NewzIntel.com

Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Launches Investigation into Rhode Island for Race-Based Employment Preferences in Violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act

    Source: US State of California

    The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division has opened an investigation into the State of Rhode Island (“Rhode Island”) concerning potential race-based discrimination in state employment practices.

    The state of Rhode Island mandates state agencies set hiring targets that are effectively race-based employment quotas.[1] These statutorily mandated goals pressure state agencies to engage in discriminatory, and potentially unlawful, hiring practices. The Civil Rights Division’s Employment Litigation Section opened the investigation under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits employment discrimination based on race, national origin, and other protected characteristics.

    “The state of Rhode Island’s official hiring policy embraces racial discrimination, something the Supreme Court has long held to be unlawful,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Discrimination in the name of ‘diversity’ is not only fundamentally unjust, but it also violates federal law. The Civil Rights Division will investigate Rhode Island’s discriminatory policy and take appropriate action if warranted.”

    You can view the notice letter here

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Manteca Man Pleads Guilty to Embezzling Over $1.4 Million from Former Employer

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Justin Alexander Payne, 50, of Manteca, pleaded guilty today to one count of wire fraud, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced. 

    According to court documents, from December 2017 to September 2023, Payne worked as an IT Director for a family-owned, independent fuel supplier, distributor, and retailer company in Modesto. As part of his scheme, Payne used his company-issued credit card to make unauthorized purchases of gift cards from multiple retailers. To convert the gift cards to cash, Payne sold the gift cards to online businesses that specialize in purchasing unwanted gift cards for less than the value of the cards. The online businesses conducted no less than 3,700 transactions in gift card purchases from Payne, which included subsequent payouts to Payne.

    Payne also used the company’s credit card to make unauthorized purchases of personal items, including, but not limited to, adult clothing, children’s clothing, golf and other sports equipment and home improvement products. In furtherance of the scheme, Payne concealed his unauthorized purchases from the family-owned company by altering receipts and falsifying expense reports to make it appear as if the purchases were for legitimate IT equipment for the company. During his employment, Payne embezzled more than $1.4 million dollars from the company.

    This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Modesto Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Whitnee Goins is prosecuting the case.

    Payne is scheduled to be sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Troy L. Nunley on October 16, 2025. Payne faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI New York Offering a Reward for Information Leading to the Arrest and Conviction of Man Wanted for Conspiracy to Murder

    Source: US FBI

    The FBI is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of Joel Myrie. Myrie, who is also known by the alias “Pookie,” is wanted for his alleged involvement in a drive-by shooting that occurred on June 19, 2022, in the Canarsie area of Brooklyn, New York. It is alleged that Myrie—a member of the No Love City (NLC), a Brooklyn-based subset of the violent Gangster Disciples (GD) street gang—and others attempted to murder a rival gang member by firing two firearms into a crowded neighborhood street. As a result of this attempted murder, a 28-year-old victim was shot and injured.

    Myrie was indicted on charges of conspiracy to murder and attempted murder in aid of racketeering; assault in aid of racketeering; and possessing, using, brandishing, and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York, Brooklyn, New York, and a federal warrant was issued for his arrest on August 29, 2024.

    On September 10, 2024, as part of his efforts to evade arrest, Myrie was seen wearing a dress and long-haired wig. It is unknown if Myrie has maintained his altered appearance.

    If you have any information concerning Myrie, please contact your local FBI office or call 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). You can report a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Altus Group’s Benchmark Manager Wins 2025 Realcomm Digie Award

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Altus Group Limited (“Altus” or “the Company”) (TSX: AIF), a leading provider of commercial real estate (“CRE”) intelligence, is pleased to share that its newly released Benchmark Manager add-on on ARGUS Intelligence has been awarded the 2025 Realcomm Digie Award for Best Tech Innovation in CRE.

    Presented at the Realcomm | IBcon 2025 conference in Savannah, GA, the award celebrates groundbreaking technology that is advancing the CRE industry. Benchmark Manager is the Company’s latest add-on capability on ARGUS Intelligence – Altus’ new flagship platform for modeling, monitoring and managing CRE asset and portfolio performance.

    With the ARGUS Intelligence Benchmark Manager add-on, investors now have access to a performance management solution that integrates cashflow modeling, scenario analysis, and market benchmarks. This augments performance attribution analysis to a new level. It helps investors evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of their assets and portfolios. The increased intelligence drives higher quality and more timely decisions.

    “We’re honoured to receive this recognition from Realcomm,” said Jorge Blanco, Altus’ Chief Strategy Officer, who attended the conference as a featured panelist. “ARGUS Intelligence’s Benchmark Manager represents a major leap forward in how performance data is used in CRE and directly responds to client feedback. Market comparisons are only as good as the veracity and currency of its underlying data. Those are the two pillars of this new capability. It is driven by one of the most comprehensive datasets in the industry. The award recognizes our ongoing commitment to persistent innovation.”

    Now in its 26th year, the Realcomm Digie Awards recognize visionary companies, projects, and leaders that are transforming the real estate landscape through the application of technology, automation, and innovation.

    For more information about Benchmark Manager and ARGUS Intelligence, visit altusgroup.com.

    About Altus Group

    Altus connects data, analytics, applications and expertise to deliver the intelligence necessary to drive optimal CRE performance. The industry’s top leaders rely on our market-leading solutions and expertise to power performance and mitigate risk. Our global team of ~2,000 experts are making a lasting impact on an industry undergoing unprecedented change – helping shape the cities where we live, work, and build thriving communities. For more information about Altus (TSX: AIF) please visit www.altusgroup.com. 

    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: 

    Elizabeth Lambe
    Director, Global Communications, Altus Group
    +1-416-641-9787
    elizabeth.lambe@altusgroup.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Hanmi Bank Hosts Grand Opening Celebration of New Branch in Duluth, Georgia

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DULUTH, Ga., June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hanmi Financial Corporation (Nasdaq: HAFC) (“Hanmi”), the holding company for Hanmi Bank, today welcomed local officials and community members to its grand opening celebration for its newest branch in Duluth, Georgia. Honored guests included Georgia State Representative Long Tran (Dist. 80), and Gwinnett County Commissioner Kirkland Carden. They were joined by several Hanmi Bank executives, including Bonnie Lee, President and CEO, Anthony Kim, Chief Banking Officer, and Cindy Yum, who serves as Branch Manager for the new Duluth location.

    The Duluth branch is Hanmi’s first full-service branch in Georgia, located at 2330 Pleasant Hill Road, Suite 100 – less than 30 miles from Atlanta. Georgia continues to be a key hub for Korean business investment and expansion. In fiscal year 2023, Korean companies announced over $10 billion in new investments and the creation of more than 12,600 jobs across the state, according to the Office of the Governor. Total trade between Georgia and Korea reached $17.5 billion last year, underscoring the strength of this dynamic economic partnership.

    “Our expansion in Georgia is an important step in our growth plans, and we’re excited to be a part of this community,” said Bonnie Lee, President and Chief Executive Officer of Hanmi Financial Corporation. “Duluth is a vibrant and diverse city that values business opportunity and community strength. We look forward to supporting local businesses and individuals, and contributing to the continued economic vitality of this region through our relationship-based banking model.”

    Hanmi Bank Duluth Branch offers a comprehensive range of personal and business banking services, including checking and savings accounts, commercial lending, SBA loans, and specialized financial solutions. Bank hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

    About Hanmi Financial Corporation
    Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, Hanmi Financial Corporation owns Hanmi Bank, which serves multi-ethnic communities through its network of 32 full-service branches, five loan production offices and three loan centers in California, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, Texas, Virginia and Washington. Hanmi Bank specializes in real estate, commercial, SBA and trade finance lending to small and middle market businesses. Additional information is available at www.hanmi.com.

    Contact
    Kelly McAndrew
    Financial Profiles, Inc.
    310-622-8239
    kmcandrew@finprofiles.com

    Source: Hanmi Bank

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1979e6ea-5852-40ca-a7fe-5713ce755da3

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Representative Smith statement on Trump Administration travel ban

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Adam Smith (9th District of Washington)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Rep. Smith (D – Wash.) released the following statement regarding the Trump Administration’s newly announced travel ban on 12 countries that goes into effect next Monday.
     
    “The United States must be a place that welcomes and embraces travelers and immigrants from all religions, ethnicities, and nationalities. Unfortunately, the Trump Administration has repeatedly targeted specific nations to reduce travel and migration into the United States, going back to his first days in office when he announced a ‘Muslim Ban.’

    “I am deeply concerned by the announcement of Trump’s Travel Ban 2.0, banning access to the United States from foreign nationals of 12 countries. The Trump Administration’s travel ban will not strengthen our national security. Instead, it is likely to divide families and cause arbitrary red tape to people trying to enter the country for lawful reasons.

    “I am supportive of legislation that would impose limitations on a President’s authority to suspend or restrict foreign nationals from entering the U.S. and prohibits religious discrimination in various immigration-related decisions. We must stand against this divisive, prejudiced travel ban, and I will continue to seek ways to fight back.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DeGette Statement on Trump Administration Punishing Democratic Ran Cities

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Diana DeGette (First District of Colorado)

    WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Diana DeGette (CO-01) released the following statement after House Republicans passed a politically motivated bill that would relocate Small Business Administration offices out of Denver and other Democratic-ran cities.

    “For years, we have heard Donald Trump whine about political prosecution and targeting political opponents. Today, House Republicans are weaponizing the federal government against Democratic-led cities to cut vital access to the Small Business Administration from the countless entrepreneurs and small business owners throughout our region. This is blatant political punishment because the only reason they are forcing this bill through is because House Republicans disagree with Denver’s policies.

    “This bill is a waste of time and taxpayer dollars, and it will only further the confusion and chaos small business owners are experiencing thanks to Trump’s reckless economic agenda.”

    The House of Representatives passed H.R. 2931 by a vote of 211-199.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash: SH1, Kaikōura

    Source: New Zealand Police

    State Highway 1 is closed at Peketā, Kaikoura, following a crash involving a truck and pedestrian.

    Emergency services were called to the scene, between Inland Kaikōura Road and Rakanui Road, about 9.20am.

    The Serious Crash Unit has been notified and the road is expected to be closed for some time. The closure affects both north and south-bound traffic.

    Traffic management is being arranged, however motorists should use Inland Kaikōura Road/Leader Road East via Mt Lyford.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Court orders halt to AmeriCorps funding cuts after AGs sue

    Source: Washington State News

    SEATTLE — Attorney General Nick Brown and 23 other attorneys general today won a court order that blocks the Trump administration’s attempts to dismantle AmeriCorps, the federal agency for national service and volunteerism. 

    On April 29, Brown joined a coalition of 23 other attorneys general—joined by the governors of Kentucky and Pennsylvania—in challenging the administration’s plans to eliminate nearly 90% of AmeriCorps’ workforce, abruptly cancel its contracts, and close $400 million worth of AmeriCorps-supported programs.

    The coalition sought a preliminary injunction to immediately stop the closure of programs in plaintiff states. Today the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland granted the preliminary injunction, restoring all programs that had been terminated in plaintiff states, and ordering the reinstatement of over 750 National Civilian Community Corps members. 

    “Thanks to the states’ action, AmeriCorps volunteers in Washington can continue to serve food banks in Chelan and Douglas counties; help communities build climate resilience and prepare for disasters in rural areas; tutor children in places like the Tri-Cities and mentor at-risk youth in places like Tacoma and Seatac; and rehabilitate low-income housing, support veterans, and so much more statewide,” Brown said. “We’ll continue this fight until the Trump administration finally respects the rule of law and the value of community service.”

    Brown and the coalition successfully argued that the Trump administration’s attacks on AmeriCorps are illegal. By closing $400 million worth of AmeriCorps programs without explanation, the Trump administration harmed States that administer those programs as well as K–12 students, vulnerable seniors, and others who depend upon their services.   

    A federal judge found that the Trump administration’s actions were unlawful, because Congress explicitly required that the agency provide advance notice and an opportunity to comment on an any major changes to AmeriCorps services. 

    Today’s order restores $12 million in unspent funds vital to AmeriCorps programs in Washington. The court’s decision preliminarily stops the Trump administration from terminating them while the litigation continues. 

    Joining Attorney General Brown in filing the lawsuit are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin, and the governors of Kentucky and Pennsylvania. 

    -30-

    Washington’s Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state’s largest law firm, the Attorney General’s Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington’s 39 counties.

    Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Email: press@atg.wa.gov

    Phone: (360) 753-2727

    General contacts: Click here

    Media Resource Guide & Attorney General’s Office FAQ

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Five Highs Gang Members Convicted by Jury of RICO Conspiracy, Drug Trafficking, and Firearms Offenses

    Source: United States Attorneys General 1

    Following a three-week trial, a federal jury in Minneapolis convicted five Minnesota men today for their involvement in the Highs — a violent Minneapolis street gang — and in gang-related murders, shootings, and narcotics distribution.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, defendants Tyreese Giles, 24, Josiah Taylor, 31, Trevaun Robinson, 29, William Banks, 35, and Gregory Brown, 35, all of Minneapolis, were members of various “cliques,” or subsets, of the Highs — a criminal enterprise that controlled territory north of West Broadway Avenue in Minneapolis. Members of the Highs committed murders, narcotics trafficking, weapons violations, burglaries, assaults, and robberies on behalf of the enterprise. As part of their Highs membership, the defendants were expected to retaliate against their rivals, the Lows gang, which operated south of West Broadway Avenue. These two gangs had been in a gang war that spanned years and alleged members of the Lows gang have been separately charged with federal crimes, including racketeering charges.

    “This is the second successful trial against members and associates of the Highs gang in this case in the last three weeks,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “This case and these trials show the Department’s relentless determination to hold accountable criminal enterprises that use murder and intimidation to exert power and control narcotics territory. We will continue to dismantle violent gangs and secure justice for victims and their loved ones in communities around the country.”

    “The Highs have long terrorized north Minneapolis, bringing drugs, violence, and murder,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson for the District of Minnesota. “This verdict represents yet another step in our fight against gang violence. I want to thank the coalition of federal, state, and local law enforcement partners who joined together to bring down this violent criminal street gang. I also want to thank the Justice Department’s Violent Crime & Racketeering Section for lending their expertise and partnering with the U.S. Attorney’s Office on our RICO cases.”

    “This case is a powerful example of how we use federal racketeering laws to take down violent gangs at the center of community violence,” said Acting Director Daniel Driscoll of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. “These individuals relied on firearms, retaliation, and drug trafficking to fuel chaos and assert fear and dominance over their neighborhoods. ATF special agents worked closely with our partners to map the gang’s structure and document their vicious acts of violence, to bring the full weight of the law against its members. We will continue to use every tool available to protect the public and hold violent offenders accountable.”

    “The verdict today reflects the United States Postal Inspection Service’s (USPIS) dedication to building great partnerships with other federal agencies, as well as state and county law enforcement, to bring violent criminals in our communities to justice,” said Acting Inspector in Charge Steve Hodge of USPIS.

    “As financial investigators, IRS Criminal Investigation brings a unique skill set to dismantling violent criminal enterprises,” said Special Agent in Charge Ramsey E. Covington of the IRS Criminal Investigation Chicago Field Office. “Our special agents are experts in exposing how criminal organizations move and hide their illicit funds. By following the money, we developed critical financial evidence on significant fentanyl suppliers. As an agency on the RICO task force to combat violent crime, IRS-CI will continue to collaborate with our federal, state, and local partners to make a noticeable impact in our community. These convictions are a critical step in restoring safety and stability to the streets of Minneapolis and maintaining the marked decrease in violence in our community.”

    As proven at trial, the gang war escalated when, on Sept. 9, 2021, a prominent Highs member was shot and killed at a barbershop in Minneapolis. About two hours later, suspecting that the Lows were responsible for the killing, defendant Giles traveled to Pennwood Market in Lows territory. Once there, Giles, who was dressed in black and wearing a mask covering his face, shot and killed a Lows member. He fired the fatal shot into the victim’s back before he attempted to flee from the scene.

    Evidence at trial tied defendant Robinson to two shootings — one into a crowd of individuals in downtown Minneapolis on July 7, 2019, and another in the parking lot of Merwin Liquors, a Highs hangout, on April 2, 2022.

    Defendants Taylor and Banks trafficked drugs, including fentanyl, on behalf of the Highs. Evidence proved that Brown was a high-level narcotics supplier for the Highs and coordinated trips to and from Arizona for Highs members to obtain tens of thousands of fentanyl pills to sell on the streets of Minneapolis. Each defendant was arrested in possession of narcotics, including fentanyl, methamphetamine, and oxycodone, and one possessed a firearm in furtherance of their narcotics trafficking.

    The jury convicted defendants Giles, Robinson, Banks, And Brown of Racketeering Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Conspiracy. Defendants Taylor and Banks were also convicted of drug trafficking conspiracy. The jury convicted Taylor of the separate crime of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

    A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    This is the second of several trials in this case, which charged over 40 defendants with RICO conspiracy, narcotics trafficking, firearms offenses, and other charges related to their activities as members and associates of the Highs gang. Nine defendants are awaiting trial.

    The ATF, FBI, Minneapolis Police Department, IRS Criminal Investigation, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and Minnesota Department of Corrections are investigating the case, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service, DEA, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office. The Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office, Dakota County Sheriff’s Office, St. Paul Police Department, and numerous other law enforcement agencies contributed to the investigation.

    Trial Attorneys Brian Lynch and Alyssa Levey-Weinstein of the Justice Department’s Violent Crime & Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas Lopez-Calhoun and Carla Baumel of the District of Minnesota are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Patriot National Bancorp Announces Completion of $10M Registered Direct Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    STAMFORD, Conn., June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Patriot National Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: PNBK) (the “Company”), the parent company of Patriot Bank, N.A., today announced that it has successfully completed a registered direct offering of 8,524,160 shares of its common stock at a purchase price of $1.25 per share, raising gross proceeds of $10,655,200.

    The registered direct offering follows the Company’s March 20, 2025 private placement that raised over $50 million in gross proceeds from a diverse group of accredited investors.

    Steven Sugarman, President of Patriot National Bancorp, stated, “We are pleased by the continued strong investor interest in Patriot Bank. The success of this offering further strengthens the Bank’s capital base and enhances our ability to execute on our strategic objectives. With a significantly reinforced balance sheet, we are well-positioned to serve our clients and communities with greater resilience and flexibility. We appreciate the confidence our investors have placed in our team and our mission.”

    The shares of common stock described above were offered and sold pursuant to a shelf registration statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-287283), which was declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on May 22, 2025. A prospectus supplement describing the terms of the registered direct offering has been filed with the SEC and is available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

    Performance Trust Capital Partners, LLC served as capital markets adviser to the Company. Blank Rome LLP and Robinson & Cole LLP served as counsel for the Company.

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 regarding the Company’s plans, objectives, goals, strategies, business plans, future events or performance. Words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “forecasts,” “intends,” “plans,” “projects,” “targets,” “designed,” “could,” “may,” “should,” “will” or other similar words and expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. Because forward-looking statements relate to future results and occurrences, they are subject to inherent risks, uncertainties, changes in circumstances and other factors that are difficult to predict. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on the Company’s current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding its business, plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. Many possible events or factors could affect the Company’s future financial results and performance and could cause its actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from any anticipated results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, among others: (i) the dilution to be caused by the Company’s issuance of additional shares of its capital stock in connection with the offering, (ii) general competitive, economic, political and market conditions, or (iii) other factors that may affect future results of the Company.

    Given these factors, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. All information set forth in this press release is as of the date of this press release. The Company undertakes no duty or obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this press release, whether as a result of new information, future events or changes in its expectations or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable law.

    Learn more about Patriot National Bancorp, Inc. at www.bankpatriot.com

    Media Inquiries:
    Kirsten Hoekman
    khoekman@bankpatriot.com
    (203) 252-5905

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Protecting our Borders from Foreign Terrorists

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

    President Trump has signed a new directive restricting the entry of foreign nationals from specific countries to protect the United States from foreign terrorists and other national security and public safety threats. — Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott

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

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

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at www.state.gov and on social media!
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/statedept
    X: https://x.com/StateDept
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/statedept
    Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/statephotos/
    Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/StateDept
    Substack: https://statedept.substack.com

    Watch on-demand State Department videos: https://video.state.gov/
    Subscribe to The Week at State e-newsletter: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USSTATEBPA/signup/32562

    State Department website: https://www.state.gov/
    Careers website: https://careers.state.gov/
    White House website: https://www.whitehouse.gov/
    Terms of Use: https://state.gov/tou

    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M2EkzSO-1dg

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Enhancing Joint Interoperability

    Source: United States Department of Defense (video statements)

    —————
    @usarmy paratroopers attached to the @82ndAirborneDiv1 conduct combined force-on-force combat training alongside U.K partners as part of Swift Response 25 in Setermoen, Norway.

    For more on the Department of Defense, visit: http://www.defense.gov
    —————
    Keep up with the Department of Defense on social media!

    Like the DoD on Facebook: http://facebook.com/DeptofDefense
    Follow the DoD on Twitter: http://twitter.com/DeptofDefense
    Follow the DoD on Instagram: http://instagram.com/DeptofDefense
    Follow the DoD on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/DeptofDefense

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dukIdBqINPc

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WSJ Editorial Highlights Tillis Bill to End Predatory Litigation Funding Practices

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, The Wall Street Journal published an editorial supporting the Tackling Predatory Litigation Funding Act, legislation introduced by Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) which would impose a new tax on profits earned by third-party entities that finance civil litigation and curb predatory practices in the litigation funding industry.
    Read the full op-ed here or below. 
    Ending a Tax Break for LawsuitsWSJJune 4, 2025
    Why are foreign investment funds that finance predatory lawsuits against U.S. companies allowed to dodge taxes on their legal payouts? Good question, and now North Carolina Sen. Thom Tillis and Oklahoma Rep. Kevin Hern are seeking to close this anti-growth loophole.
    Third-party litigation financing has exploded in recent years as private investment funds chase high returns goosed by America’s tort-friendly legal system. Investors give law firms money to recruit plaintiffs and file often meritless lawsuits against companies in return for a share of the eventual settlement or judgment. 
    Annual returns average about 25% thanks to jackpot jury verdicts, which also create an incentive for businesses to settle claims early to avoid costly, drawn-out litigation. In 2023, 39 investors had committed some $15.2 billion in capital to U.S. commercial litigation, according to the litigation finance advisory firm Westfleet Advisors. 
    Investment funds such as Fortress Investment Group have financed major mass torts, including Roundup fertilizer claims against Bayer AG and talc litigation against Johnson & Johnson. Fortress, which is majority owned by an Abu Dhabi sovereign wealth fund, has also harassed Apple and Intel with dubious patent lawsuits. 
    Third-party financing arrangements with law firms are typically not required to be disclosed, so foreign investors could be funding lawsuits with the goal of harming U.S. businesses that may be competitors. Bloomberg Law last year detailed how Russian oligarchs had dodged sanctions by funding lawsuits in the U.S. 
    Here’s the kicker: Foreign investors in U.S. litigation don’t have to pay tax on lawsuit proceeds because the tax code exempts foreigners from paying U.S. capital-gains tax, and their legal payouts are treated as capital gains. American litigation funders pay tax at the capital gains rate (23.8%), while the actual plaintiffs in lawsuits pay at the ordinary income rate.
    The preferential tax treatment for funders, especially foreigners, is an incentive to plow money into lawsuits rather than business investment that creates jobs, boosts productivity and improves living standards. Lawsuits do the opposite. Costs of defending against litigation get passed along to workers, consumers and shareholders. 
    Enter Messrs. Tillis and Hern, who are seeking to add a provision to the current tax bill that would require U.S. and foreign litigation funders to pay tax on their earnings at the ordinary income rate (typically 37%), plus a 3.8% surcharge. This could discourage excessive litigation, which the U.S. Chamber of Commerce says costs U.S. households some $4,200 each in 2022.
    Will Hild of the right-leaning outfit Consumers’ Research recently tweeted that the Tillis-Hern provision would “rob everyday Americans of a fundamental tool in fighting back” against “large, woke corporations.” This is a giant red herring. The provision wouldn’t ban third-party funding lawsuits. It would merely eliminate a tax break for them.
    Excessive litigation is a tax on everyday Americans, which is why Republican Governors like Georgia’s Brian Kemp and Florida’s Ron DeSantis have championed tort reform. Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt last week signed legislation that will ban lawsuit funding from entities controlled by foreign adversaries and cap non-economic damages in personal injury suits at $500,000. 
    The plaintiffs lobby has the Senate votes to block national tort reform with a 60-vote filibuster. But Republicans only need 51 votes in their reconciliation bill to ensure that the tax code doesn’t give the Abu Dhabi wealth fund a tax break for funding lawsuits that harm America. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressmen Sorensen Confronts Army Secretary on Job Cuts at the Rock Island Arsenal During House Armed Services Committee Hearing

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17)

    Congressman Sorensen to Army Secretary Dan Driscoll: “We Can’t Afford for Expertise to be Lost [at the Rock Island Arsenal], […] Where We Have Always Bolstered Our Munition Production”

    Congressmen Eric Sorensen (IL-17) confronted U.S. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll about the proposed job cuts at the Rock Island Arsenal during a House Armed Services Committee hearing. Congressman Sorensen expressed concerns that cuts at the Arsenal would damage our nation’s military readiness and demanded answers from Secretary Driscoll on the impact cuts would have on our national security.

    “I’m proud to stand up in Washington D.C. for the hardworking men and women at the Rock Island Arsenal who help to protect our national security and ensure our military’s readiness across the globe,” said Congressman Sorensen. “I took my concerns about job cuts at the Arsenal straight to the Army Secretary so we can get a clear picture of the impact this will have on my neighbors. Any decisions about the future of the Arsenal needs to be transparently discussed and well thought out because the work there is too important for our country.”

    During the hearing, Secretary Driscoll also acknowledged to Congressman Sorensen that the Rock Island Arsenal is the “gem in the assets and the tools that we have.” 

    You can watch the full exchange with Secretary Driscoll HERE.

    As a new member of the House Armed Services Committee, Congressman Sorensen has leveraged his position to strongly advocate for the Rock Island Arsenal. He led a bipartisan effort with Senators Chuck Grassley, Dick Durbin, and Tammy Duckworth to ensure the Department of Defense would not be jeopardizing our country’s military readiness with large job cuts. Earlier this year, he introduced the Arsenal Workload Sustainment Act, which would ensure the Rock Island Arsenal can remain competitive, create good-paying jobs, and sustain the regional economy. 
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick Statement Condemns Trump’s New Travel Ban

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Florida 20th district))

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) released the following statement in response to President Trump’s renewed travel ban targeting a dozen countries, including Haiti, and imposing partial restrictions on others such as Venezuela and Cuba.

    “This renewed travel ban is baseless and harmful. There is no data or evidence to justify that Haitians are a threat to national security. It does not make us safer—it only spreads fear, isolates communities, and contradicts the principles our nation was built on.

    “They are hardworking, resilient, and deeply committed to the American dream. Like so many immigrant communities, they contribute to the strength, economy, and vibrancy of South Florida and this country.

    “This ban will hurt everyone. Families will be torn apart. American businesses will suffer. Our economy in South Floridawill feel the impact.

    “I remain committed to defending the diverse communities of South Florida and will keep fighting to ensure the United States remains a beacon of hope for those seeking a better future.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Elon Musk Confirms Rep. Dan Goldman’s Suspicion – Pam Bondi Is Hiding the Epstein Files to Protect Donald Trump

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    Last Month, Goldman Sent Letter of Inquiry to Justice Department Demanding Unredacted Release of Files Containing Trump’s Name and Explanation of Stonewalling 

     

    Read the Letter Here 

     

    Watch Rep. Goldman’s Interview Here 

     

    Goldman: “I write to express my grave concern about what appears to be a concerted effort by you to delay and even prevent the release of the Jeffrey Epstein Files in their entirety – potentially at the direction of the sitting President of the United States, Donald J. Trump.” 

    There you have it – Elon Musk just confirmed Rep. Dan Goldman’s suspicion that Attorney General Pam Bondi and the Department of Justice were stonewalling the promised release of the Epstein Files and had agents working around the clock to redact instances of President Donald Trump’s name.  

    “I write to express my grave concern about what appears to be a concerted effort by you to delay and even prevent the release of the Jeffrey Epstein Files in their entirety – potentially at the direction of the sitting President of the United States, Donald J. Trump,” Congressman Goldman wrote in May 2025. 

    Following the broadly ridiculed release of The Epstein Files: Part 1 on February 27, 2025, AG Bondi demanded that the FBI deliver the complete Epstein Files within 24 hours to DOJ, as well as a comprehensive report from FBI Director Patel within 14 days. It has now been 74 days since Bondi issued those directives, yet the Department has not released the report despite months-old reporting that the FBI Field Office in New York has delayed other investigations to review and redact information for public release. The Congressman questioned if this delay may be related to President Trump’s long-running relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. 

    “The convergence of your unexplained delay in releasing the Epstein Files, the reporting nearly two months ago that numerous FBI agents were working overtime to redact the materials, President Trump’s well-documented affiliation with Epstein, and his view that the Department of Justice is his personal law firm raises serious questions about whether President Trump has intervened to prevent the public release of the Epstein Files in order to hide his own embarrassing and potentially criminal conduct,” Congressman Goldman continued. 

    Attorney General Bondi’s oath of office requires her to represent the United States’ interest without fear or favor, not protect the President’s embarrassing or even criminal behavior from being made public. Congressman Goldman requested that Attorney General Bondi inform Congress of whether the White House or Donald Trump himself has sought to intervene in the case in any way, as well as to provide a detailed timeline for the release of the Epstein Files. 

    “I look forward to your response to this matter of intense public interest. Both Congress and the American people are eager for you to follow through on your promise of transparency about the Epstein Files,” the Congressman concluded. 

    Read the full letter here or below: 

    Dear Attorney General Bondi, 

    I write to express my grave concern about what appears to be a concerted effort by you to delay and even prevent the release of the Jeffrey Epstein Files in their entirety – potentially at the direction of the sitting President of the United States, Donald J. Trump.  

    On February 27, 2025, to much fanfare, the Department of Justice under your leadership released a trove of already-public documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein 

    case titled The Epstein Files: Phase 1. This document dump, which was redacted ostensibly to “protect victims,” was sold to the American people as a fulfillment of President Trump’s promise of government transparency. It was rightly met, however, with widespread ridicule from across the political spectrum as a ham-handed attempt to gaslight the American people. 

    Shortly after the underwhelming ‘Phase 1’ release, you sent a letter to FBI Director Kash Patel attempting to pin blame on the FBI’s New York field office for the missing material. In that letter, also dated February 27, 2025, you demanded that the FBI deliver, within 24 hours, “the full and complete Epstein files…including all records, documents, audio and video recordings, and materials related to Jeffrey Epstein and his clients, regardless of how such information was obtained.” You went on to clearly state that, “[t]here will be no withholdings or limitations to my or your access.” You further demanded a “comprehensive report” from the FBI Director “within 14 days.” Director Patel subsequently indicated his intent to comply with your request in a post on X: “There will be no cover-ups, no missing documents, and no stone left unturned.” 

    It is now 74 days past the issuance of both your 24-hour demand and 14-day deadline for a comprehensive report, yet you have provided no additional materials nor an explanation for the delay. Reporting from March 21, 2025, indicates that the FBI field office in New York, presumably at your direction, delayed other investigations in order to work around the clock to review and redact information contained in the Epstein Files for release.3 Although you stated on May 8, 2025, that “[t]here are thousands of videos of Epstein with children or child porn,” which would require redaction to protect the victims’ identities, it simply cannot take this long for dozens of agents working around the clock to make the necessary redactions. 

    Further, extensive reporting has revealed that President Donald Trump had a lengthy and close relationship with both Jeffrey Epstein and Epstein’s co-conspirator Ghislaine Maxwell, including being named in Jeffrey Epstein’s flight logs as having flown on Epstein’s private jet at least seven times between 1993 and 1997. In 2002, President Trump was quoted as saying, “I’ve known Jeff for fifteen years. Terrific guy… He’s a lot of fun to be with. It is even said that he likes beautiful women as much as I do, and many of them are on the younger side.”5 Moreover, Epstein’s personal address book, leaked in 2009 by an Epstein employee, contained 14 phone numbers for President Trump, his wife, Melania, and members of his staff. 

    The convergence of your unexplained delay in releasing the Epstein Files, the reporting nearly two months ago that numerous FBI agents were working overtime to redact the materials, President Trump’s well documented affiliation with Epstein, and his view that the Department of Justice is his personal law firm raises serious questions about whether President Trump has intervened to prevent the public release of the Epstein Files in order to hide his own embarrassing and potentially criminal conduct. 

    As a former 10-year DOJ prosecutor, I remind you that, as Attorney General, your oath of office requires you to represent the United States’ interest without fear or favor, not President Trump’s personal interest. That obligation to the American people requires the immediate release in their entirety of the Epstein Files in your possession, subject to appropriate redactions related to victims and minors. To be clear, there is no proper basis to redact the name, identify, or likeness of President Trump. 

    If you have been directed to redact instances of President Trump’s name or likeness that are included in the Epstein Files, then your oath of office and your commitment to transparency requires you to inform the American people of that directive. As part of Congress’ oversight authority provided by the Constitution of the United States, I request that you respond, in writing, to the following questions no later than June 2, 2025: 

    1. Are you or the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) in possession of all of the Epstein Files in the FBI’s custody and control? 

    2. Have the necessary redactions of victims’ identities and likenesses been completed? If not, why not?  

    3. Has the name, identity or likeness of President Donald Trump been redacted? If so, why?  

    4. Have you, OAG, or any other member of the DOJ been contacted by President Trump, anyone working in the White House, or another agent of President Trump’s about the Epstein Files?  

      1. If so, did they request that you or your staff prevent the release of the Epstein Files? 

      2. Did they request that you redact the name, identity or likeness of President Trump from the Epstein Files prepared to be released publicly pursuant to your previous promise?  

    5. If not, why haven’t you released the Epstein Files as you promised to do in February?  

    6. If you do still intend to release the Epstein Files, please provide a detailed timeline of your plan to do so. 

    I look forward to your response to this matter of intense public interest. Both Congress and the American people are eager for you to follow through on your promise of transparency about the Epstein Files. 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Salinas and Panetta Reintroduce the Farmers Feeding America Act

    Source: US Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06)

    Today, U.S. Representatives Andrea Salinas (OR-06) and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) introduced the Farmers Feeding America Act, a bill that would help food banks meet demand and ensure families stay fed and healthy by expanding the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) ability to purchase food directly from producers, including Oregon’s small family farms.

    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Andrea Salinas (OR-06) and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) introduced the Farmers Feeding America Act, a bill that would help food banks meet demand and ensure families stay fed and healthy by expanding the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) ability to purchase food directly from producers, including Oregon’s small family farms.

    “The pandemic, lingering inflation, and the Trump Administration’s disastrous policies have all made it harder for working families to make ends meet in recent years, and food banks have struggled to keep up with record demand,” said Rep. Salinas. “Now, Republicans are trying to force through partisan legislation that would threaten food assistance for over 800,000 Oregonians. I voted against that bill, and I’m proud to introduce the Farmers Feeding America Act to expand The Emergency Food Assistance Program. This bill will ensure our local food banks are fully stocked, support local farmers, and help families put food on the table.”  

    “Many working families across my congressional district and throughout the country rely on food banks to put food on the table,” said Rep. Panetta.  “The Farmers Feeding America Act would strengthen working families, and by allowing the USDA to purchase food directly from local farmers for food banks, the bill would also bolster our communities.  At a time when there are politicians who want to cut these types of essential benefits, we are working hard to fight hunger by supporting agriculture and ensuring that working families have access to healthy food.”

    In 2023, 13.5 percent of Americans — or 18 million households — were food insecure. However, as higher prices continue to impact working families’ ability to afford food and basic necessities, local food banks are often unable to meet the need in their communities. Meanwhile, Republicans are pushing ahead with legislation to attack core nutrition benefits, taking food assistance away from at least 3 million Americans.

    The Farmers Feeding America Act would significantly increase funding for The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP). TEFAP provides commodities like fruits and vegetables, as well as monetary support, to food banks, food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and other types of emergency feeding organizations. In addition to serving individuals, TEFAP supports local agriculture by enabling USDA to purchase food directly from producers.

    Along with Reps. Salinas and Panetta, the legislation is cosponsored by Reps. Becca Balint (VT-AL), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Troy Carter (LA-02), Emanuel Cleaver II (MO-05), Jim Costa (CA-21), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Christopher Deluzio (PA-17), Cleo Fields (LA-06), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Juan Vargas (CA-52). 

    The bill is also endorsed by the following organizations, in alphabetical order: Alliance to End Hunger, Door Dash, Feeding America, Marion Polk Food Share, Second Harvest of Santa Cruz County, Second Harvest of Silicon Valley. 

    “With food prices and food insecurity on the rise, this necessary investment will help struggling families put nutritious food on the table,” said Minerva Delgado, Director of Coalitions & Advocacy, Alliance to End Hunger.

    “In every community across the U.S., people are working hard to provide for themselves and their families. Yet in 2023, 47 million people—1 in 7 people—experienced food insecurity in the U.S., according to the USDA. The Emergency Food Assistance Program, or TEFAP, helps bridge the food gap for millions of families and individuals by moving nutritious foods from U.S. farmers to local food banks. But in recent years, TEFAP support has decreased as demand for food assistance has increased.  TEFAP and additional USDA foods received by the Feeding America network have dropped by more than 50% from 2020-2023—dropping from 3 billion pounds to less than 1.4 billion pounds per year. The Farmers Feeding America Act introduced by Reps. Andrea Salinas and Jimmy Panetta would strengthen TEFAP, a cornerstone of the charitable food system, and ensure equitable access to the program for noncontiguous states. We urge Congress to ease the strain on our nation’s food banks by including this crucial provision in the upcoming Farm Bill,” said Vince Hall, Chief Government Relations Officer, Feeding America.

    “Families and children are facing tough times right now. More than ever, our community needs the Farmers Feeding America Act to make sure children and families have the food they need to thrive,” said Rick Gaupo, President & CEO, Marion Polk Food Share.

    Second Harvest Santa Cruz County CEO Erica Padilla Chavez: “With food insecurity on the rise in our community and food prices continuing to climb, the need to support the Farmers Feeding America Act has never been more urgent.  It is critical that our federal government not only address hunger but also sustains our local agriculture – an essential part of both our economy and our hunger relief efforts.”

    Leslie Bacho, CEO, Second Harvest of Silicon Valley: “The Farmers Feeding America Act is a practical solution that bridges communities—connecting local farmers with families in need and strengthening our food system. In Silicon Valley, where the cost of living is among the highest in the nation and 1 in 6 of our neighbors turn to Second Harvest of Silicon Valley for food assistance, we see this urgent need firsthand every day. At a time when the need for food assistance touches every community, this legislation affirms a shared commitment to ensuring no one goes hungry. Investing in TEFAP is not just about feeding families; it’s about reinforcing the resilience and well-being of all our communities.”

    To read the full text of this legislation, click here. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Young Kim, Colleagues Lead Bill to Cut Childbirth Costs

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

    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Young Kim (CA-40), Jared Golden (ME-02), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), and David Valadao (CA-22) introduced the Supporting Healthy Moms and Babies Act, which would require private health insurance companies to fully cover the costs of childbirth and related maternity care. 

    “Americans shouldn’t have to choose between starting a family and being strapped in debt. Unfortunately, rising living costs on top of excessive hospital and health care fees after giving birth deter individuals from becoming parents,” said Kim. “We should do what we can to make life more affordable, which is why I’m proud to help lead the charge to cut childbirth cost-sharing fees and ensure women, babies, and families receive the care they deserve without astronomical costs.” 

    “Pregnancy and childbirth are a normal part of family life, so insurance companies should treat it like the routine care it is and cover the cost,” Golden said. “It shouldn’t cost thousands of dollars to give birth at the hospital, and other necessary maternity services shouldn’t be a luxury. This is simple, commonsense reform and will make it easier for Mainers to start and grow families on their own terms without a huge hospital bill.” 

    “The cost of maternal care is already expensive, and too often, families with private insurance are hit with surprise medical bills they didn’t see coming,” Valadao said. “Building a family already comes with so much uncertainty, but designating maternal care as an Essential Health Benefit and eliminating cost-sharing will give parents some peace of mind during one of life’s most important moments. I’m proud to join my colleagues in supporting this practical, bipartisan solution that puts families first.” 

    “When my daughter was born by emergency C-section nine weeks early, I wanted to focus all my attention on my recovery and her well-being for the six weeks she was in the NICU, not our medical bills,” McClellan said. “The Supporting Healthy Moms and Babies Act will provide more pregnant and postpartum patients the peace of mind that they can access care without worrying about how to pay for it.” 

    While the average out-of-pocket costs of childbirth for mothers in large-group employer insurance is approximately $3,000, a reported 17 percent of these mothers face bills topping $5,000 and 1 percent face bills exceeding $10,000. One report revealed that 17.5 percent of women with private insurance said they had problems paying medical bills and another study showed almost 9 percent reported being “unable to pay medical bills.”  

    Senate companion legislation is led by Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Josh Hawley (R-MO), and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY). 

    The Supporting Healthy Moms and Babies Act is endorsed by health care and patient advocacy groups such as the American Principles Project, Concerned Women for America, Jesuit, Conference Office of Justice and Ecology, Americans United for Life, Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, Students for Life, LiveAction, Life Defenders, March for Life, The Catholic Health Association of the United States, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American Medical Association, American Hospital Association, American Society for Reproductive Medicine, Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses, Association of Maternal & Child Health Programs, March of Dimes, and National Partnership for Women & Families. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cramer, Bennet Introduce Bill to Strengthen Quad Space Cooperation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)

    Click here for audio.

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, or the “Quad,” is an informal strategic forum for the militaries of the United States, Japan, India, and Australia. The partnership between the four countries is built upon common interests: promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific and addressing regional geopolitical challenges.  

    At a time when adversaries like China and Russia are increasingly utilizing space-based capabilities to expand their interests, U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND), co-chair of the Senate Space Force Caucus and chair of the Senate Armed Services (SASC) Airland Subcommittee, and Michael Bennet (D-CO) introduced the Quad Space Act of 2025. The bill would direct the Secretary of Defense to initiate discussions with Quad countries to identify mutual areas of interest with respect to the formulation of best practices in space, cooperation on space situational awareness, and space industrial policy. 

    The Quad Space Act of 2025 would also require the Secretary of Defense to submit a report to the House and Senate Armed Services Committees, detailing potential areas of mutual interests. Additionally, the report must outline potential steps the Secretary intends to take to formalize cooperation among Quad members. 

    “Maintaining space dominance is vital to protecting the stability and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region,” said Cramer. “The Quad’s alignment addresses shared security challenges between our countries, and we recognize the importance of space as a strategic domain. The Quad Space Act protects our interests by deepening space cooperation with trusted partners and reaffirming our commitment to advancing a free and open region.”  

    “As China and Russia rapidly develop dangerous space capabilities and behave recklessly in space, the United States must bolster cooperation with our Quad partners to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific,” said Bennet. “The Quad Space Act will enhance our collective capacity to address shared challenges by better ensuring safe and secure space missions, tracking objects and activities in space, and fostering shared innovation.” 

    Click here for bill text.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cotton Introduces Bill to Ban to Protect American Agriculture from Biothreats

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    Contact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353
    June 5, 2025

    Cotton Introduces Bill to Ban to Protect American Agriculture from Biothreats

    Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today introduced the Biothreat Prevention Act, legislation that would ban federal funding for laboratories or research centers that have nationals from China, Russia, Iran, Cuba, Venezuela, or North Korea working on agricultural research.

    “Foreign terrorists that seek to poison and destroy America’s food supply should not have access to American labs and universities,” said Senator Cotton.

    Full text of the bill may be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Strengthen U.S. Competitiveness in Space

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Rick Scott (R-FL), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) today introduced their Licensing Aerospace Units to New Commercial Heights (LAUNCH) Act, which would streamline the application process for commercial space launches and the licensing of private remote sensing space systems or satellites:

    “As the pace of China’s space ambitions accelerate, the Federal Aviation Administration must be able to approve commercial space launches quickly and efficiently in order to maintain our competitive edge,” said Sen. Cornyn. “By reducing bureaucratic hurdles for innovators, this legislation would drive scientific advancement and ensure America stays one step ahead of our adversaries in space and beyond.”  

    “New Mexico is already at the forefront of our country’s leadership in space exploration and innovation. Ranging from Spaceport America, to Kirtland Air Force Base, and White Sands Missile Range, our state’s success is clear and should be supported,” said Sen. Luján. “That’s why I’m proud to join Senator Cornyn to introduce this bipartisan legislation that will streamline federal oversight for commercial space flights. This bill will ensure regulations are modernized and up-to-date, allowing New Mexico to continue our leadership.”

    “Florida’s Space Coast is where our nation’s brightest minds innovate and help America reach for the stars. This incredible growth and success have been driven by effective public and private partnerships pushing our nation to the forefront of space exploration,” said Sen. Scott. “I’m honored to work alongside my colleagues in introducing the Licensing Aerospace Units to New Commercial Heights (LAUNCH) Act to eliminate unnecessary government bureaucracy and support American businesses in the space industry.”

    “Outdated regulations shouldn’t hold back the advancement of commercial spaceflight,” said Sen. Kelly. “The LAUNCH Act will support innovation and increase competition in the commercial space industry by modernizing the regulations that govern launch and reentry.”

    Background:

    Commercial space regulations were developed in an era with limited industry activity. These regulations require modernization to adapt to ongoing technological development and anticipated growth and maintain safety while reducing bureaucratic burden. The Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) approval process for commercial space launches is onerous and subject to arbitrary minimum review timelines, which gives foreign adversaries the economic and national security advantage. To maintain America’s competitive position, the FAA must be able to efficiently approve weekly and, eventually, daily launch and reentry operations by multiple companies in a manner that reduces the burden on the commercial space industry and government resources.

    The LAUNCH Act would require:

    • The Federal Aviation Administration to streamline the application of regulations for commercial space launches and reentry requirements by eliminating duplicative efforts and taking industry feedback into account;
    • Continued support of the Aerospace Rulemaking Committee that includes launch providers;
    • The Commercial Remote Sensing Regulatory Affairs (CRSRA) within the U.S. Department of Commerce to streamline licensing of private remote sensing space systems or satellites;
    • The FAA and CRSRA to provide assistance to applicants to help them navigate licensing processes;
    • Elevation of the Commercial Space Transportation office to directly under the Secretary of Transportation;
    • And the Secretary of the Department of Transportation (DOT) to report on flight safety and workforce collaboration.

    This legislation is endorsed by the Commercial Spaceflight Federation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn Op-Ed: Congress Must Reimburse Texas for President Biden’s Border Security Malpractice

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) authored the following op-ed on FoxNews.com calling out former President Biden’s failure to secure the southern border and detailing his top reconciliation priority: ensuring the federal government reimburses Texas for the billions it spent on Operation Lone Star when Joe Biden refused to do so.

    Congress Must Reimburse Texas for President Biden’s Border Security Malpractice

    Senator Cornyn

    FoxNews.com

    June 5, 2025

    https://www.foxnews.com/opinion/sen-john-cornyn-congress-must-reimburse-texas-for-bidens-border-security-malpractice

    The government’s most basic duty is to keep its citizens safe. President Biden woefully neglected to fulfill this obligation, allowing our borders to be overrun by millions of unvetted illegal immigrants, criminal aliens, and cartels smuggling deadly synthetic opioids. Far from Washington, border states like Texas were left to suffer the consequences. Texas spent billions of dollars on Operation Lone Star in attempt to abate this catastrophe. We all owe Governor Abbott a debt of gratitude for doing what the Biden administration wouldn’t, but we also owe Texas a monetary debt. Now the bill is due: it’s time for the federal government to pay Texas taxpayers back.

    From the moment he arrived at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, President Biden reversed the previous administration’s successful immigration policies: he ended President Trump’s “Remain in Mexico” policy; directed DHS to halt construction of the border wall, instead using federal funds to store wall materials; and ended Title 42, the COVID-era policy that was our last line of defense against the incoming migrant surge.

    President Biden oversaw a crisis on our southern border that far surpassed illegal migration numbers from prior decades. In Biden’s four years, CBP encountered over 10 million illegal immigrants. More than 1.7 million known gotaways evaded Border Patrol entirely and are freely roaming somewhere in the interior of our country. Hundreds of thousands of Americans died from overdose of synthetic opioids including fentanyl, a drug manufactured with Chinese precursor chemicals and smuggled through our open border by drug cartels. Innocent Americans such as Laken Riley and Jocelyn Nungaray died at the hands of illegal migrant criminals.

    Despite the immigration authorities that were already available to President Biden, he threw up his hands, claiming that there was nothing more he could do – all while his designated Secretary for Homeland Security reassured the public that the border was “secure.” But facts don’t lie. The whole world knew America’s borders were wide open.

    This tragic crisis was felt most acutely in Texas. My state shares the longest border with Mexico, and with the President missing in action in the midst of a disaster, Governor Abbott had to intervene. Under Operation Lone Star, Texas law enforcement apprehended over half a million illegal immigrants, including more than 50,000 criminal arrests. They built more than 240 miles of border barriers, seized over half a billion deadly doses of fentanyl, and reduced illegal immigration into Texas by 87%, according to the Governor. However, these efforts cost upwards of $11 billion, a pretty penny for Texans to pay for the basic safety and security that the federal government owes its people.

    If there is any lingering question that President Biden’s policies are to blame for the mess we saw at our southern border, consider President Trump’s swift success in reversing the damage. As soon he was elected and even before he took office, the migrant flows began to subside. In the first two weeks of 2025, CBP encounters were nearly 50% lower than they were at the same point in 2021, at the start of the Biden administration. In President Trump’s first 100 days in office, daily border encounters decreased by 95%.

    This dramatic sea change resulted from President Trump and U.S. Department of Homeland Secretary Kristi Noem’s commonsense policies. On day one, President Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border. He ended President Biden’s “catch and release” policy and reinstated his own tried-and-tested “Remain in Mexico” policy. ICE arrests have increased by more than 600%, while arrests of criminal migrants have doubled.

    The Trump administration’s policies are a welcome change from the past four years of disaster under the Biden administration. But the damage Texas experienced and the financial sacrifice we made for the good of the country must be fully repaid.

    The federal government under President Biden created this crisis, and Congress must rectify it. Texans have had to bear the brunt of open borders, rampant crime, and deadly fentanyl for four years, costing the state billions of dollars to fill in for our absentee commander in chief.

    In late January, Governor Abbott asked Congress to reimburse Texas for the $11.1 billion dollars that Texas taxpayer spent. I immediately began working in partnership with President Trump, Senate Majority Leader Thune, Speaker Johnson, and Texas Republicans in the House, to ensure Congress fulfills this request through the reconciliation bill, also known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill.”

    Texas Republicans make up the largest Republican delegation in the U.S. House of Representatives; thus the Speaker could not pass a bill without support from this key voting bloc. It was unacceptable that the initial text of the legislation released by the House did not reimburse Texas. But thanks to coordinating efforts with Congressman Chip Roy (TX-21), language to reimburse states like Texas was added to the legislation during the amendment process, and the House passed these provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill.

    The next hurdle is to shepherd our reimbursement provisions through the Senate. I will continue working with Leader Thune, Governor Abbott, and President Trump to ensure the Senate includes even stronger language in the One Big Beautiful Bill and that Texas specifically will be rightfully repaid for Operation Lone Star. I will continue fighting to ensure this language remains in the final version of the One Big Beautiful Bill that will go to the President’s desk.

    The road to victory is long, but if there’s one thing us Texans know how to do it’s to stay the course and defy the odds. President Biden abdicated his responsibility as commander in chief at the southern border. It’s now up to Congress to reverse the damage and make Texas taxpayers whole.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Say Cheese, Partner

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    Across Texas, ranches and dairy farms are churning out products with rich taste and character in every bite. National Dairy Month is the perfect time for Texans to explore the many delicious contributions of this industry to the Lone Star State.

    Dairy is playing an increasingly important role in Texas agriculture. The U.S. Department of Agriculture places Texas among the top five dairy-producing states in the country, with almost 300 dairies spread across the state. According to the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, dairy production in Texas continues to grow and is valued at billions of dollars—that’s a lot of cheddar.

    The number of dairy cows in Texas has also grown over the past two years, even as the rest of the country has seen a decline. Texas now has an in-curd-ible 675,000 dairy cows chewing their cud in our state.  

    One of the nation’s most consumed dairy products is cheese, which has been in existence for centuries. While its exact origins remain unknown, most experts believe it was discovered accidentally—when milk was stored in vessels made from the stomachs of animals. An enzyme called rennet caused the milk to curdle and preserve itself. Over time, the art of cheesemaking spread across the globe and became part of many cultures, pun intended.

    Here in Texas, many cheesemakers use milk produced straight from their own herds. While dairy cows provide most of the milk, goats, sheep, and even water buffaloes also lend a hoof in creating the wide variety of cheeses made here.

    One of Texas’ most celebrated cheesemakers is Paula Lambert, who founded Dallas’ Mozzarella Company in 1982. Starting with fresh mozzarella, her company now produces more than 30 cheeses, most developed by Paula herself. She lived in Italy before returning to Texas in 1973. Opening a cheese factory in Deep Ellum near Downtown Dallas was her way of bringing the flavors she loved in Italy back home. As she says, “I had loved fresh mozzarella when I lived in Italy, and back home no one had even heard of an insalata caprese—a mozzarella and tomato salad—and I thought they oughta know about it.”

    Paula is considered a pioneer in American artisanal cheese. She has written cookbooks, and received honors such as the American Cheese Society Lifetime Achievement Award and the Grande Dame title from Les Dames d’Escoffier International. Some might say she is a “big cheese” in cheese!

    In Dublin, Texas, the Veldhuizen family runs a farmstead cheese operation less than 90 miles southwest of Fort Worth. Stuart Veldhuizen, along with four generations of his family, produces more than 60 wheels of cheese each week. Their cheeses age in a stone cave built by the family, maturing anywhere from two months to two years. Made from milk sourced from their own herd of cows and flock of sheep, their cheeses are crafted entirely on-site at the farm creamery. Together, they’ve made their dream of farmstead cheesemaking come true.

    Makers across Texas pour their heart into every wheel and wedge, delivering a taste that’s unmistakably Texan—and there’s a Texas cheese for everyone that’ll hit the spot.

    Behind every glass of milk, wedge of cheese, or scoop of ice cream, there’s a Texas story showing a dairy culture bursting with flavor and hard work in the Lone Star State. This National Dairy Month, celebrate with something local and pay homage (or in this case, fromage) to the farmers, ranchers, and producers shaping the future of Texas dairy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Tripartite agreement reached between Tŝilhqot’in Nation, B.C., Taseko Mines Limited

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Tŝilhqot’in Nation, the Province and Taseko Mines Limited (Taseko) have announced the signing of the Teẑtan Biny Gagaghut’i Agreement to resolve the long-standing conflict over the “New Prosperity” mineral tenures in the Teẑtan Biny (Fish Lake) area of Tŝilhqot’in territory.

    Taseko Mines Limited and the Tŝilhqot’in Nation have reached an agreement under which any future mineral exploration and mine development in the New Prosperity mineral tenure area will require consent of the Tŝilhqot’in Nation. Additionally, the Province and the Tŝilhqot’in Nation have entered an agreement that requires the consent of the Tŝilhqot’in Nation for any mine in the Teẑtan Area that is a reviewable project under the Environmental Assessment Act  to proceed. The Province is seeking orders in council to prescribe this agreement under Section 7 of the act and to authorize negotiations with the Tŝilhqot’in Nation to set out the process for how this requirement for Tŝilhqot’in Nation consent would be addressed in any potential environmental assessment process. The resolution leaves open the potential for the future development of this critical mineral deposit, with the consent of the Tŝilhqot’in Nation.

    “Resolution of this long-standing legal and public conflict has been a priority for this government,” said Jagrup Brar, Minister of Mining and Critical Minerals. “These negotiations, which began under the previous mandate, laid important groundwork. The agreement demonstrates B.C.’s commitment to reconciliation and ensuring that the interests of First Nations and mining companies can advance together. I want to recognize all parties to this agreement for their willingness to collaborate to find common ground, build mutual respect, and create a foundation for shared prosperity. We will continue working in partnership to maintain a stable investment climate and future economic benefits for British Columbians.”

    Christine Boyle, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, said: “It has taken vision and courage from strong leaders to get us to this significant moment. Together with the Tŝilhqot’in Nation and Taseko Mines Limited, and through this agreement, B.C. is aligning with commitments we’ve made under previous agreements, such as the Gwets’en Nilt’i Pathway Agreement, to support the Tŝilhqot’in path of self-determination. Through collaborative processes and by working in partnership with First Nations and industry, we will continue to advance reconciliation for the benefit of all.”

    Nits’ilʔin (Chief) Roger William, Nits’ilʔin of Xeni Gwet’in, said: “This agreement protects our rights of consent in the Teẑtan area. That’s huge. For over three decades, we’ve had conflict in the Teẑtan area. For my oldest son, for many Tŝilhqot’in, that conflict has always been there, for their entire lives. Now we are turning the page. Tŝilhqot’in consent is protected: there is no longer the threat of exploration or mining without our consent. I hold my hands up to everyone that worked hard over the past five years to achieve this historic agreement that reflects true reconciliation, including the Province and Taseko Mines Limited. This is a time to celebrate for our people and honour all those who made this resolution possible.” 

    As part of the agreement, the Province will make a one-time payment of $75 million to Taseko Mines Limited. This payment supports the resolution of long-standing issues and enables key components of the tripartite agreement among the parties to move forward. Taseko has committed to not be the proponent (operator) of future mineral exploration and development activity at New Prosperity Project, and can divest some or all of its interest at any time, including to other mining companies. The path forward also includes the termination of all litigation related to the New Prosperity Project.

    “This agreement resolves a damaging and value-destructive dispute and acknowledges Taseko’s commercial interests in the New Prosperity property and the cultural significance of the Teztan Area to the Tŝilhqot’in Nation,” said Stuart McDonald, president and CEO, Taseko Limited Mines. “Taseko will retain a majority interest (77.5%) in the mineral tenures, while any future development at New Prosperity will benefit the Tŝilhqot’in people and will only occur with their free, prior and informed consent. We thank all the parties for their contributions at the negotiating table and their commitment to the multi-year dialogue that has led to this historic agreement.”

    Taseko will contribute a 22.5% equity interest in the New Prosperity mineral tenures to a trust for the future benefit of the Tŝilhqot’in Nation. The trust will transfer the equity interest to the Tŝilhqot’in Nation when and if it takes a decision to pursue mineral development in the area. 

    The Province and Tŝilhqot’in Nation have agreed to initiate a long-term land-use planning process to achieve land use predictability over the area declared by the Tŝilhqot’in Nation as Dasiqox Nexwagwezʔan (“There for Us”) on Oct. 4, 2014. The process will aim to establish clear land-use direction that protects the ecological, cultural and economic sustainability of the area. The planning process for Dasiqox Nexwagwezʔan will invite broad public and stakeholder participation and seek to build on shared values and solutions.

    “This is a historic moment for our people and for reconciliation in British Columbia and Canada,” said Nits’ilʔin Lennon Solomon, Nits’ilʔin of Yuneŝit’in. “It shows what is possible when we come together in the right spirit to resolve even the deepest conflict. I am honoured to be part of a resolution that finally respects Tŝilhqot’in rights and jurisdiction in the Teẑtan area after a generation of conflict. I am grateful that we can move forward as Tŝilhqot’in in a positive way and put our energy and attention into our own priorities as a Nation.”

    The tripartite agreement provides for a provincial government investment of $10 million to the Tŝilhqot’in Nation to support the implementation of programs that support cultural development and $1.5 million to the Tŝilhqot’in Nation to support its participation in the land-use planning process.

    Learn More:

    Follow the link to the map of the Teẑtan Area and Dasiqox Nexwagwezʔan Area: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/te%e1%ba%91tan_dasiqox_nexwagwez%ca%94an_area.pdf

    Follow the link to access the media B-Roll: https://spaces.hightail.com/receive/G4eEOlCQMx

    To learn more about the Land Use Planning in British Columbia, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/crown-land-water/land-use-planning

    To learn more about the Environment Assessment Process, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/natural-resource-stewardship/environmental-assessments/environmental-assessment-process

    To learn more about the Tsilhqot’in National Government, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/natural-resource-stewardship/consulting-with-first-nations/first-nations-negotiations/first-nations-a-z-listing/tsilhqot-in-national-government

    Follow the link to the summary of the Teẑtan Biny Gagaghut’i (Teẑtan Biny Agreement): https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/environment/natural-resource-stewardship/consulting-with-first-nations/agreements/summary_teztan_biny_agreement_29may2025.pdf

    Two backgrounders follow.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Carbajal Introduces Bill Package to Prevent Deportation of U.S. Servicemembers’ Parents

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Salud Carbajal (CA-24)

    Representative Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) introduced a legislative package to prevent the deportation of servicemembers’ parents. The package includes his bipartisan legislation, the Protect Patriot Parents Act, which would make parents of U.S. military servicemembers eligible for Lawful Permanent Resident status, preventing potential deportations or separations of military families. The package also contains a bill that would grant longtime Central Coast resident and military mother, Juana Flores, permanent resident status.

    At a recent press conference on Capitol Hill, Rep. Carbajal joined Representatives Darren Soto (D-FL-09) and Lou Correa (D-CA-46) to speak about previously deported Central Coast resident Juana Flores, the mother of U.S. Air Force Sergeant Caesar Flores. Amid public outcry, Rep. Carbajal aided the family in securing Mrs. Flores’ return to the U.S., and worked with President Biden’s Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas to secure humanitarian parole for Flores.

    Previously, Mrs. Flores was deported from her home in Goleta, California despite living in the U.S. for over 30 years and building a life in Santa Barbara County with her husband, 10 children, and 19 grandchildren.

    “As a veteran and immigrant myself, I find it unconscionable that someone like Sergeant Flores could step up to serve in the military and be willing to sacrifice their life for our country, only to have their family torn apart,” said Rep. Carbajal. “That’s why I’m introducing legislation to shape an immigration system that is fair, keeps families together, and recognizes the positive contributions immigrants make to our country.”

    “I wholeheartedly support the passage of this bill. My grandmother is not a criminal, and it is both unjust and inhumane to treat her as one. No family should have to endure forced separation—especially when our loved ones are serving this country and fighting for the freedoms we all cherish. We must uphold the values of dignity, compassion, and justice for every family affected,” said Andrea Gómez Flores, granddaughter of Juana Flores.

    “The Protect Patriot Parents Act supports American troops and families. Deportations of US military service members or their families defy the public interest and contradict the social and moral conscience of the United States of America. We have a responsibility as a nation to provide family unity for those who serve in our Armed Forces. Our country has an obligation to each and every family with sons, daughters, husbands, or wives who serve our country in the military,” said Kraig Rice & Judge Frank Ochoa (ret.), Attorneys for Juana Flores.

    Recent estimates project that there are as many as 80,000 undocumented spouses and parents of U.S. active duty and former servicemembers living in the U.S.

    But despite their service and sacrifice for the U.S., servicemembers from mixed-status families do not have the security of knowing their family members can safely reside in the country without threat of deportation.

    Rep. Carbajal is a co-sponsor of Representative Darren Soto’s (D-FL-09) Protect Patriot Spouses Act, which would render military spouses eligible for adjustment to permanent resident status by amending the Immigration and Nationality Act to remove the inadmissibility standard because of an unlawful entry into the United States by the migrant spouse. It would also allow eligible veteran spouses who have already been removed or voluntarily departed the United States to apply for an immigrant visa from abroad and then become authorized to return to the country while their application is pending.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Jimmy Gomez And Bipartisan Coalition Of 200+ Lawmakers Call On Trump Admin To Save Job Corps

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

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Representative Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) joined the co-chairs of the bipartisan Congressional Job Corps Caucus, Representatives Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) and Brett Guthrie (KY-02), as well as 198 other colleagues in a bipartisan effort urging U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer to continue the Job Corps program.

    On May 29, the U.S. Department of Labor issued a notice that it will begin a phased pause in operations at contractor-operated Job Corps centers across the country. Job Corps is a national program with over 120 centers across the country. Job Corps offers at-risk youth varied academic opportunities and career pathways in business and industry.

    In their letter, they highlighted, “Nearly 20,000 young people utilize Job Corps to learn skills for in-demand vocational and technical job training. Job Corps is one of the few national programs that specifically targets the 16-24-year-old population that is neither working, nor in school, and provides them with a direct pathway into employment openings in industries such as manufacturing and shipbuilding. The program also connects these young Americans with apprenticeships, higher education opportunities, or the military.”

    The members of Congress also noted, “As companies continue to onshore and invest in the men and women of our country, a steady stream of skilled laborers will be required to meet the growing workforce demand. The Job Corps program is uniquely positioned to fill that role and provide these hardworking young Americans with the vocational and technical job training that will set them and our country up for success.”

    The Jun. 5 letter to Secretary Chavez-DeRemer can be viewed here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Update: Coast Guard, partner agencies respond to diesel spill on Patapsco River in Maryland

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    06/05/2025 05:43 PM EDT

    The Coast Guard and partner agencies continue to respond to a diesel fuel spill near the East Harbor Marina in the Patapsco River, Thursday afternoon.

    For more information follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson Denounces Potential Closure of Chicago Job Corps Center, Calls for Congressional Action to Protect Vital Program

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jonathan Jackson – Illinois (1st District)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-01) today vehemently condemned the recent decision by the Department of Labor, stemming from the Trump administration’s proposed budget cuts, to phase out operations at Job Corps centers across the nation, including the Paul Simon Chicago Job Corps Center. This move threatens to displace hundreds of young Chicagoans, disrupt critical job training and educational opportunities, and exacerbate economic hardship within the broader Chicago community.

    The Paul Simon Chicago Job Corps Center has been a beacon of hope and a ladder to opportunity for countless individuals in our city. The center serves approximately 500 students annually, equipping them with the skills necessary to achieve economic self-sufficiency and contribute meaningfully to our communities.

    “The decision to shutter the Paul Simon Chicago Job Corps Center is a cruel and counterproductive blow to the young people of Chicago, particularly those in underserved communities within the First District who rely on its services,” said Congressman Jackson. “At a time when we should be investing in workforce development and creating pathways out of poverty, this action does the exact opposite. It risks rendering students homeless and derailing their futures. This is not just an attack on a program; it’s an attack on the aspirations of our youth and the economic well-being of our city.”

    The history of Job Corps in Chicago is rich with success stories of individuals who have overcome significant barriers to achieve stability and success. Nationally, Job Corps has a proven track record, with studies demonstrating positive impacts on participants’ educational attainment, employment rates, and earnings, while reducing involvement in the criminal justice system. The closure of the Chicago center would sever a vital link for many young people to these life-changing opportunities.

    Congressman Jackson expressed his strong support for the recent federal court decision to issue a temporary restraining order:

    “The court’s intervention provides a crucial, albeit temporary, reprieve. It underscores the reckless nature of this decision and the irreparable harm it would cause,” stated Congressman Jackson. “However, a temporary stay is not a permanent solution.”

    Congressman Jackson is calling on his colleagues in Congress to take immediate and decisive action to protect and fully fund the Job Corps program. He has noted his support for legislative efforts such as H.R. 2281, the “Strengthening Job Corps Act of 2025,” which aims to reauthorize and enhance the program.

    “We cannot stand idly by while essential programs like Job Corps are dismantled,” Congressman Jackson urged. “I call on Congressional leadership to bring forward legislation that safeguards the future of Job Corps and ensures that centers like the Paul Simon Chicago Job Corps Center can continue their invaluable work. Investing in our young people is an investment in the future of Chicago and our nation. Now is the time to strengthen these programs, not abandon them.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Make Graduate Education More Affordable

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)

    June 05, 2025

    POST GRAD Act comes as Congressional Republicans push to make higher education more unaffordable through their billionaire-first budget bill

    Washington D.C.—U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., said today he has joined colleagues in introducing legislation that would help students afford advanced education by restoring graduate students’ eligibility for receiving subsidized federal loans. 

    The Protecting Our Students by Terminating Graduate Rates That Add to Debt Act would prevent graduate students from accruing interest on their subsidized graduate loans while in school, just like their undergraduate counterparts.

    “There is a huge demand for professionals that need a graduate degree whether they are doctors, lawyers, social workers or mental health professionals,” Wyden said. “While Republicans have been clear that their priority is to limit access to these high paying professional jobs to the wealthy, I am committed to making higher education within reach for everyday folks in Oregon and across the nation.”

    Many professions, such as mental health clinicians, school administrators, nurse practitioners, and physical therapists, often require a graduate degree, but high borrowing costs can dissuade potential students from seeking these advanced degrees. Instead of addressing the higher education affordability crisis, congressional Republicans recently passed a billionaire-first budget bill that, among other harmful provisions, would eliminate the Grad PLUS loan program, a vital source of federal support for graduate students. 

    Nationally, more than 1.6 million student loan borrowers have Grad PLUS loans, amounting to $91 billion in debt. The Budget Control Act of 2011 stripped graduate students of eligibility for Federal Direct Subsidized Loans, which they had access to from 1994-2012, costing students thousands of dollars, particularly as interest rates on graduate loans are now at their highest rate since 2006. The Protecting Our Students by Terminating Graduate Rates That Add to Debt Act would reverse the harmful provision of the Budget Control Act and restore the eligibility of graduate students to receive Federal Direct Subsidized Loans. Furthermore, it would prevent graduate and professional students who fall into deferment due to economic hardship from accruing interest on their Federal Direct Subsidized Loans. 

    The legislation was led by U.S. Senator Alex Padilla, D-Calif., and U.S. Representative Judy Chu, D-Calif. In addition to Wyden, the legislation is cosponsored by Senators Cory Booker, D-N.J., Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., Andy Kim, D-N.J., and Chris Van Hollen, D-Md.

    The bill is endorsed by the following organizations: American Psychological Association, National Association of School Psychologists, National Education Association, AccessLex, Association of Public and Land-grant Universities, National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators, American Physical Therapy Association, American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges, American Occupational Therapy Association, Association of Schools Advancing Health Professions, Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry, Physician Assistant Education Association, American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine, Council on Social Work Education, American Dental Education Association, American Association of Colleges of Nursing, American Association of the Colleges of Podiatric Medicine, and the University of California System.

    The full text of the bill is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –