadfast in our commitment to ensure state and local health agencies have what they need to keep Americans healthy and safe.”

    Beginning on March 24, 2025, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) abruptly, with no advance notice or warning, issued termination notices to state and local public health agencies across the country, purporting to end federal funding for grants that provide essential support for a wide range of urgent public health needs, including identifying, tracking, and addressing infectious diseases; ensuring access to immunizations; and modernizing critical public health infrastructure. The federal funding was appropriated by Congress to ensure the United States is better prepared for future public health threats.

    On Tuesday, Attorney General Bonta announced co-leading a coalition of 23 states and the District of Columbia in filing a lawsuit against the Trump Administration’s HHS and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. over the unlawful termination of public health funding. Today, the court responded by granting the requested temporary restraining order. 

    The order temporarily restores essential public health funding and vital programs that serve millions of Californians, including children, rural communities, and nursing homes, including: 

    • Over $800 million that the California Department of Public Health intended to use, in part, to vaccinate 4.5 million children statewide and assist hospitals in directing injured and ill patients to available health facilities during all types of emergencies, where efficient routing saves lives. 
    • $119 million to the California Department of Health Care Services which supports key programs, including substance use disorder prevention and early intervention services for youth in at least 18 counties. 
    • $45 million to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health to use in part, to strengthen the County’s efforts to prevent the spread of measles, and seasonal and avian influenza. 

    A copy of the order will become available here. 

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Van Orden Releases Statement on the Phasing Out of the VASP Program

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Derrick Van Orden (Wisconsin 3rd)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Veterans’ Affairs Economic Opportunity Subcommittee Chairman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) released the following statement after the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) announced that the politically created, Biden-era Veterans Affairs Servicing Purchase (VASP) program, will phase out:  

    “From time immemorial, back when someone first lent seashells to buy a cave, a program like VASP has never existed. It was developed by unelected bureaucrats at the VA in direct defiance of Congress and has jeopardized the VA loan guarantee program. We are working to ensure that American servicemembers who risked their lives to protect our freedoms have the opportunity to use the VA home loan program to achieve homeownership— an essential part of the American Dream.”

    Background:

    In February 2024, the Economic Opportunity Subcommittee held an oversight hearing on the future of the VA home loan program where Subcommittee Chairman Van Orden pressed the Biden-Harris administration on their lack of transparency regarding creating the VASP program. Committee Chairman Mike Bost, Chairman Van Orden, and Committee members repeatedly sounded the alarm on the effects that VASP would have on veteran homeowners, taxpayers, and the mortgage industry. Since May 31, 2024, VA has used authorities that have traditionally been limited to less than 100 loans to purchase over $5.4 billion worth of loans. VA has been unable to show the Committee how their decision would benefit the taxpayer and prove that individuals would not take advantage of a 2.5% interest rate. In April 2024, VA estimated that they would purchase over 60,000 loans for a total of $17.7 billion. Instead of reinstituting the partial claim program for an average loan delinquency of $22,500, VA chose to purchase these loans through the VASP program at an average of $292,000. However, since the implementation of VASP, the average amount of loans purchased has increased to $320,000. House Republicans have raised significant concerns since before the creation of the program, especially when a partial claim program could solve most delinquent loans at a much less expensive clip to the taxpayer.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Wicker Leads SASC Hearing on EUCOM, AFRICOM Posture

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today chaired a hearing examining the posture of and threats to U.S. European Command (EUCOM) and U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM).

    In his opening statement, Chairman Wicker offered an update on the war in Ukraine, noting that Ukraine continues to heroically resist efforts of Russian subjugation, and that Russia will remain a long-term threat to the United States. Specifically, Chairman Wicker cautioned that reducing our military footprint in Europe would be dangerous for European peace, especially as many of our NATO allies have taken major steps to invest in their defense.

    Read Senator Wicker’s hearing opening statement as delivered below.

     

    The hearing will come to order. And today, we welcome General Christopher Cavoli, the Commander of U.S. European Command, and General Michael Langley, the Commander of U.S. Africa Command. We thank them both for being with us today.

     

    First of all, we meet today in the wake of the difficult news that that we have been learning more about over the last few days. We’ve been saddened by the death of four American service members and we now know the names of them all. They passed away in a tragic training accident in Lithuania, and so we recognize them and send our best to their families and friends.

     

    But this morning, we talk about two very important areas of responsibility. The European continent is now entering its third year of war as Russia continues its brutal assault against Ukraine. There’s no question who started this war.

     

    Despite the physical and psychological exhaustion and material constraints from the conflict, the Ukrainian military and people have heroically and successfully continued to resist Russian efforts to subjugate them. The war serves as a brutal reminder that Vladimir Putin has chosen to become an enemy of the West, and to throw away Russia’s future.

     

    The Department of Defense is right to label China as our pacing threat. Nonetheless, Russia and its thousands of varied nuclear weapons continue to pose an existential danger to the United States and to our allies. Moscow’s military aggression sows uncertainty and threatens vital U.S. interests every day, as Europe remains by far our largest trading partner and source of investment in the United States.

     

    The war in Ukraine has exposed the Russian army’s weakness, but it also has shown that Russia can adapt to changing circumstances and can endure heavy costs. The Russian industrial base, aided by China, North Korea, and Iran, has demonstrated its ability to sustain Putin’s army. Russia would likely use any pause in fighting to reconstitute its military.

     

    I say all this to make a simple point: we cannot wish away the Russian threat. Despite Russia’s aggression, there are some who believe now is the time to reduce drastically our military footprint in Europe. This is a viewpoint with which I disagree. I’m troubled that this deeply misguided and dangerous view is held by some midlevel bureaucrats within the Defense Department. They’ve been working to pursue a U.S. retreat from Europe, and they’ve often been doing so without coordinating with the Secretary of Defense and the National Security Council. As I have said, Russia is now mobilized for a permanent war. Withdrawing now would do away with any hope of lasting peace in Europe.

     

    Right now, we have a unique opportunity in Europe. President Trump’s leadership and the Russian threat have jolted Europe awake. Many nations have begun rebuilding their militaries. Our allies on the eastern flank – Poland, the Baltic States, and Romania are all spending much more than we are. The United Kingdom and France are awakening. Even Germany shows signs of stirring.

     

    NATO should be led by the United States, but Europe should shoulder most of the military burden. We can achieve that by combining the right incentives with low-cost assistance from the United States, including a drastically overhauled foreign military sales system. To build that NATO, we must maintain our current posture, which will serve as a bridge to the planned buildup of combat power by our European NATO allies.

     

    After three years of war, we probably should make some posture adjustments, including moving forces east, but we must maintain a strong military posture in Europe overall. l Failing to do so risks tempting Russian adventurism before our European allies have been able to ramp up their forces fully and their capabilities.

     

    The Chinese Communist Party views its competition against the United States as a global project. To China, the continents of Europe, Asia, South America, and Africa are all critical in Xi Jinping’s unprecedented global military expansion. In particular, Beijing has been active on the African continent. In Djibouti, China’s naval base has grown substantially. It’s now capable of hosting China’s most advanced naval vessels and serving as an intelligence collection outpost against American and allied forces in the entire region.

     

    China is also actively pursuing a naval base on Africa’s western coast, the Atlantic coast, which would provide an enduring foothold along the Atlantic Ocean. According to General Langley, this would “change the whole calculus of the geostrategic campaign plans of protecting the American homeland.”

     

    Russia also has designs on the African continent. Its destabilizing strategy is to trade security assistance for access to Africa’s abundant natural resources. This would help fund Vladimir Putin’s malign activities around the world. At the center of Putin’s Africa strategy is Libya which, serves as Russia’s key logistical node and enables its activities across the continent. I look forward to General Langley’s assessment of Africa’s importance to Vladimir Putin’s strategic objectives, as well as his description of what’s being done to counter Russian efforts, particularly in Libya.

     

    We cannot ignore the enduring threat posed by ISIS and al-Qaeda in Africa. Without sustained pressure, these vicious terrorists will reconstitute and continue to threaten America. President Trump was absolutely right to approve strikes against ISIS leadership targets in Somalia in recent weeks.

     

    Our adversaries view their fight against America as a global fight. We see their efforts playing out across Europe and Africa in particular. Now is not the time for an American withdrawal from these theaters. We cannot allow the Chinese Communist Party and its partners in Moscow, Tehran, and Pyongyang to overcome us strategically, or to erode the ability to protect American interests around the world.

     

    So, we have a lot of important topics to talk about today. I look forward to hearing our witnesses address these and many other concerns during this hearing, along with my friend, the Ranking Member whom I recognize right now.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Colleagues Sound Alarm on Reports of DOGE “Hit List” of Key Energy Projects, Demand Department of Energy Follow the Law

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla, Colleagues Sound Alarm on Reports of DOGE “Hit List” of Key Energy Projects, Demand Department of Energy Follow the Law

    Senators: “Dissolving contracts, cancelling grants and loans, and reneging on loan guarantees without any intention to execute the laws is not only illegal, but is harmful to the public and energy consumers”

    California’s ARCHES Hydrogen Hub among projects on list of potential cuts

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and 26 other Democratic Senators demanded that U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Christopher Wright uphold his commitment to honor existing legal agreements and deliver funds passed into law by Congress. The letter comes on the heels of recent reports that the Department of Energy is creating a “hit list” of awards, contracts, and projects — many of which have already began construction — it is considering canceling. These cuts would break existing agreements while leading to significant job losses and a reduction in growth of new energy resources. 

    The Trump Administration’s proposed cuts include hydrogen hub projects funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, including California’s Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems (ARCHES) hydrogen hub for which Senator Padilla secured up to $1.2 billion. Reportedly, the hubs under threat are all in Democratic-leaning states like California, while hydrogen hubs in Republican-leaning states would maintain funding.

    This hit list is a stark reversal from Secretary Wright’s confirmation hearing, where he said legal agreements should be honored and that he would follow the law. The Senators expressed serious concerns about the reports and reasserted Congress’ authority over the programs they fund.

    “Indiscriminately canceling program funding and executed contracts, and refusing to execute on the funding directives Congress enacted, neither honors existing agreements nor is consistent with the spending laws that have appropriated funding for specific purposes,” wrote the Senators.

    “Dissolving contracts, cancelling grants and loans, and reneging on loan guarantees without any intention to execute the laws is not only illegal, but is harmful to the public and energy consumers. Your indiscriminate cancellations of spending will increase energy prices, make our grid less secure, and stop energy innovation,” continued the Senators. “If the Department has a policy disagreement and does not want to spend money on programs Congress has funded, the lawful response is to ask Congress to rescind that funding. The decision ultimately rests with Congress, not with the President, the Department of Energy, or the Department of Government Efficiency.”

    The Senators concluded by demanding a detailed list and briefing that identifies which grants, loans, or loan guarantees Secretary Wright believes should be rescinded and why.

    The letter was led by Senator Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Vice Chair of the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations, and Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. In addition to Senator Padilla, the letter was also signed by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).

    Yesterday, Senator Padilla questioned President Trump’s nominee for Deputy Secretary of Energy on the hit list, highlighting the importance of the Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs program to “jumpstart” the national hydrogen economy and urging him to protect vital funding for ARCHES.

    Full text of the letter is available here and below:

    Dear Mr. Secretary:

    We are deeply troubled by recent news reports that the Department of Energy (Department) is creating a “hit list of clean energy projects” to “wipe out” for being inconsistent with the President’s priorities. This list reportedly includes hydrogen hubs and carbon capture, critical mineral, and battery storage projects that have already received grant and loan funding from the Inflation Reduction Act, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and annual appropriations bills.

    You assured us during your confirmation hearing that you believe that legal agreements should be honored (including managing the financial commitments you have inherited) and that you will follow the law. Indiscriminately canceling program funding and executed contracts, and refusing to execute on the funding directives Congress enacted, neither honors existing agreements nor is consistent with the spending laws that have appropriated funding for specific purposes.

    Our Constitution gives Congress the power of the purse and exclusive power to appropriate funds. Once a law is properly enacted, the Constitution requires the President to “take Care that the Laws be faithfully executed.” The President cannot substitute his policy preferences for requirements in law, and that includes refusing to spend funds Congress requires the President to spend.

    In this instance, where Congress has authorized and appropriated funds for programs that support clean energy projects, the Department must faithfully execute the law and expend the funds for the purposes provided. For example, programs authorized that have received federal appropriations under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law have requirements on timing of expended funds, purposes, and contractual expectations. An internal Office of Management and Budget guidance document cannot hide the Department’s obligation to follow the enacted law.

    Dissolving contracts, cancelling grants and loans, and reneging on loan guarantees without any intention to execute the laws is not only illegal, but is harmful to the public and energy consumers. Your indiscriminate cancellations of spending will increase energy prices, make our grid less secure, and stop energy innovation. If the Department has a policy disagreement and does not want to spend money on programs Congress has funded, the lawful response is to ask Congress to rescind that funding. The decision ultimately rests with Congress, not with the President, the Department of Energy, or the Department of Government Efficiency. Please provide us a detailed list and briefing that identifies which grants, loans, or loan guarantees you believe should be rescinded and why you think they should be rescinded.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fire Safety – Check your smoke alarms when clocks go back this Sunday

    Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

    Fire and Emergency New Zealand is reminding people to check their smoke alarms are working when daylight saving ends on Sunday 6 April.
    Community Education Manager Tom Ronaldson says the routine for New Zealanders on Sunday morning is simple – wake up after enjoying an extra hour’s sleep, and check your smoke alarms.
    “When you see the clocks have gone back, make sure you push the button on each of your smoke alarms,” he says.
    “That beep is the sound of knowing you and your household can sleep safe at night.
    “When you’re asleep, you can’t smell smoke, but smoke alarms can and they’ll wake you up if a fire gets started – so you can get out fast.
    “Having working smoke alarms in every bedroom, living area and hallway is the first step in your three-step plan to escape a house on fire.
    “If you don’t have alarms, it’s time to put that right.
    “We recommend long-life interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms. If one alarm detects a fire, interconnected alarms will all go off at once, so everyone will be alerted to a fire sooner.
    “In rental accommodation, landlords must provide working smoke alarms within three meters of every bedroom and on every level. It is the tenants responsibility to maintain them and replace the batteries when needed.
    “If you do have alarms – do you have enough, are they in the right places, are they clean, and do they work? Press the button to be sure. If they do not make a sound, replace them immediately.
    “Step two of your escape plan is having at least two clear paths out of each part of the house, and step three is having a safe meeting place.
    Tom Ronaldson says that every year, the cooler weather brings a spike in the number of house fires caused by heat sources, such as heaters, chimneys, ash disposal, electric blankets and dryers. Therefore, it is important people are alert to the risks these items pose to their household.
    “We see at least 50% more of these fires in May, June and July compared with the rest of the year,” he says.
    “So having a working smoke alarm is even more essential right now.”
    Fire and Emergency provides this advice to keep smoke alarms effective:
    • Once a month press the test button to sound the alarm.
    • If your smoke alarm beeps regularly when there is no smoke or fire, it might mean you need to change the battery or replace the alarm. We recommend long-life photoelectric smoke alarms.
    • Clean each smoke alarm with a vacuum cleaner every six months, as dust buildup can cause false alarms.
    • Check the expiry date on the bottom or side of the alarm. If there’s no expiry date, it’s best to replace the alarm.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wilson Introduces ‘Bulgarian-American Heritage Month Resolution’

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Joe Wilson (2nd District of South Carolina)

    Washington, DC – Co-Chairs of the Congressional Bulgaria Caucus Joe Wilson (R-SC), Bradley Schneider (D-IL), Neal Dunn (R-FL), and Richard Neal (D-MA) yesterday introduced the Bulgarian-American Heritage Month Resolution. This legislation recognizes the critical contributions that the people of Bulgaria have made to the U.S. since the 19th Century.  

    “I am grateful to lead this important legislation recognizing the contributions that Bulgarian-Americans have made to the United States and the strong benefits of the bilateral relationship. Having witnessed the Bulgarian people rebuke communism and adopt the democratic values of the Western world during my visit to the country as an election observer in 1990, I continue to be inspired by their journey and founded this caucus in 2002 to further strengthen our mutually beneficial partnership,” said Rep. Wilson.

    “Bulgarian-Americans have helped shape our nation for generations, strengthening our communities, economy, and future. The partnership between the United States and Bulgaria is built on shared values and made stronger by the deep ties forged by those who call both countries home,” said Rep. Schneider. 

    “I extend my gratitude to the co-chairs of the Congressional Bulgaria Caucus—Representatives Joe Wilson, Brad Schneider, Neil Dunn, and Richard Neal—for their leadership in advancing this legislative initiative. Bulgaria deeply values the bipartisan commitment to strengthening the ties between our two nations.

    “Equally significant is the invaluable role of Bulgarian Americans—both past and present—who have contributed to the prosperity of the United States. Their dedication and achievements give meaning to our daily mission as diplomats representing Bulgaria in the United States.

    “Bulgarian Americans take great pride in their rich historical heritage, the profound influence of the Bulgarian alphabet on global cultural advancement, and the nation’s enduring pursuit of freedom and individual liberty.

    “Bulgarian-Americans also have established thriving business communities throughout the United States, and a particularly large diaspora in Illinois, fostering economic growth and entrepreneurship.

    “This year, as we celebrate 122 years of diplomatic relations between Bulgaria and the United States, we honor a legacy of friendship, partnership, and strategic cooperation—built on shared values and strengthened by the bonds between our peoples,” said Ambassador Georgi Panayotov of the Republic of Bulgaria. 

    The full text of H.Res. 291 is available here.  

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Labor leads in three recent national polls, four weeks from the election

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne

    The federal election will be held in four weeks. A national YouGov poll, conducted March 28 to April 3 from a sample of 1,622, gave Labor a 51–49 lead, a one-point gain for Labor since the previous non-MRP YouGov poll taken March 14–19.

    Primary votes were 35% Coalition (down two), 30% Labor (down one), 13% Greens (steady), 7% One Nation (steady), 2% Trumpet of Patriots (up one), 10% independents (up two) and 3% others (steady). YouGov is using respondent preferences from its last MRP poll. By 2022 election preference flows, Labor would lead by about 52–48.

    Anthony Albanese’s net approval rose three points to -6, with 50% dissatisfied and 44% satisfied. Peter Dutton’s net approval slumped ten points to -15, his worst in YouGov’s polls and the first time he’s had a worse net approval than Albanese since June 2024. Albanese led as better PM by 45–38 (45–40 previously).

    Since Sunday, we have had leaders’ ratings polls from Newspoll, Resolve, Freshwater, Essential and YouGov. A simple average of the net approval from these five polls has Albanese at net 7.8 and Dutton at net -12.

    Here is the poll graph. Labor has led in four of the six polls taken since the budget, with the exceptions a 50–50 tie in Resolve and a Coalition lead by 51–49 in Freshwater. However, Labor’s lead is narrow, except in Morgan.

    While the Coalition could regain the lead before the election, Donald Trump’s tariff announcement on Thursday may make it more difficult for the Coalition.

    Essential poll: Labor takes slight lead

    A national Essential poll, conducted March 26–30 from a sample of 1,144, gave Labor a 48–47 lead by respondent preferences including undecided (a 47–47 tie in mid-March). This was the first Labor lead in Essential since November, with the Coalition either leading narrowly or a tie since.

    Primary votes were 34% Coalition (down one), 30% Labor (up one), 12% Greens (steady), 9% One Nation (up one), 2% Trumpet of Patriots (up one), 8% for all Others (down one) and 5% undecided (down one). By 2022 election flows, Labor would lead by about 51–49.

    Albanese’s net approval was down three points to -2, with 46% disapproving and 44% approving. Dutton’s was down one point to -6. It’s Dutton’s worst net approval in Essential since October 2023.

    By 52–32, voters thought Australia was on the wrong track (48–35 previously). Essential and Morgan have a big lead for wrong track, but Labor is ahead. Voters may be blaming Trump more than Labor.

    By 61–29, voters did not think the federal budget would make a meaningful difference on cost of living (64–27 after the May 2024 budget). By 69–31, voters thought the government should prioritise the delivery of services, even if it means running a deficit, over prioritise running a surplus.

    Voters were told the Trump administration wanted to pressure Australia into removing some policies using tariffs. By 65–15, voters supported the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme and by 64–13 they supported making US companies pay tax on income generated in Australia.

    Morgan poll: Labor retains solid lead

    A national Morgan poll, conducted March 24–30 from a sample of 1,377, gave Labor a 53–47 lead by headline respondent preferences, unchanged from the March 17–23 poll.

    Primary votes were 35% Coalition (down 0.5), 32% Labor (down 1.5), 13% Greens (up 0.5), 5.5% One Nation (up 1.5), 10.5% independents (up 0.5) and 4% others (down 0.5). By 2022 election flows, Labor led by 53.5–46.5, a 0.5-point gain for the Coalition.

    By 51.5–32, voters thought Australia was going in the wrong direction (52.5–32.5 previously). Morgan’s consumer confidence index was up 1.1 points to 85.3.

    This term, Morgan’s results in general haven’t skewed to Labor relative to other polls, and Labor was behind in Morgan’s polls from November until late February. But Trump’s initial imposition of steel and aluminium tariffs on Australia on March 12 has seen Morgan move much more to Labor than other polls.

    Additional Resolve and Newspoll questions and a NSW federal poll

    I covered the national Resolve poll for Nine newspapers on March 30. In additional questions, by 60–15 voters thought Trump’s election was bad for Australia (40% bad in November). On threats to Australia in the next few years, 31% thought China the greatest threat, 17% the US, 4% Russia and 38% all equally.

    Newspoll has been asking the same questions on the budget since 1988. The Poll Bludger said on Wednesday the March 25 budget was the fourth worst perceived on economic impact (at net -10), but about the middle on personal impact (net -19). The nine-point lead for “no” on would the opposition have delivered a better budget was about par for a Labor government.

    A federal DomosAU poll of New South Wales, conducted March 24–26 from a sample of 1,013, gave the Coalition a 51–49 lead (51.4–48.6 to Labor in NSW at the 2022 federal election). Primary votes were 38% Coalition, 30% Labor, 12% Greens, 9% One Nation and 11% for all Others.

    Albanese led Dutton as preferred PM by 39–38. By 52–31, respondents did not think Australia was headed in the right direction.

    Canadian election and US special elections

    The Canadian federal election is on April 28. Polls continue to show the governing centre-left Liberals gaining ground, and they now lead the Conservatives by 43.4–37.6 in the CBC Poll Tracker.

    US federal special elections occurred on Tuesday in two safe Republican seats. While Republicans easily retained, there were big swings to the Democrats from the 2024 presidential election results in those districts. A left-wing judge won an election to the Wisconsin state supreme court by 55–45. I covered the Canadian and US developments for The Poll Bludger.

    WA election final lower house results

    I previously covered Labor winning 46 of the 59 lower house seats at the March 8 Western Australian election. The ABC’s final two-party estimate was a Labor win by 57.2–42.8. While that’s way down from the record 69.7–30.3 in 2021, it’s up from 55.5–44.5 in 2017.

    Final primary votes were 41.4% Labor (down 18.5% since 2021), 28.0% Liberals (up 6.7%), 5.2% Nationals (up 1.2%), 11.1% Greens (up 4.1%), 4.0% One Nation (up 2.8%), 3.2% Australian Christians (up 1.7%), 2.5% Legalise Cannabis (up 2.1%) and 3.3% independents (up 2.5%).

    The upper house will be finalised next week. All above the line votes have been included, with only below the line votes to be added. Labor will win 15 of the 37 seats, the Liberals ten, the Nationals two, the Greens four and One Nation, Legalise Cannabis and the Christians one each. That leaves three unclear seats.

    ABC election analyst Antony Green’s modelling of the effect of below the line votes suggests Labor’s 16th seat is in doubt and the Liberals won’t win an 11th seat. If this is correct, an independent group and Animal Justice will probably win two seats, with the final seat to be determined by preferences.

    Adrian Beaumont 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. Labor leads in three recent national polls, four weeks from the election – https://theconversation.com/labor-leads-in-three-recent-national-polls-four-weeks-from-the-election-253541

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Markey, Hirono, Colleagues Reintroduce Legislation to Guarantee Legal Representation for Unaccompanied Children in Immigration Proceedings

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Washington (April 3, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) today joined Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-Hawaii), and 25 of their colleagues in introducing The Fair Day in Court for Kids Act of 2025, legislation to provide unaccompanied children with legal representation for their court when they appear in proceedings before an immigration judge. This comes after the Trump Administration’s recent termination of a contract that provides legal services for approximately 26,000 unaccompanied children who appear in immigrant court.
    “As the Trump administration continues to generate distress with its immigration actions — including the recent cancellation of a vital contract that provides legal services to unaccompanied migrant children — we must ensure that we protect the safety, welfare, and legal rights of vulnerable minors,” said Senator Markey. “The Fair Day in Court for Kids Act of 2025 would provide unaccompanied children with the critical legal representation they need, ensuring that kids do not have to go to court alone.”
    “Children cannot represent themselves in Court—it’s that simple,” said Senator Hirono. “Legal representation helps ensure unaccompanied minors in our court system get the fair hearing they’re entitled to, and is critical to the function of immigration court proceedings. As the Trump Administration continues its war on immigrants, The Fair Day in Court for Kids Act will safeguard legal representation for unaccompanied children, helping to protect them from heightened risk of mistreatment, exploitation, and trafficking.”
    Nearly half of all unaccompanied children represent themselves during legal proceedings and it is extremely difficult for children to successfully navigate the U.S. immigration system without an attorney—unrepresented children appear alone in immigration court to face a judge and an adversarial government attorney seeking their removal from the United States. Many of these children, potentially as young as 3-years old, are unable to speak English and unable to understand our complicated legal system. Immigration judges are nearly 100 times less likely to grant relief to unaccompanied children without counsel compared to those with counsel. The federal government previously provided legal representation to some unaccompanied minors in accordance with the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008, which created special protections for children who arrive in the U.S. without a parent or a legal guardian. Now, the Trump Administration is working to terminate those services completely.
    “Alongside Senator Hirono, we are leading an effort to ensure that children are treated fairly and humanely with access to legal representation,” said Senator Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.).
    “The Trump Administration’s breathtakingly cruel decision to strip tens of thousands of tiny children of access to a lawyer shows exactly why this legislation is so important,” said Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.). “The right to legal counsel is a central tenet of our justice system. Yet unaccompanied immigrant children as young as 3 and 4 years old are expected to navigate the cold complexities of our legal system with no one to help them through the process. The consequences of sending these children back to the countries they are fleeing can be literally life-and-death and presents grave human-trafficking risks. We have a moral obligation to ensure that that decision is made with due process, including access to an attorney.”
    “Abandoning immigrant children to navigate a complicated legal system alone with their future on the line is beneath who we are as Americans,” said Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.). “I’m proud to cosponsor the Fair Day in Court for Kids Act, which would address this shocking policy in our legal system by giving children the representation they need and ensuring they have a fair day in court.”
    “The idea that small children could represent themselves in a court of law is ridiculous,” said Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.). “The immigration court system is complicated and confusing, and we shouldn’t expect any minor to navigate it on their own. This commonsense bill would fix a glaring flaw in our immigration system.”
    “It is deeply, cruelly unfair that so many unaccompanied children—including some who don’t speak English or are too young to understand what a judge is asking them—are forced to represent themselves in immigration court without a lawyer,” said Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.). “Having attorney representation can make the difference between safely remaining in the United States or being deported back to the same dangerous conditions they fled in the first place. This commonsense bill would help right this wrong and provide these children the legal representation they need to effectively navigate our complex immigration system.”
    “Time and time again, children, as young as three years old, enter the U.S. immigration court system without an attorney present. And now, the Trump Administration is trying to force these children to face an immigration judge alone. Not only do attorneys help these children navigate a complicated system, but they also play a critical role in preventing and stopping trafficking, abuse, and neglect,” said Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.). “That is why I am signing on to the Fair Day in Court for Kids Act, which would ensure that no child has to navigate our complex legal process without representation.”
    “President Trump’s inhumane immigration policies are putting kids in danger by forcing unaccompanied children to represent themselves in court,” said Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.). “It’s unimaginably cruel, and we must fight to ensure every child has a fair chance to accurately present their case for legal protection in our country.”
    “For unaccompanied children caught up in our immigration courts, navigating our complex immigration system alone is virtually impossible. The numbers speak for themselves: unaccompanied children without counsel are almost 100 times less likely to receive protection from deportation,” said Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.). “The Trump Administration’s decision to stop funding legal representation for these children is needlessly cruel and severely misguided. At the very least, these children deserve legal representation to help ensure their voices are heard.”
    “Children shouldn’t be forced to navigate the immigration system alone—especially when their future is on the line,” said Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii). “This legislation ensures that unaccompanied kids have legal representation and due process rights, no matter where they come from.”
    “Forcing toddlers to represent themselves in immigration court does not make us safer, yet that’s exactly what’s happening because of this Administration,” said Senator Tina Smith (D-Minn.). “Children should worry about growing up and going to school, not about facing a prosecutor and judge alone. This bill would provide some much-needed support for children caught up in our broken immigration system, and make sure their rights are respected and protected.”
    “It’s unacceptable to force unaccompanied children to navigate immigration court by themselves – yet that’s the frightening reality that far too many face. This legislation will help prevent this unjust practice, and ensure they have a lawyer when they come before a court,” said Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.).
    “Forcing toddlers to navigate their immigration hearing without a lawyer is cruel and violates their due process rights,” said Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.). “This bill will provide them with the necessary protections to ensure they are treated with dignity and have a fair shot in court.”
    “There is one word to describe what the Trump Administration is doing to unaccompanied migrant children—cruel,” said Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.). “These children can’t be expected to navigate our complex immigration system and should never be forced to face off against seasoned government attorneys alone, but that’s what President Trump is doing. In response to the administration’s actions, Congress must reaffirm America’s commitment to due process and ensure all unaccompanied children are afforded legal counsel. Justice demands it.”
    “No kid should ever have to represent themself in court – period,” said Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.). “It should go without saying that courts are meant to be navigated by the attorneys who understand America’s complex legal system. The Trump administration’s decision to gut legal representation for unaccompanied kids is not only immoral but also blatantly illegal. Forcing unaccompanied babies, toddlers, and youth to go without representation will leave kids vulnerable to exploitation, abuse, and trafficking. Congress must ensure children have real legal counsel and protect them from harm.”
    Specifically, the Fair Day in Court for Kids Act:
    Requires that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) provide counsel to noncitizen unaccompanied children appearing before the U.S. Department of Justice, U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or a state court, unless the child has obtained counsel at their own expense;
    Extends the government’s duty to ensure counsel for unaccompanied children to the end of the immigration proceedings, even if the child turns 18 during proceedings;
    Ensures that children are informed of their right to representation within 72 hours and creates infrastructure to identify, recruit, and train pro bono lawyers to provide representation;
    Allows unaccompanied children to reopen their case if HHS fails to provide counsel;
    Requires the government and stakeholders to create guidelines and duties for counsel representing unaccompanied children, largely based on American Bar Association recommendations;
    Clarifies that the government may, at its choosing, also provide counsel to other individuals in immigration court;
    Requires noncitizens, and their attorneys, to receive a complete copy of the noncitizen’s immigration file at least 10 days before the removal proceedings;
    Guarantees access to counsel for all noncitizens detained in DHS facilities; and
    Requires a report on children’s access to counsel.
    Last month, after the Trump Administration issued the first stop work order in February, Senator Hirono and Senator Jon Ossoff (D-GA) led 30 of their colleagues in sending a letter to Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum, demanding that the Trump Administration continue legal services for unaccompanied children caught up in the immigration system as required by law.
    The bill is cosponsored by Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). 
    The Fair Day in Court for Kids Act is endorsed by Kids in Need of Defense (KIND); Acacia Center for Justice; Young Center for Immigrant Children’s Rights; and National Center for Youth Law.
    The full text of the legislation is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sullivan, Graham, and Blumenthal Introduce Hard-Hitting Russia Sanctions

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan
    04.03.25
    WASHINGTON –U.S. Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) this week introduced legislation with primary and secondary sanctions against Russia and global actors supporting Russia’s aggression in Ukraine. 
    These sanctions would be imposed if Russia refuses to engage in good faith negotiations for a lasting peace with Ukraine or initiates another effort, including military invasion, that undermines the sovereignty of Ukraine after peace is negotiated. The legislation also imposes a 500 percent tariff on imported goods from countries that buy Russian oil, gas, uranium and other products.
    “President Trump’s goal in these negotiations is clear: stopping this war, ending the killing, and ensuring a sovereign and secure Ukraine,” said Sen. Sullivan. “Achieving this goal requires both Ukraine and Russia to come to the table, but Vladimir Putin—who started this brutal war against Ukraine—has been unwilling to agree to a ceasefire or seriously negotiate a peace agreement. A bipartisan majority of my Senate colleagues and I are working to provide a comprehensive sanctions package against Russia that puts Putin on notice and gives the administration additional tools and leverage to end this war and find a workable peace.”
    Sen. Sullivan has been a strong supporter of sanctions and other actions to condemn and deter Russia and other authoritarian regimes. Sen. Sullivan pushed back against the Biden administration’s weak foreign policy positions that emboldened Putin and has strongly endorsed sustaining robust defense spending above 3% of GDP, reducing Indo-Pacific allies’ reliance on Russian oil and gas by exporting Alaskan and American energy, and building up Alaska-based military to deter further incursions by Russian and Chinese military forces near Alaska. In February 2024, Sen. Sullivan voted to pass legislation to strengthen America’s defense industrial base and provide weapons to America’s allies facing threats abroad.
    The sanctions are cosponsored by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Angus King (I-Maine), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), John Curtis (R-Utah), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Jon Husted (R-Ohio), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), John Hickenlooper (D-Col.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Michael Bennet (D-Col.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), John Fetterman (D-Penn.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.) and Jack Reed (D-R.I.).
    Companion legislation is being introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by U.S. Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Penn.), Mike Quigley (D-Ill.), Joe Wilson (R-S.C.) and Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Golden speaks out against shuttering of agency supporting Maine libraries, museums

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02)

    WASHINGTON — Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) today joined more than 100 lawmakers urging President Donald Trump to restore the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and the support for Maine museums and libraries that it provides. 

    “From early literacy programs and STEM education initiatives to high-speed internet access and job training resources, funding for the IMLS enables libraries and museums to provide critical services to millions of Americans,” Golden and the lawmakers wrote in a letter to the President. “The loss of this funding would be particularly devastating for rural, tribal, and other underserved communities that rely heavily on these institutions for access to learning resources, workforce development, and technological infrastructure.”

    President Trump named IMLS as one of seven agencies slated to be dismantled in a March 14 executive order. On Monday, the president put the agency’s entire staff on administrative leave.According to the American Federation of Government Employees union, “without staff to administer the programs, it is likely that most [IMLS] grants will be terminated.”

    The IMLS provides more than $1.8 million in discretionary and nondiscretionary funding to Maine organizations focused on education and workforce development, including the Maine State Library, Maine Center for Coastal Fisheries, Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine, and Maine Maritime Academy. It is the only federal agency dedicated to supporting library and museum services.

    “IMLS grants are an integral part of our services to rural Mainers. Specifically, they help smaller communities have access to information and resources that they otherwise would not have access to. I support Congressman Golden’s efforts to fight for these resources,” said Maine State Librarian Lori Fisher.

    Congress established the IMLS in 1996 to consolidate the operations of multiple government agencies into a single, streamlined office. Its most recent reauthorization came in 2018 during the first Trump administration.

    The letter can be found here, and is included below in full:

    +++

    April 2, 2025

    The Honorable Donald J. Trump
    President
    The White House
    1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW
    Washington, D.C. 20500

    Dear President Trump,

    We write to express our deep concern over the proposed elimination of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and the devastating impact such cuts would have on communities throughout the country. 

    The IMLS is the only federal agency dedicated to supporting America’s museums and libraries. Operating in all 50 states and U.S. territories, it plays a vital role in strengthening these institutions which serve as essential educational, cultural, and economic pillars in our communities. From early literacy programs and STEM education initiatives to high-speed internet access and job training resources, funding for the IMLS enables libraries and museums to provide critical services to millions of Americans. The loss of this funding would be particularly devastating for rural, tribal, and other underserved communities that rely heavily on these institutions for access to learning resources, workforce development, and technological infrastructure.

    Beyond their valuable contributions to education and social development, museums and libraries also serve as significant economic drivers. The American Alliance of Museums reports that museums alone contribute more than $50 billion to the U.S. economy each year and support over 726,000 jobs. Museums have immense power to draw tourism and foot traffic to other local businesses and revitalize communities. For every $1 that museums and other nonprofit cultural organizations receive in government funding, they return more than $5 in tax revenue. They also have broad public support, with 96% of Americans wanting to maintain or increase federal funding for museums. Libraries similarly generate economic returns through workforce training

    programs, small business support, and research services. Nearly all of the approximately 17,000 public libraries across the nation offer Wi-Fi access at no charge, and in 2019, Americans accessed the Internet using library computers close to 224 million times. This includes millions of students who lack adequate broadband access at home and rely on libraries to complete their homework. Despite this, IMLS funding accounts for a mere 0.0046% of the federal budget, an incredibly modest investment relative to the immense benefits these institutions provide.

    Eliminating the IMLS would not only jeopardize these essential services but also dismiss the everyday needs of millions of Americans who rely on libraries and museums for learning, job opportunities, and community engagement. We urge the Administration to reconsider this decision and recognize the far-reaching impact of IMLS funding. Maintaining and strengthening federal support for museums and libraries is not just an investment in cultural preservation, it is an investment in education, innovation, and economic growth.

    Thank you for your attention to this important matter. We look forward to working with you to ensure that America’s libraries and museums continue to thrive and serve the public.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: As Summer Travel Approaches, Davids Acts to Lower Gas Prices in Kansas

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-3)

    Today, Representative Sharice Davids urged the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to take action to lower gas prices, requesting an emergency waiver to allow the sale of E15 – fuel blended with 10.5 to 15 percent ethanol – during the 2025 summer season in Kansas.

    Ethanol, made from locally grown crops, is a more affordable alternative to unblended gasoline. This waiver, which has been granted multiple times in recent years, would help lower gas prices for Kansans, support local farmers, and strengthen domestic supply chains.

      

    “Kansas farmers and producers work hard to supply homegrown energy that lowers costs for families at the gas pump,” said Davids. “By allowing the sale of E15 this summer, the EPA can ensure Kansans benefit from lower gas prices while strengthening our economy and reducing reliance on foreign oil.”

    For multiple years, Davids has urged the EPA to guarantee the sale of E15 not only during the summer but also year-round. This would reduce our reliance on foreign oil, build U.S. energy security, and support Kansas agriculture and manufacturing. Davids previously visited East Kansas Agri-Energy (EKAE), a Garnett-based renewable ethanol producer, as part of her Farm Bill listening tour. EKAE has around 40 full-time employees and relies heavily on Kansas corn producers to supply the crops needed to make the biofuel.

    “We sincerely thank Representative Sharice Davids for her leadership in urging the EPA to once again allow the sale of E15 this summer,” said Geoff Cooper, President and CEO, Renewable Fuels Association. “Ensuring continued access to E15 nationwide is critical for lowering fuel costs, supporting farmers, and providing consumers with a cleaner, more affordable fuel choice. Most importantly, we thank Rep. Davids for her continued support for a permanent solution to secure year-round E15 nationwide.”

      

    Previously, Davids has taken multiple actions to lower gas prices for Kansans by:

    • Voting for the Year-Round Fuel Choice Act, which allow retailers the ability to sell higher ethanol-blended fuels year-round,
    • Leading the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, a bipartisan, bicameral bill that expands access to lower-cost, homegrown fuel,
    • Helping to pass legislation that promotes sustainable aviation fuel, a liquid fuel that achieves significant emissions reduction compared to fossil-based jet fuel,
    • Supporting legislation that expands biofuels infrastructure, opening up new market opportunities for sustainable fuel sources and lowering energy costs for Kansas families,
    • Pushing the President to suspend the federal gas tax, providing immediate relief to Kansans at the gas pump.

    A full copy of Davids’ letter to EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Kansan Highlights Trump’s Threat to KanCare in New KC Star Essay

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-3)

    Today, in a Kansas City Star essay, a health care policy expert and Prairie Village mother shines a light on the dangerous cuts to Medicaid, known as KanCare in Kansas, being pushed by President Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress — and the work Representative Sharice Davids is doing to stop them.

    Today’s piece highlights that, despite President Trump’s promises to protect Medicaid, nonpartisan experts confirm his and U.S. House Republicans’ budget would make cuts to the program. Their plan risks the health care of over 350,000 Kansans — including children, seniors, and people with disabilities — all while funding tax giveaways for billionaires and large corporations.

    Davids is a strong advocate for protecting and expanding Medicaid, fighting against recent extreme budget cuts to the program. She is working to expand Medicaid to cover 150,000 more Kansans, strengthen rural hospitals, and boost the state’s economy. She also supports extending postpartum Medicaid coverage to 12 months to improve maternal health and is pushing for bipartisan solutions that lower costs without jeopardizing care.

    Read the full essay here or below:

    “As a parent, lifelong Kansan, and longtime health care policy analyst, I’ve seen firsthand how essential Medicaid is to families across our state. Medicaid — known as KanCare in Kansas — provides health care to more than 350,000 of our neighbors, from children to older adults. But now, KanCare is under direct threat from President Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress, and the consequences for Kansas families could be devastating.

    “Despite repeated promises that they wouldn’t cut Medicaid, Trump and Republicans are pushing forward with plans to do just that. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office has confirmed that their budget proposal can’t be achieved without slashing Medicaid and Medicare benefits. This is heartbreaking and terrifying.

    “Cuts to Medicaid would directly harm children, who represent the vast majority of Medicaid recipients in our state. They would also directly impact older Kansas and our friends and neighbors with intellectual and developmental disabilities, traumatic brain injuries and severe mental illness. These are people who depend on Medicaid for health care services and support to help them live independently.

    “Worse, our KanCare benefits would be cut in order to fund Trump’s tax giveaways for billionaires and large corporations. Republicans need these cuts to meet their budget goals, but cutting Medicaid would put thousands of Kansans at risk of losing their health insurance.

    “This isn’t just a Washington issue — it’s a Kansas problem. In communities where I’ve lived here, I’ve seen firsthand how vital KanCare is to families. Children like those I worked with at Children’s Mercy Hospital need KanCare for everything from well-child visits to allergy tests. I heard directly from families about their struggles with food insecurity, housing instability and chronic health conditions. Without KanCare, they would face the impossible decision of choosing between food and necessary medical care. 

    “KanCare isn’t just vital for health — it’s a smart financial investment. During President George W. Bush’s administration, I had the opportunity to work with the federal Office of Inspector General’s Kansas City office. Through that experience and later working as a health policy analyst in Topeka, I saw how KanCare reduces costs and produces better outcomes by providing home and community-based services instead of forcing people to pay more for care at a hospital or nursing home.

    “Slashing KanCare would also lead to hospital closures, particularly for small rural hospitals, such as the one in which my husband was born. The closing of rural hospitals and safety net clinics across our state would further strain our health care system, forcing many Kansans to travel farther for essential care. The real waste would be the health and well-being of our community.

    “That’s why we need leaders like Rep. Sharice Davids, who is fighting to protect KanCare and ensure Kansas families aren’t left behind as Trump and Republicans push extreme cuts. But Davids can’t do this alone.

    “I’ve been calling our U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall and demanding they stand with us — not with Trump’s plan that puts tax breaks for the ultrawealthy over the health of our friends, family and communities. I invite you to do the same. It’s time for all congressional Republicans to stop siding with special interests and start listening to Kansans who rely on KanCare for their health and well-being.

    “We can’t afford to let reckless decisions in Washington harm Kansas families. I’m committed to fighting to ensure KanCare remains a program that supports every Kansan. The stakes are too high, and the time to act is now.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Trahan Reintroduces Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Improve Access to Diagnostic Services at Home

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (D-MA-03), a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Health Subcommittee, was joined by
    Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne (R-TX-24), Congressman Brad Schneider (D-IL-10) and Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA-01) in reintroducing the Portable Ultrasound Reimbursement Equity (PURE) Act, a bill that aims to provide Medicare beneficiaries with more flexibility for care through an update to Medicare reimbursement for portable diagnostic services to include ultrasound procedures. The lawmakers were joined by Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and John Cornyn (R-TX) in introducing the bicameral legislation. 
    “When patients need lifesaving ultrasound services but can’t reach a hospital, they’re often left without other options. The Portable Ultrasound Reimbursement Equity Act closes that gap by enabling portable ultrasounds to reach patients directly at their bedsides, allowing for rapid diagnosis of serious conditions like blood clots, heart failure, and abdominal disease,” said Congresswoman Trahan. “This bipartisan, bicameral legislation leverages cutting-edge portable ultrasound technology to make health care more accessible and affordable for those in our communities who need it most.”
    The legislation aims to recognize portable ultrasound procedures and provide the same transportation reimbursement that Medicare currently allows for portable x-ray services. Advances in technology have made portable ultrasound machines more compact and lightweight with improved imaging capabilities. This has led to an increased demand for these high-quality imaging services to be administered at the bedside enabling the rapid diagnosis of patients for a range of acute and chronic conditions, including blood clots, heart failure, or abdominal disease. Yet, outdated Medicare policy has not kept pace to allow providers of portable diagnostic services to receive reimbursement for ultrasound procedures.
     “Our bill offers an important step to modernize our health care system and ensure seniors receive the high-quality care they deserve,” said Congresswoman Van Duyne. “The Portable Ultrasound Reimbursement Equity Act (PURE Act) will expand access to lifesaving portable ultrasound services and remove the burdensome red tape facing North Texas medical providers, allowing them to provide better, more flexible care. By recognizing portable ultrasounds under Medicare’s reimbursement structure, we will improve care for vulnerable populations and prevent unnecessary hospital visits, lowering costs for patients and taxpayers.”
    “Our seniors need access to timely and medically appropriate services, regardless of where they reside,” said Congressman Schneider. “I am proud to help introduce the PURE Act to promote greater access to diagnostic services for individuals who require an ultrasound at home and help reduce unnecessary, avoidable hospitalizations.”
    “I am proud to support the Portable Ultrasound Reimbursement Equity Act of 2024, which ensures that seniors, especially those in rural areas, have access to critical healthcare services like ultrasound technology,” said Congresswoman Miller-Meeks. “This bill levels the playing field for Medicare patients and increases access to x-ray, ultrasound, and EKG screenings to make sure beneficiaries get the at-home care they need, no matter where they live. I thank Rep. Van Duyne for her leadership.”
    “Portable ultrasounds play a critical role in diagnosing potentially life-threatening conditions,” said Senator Cornyn. “By ensuring providers can be reimbursed for the transportation and set up of these exams, our legislation will help Medicare beneficiaries receive more efficient and effective care.”
    “APDA applauds Sen. Cornyn, Sen. Hassan, Rep. Van Duyne, Rep. Schneider, Rep. Miller-Meeks and Rep. Trahan for their bipartisan leadership to improve and expand access to portable ultrasound exams while lowering the cost of care for patients. The PURE Act will help ensure our members can continue to meet the growing demand across the country for portable diagnostic services to allow seniors and our most vulnerable to receive the treatment they need in the comfort of their own homes.” said Tamara Schwartz, President of the American Portable Diagnostics Association (APDA). 
    Since joining the House Energy and Commerce Committee in 2021, Trahan has consistently championed legislation that expands access to health care for working families. In February, she reintroduced the Accelerating Kids’ Access to Care Act, bipartisan legislation that will break down barriers for children with complex medical conditions to make it easier for families to access out-of-state care. In 2024, she introduced the Bolstering Research and Innovation Now (BRAIN) Act, bipartisan legislation to strengthen research and treatment development for brain tumors and to improve the accessibility of brain tumor health care. Also in 2024, Trahan introduced the Reinforcing Essential Health Systems for Communities Act, legislation that would establish an “essential health system” designation in federal law, creating opportunity for more federal funding and support to flow to safety net hospitals that traditionally support more uninsured and low-income patients.
    Click HERE for a copy of the legislation.
    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Representatives Stevens and Khanna Hold Press Conference to Hold China Accountable and Reduce our Debt

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Representative Haley Stevens (D-MI) along with U.S. Representative Ro Khanna (D-CA), hosted a press conference to call on the Trump Administration to sue the Chinese Communist Party for Covid damages.

    Last week, a federal judge in Missouri held that the Chinese Communist Party is liable for $24 billion to the state for covering up the severity of COVID in early 2020 and hoarding pandemic related supplies in violation of antitrust law. Now, the Representatives are calling on the Trump Administration to follow suit and pursue similar legal action against the CCP to hold them accountable for damages across the United States. Rather than putting tariffs on Canada and gutting the federal government, the Representatives are calling on the Administration to hold China accountable and then use the damages to rebalance our financial relationship with China, reduce our federal debt, and fund the services Americans rely on. 

    “The COVID pandemic cost the United States trillions of dollars and 1 million American lives,” said Rep. Haley Stevens (D-MI). ”And it’s time to hold the CCP accountable. I’m calling on the Trump Administration to pursue legal action against the CCP for lying and misleading about Covid and hoarding resources. Rather than putting tariffs on our friend Canada, firing veterans, and slashing food and housing assistance, let’s go after our competitor, China, for their role in letting COVID get out of hand and use the damages to reduce our debt and pay for the services Americans rely on.”

    “During the COVID-19 pandemic, China was not transparent with the U.S. or the world,” said Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA). “The CCP prevented Americans from getting the PPE they urgently needed by restricting exports. We must hold the CCP accountable and strengthen our domestic industrial base so we are never in that position again. This should be supported by both parties. I am grateful for Congresswoman Stevens’ leadership on this issue.”

    “After a federal judge found Communist China liable for billions in damages to the people of Missouri for its misconduct around the COVID pandemic, we need the Trump Administration to toughen up and hold the Chinese government accountable on behalf of all Americans,” said Rep. Chris Deluzio (D-PA). “Attorney General Bondi and the Justice Department should pursue every legal option to bring the Chinese Communist Party to justice. Making China pay what it’s liable for under U.S. law is about justice and fiscal responsibility.” 

    Full video of the press conference can be found here. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Representative Haley Stevens (D-MI) Statement on Continuing Resolution

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11)

    “Today, my colleagues on the other side of the aisle wrote a blank check to Elon Musk to further defund Congressional priorities, while cutting housing assistance, failing to fully fund nutrition programs for seniors, and reneging on additional money for American veterans exposed to toxic fumes while serving our country.

    I could not in good conscience vote for a one-year funding proposal that leaves communities out and does not fulfill the funding promises from last year’s bipartisan deal.

    Michigan cannot afford Elon Musk’s shutdown and a funding proposal without the guardrails to keep him from taking his chainsaw to the agencies delivering the services Americans rely on, like SNAP and Medicaid.

    I would happily vote for bipartisan appropriations legislation that expands access to housing, provides veterans exposed to burn pits care, and fully funds the CHIPS and Science Act.

    My colleagues on the other side of the aisle, however, refused to reach across, so I will leave this mess to them.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Over 300,000 Treaty Principles Submissions, and not a glove laid on Equal Rights

    Source: ACT Party

    “The Treaty Principles Bill Select Committee report confirms what ACT has long said. There are no good arguments against people being equal, and more people making bad arguments does not improve them,” says ACT Leader David Seymour.

    “They came in their thousands to oppose the Bill, but only succeeded in showing why Parliament should pass it into law. The confused and often self-contradictory arguments against the bill (analysed below) show why it is necessary to clarify a simple truth by Parliament passing this law: All Kiwis are Equal, forever.

    “The alternative version of New Zealand supported by many submitters, where Parliament is not sovereign and people shouldn’t have their rights upheld equally, is unworkable. The idea that two babies born in New Zealand should have a different place in New Zealand thanks to events occurring nearly two centuries before their birth is abhorrent.

    “High profile bills often draw out Select Committee submissions that don’t reflect public opinion. Opponents will make much of the balance of submissions, but if they believed the public opposed the bill they could call for a referendum where everyone votes. You can’t say the majority decides the matter unless you’re ready for the majority to decide the matter.

    “We have seen wide contrasts between submissions and public opinion before. In the case of the End of Life Choice Act, analysis of that showed 90 per cent were opposed. When that law was put to referendum, it passed by 65 per cent to 34 per cent (with a small number of ‘informal’ votes).

    “When people are asked about the Bill’s principles, they come out strongly in favour. For example when a scientific poll asked about the specific wording of the proposed principles, it found:

    1. The Executive Government of New Zealand has full power to govern, and the
      Parliament of New Zealand has full power to make laws in the best interests of
      everyone; and in accordance with the rule of law and the maintenance of a free and democratic society.
      Support: 45%
      Oppose: 24%
    2. The Crown recognises, and will respect and protect, the rights that hapū and iwi Māori had under the Treaty of Waitangi/te Tiriti o Waitangi at the time they signed it. However, if those rights differ from the rights of everyone, this applies only if those rights are agreed in the settlement of a historical treaty claim under the Treaty of Waitangi Act 1975.
      Support: 42%
      Oppose: 25%
    3. Everyone is equal before the law. Everyone is entitled, without discrimination, to the equal protection and equal benefit of the law; and the equal enjoyment of the same fundamental human rights.
      Support: 62%
      Oppose: 14%

    “The principles in the bill are strongly supported by an average margin of two votes to one. However, even if the principle of equal rights for all was wildly unpopular (as it has been on many issues throughout our history), it would still be the right policy. The reason is that people truly are equal, and the law of the land should treat them as being alike in dignity.

    “The submissions and the opposition parties’ summaries of them show why the bill is needed.

    Here are the key arguments:

    Māori never ceded sovereignty

    “Various submitters claim that Māori never ceded sovereignty in the Treaty of Waitangi, and it’s implausible that they would have. It has always been inconsistent to argue that the Chiefs were all powerful when they signed, but only years later the British superpower was able to trample rights Māori with overwhelming force in the land wars.

    “The truth is that Britain was the superpower of its day, and there were good reasons to seek its protection. A combination of the musket wars, unruly settlers, and concern about possible French intrusion made it very plausible that Māori would want British protection, including from other iwi.

    “Furthermore, Rangatira raised the concern that sovereignty would be lost as a reason not to sign. They were fully aware of what they were signing up to, that people now say they were not an afront to their mana.

    “More importantly, those submitting to Parliament failed to give any workable solution to a country without a sovereign Parliament. Without clearly understood and respected laws it would be much harder for people to build their lives, homes, families and businesses, as is the case in many countries around the world that lack strong democratic traditions.

    “Widespread claims that Parliament does not have the right to make laws show why the first proposed principle is needed. The basic idea that the Government and Parliament have the full right to make laws is essential to a coherent country where people have certainty to plan their lives. Te Pati Māori have shown a hint of the anarchist alternative with their theatrics around the bill and subsequent Privileges hearing.

    Parliament cannot interpret the Treaty

    “One submission claimed ‘Parliamentarians come from all walks of life and have a vast array of skills, however very few have a coherent understanding of the historical context in which Te Tiriti was signed, nor proficiency in Te Reo Māori to understand the true context of the original text, nor the experience applying the principles in a judicial context. (Green Minority View)’

    “Various submitters argued that the Courts, Waitangi Tribunal and various experts can interpret what Parliament meant when it legislated that there are Treaty Principles, but a Parliament of the people cannot. What they are really saying is that the destiny of the country cannot be decided by the people who must live in it. That is a recipe for disenfranchisement and growing discontent. Parliament can and must remain the highest court in the land.

    Other countries have special indigenous rights

    “One Party’s Minority View claims that ‘Canada, Denmark, Bolivia, Sweden, Finland, Ecuador, and the Philippines are a few countries that have enabled constitutional recognition of Indigenous rights.’  This is only partially true, none of these countries have a constitution that effectively splits Governance equally between two ethnic groups regardless of numbers, as many suggest New Zealand should be co-governed.

    “More importantly, there are many examples of bad policies around the world that we should not want to emulate. Canadian indigenous policy, for example, is a very poor comparator to New Zealand, it is certainly not an example we should want to follow.

    Māori don’t have special rights

    “Various submitters were summarized as saying the Māori do not in fact have special rights. This contradicts the argument that Māori have separate sovereignty from the rest of New Zealand. It also brings into question why anyone would oppose a bill that says All New Zealanders have the same rights, notwithstanding Treaty Settlements.

    “The contradiction emerged in one passage from the report:

    One often repeated statement was that Māori were given special privileges under the Resource Management Act. There was no substantive evidence provided for this, and the Auckland City Council in its oral submission rejected that this was the case. It is true that where there is an application for a resource consent for a use outside of the District Plan the interests of Māori, including local iwi and hapu, are relevant to decision making. However it is hard to understand how consultation with the mana whenua is in any way a special privilege.

    Māori do have special rights

    “The above paragraph perhaps brought out the best contrast between those objectors who believe Māori do have special rights, and those who believe they do not. They began by claiming there are not special rights, then concluded Māori are so special they should expect to have special rights!

    “Clearly many people do believe Māori should have special rights, while also claiming to support equal rights. That is why it is necessary to pass the Treaty Principles Bill.

    Māori have a group right to language and culture

    “One of the most interesting themes of the submissions was that the Māori have group rights to language and culture that must be protected by the Treaty. This reflects a genuine anxiety that opponents of the bill have created, that gains in te reo Māori, Kapa haka, and the application of Tikanga might be lost. I take that anxiety seriously.

    “There is no need for specific Treaty protection for Māori language and culture for flourish. Choice programs and health and education, arts funding, and tikanga practices in everyday life can all flourish without a specific constitutional protection, none of them rely on it. All of them are part of a commitment to allowing all citizens an opportunity to flourish and succeed on their own terms.

    “Furthermore, if Māori language and culture require constitutional protection, what about the many other groups who make up New Zealand. Are they somehow not entitled to their language and culture? If they are not, then how can we say we are a society committed to equal rights?

    The bureaucracy criticised it

    Some made much of the Public Service criticizing the Bill. Public servants were the most predictable critics of the bill. The whole point of the Bill is that the bureaucrats got it wrong. If their view of the Treaty was consistent with equal rights and democracy, it would not be necessary for parliament to intervene in the first place.

    The Bill is divisive

    “Others claimed that the Bill has been divisive. The Bill propose that the Treaty be interpreted in such a way that All Kiwis are Equal. What the Bill has done is reveal that New Zealand is divided. Many believe Parliament should not be sovereign, and the rights of two New Zealanders born on the same day might not be equal, depending on their ancestry.

    “The Bill has revealed a drift towards division in this country. That drift to division further shows why the Bill is necessary.

    In conclusion

    “In conclusion, there are no compelling arguments that Parliament is not sovereign, and citizens of this country do not have equal rights. There are worrying arguments that New Zealand cannot function as a liberal democratic state if the Treaty gives different New Zealanders different rights. The Select Committee process has strengthened the case for the Treaty Principles Bill.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Introduces Bill to Combat Illicit International Trade in Foreign Free Trade Zones

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) introduced the Containing and Limiting the Extensive Abuse Noticed in Free Trade Zones Act (CLEAN FTZ) to create a trade rating system based on U.S. and international standards to combat trade-based money laundering and other criminal activities in foreign free trade zones. Currently, no formal rating system for free trade zones exists making it challenging for federal enforcement authorities to address illegal trafficking of illicit narcotics, persons, weapons, tobacco, counterfeits, commodities, wildlife, and more.
    “Why are we trading with countries that don’t fight corruption?” said Dr. Cassidy. “We are combating the flow of illegal drugs, weapons, and more. Seems important.”
    The CLEAN FTZ Act:
    Creates a formal rating system with four tier classifications of countries based on compliance to U.S. and international standards.
    Gives countries an overall rating based on the performance of all free trade zones under their national jurisdiction. 
    Makes the ratings publicly available and is updated annually.
    Allows the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection to make recommendation to improve efforts to combat illicit trade to countries rated tier II, III, and IV.
    Creates a hotline for reporting of instances of illicit trading and money laundering activity.
    Provides financial penalty options for foreign persons involved in illicit international trade.
    Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) in introducing this legislation.
    The CLEAN FTZ Act is supported by the International Coalition Against Illicit Economies (ICAIE), Advocacy for Transparency International U.S., and the Global Financial Integrity (GFI). 
    “We applaud Senators Cassidy and Whitehouse for their leadership in protecting our national security, American competitiveness, and the health and safety of our citizens by countering illicit trade, organized crime, and money laundering across some of today’s risky free trade zones around the world,” said David M. Luna, Executive Director for ICAIE. “Disrupting the increasing cross-border flows of illicit goods, contraband, and dirty monies and dismantling transnational illicit networks and their enablers from financing other criminalities and threats helps all communities to secure greater peace and security.”
    “The CLEAN FTZ Act takes a crucial step in the fight against corruption by targeting how foreign corrupt officials rely on trade-based money laundering to move and conceal the proceeds of their crimes,” said Scott Greytak, Director of Advocacy for Transparency International U.S. “By enhancing oversight of free trade zones, ensuring that they comply with globally recognized anticorruption and trade transparency frameworks, and holding bad actors accountable, this legislation would help disrupt the financial networks that enable bribery, fraud, and the abuse of public trust, and will help safeguard global markets and protect economies from the destabilizing effects of financial crime.”
    “Global Financial Integrity (GFI) endorses the CLEAN FTZ Act of 2025 and commends Senators Cassidy and Whitehouse for their collaboration on this important piece of legislation. Once in force this legislation will shed light on the operations of free trade zones around the globe, many of which have long been known to facilitate all manner of illegal activity including trafficking, illicit trade, and money laundering. Further, the proposed sanctions against perpetrators of illegal activity through these zones will protect U.S. ports and American consumers from goods that may be harmful. It is also important to note that under this legislation the U.S. government can provide recommendations for improvement to countries where low-performing zones are located,” said Tom Cardamone, President and CEO for GFI.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Perry to Host TeleTown Hall

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Scott Perry (PA-10)

    Harrisburg, PA – Congressman Scott Perry (R-PA) will host another TeleTown Hall on April 2, 2025, at 6:00 PM. 

    This is another great opportunity for constituents of the 10th District to discuss a wide range of important topics, including Medicaid, tariffs, taxes, National security, and cutting waste, fraud, and abuse.

    “As always, I’m eager to hear your views and concerns so we can work toward solutions that benefit our communities and Nation,” said Congressman Perry. “I look forward to hearing from you, and providing you updates on what Congress is doing to address the challenges you care about most.”

    The event will also be live-streamed on Congressman Perry’s Facebook page and at http://perry.house.gov/live. Constituents wishing to participate and ask questions during the call are asked to RSVP at https://perry.house.gov/forms/form/?ID=2951.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Perry Re-Introduces TREAT PTSD ACT

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Scott Perry (PA-10)

    Washington D.C. – Congressman Scott Perry (PA-10) re-introduced his Treatment and Relief through Emerging and Accessible Therapy (TREAT) of PTSD Act to provide access to lifesaving Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) therapy for Veterans suffering with PTSD.

    “Far too many of our Veterans come home to find the war comes home with them,” said Congressman Perry, a combat Veteran with nearly 40 years in uniform. “Our current PTSD treatments provide relief for only a fraction of our Veterans, and some really encouraging treatments are either unavailable or offered at too few facilities. We have a moral duty to do everything possible to ease the suffering of those who risk(ed) it all to protect our freedoms and way of life. This bill offers unrestricted access to SGB therapy – a proven and amazing PTSD treatment, the results of which I’ve witnessed personally.”

    SGB therapy is an outpatient procedure that’s been used since the 1920s. It’s safe, effective, and affordable – especially in cases where other treatments have failed – and proven to alleviate common PTSD symptoms such as exaggerated responses and anxiety. By injecting an anesthetic agent onto the stellate ganglion (nerves in the neck that control the “fight or flight” reflex) it helps bring relief to regions of the cerebral cortex thought to be abnormally activated in sufferers of PTSD. SGB changes the paradigm of treatment from the failing perception of simply a mental disorder to that of a treatable injury, and with traditional therapies as needed, that can bring long-term relief to our injured Veterans.

    As of 2018, only 11 out of America’s 170 VA facilities reported using SGB or making it available. Making matters worse, a Veteran must fail traditional treatments before being considered for SGB therapy. The time, distance, and monetary burdens demanded from finding SGB elsewhere frequently prove too much, which leaves far too many of our Veterans with options like self-medicating, self-harm, and – too often – suicide. Our Nation suffers 20 Veteran suicides every single day; enough is enough.

    This bill ensures that Veterans have unrestricted access to SGB therapy without having to travel vast distances or failing other treatments first. It directs the Secretary of the VA to expand SGB access to Veterans upon PTSD diagnoses by making it a covered treatment under federal law.

    Read more about H.R.1947 here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Transcript: Governor Hochul is a Guest on Bloomberg TV

    Source: US State of New York

    arlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul was a guest on Bloomberg TV’s “Balance of Power”.

    AUDIO: The Governor’s conversation is available in audio form here.

    A rush transcript of the Governor’s remarks is available below:

    Kailey Leinz, Bloomberg TV:  President Trump announcing steep tariffs on all exporters to the US yesterday with rates ranging from 10 percent to over 50 percent, which his administration says aimed to counter large trade imbalances with other countries. But the levies are also expected to have consequences here at home. And for a look at how individual states are bracing for them, we turn now to the Democratic Governor of New York, Kathy Hochul.

    Governor, thank you for joining us here on Bloomberg TV and radio. I’m curious what you’re already hearing from businesses and companies in your state and whether they are already suggesting they are making changes on hiring practices on pricing, for example, or if they’re playing, “wait and see” here to see whether or not this actually sticks.

    Governor Hochul: Thank you for having me. No, the impact is immediate. I mean, this is nothing short of the largest tax increase in American history. And the impact on New York — let me explain. This is the 10th largest economy in the world. We have Wall Street, we have farms, we have a border of 450 miles with Canada, so we have a trade relationship with Canada of over $50 billion.

    So already, here’s what we’re seeing: Droppings in bookings from Canadians coming to New York State. A huge source of tourism all the way to New York City, but certainly my hometown in Buffalo, where Canadians come over all the time and they go to our sport events. They shop at our stores.

    So here’s number one: Sales tax revenues are dropping already. Now, speaking to a farmer in a very Republican part of our state — I’d call it Stefanik Country in the North Country — he told me that as a dairy farmer, he gets his shavings, he gets his fertilizer, he gets all these products from Canada and his costs are going up $10,000 a month. A dairy farmer. Not the total cost, but an increase of $10,000 a month.

    So, there’s such anxiety now. Not to mention the Walmart mom who goes to Walmart like I did when my kids were little — that giant grocery cart with the oversized diapers and lots of baby food and paper towels — that’s going to have an impact on people shopping at Walmart who come out of the trailer park like the one my parents grew up in.

    So I have to say, it goes all the way from Wall Street to the farmers to the small towns, Main Street to Wall Street — there is a cataclysmic effect on this, and New Yorkers are reeling right now.

    Joe Mathieu, Bloomberg TV: I hear where you’re coming from here Governor. I wonder if there’s a silver lining in any of this for the great industrial towns of your state from the last century: Syracuse, Rochester. Based on what we’re hearing from this administration, they will again have a seat at the manufacturing table. Do you believe that?

    Governor Hochul: I hope so, but we already have advanced manufacturing coming to New York. I literally got off the phone with someone who’s in a pharmaceutical business looking all over the world, and he is very likely with the deal I’m making, to come to New York.

    So we have advanced manufacturing, we have pharmaceuticals. In fact, I was able to lure Micron with a $100 billion investment, the largest in our nation’s history, to build semiconductors in the Syracuse area. So we are already reimagining our economy based on manufacturing. So that’s important to me.

    I come from Buffalo. I mean, my dad worked at the steel plant. I know how hard it is when businesses leave, but we are backfilling in with businesses that we think will have a long-term future, and they’ll be affected by this, the component parts to what they’re building and the supply chain. They’re going to see an increased cost, not just because they’re in New York, but because they’re in America.

    And that’s what worries me. There could be a silver lining, as you say. I don’t know how old I’m going to be when that happens. I mean, what are they going to do? Start building factories now? And, you know, I just don’t know. All I know is that people were promised lower prices on Inauguration Day, and guess what? They’re going up.

    Kailey Leinz, Bloomberg TV: Well, is there anything you can do about that Governor? Regardless of what policy is set by the federal executive, you as a state executive, are there levers you can pull to help offset any economic pain that results from these tariff policies?

    Governor Hochul: Well, I’ve had to have this conversation. I’m assembling some of the smartest economists in the country to help give us advice on this. This is an unforced error. This did not have to be this way. And yes, you can use tariffs as a tool to negotiate or, you know, have something in moderation. But this is so extreme and so immediate that I need to figure out with some real experts on what this is going to do.

    But I’ll tell you what’s going to happen. Wall Street goes down, next January, when I’m looking at my revenues that are coming in from Wall Street bonuses where I fund a lot of the generous programs we hear in our state, that’s going to be lower. I’m going to have to look at where we’re going to have to cut there. I have to look at the whole picture.

    Now in the context of the Budget, I’m negotiating the revenues I count on, the revenues I’m going to lose, but also the impact on our businesses who may not be expanding now. So I have to find ways we can use state resources to say, “We’ll help calm it down.” What can I do for a farmer in upstate New York? That’s a good question. I don’t want them to suffer. Thirty two thousand farms in our state. People think of New York as just Manhattan. I know they do. But it’s so much more than that. An important part of our economy is our agricultural sector.

    So all of our sectors are going to be hurt. So I have to look at our Budget, what we can do to help other incentives for economic development. And as I’m doing, I’m trying to put money back in people’s pockets. I mean, the average New Yorker will have $6,000 less in their pockets because of these tariffs. And that’s an opinion by a number of economists.

    I have a budget I’m negotiating right now that puts $5,000 back in people’s pockets: Child tax credits, a middle class tax cut, the largest in 70 years, the largest tax rate decrease in 70 years, and an inflation rebate for people who paid so much more in sales tax. So I have a path to put all this money back in their pockets. But you know what’s really sad? That’s going to be sucked right out with $6,000 that they’re going to lose because of tariffs. So I’ll keep fighting, I’ll keep doing what I can do, but this is a real hit on New Yorkers.

    Joe Mathieu, Bloomberg TV: So it sounds like the potential for state tax cuts in the year ahead depend on tax receipts from Wall Street, Governor. Is that right?

    Governor Hochul: Oh, it always does. I mean, I’ve not had an increase in our income tax because I want to make sure high net worth people know we appreciate them and I don’t want to drive them out of our state. So that’s my view.

    Joe Mathieu, Bloomberg TV: But does it increase the urgency behind extending the Trump tax cuts and eliminating the SALT cap? Because a lot of Republican members of Congress in your state are working to do that now.

    Governor Hochul: Well, they better be successful. We want to make sure that the SALT deduction, state local tax deduction, is brought back 100 percent. Absolutely. And I have seven Republican members of Congress — you better win on this one because you promised your voters you would.

    Kailey Leinz, Bloomberg TV: Governor, before we let you go, our time is short here, but I do want to ask you about New York City Mayor, Eric Adams, who of course had charges against him dismissed. He now says he will continue his mayoral campaign for reelection, but as an independent. During the height of that controversy, you said it will be up to the voters to choose who they want to be Mayor. You opted not to force him out of the position. Even if you’re not going to endorse anyone, would you encourage New Yorkers to reconsider a vote for him as an independent?

    Governor Hochul: All I’m going to say is my job is to work with whomever’s in the White House — I have a relationship with Donald Trump based on our mutual interest in building infrastructure and working on projects like Penn Station, but not allies when I don’t support many of his policies. Same thing with the Mayor of New York, no matter who is sitting in that seat that the voters of New York decide they want me to work with. I will do that, but always stand up for the rights of the entire state and focus on my agenda of affordability and public safety.

    Joe Mathieu, Bloomberg TV: It’s great to have you with us, Governor. Come see us again. New York Governor Kathy Hochul with us on “Balance of Power”.

    Governor Hochul: Will do. Thank you.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Check smoke alarms as clocks change this weekend

    Source:

    As Victorians wind their clocks back this weekend when daylight saving comes to an end, firefighters are reminding people to test their smoke alarms to ensure they are in working order.

    On average, 18 people die in house fires in Victoria each year.

    Fire Rescue Commissioner Gavin Freeman AFSM warned that in a fire, every second counts.

    “While Victorians might gain an extra hour on Sunday, in the event of a fire they would not be so lucky – a smoke alarm is your first line of defence,” Commissioner Freeman said.

    “Smoke alarms provide a vital early warning to help you and your family escape. Fires can engulf an entire room in just minutes and smoke will not wake you up.”

    Commissioner Freeman said it was important to not only install smoke alarms in all bedrooms, living areas and hallways but to test them regularly.

    “To test your smoke alarm, simply press the ‘test’ button for about three seconds. If you don’t hear three beeps it’s a good sign the battery or smoke alarm needs replacing,” Commissioner Freeman said.

    “All smoke alarms should be replaced after 10 years, and those with replaceable batteries should be changed yearly.”

    CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said the best way to keep your family safe is to install interconnected smoke alarms, so that when one alarm activates, all smoke alarms will sound, allowing you to evacuate early.

    “Last year our CFA firefighters attended 870 residential fires and tragically, four of those ended with lives lost, which could have been prevented,” CO Heffernan said.

    “Smoke alarms with 10-year long life batteries combined with monthly testing could just save your life.

    “It’s also best to install a smoke alarm on each level of your home and where devices are often charged, such as garages.

    “We encourage you to take the time to check your smoke alarms this weekend.”

    When checking, installing, or replacing your smoke alarms, FRV and CFA recommend.

    • Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom and living area.
    • Smoke alarms must be located between each bedroom area and the rest of the house. Install a smoke alarm on each level of the house.
    • Recommend the use of smoke alarms powered by a 10-year long-life battery.
    • All smoke alarms should be replaced after 10 years.
    • Smoke alarms should be interconnected, so that when any alarm activates, all smoke alarms will sound.
    • Smoke alarms should be installed on the ceiling at least 30cm from the wall.
    • Smoke alarms should be tested monthly. Press the test button until the alarm sounds.
    • Smoke alarms should be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner at least once a year.
    • Replaceable batteries in a smoke alarm need to be changed yearly.
    Submitted by CFA media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 04.03.2025 Sens. Cruz, Padilla Introduce Bill to Improve Fog Forecasting, Boost Vessel Safety at Ports

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) today introduced the Fog Observations and Geographic Forecasting Act (FOG Forecasting Act), bipartisan legislation to improve the National Weather Service’s (NWS) fog forecasting capabilities to enhance safety at America’s ports and help prevent costly shipping delays caused by dense fog.
    Upon introduction, Sen. Cruz said, “In my hometown of Houston, we’ve seen unexpected severe fog occurrences delay goods coming in and out of Port Houston. The FOG Forecasting Act would keep vessels moving safely and swiftly at U.S. ports, benefiting shippers, exporters, and consumers. I’m glad to partner on legislation with Sen. Padilla to help produce more accurate fog forecasts that will reduce collisions between vessels, ensure American cargo reaches its destinations intact and on time, and save millions in economic costs from port closures.”
    Sen. Padilla said, “Californians along the Pacific Coast have experienced how unpredictably dense and dangerous the marine layer fog can be. Fog can create hazardous conditions, increasing collision risk for ships transporting essential goods to and from California’s high-volume ports. As communities prepare for and respond to increasingly severe weather patterns, strengthening NOAA’s weather forecasting capabilities is an important bipartisan priority to bolster safer transportation at sea and in the air along our coastlines.”
    Read the bill text here.
    BACKGROUND
    This past February, widespread fog in Houston caused significant disruption to the city’s port operations, impacting the Houston Ship Channel’s navigation for nearly two weeks and ultimately reducing cargo flows through the port. Studies have shown that poor visibility, often fog-associated, significantly impacts maritime traffic safety, predisposing vessels to collision accidents. Approximately 70% of ship collisions are attributed to foggy conditions, underscoring the critical need for effective monitoring and management of fog in maritime operations. Marine fog is the primary reason for Houston port closures, and each hour the port is closed can have over $100 million in economic costs. Smaller ports such as Freeport, Port Lavaca, and Texas City can also lose millions of dollars for each hour their ports are closed. too.
    The FOG Forecasting Act would require the NWS to establish more marine-based observations that measure visibility, temperatures, dewpoints, and water levels, as well as provide cameras needed to enhance the safe navigation of vessels. The bill would also improve high-resolution modeling capabilities to produce more accurate wind, temperature, dewpoint, and visibility forecasts. These new techniques will give users more detailed and visually appealing information on visibility. Better fog forecasts would reduce uncertainty, allowing ports to reopen sooner, get commerce moving, and reduce the economic costs of port closures.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine and Scott to Introduce Bill to Protect Miners’ Safety

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP), and U.S. Representative Robert C. “Bobby” Scott, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Education and Workforce will introduce the Robert C. Byrd Mine Safety Protection Act of 2025. 

    This bill coincides with the 15th anniversary of the Upper Big Branch (UBB) Mine Disaster, reflecting lessons learned from the deadly explosion on April 5, 2010, that killed 29 miners.  The bill improves mine safety and closes glaring loopholes in our nation’s mine safety laws that could help save miners’ lives.  The bill would further prioritize the safety of miners by holding rogue mine operators accountable.

    “Miners take incredible risks to power our nation.  While we’ve made progress to support them—like extending the Black Lung Disability Trust excise tax at a higher rate and strengthening silica standards—the recent actions of the Trump Administration have undermined decades of work to enhance protections for coal miners,” said Kaine.  “This legislation is critical to strengthening safety standards and holding mine operators accountable for unsafe working conditions.”

    “The Robert C. Byrd Mine Safety Protection Act of 2025 is a critical step toward protecting the health and safety of mine workers across the country.  Coal miners, mine safety regulators and the UBB families have asked Congress to address long, overdue reforms to the nations’ mine safety laws.  The reforms in this bill would ensure that all miners are able to return home safely to their families at the end of their shift,” said Scott. “The tragedy of the Upper Big Branch Mine Disaster will be in vain if Congress does not close the loopholes that have allowed a small minority of mine operators to put profit ahead of their miners’ safety.”

    The comes at a time when the Trump Administration is abandoning the nation’s commitment to protect miners.  The Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) has fired inspectors and appears to be closing offices across the country.  That agency has yet to answer congressional queries.  Meanwhile, in a secretive and apparently arbitrary process, the Trump Administration terminated thousands of Health and Human Services (HHS) employees—including many scientists and researchers at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) who focus on black lung and innovative technologies to keep mines safe.

    Eliminating so much of the government’s mine safety capacity, especially as we near the fifteenth anniversary of the UBB Mine Disaster, is reckless and nonsensical.  Congress permanently established NIOSH’s Office of Mine Safety and Health in the aftermath of the deadly Sago Mine Disaster.

    Weakening the Labor Department’s ability to inspect mines at a time when the White House seeks to ramp up mining is a recipe for more mine disasters.  The Trump Administration’s actions will waste decades of life-saving innovations and put miners’ lives at risk.

    The Robert C. Byrd Mine Safety Protection Act protects miners’ health and safety by:

    • Expanding the authority of the MSHA to strengthen safety regulations and enforce penalties against mines with repeat violations.
    • Increasing penalties for mines violating health and safety standards.
    • Providing the MSHA with better enforcement tools to allow proper inspection and investigation.
    • Protecting whistleblowers from retaliation and loss of income.
    • Updating mine safety standards to prevent explosions.
    • Increasing accountability for the MSHA to ensure that inspectors are independent and qualified to provide quality oversight.

    The Robert C. Byrd Mine Safety Protection Act of 2025 is endorsed by Appalachian Citizens Law Center, Appalachian Voices, United Mine Workers of America, and United Steel Workers.

    Read the full text of the bill here.

    Read a section-by-section summary of the bill here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Jimmy Gomez Statement on Trump’s New Tariffs: “Today’s the Day the Trump Slump Turned Into the Trump Recession”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) — a member of the House Ways & Means Committee, which oversees tax and trade policy — released the following statement as Donald Trump’s new round of reciprocal tariffs takes effect:

    “Trump’s dumb tariffs are nothing more than a tax on working families, raising prices on everything from groceries, clothes and shoes to cars and construction materials. He’s tearing apart the backbone of LA’s economy—our construction, ports, and hospitality and tourism industry—at a time of already soaring costs when we need to build more homes and recover from the devastating LA wildfires. We’re already seeing job losses in key American sectors due to his tariffs. There’s no strategy here—just chaos, higher costs, and economic uncertainty for working families. Mark my words: today’s the day the Trump Slump turned into the Trump Recession.”

    BACKGROUND:

    President Trump announced a new round of tariffs, including a baseline 10% tariff on almost all goods from nearly all countries with even higher tariffs for around 60 other countries. This follows a 25% hike on steel and aluminum, additional duties of up to 25% on imported automobiles and auto parts, along with a 25% tariff on certain goods from Canada and Mexico. Economists and small business leaders have warned these moves will increase costs on essential goods and strain industries already impacted by inflation. In Los Angeles, where communities are still rebuilding after recent wildfires, rising construction costs will worsen the housing crisis, while auto repair shops, tourism businesses, and local employers will face higher costs and slowed growth.

     ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: State Highway investment in Wairarapa steps up

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    More road improvements are coming for Wairarapa with three major road rebuild projects and resurfacing works planned over the next three months.

    Work is planned for Greytown, Carterton, and Masterton from April through until mid-June, weather permitting.

    View larger map [PDF, 365 KB]

    These will be road rebuild works and will require the highway to be excavated and constructed with three layers of structural asphalt. Because it is not safe for vehicles to drive on an excavated work site, one-way road closures will be required.

    Roxanne Hilliard, Wellington Alliance Manager, says Wairarapa is a priority.

    “We have allocated $8 million to complete the road rebuilds this season. This is a significant investment to improve the region’s highways,” Ms. Hilliard says.

    She says feedback from the community has been clear.

    “People want to see the highways in much better shape. They want safer, smoother roads, and no potholes. This is exactly what this work aims to deliver but it will be disruptive.”

    Ms. Hilliard says people should think of it like maintaining your house.

    “Road resurfacing is a bit like repainting. It renews the road and makes it more weatherproof.”

    “Road rebuilds are a step up. Like replacing rotten weatherboards or failing cladding, it requires more work and takes longer to complete. But at the end of it, you have a much longer lasting and durable fix,” Ms. Hilliard says.

    View larger graphic [PNG, 174 KB]

    The Greytown works are due to start, weather permitting, on Monday 28 April and will continue until Friday 9 May.

    Ms. Hilliard says a northbound closure and local road detours will be in place, 24/7, while the work is underway.

    “Work crews will be working around the clock. The work is also being staged in four sections to reduce the overall duration businesses and residents are affected by the project.”

    “While these works are happening in Greytown, we are also relocating the pedestrian crossing currently at Greytown Library/100A Main Street to outside Mrs Blackwell’s Bookshop and Sharlari Lingerie because where it is now is unsafe. It’s expected these works will continue for an additional one to two weeks after the road rebuild works are completed,” Ms. Hilliard says.

    While the project  is underway, there will be no on-street parking available, and restrictions on vehicle access to properties and businesses in the project area. However, businesses will remain open and pedestrian access to them will remain available at all times.

    More information about the Wairarapa rebuilds can be found on our website:

    Wairarapa roadworks 

    State Highway 2 Greytown Road reconstruction

    Work schedule and detour map

    • Monday 28 April, to Friday 9 May.
    • Works will be day and night, Sunday nights to Friday afternoons, with no work Friday night to Sunday afternoon.
    • SH 2 CLOSED Northbound between Wood/Church Streets and Kuratawhiti/Jellicoe Streets. Southbound traffic can travel through at a reduced speed. See detour map below.
    • The works will be completed in four sections, one section at a time. We will be in each section for up to five days (see map below). 
    • There will be no parking available on Main Street (between Wood and Jellicoe Streets), Greytown during these works. People will need to park on neighbouring streets such as West Street.
    • Pedestrian access to properties and footpaths will be maintained all times.
    • Emergency vehicles will be able to travel through the closure in both directions and access properties at all times providing they’re flashing their lights.

    View larger map [PDF, 317 KB]

    View larger map [PDF, 324 KB]

    Other upcoming works

    Additional work is also planned for the region in April and May that the public need to be aware of and to plan for.

    SH2 Carterton

    • Sunday, 11 May, to Friday, 23 May. Full 24/7 southbound closure, these works will run after Greytown is completed
    • SH2 closed between Hilton Road and Portland Road.
    • Local road detour via Moreton, Para, and Waihakeke Roads.
    • More information will be provided soon.

    SH2 Solway, Masterton

    • Sunday, 25 May to Friday, 13 June. Full 24/7 southbound closure.
    • SH2 closed between South Belt and Fleet Street
    • Local road detours via Vivian Street, Harley Street and South Belt (TBC with council)
    • More information will be provided soon.

    More information

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell: “Bad Idea” for Department of Energy to Sell Off BPA Assets

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    04.03.25

    Cantwell: “Bad Idea” for Department of Energy to Sell Off BPA Assets

    House Republicans are considering proposals to sell off public lands to fund Trump tax cuts for corporations and the ultra-wealthy

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), senior member of the Senate Finance Committee and ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, pressed James Danly and Katharine MacGregor – President Trump’s nominees to serve as Deputy Secretary of the Department of Energy (DOE) and Deputy Secretary of the Department of the Interior (DOI) – on their commitments to not sell off public assets owned by Bonneville Power Administration after DOGE recently ordered the sale of the BPA Portland building. Sen. Cantwell also secured a commitment from Danly to uphold the Hanford Tri-Party Agreement, and she pressed MacGregor to oppose DOGE proposals to cut funding and staff to fight wildfires. 

    “Do you commit to opposing any proposal to auction off assets, including those owned by Bonneville Power Administration?” asked Sen. Cantwell.

    Danly responded, “I know there have been talks at different times for the Power Marketing Administrations to be privatized, and like, I have no interest in in that subject historically in my career, and I don’t really know enough about that to give an informed answer here.”

    “Maybe take a little homework assignment. Bad idea,” responded Sen. Cantwell.

    During the Q&A, Sen. Cantwell also secured a commitment from Danly to uphold the Tri-Party Agreement: “The budgets are not the purview of the position to which I’ve been nominated, but I will say this, the cleanup of the of the legacy waste sites is one of the handful of the truly core missions of the department, and I have every intention of abiding by the agreement,” said Danly.

    Sen. Cantwell then questioned MacGregor on funding for wildfire preparedness, DOGE cuts, and reporting from earlier in the day that Republicans are now considering proposals to sell off public lands to help pay for Trump’s tax cuts for corporations and the ultra-wealthy.

    “The department has the responsibility to fight [fires],” said Sen. Cantwell. “How do you make sure that we have the workforce that we need as part of our incident command teams [and fight fires]? And if confirmed, will you not support a plan that includes selling off public lands that would reduce our access?”

    Cantwell continued: “The two of you are the first witnesses to come before us since all the DOGE cuts. So, I’m asking you specifically — will you stop any cuts that will affect wildland firefighting efforts?”

    “I will absolutely evaluate any proposed cuts, should they be, you know, proposed for wildland firefighting cuts, and review those very closely,” MacGregor responded. “I can’t imagine a situation where that would occur, but if it did, I would want to make sure that we’re balancing and keeping the resources we need to fight fire.”

    The Department of Interior serves a critical role in fighting wildfires fires. However, DOGE cuts have threatened wildfire preparedness by firing 3,400 USDA Forest Service employees and about 1,000 National Park Service (NPS) employees. Many Interior employees have “Red Cards” which certify them to fight wildland fires. In addition, over 140 Department of Interior employees are part of Incident Management Teams which lead wildfire fighting efforts.

    In response, Sen. Cantwell led a letter to USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins and U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz demanding details about the Washington state personnel who were fired, including how many held Red Cards, and asked for the immediate reinstatement of all fired USDA and USFS personnel. While some employees have been reinstated, many experienced employees, including fire fighters, have retired and it has been reported that federal agencies, including the Department of Interior, will be implementing an additional reduction in force.

    “I think most of us would just be able to agree today, no one here wants those cuts. We think we need more resources,” said Sen. Cantwell. “The Palisades fire is more than a wakeup call, more than a wakeup call. So, we need more resources, not less.”

    Sen. Cantwell has long championed Hanford clean-up and played a leading role in overseeing the DOE’s cleanup efforts, fighting numerous Administration proposals to cut Hanford budgets. 

    Throughout the first Trump administration, Sen. Cantwell repeatedly led the charge in opposing drastic cuts to the Hanford budget, and in 2020 she led a successful effort to defeat a provision in the annual National Defense Authorization Act that could have diverted billions in funding from ongoing clean-up projects.

    In January, Sen. Cantwell voted against Chris Wright for DOE Secretary, citing his waffling commitment to uphold the Tri-Party Agreement – a newly negotiated agreement between the State of Washington, DOE, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that directs cleanup of the Hanford nuclear site in the Tri-Cities.

    Video of Sen. Cantwell’s remarks today are available HERE, audio HERE, and a full transcript is HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: It’s Time for ESA Reform

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04)

    For the sake of both the environment and the economy, Congress must advance common sense Endangered Species Act (ESA) reforms that return power to private landowners while simultaneously protecting endangered species in a responsible way. Weaponization of the ESA and its morass of red tape are impeding our ability to move forward on vital land management practices and even building important and necessary infrastructure, all in the name of environmental activism that’s actually doing more environmental harm than good. That is why I was proud to introduce the Endangered Species Act Amendments Act of 2025 this week.

    The original noble intent of the ESA was to evaluate and label at-risk wildlife while also providing a path toward full recovery. Yet since its implementation over 50 years ago, only 3% of listed species have ever been recovered. As stewards of God’s creation, we must always be mindful of our land and waters, the flora and fauna inhabiting it, and our responsibility as caretakers. When we manage our lands, waters, fields, and forests, we are caring for the homes of the plants and wildlife who reside there. Unfortunately, the ESA is failing on its goal to recover species.

    My bill, the ESA Amendments Act of 2025, will implement necessary measures to take the power away from litigious environmental activist groups who openly profit off weaponizing species management and instead give more responsibilities to state, local, and tribal governments who often times have a much better understanding of the species, their needs, and their habitats.

    As Chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee, it is my duty to lead on this issue, and it is immensely important that Congress passes this legislation which will restore commonsense to the species management process and ensure America’s rich, abundant wildlife thrives for generations to come.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Spring Break in Full Bloom

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04)

    Warmer weather, longer days, and budding trees. All signs that spring has arrived in Arkansas and across the country. Many of our students across the state are likely enjoying the final days of a restful break from school, as Spring Break wraps up at the end of this week. 

    Hopefully numerous Arkansans were able to take advantage of the warmer weather while on break by exploring all the Natural State has to offer. Whether that be paddling down the Buffalo National River, camping out at one of our beautiful lakes, or enjoying all that can be found outdoors like hiking, biking, and fishing. And of course, many Arkansans ventured outside of the state to visit family or major cities across the country.

    We welcomed several constituents to Washington DC this week, several of whom were visiting our nation’s capital on a memorable family vacation. There is certainly no shortage of attractions or things to do – from the countless Smithsonian museums that line the National Mall where you can enjoy beautiful artwork and artifacts, and tours for notable places like the Arlington National Cemetery, the White House, and the Capitol. The options are endless, and I’m pleased to have seen so many Arkansans enjoy their time in DC. 

    A notable attraction for many who make their way to Washington DC are the beautiful cherry blossom trees that bloom for a very limited time, framing the Tidal Basin and scattered throughout the city. The Capitol grounds are home to several of these Japanese-native trees like the prunus serrulata, prunus ‘NCPH1’, and prunus subhirtella – a few of the varieties that can be found on the grounds surrounding the Capitol building. 

    The most iconic cherry trees dotting the Tidal Basin, featured in all the photographs you’re likely familiar with, are of the prunus yedoensis variety. These trees aren’t usually too big in size, reaching about forty to fifty feet upon maturity with a broad, open crown and attracting birds, butterflies, bees, and tourists with cameras. These beloved cherry trees were a gift of friendship from Japan in 1912, and after experiencing a flood that decimated many of their trees seventy years later in 1982, horticulturalists used cuttings from the trees gifted to the United States to restore the ones that had been lost in Japan. 

    However you found yourself enjoying spring break, or even just enjoying the changing of the season, it is my sincere hope that you were able to take in our abundant, natural surroundings and reflect on all the beauty and opportunity our great state and nation have to offer.

    MIL OSI USA News –