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  • MIL-Evening Report: Labor’s new bill would cut HELP loans by 20%. But it also risks locking some graduates into a ‘debt treadmill’

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrew Norton, Professor of Higher Education Policy, Monash University

    The Albanese government’s 20% cut to student debt is the first bill introduced to the new federal parliament. It is clever politics.

    In the government’s first term, the 3 million Australians with a student debt turned high indexation of their loan balances into a major issue. The proposed 20% cut flipped a political negative into a positive ahead of the May 2025 federal election.

    The 20% cut legislation, introduced on Wednesday, will also change how student debt is repaid. All the 1.2 million people currently repaying student loans will pay less per year as a result.

    How does the cut work, and what does it mean in practice for current students and people with student debt?

    Beware the fine print

    These changes come with disadvantages. The 20% cut is not well targeted. It will deliver major benefits to recent graduates, but much less to current students or earlier graduates, and nothing to future students.

    While repaying less HELP debt per year sounds good, more graduates will be caught on a debt treadmill, repaying less than the annual indexation on their HELP balance. Both HELP changes will also be costly for government.

    Meanwhile, the government has not changed the cost of degrees. Arts, law and business students continue to accrue debts of about $17,000 per year of study.

    How does the cut work?

    The 20% cut applies to all student loan schemes, including the five HELPs now operating in higher education – HECS-HELP, FEE-HELP, OS-HELP, SA-HELP and START-UP HELP. These cover student fees as well as other programs to assist with overseas study or amenities fees.

    The loans to be cut by 20% will be based on amounts owed as at June 1 2025. As a guide to the amounts of money involved, the table below shows balances as at June 30 2024.

    Why the cut is not fair

    The benefits of the 20% cut will be distributed in a random and inequitable way, as a recent analysis from economic think tank the e61 Institute shows.

    The biggest beneficiaries will be people who recently completed their degrees: their borrowing has peaked but they have not made any significant repayments. Graduates who are partway through clearing their debt, and current students, will receive some benefit. People who recently completed their repayments, and future students, will receive no benefit at all.

    Other winners from the 20% cut will be current and former students of private higher education institutions, as they pay relatively high fees via the FEE-HELP scheme. So too do people who have borrowed to finance postgraduate degrees. Although most student debtors are women, men on average have higher debts, so they will benefit more from the 20% cut.

    A new repayment scheme

    The government is also changing how student debt is repaid.

    The income threshold at which repayments start will increase from A$56,156 to $67,000 a year for 2025–26. People with incomes between these levels who currently repay via employer salary deductions can stop after the legislation comes into force. Any unnecessary repayments will be refunded when 2025–26 tax returns are processed.

    Once the first income threshold is passed, the way repayments are calculated will also change. Under the current system, the repayment is a percentage of the person’s total income. At the $56,156 threshold the repayment rate is 1%, leading to a repayment of $561.56. These percentages increase incrementally up to 10% on incomes of $164,712 or more. The jagged repayment amounts in the chart below are the percentage of income rates changing 18 times on their way to 10%.

    The current repayment system was criticised as “unfair” by the Universities Accord final report in 2024, as an increase in income can result in lower take-home pay.

    Under the proposed system nobody will take home less money after a pay rise. Repayment will be based only on marginal income – the amount above the threshold. People with student debt will pay 15 cents in the dollar for all they earn between $67,000 and $124,999. From $125,000 the rate lifts to 17 cents in the dollar.

    The government has capped annual repayments at no more than 10% of the person’s total income. This ensures nobody pays more under the new repayment system.

    Slower repayments mean more debt in the end

    But there’s a catch.

    A Parliamentary Budget Office costing released in April 2025 estimates the effects of the new system on HELP repayment times. Obviously, if people repay less each year it will take them longer to clear their debt.

    For a HELP debtor consistently earning an average graduate income, the budget office estimates full repayment would take one more year, to 11 years in total. But for people starting their careers on lower incomes, below the $67,000 first threshold, repayment times could increase by much more, dragging out full repayment time from 32 to 40 years.

    What happens early in graduate careers is a major concern with the new system.

    Consider an arts graduate who finishes their degree with a HELP debt of $50,000. Indexation at the current inflation rate of 2.4% would be $1,200. Under the current repayment system, an arts graduate earning $65,000 would cover their indexation and reduce their debt by $100. Under the proposed system, arts graduates will see their debt increase through indexation unless they earn at least $75,000. For context, the median full-time salary for an arts graduate in 2023 was $69,400.

    The worry is many people will get stuck on a HELP debt treadmill, seeing their debt increase each year as they repay nothing or less than the indexation amount.

    The cost of these reforms

    In another report, the Parliamentary Budget Office estimated the initial debt waiver will cost $9 billion, plus the loss of future indexation.

    But quantifying the total cost of these changes is not straightforward, as it involves estimating the future income and consequent HELP repayments of 3 million people.

    As most HELP debtors will repay less each year under the new system, for the government it means delayed repayments and higher bad debt. The budget office thinks in 2025–26, repayments of loan principal will decline by $820 million compared to the current system.

    What about the Job-ready Graduates scheme?

    This highlights the need for a more coherent funding approach, which integrates debts and repayments in ways that are fair to students while moderating the cost to government.

    The Universities Accord final report recommended student contributions should be realigned with graduate earnings.

    Ideally, graduates working full-time should complete repayments within similar ranges of years, regardless of which course they took. That is far from what happens under the current system – known as the Job-ready Graduates scheme – set up under the Morrison government. With the annual humanities student contribution for 2026 set at $17,399, many arts graduates will struggle to ever get their debt under control.

    The government has promised but postponed changes to student contribution levels. The new Australian Tertiary Education Commission will advise the government on this matter.

    But student contributions alone cannot fix the problem. The repayment system must also be realistic about what different types of debtors earn. Especially with student loans now also serving vocational education, the $67,000 first threshold risks creating a larger group of people with permanent student debt.

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

    – ref. Labor’s new bill would cut HELP loans by 20%. But it also risks locking some graduates into a ‘debt treadmill’ – https://theconversation.com/labors-new-bill-would-cut-help-loans-by-20-but-it-also-risks-locking-some-graduates-into-a-debt-treadmill-261472

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Ghosted by a friend? 4 expert tips on how to handle the hurt

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Megan Willis, Associate Professor, School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University

    martin-dm/Getty

    When we talk about “ghosting”, we usually think it relates to dating. But what happens when you’ve been ghosted by someone you’ve known for years – your childhood best friend, a parent, a child?

    These disappearances can be harder to explain, and even harder to heal from.

    It’s also surprisingly common. For instance, one study showed 38.6% of people have been ghosted by a friend.

    So why do people ghost those closest to them? What impact does it have on those left behind? How do you begin to move on?

    What is ghosting?

    Ghosting is when someone abruptly, or gradually, cuts off all communication without explanation. Whether it’s a friend, family member or love interest, the signs are much the same – messages left on read or calls ignored. Sometimes you’re blocked.

    Ghosting doesn’t just happen online. It can also play out in person, when someone deliberately ignores you – avoiding eye contact, refusing attempts to engage in conversation, pretending you’re not there.

    Unlike relationships that gradually wither over time, or end abruptly after an argument, ghosting is a one-sided withdrawal from a relationship that happens without closure.

    For the person left behind, it can feel like grief.

    Why do people ghost family and friends?

    People often ghost friends for the same reasons they ghost romantic partners.

    Ghosting is more common – and considered more acceptable – in brief or casual romantic relationships or friendships. That’s when people may ghost because they lose interest, wish to avoid confrontation, or find it easier than facing the discomfort of ending things directly.

    In longer-term relationships, ghosting may stem from incompatibility, be prompted by different priorities, physical distance, or growing apart over time.

    Major life transitions – such as becoming a parent, entering the workforce, moving, or going through a divorce – can often provide the catalyst for someone to shrink their social network.

    In some cases, ghosting is driven by self-preservation or concerns for personal safety, particularly when ghosting involves family members.

    People report ghosting in response to toxic, emotionally draining, or abusive relationships, often when previous attempts to resolve issues were met with abuse or aggression. In such instances, ghosting isn’t so much an avoidance strategy, but a last resort to preserve someone’s safety and psychological wellbeing.

    Ghosting has also been linked to certain personality traits. One study found people who reported ghosting others tended to score higher in narcissism (tend towards entitlement and lack of empathy) and borderline traits (so have trouble regulating emotions and are impulsive).

    Why does it hurt so much?

    People often ghost as they hope to spare the other person the pain of rejection. But that is rarely the case.

    Being ghosted by someone you’ve been close to for a long time is often associated with grief, much like the death of the loved one. After the initial shock, there is often anger and sadness.

    Ghosting also involves “ambiguous loss”. This ambiguity – the uncertainty and lack of closure – can almost freeze the grief process, making it particularly hard to move on.

    In addition to grief-like emotions, ghosting is also often associated with self-blame, rumination, feelings of worthlessness, and trust issues that can affect how someone relates to others in the future.

    How to cope if you’ve been ghosted

    There’s no easy fix and you can’t force someone to communicate with you if they don’t want to. But research points to some strategies that may help you move on and ease the pain:

    1. Acknowledge your feelings. Grief-like emotions are a normal reaction to being ghosted. Accept your emotions and express them in healthy ways. This is better than suppressing them, which is linked to depression, low self-esteem and reduced wellbeing.

    2. Seek social support. Social support is linked to a range of mental health benefits. Talk about your experience with friends, family or a mental health professional. This can help reduce feeling of isolation, and low self-worth. Greater social support is also associated with post-traumatic growth – positive psychological change that can emerge after a challenging life event.

    3. Choose self-compassion over rumination. It’s easy to get caught in the trap of replaying what happened and wondering what went wrong. But this can prolong distress and make it harder to move on. Instead treat yourself as you would a close friend – with kindness, compassion and care. Self-compassion has been linked to reduced rumination, anxiety and depression. Exercise, mindfulness and spending time in nature are examples of self-care with similar
      psychological benefits.

    4. Create your own closure. Being ghosted can often leave you stuck in a cycle of uncertainty and unanswered questions. You may never get an explanation and waiting for answers will only make it harder to move on. Writing a letter you don’t send can help create closure. This form of expressive writing can help you articulate your thoughts and emotions and make sense of your experience – and is linked to a range of psychological benefits.

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

    – ref. Ghosted by a friend? 4 expert tips on how to handle the hurt – https://theconversation.com/ghosted-by-a-friend-4-expert-tips-on-how-to-handle-the-hurt-260300

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Hard labour conditions of online moderators directly affect how well the internet is policed – new study

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tania Chatterjee, Joint PhD Candidate at Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, The University of Queensland

    Getty Images/GCShutter

    Big tech platforms often present content moderation as a seamless, tech‑driven system. But human labour, often outsourced to countries such as India and the Philippines, plays a pivotal role in making judgements that involve understanding context. Technology alone can’t do this.

    Behind closed doors, hidden human moderators are tasked with filtering some of the internet’s most harmful material. They often do so with minimal mental health support and under strict non-disclosure agreements.

    After receiving vague training, moderators are expected to make decisions within seconds, keeping in mind a platform’s constantly changing content policies and ensuring at least 95% accuracy.

    Do these working conditions affect moderating decisions? To date, we don’t have much data on this. In a new study published in New Media & Society, we examined the everyday decision-making process of commercial content moderators in India.

    Our results shed light on how the employment conditions of moderators do shape the outcomes of their work – and three key arguments that emerged from our interviews.

    Efficiency over appropriateness

    “Would never recommend de-ranking content as it would take time.”

    —A 28-year-old audio moderator working for an Indian social media platform

    As moderators work under high productivity targets, it compels them to prioritise content that can be handled quickly without drawing attention from supervisors.

    In the above excerpt, the moderator explained she avoided content and processes that required more time to maintain her pace. While observing her work over a screen-share session, we noticed that reducing the visibility of content (de-ranking) involved four steps. Meanwhile ending live streams or removing posts required only two steps.

    To save time, she skipped the content flagged to be de-ranked. As a result, content marked for reduced visibility, such as impersonations, often remained on the platform until another moderator intervened.

    This shows how productivity pressures in the moderation industry easily lead to problematic content staying online.

    Decontextualised decisions

    “Ensure that none of the highlighted yellow words remained on the profile”

    —Instructions received by a text/image moderator

    Moderation work often includes automation tools that can detect certain words in text, transcribe speech, or use image recognition to scan the contents of pictures.

    These tools are supposed to assist moderators by flagging potential violations for further judgement that takes context into account. For example, is the potentially offensive language simply a joke, or does it actually violate any policies?

    In practice we found that under tight timelines, moderators frequently follow the tools’ cues mechanically rather than exercising independent judgement.

    The quoted moderator above described instructions from her supervisor to simply remove text detected by the software. During a screen-share, we observed her removing flagged words without evaluating the context.

    Often the automation tools that queue content and organise it for human moderators will also detach it from the broader conversational context. This makes it even harder for the moderator to make a context-based judgement on content that gets flagged but was actually innocent – despite that judgement being one of the reasons human moderators are hired in the first place.

    Impossibility of thorough judgements

    “If you guys can’t do the work and complete the targets, you may leave”

    —Work group message of a freelance content moderator

    Precarious employment compels moderators to mould their decision‑making processes around job security.

    They are compelled to use strategies that allow them to decide quickly and appropriately. In turn, this influences their future decisions.

    For instance, we found that over time, moderators develop a list of “dos and don’ts”. They may dilute expansive moderation guidelines into an easily remembered list of ethically unambiguous violations which they can quickly follow.

    These strategies reveal how the very structure of the moderation industry impedes thoughtful decisions and makes thorough judgement impossible.

    What should we take away from this?

    Our findings show that moderation decisions aren’t just shaped by platform policies. The precarious working conditions of moderators play a crucial role in how content gets moderated.

    Online platforms can’t put into place consistent and thorough moderation policies if the moderation industry’s employment practices are not improved too. We argue that content moderation and its effectiveness are as much a labour issue as it is a policy challenge.

    For truly effective moderation, online platforms must address the economic pressures on moderators, such as strict performance targets and insecure employment.

    We need greater transparency around how much platforms spend on human labour in trust and safety, both in‑house and outsourced. Currently, it’s not clear whether their investment in human resources is truly proportionate to the volume of content flowing through their platforms.

    Beyond employment conditions, platforms should also redesign their moderation tools. For example, integrating quick‑access rulebooks, implementing violation‑specific content queues, and standardising the steps required for different enforcement actions would streamline decision-making, so that moderators don’t default to faster options just to save time.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Hard labour conditions of online moderators directly affect how well the internet is policed – new study – https://theconversation.com/hard-labour-conditions-of-online-moderators-directly-affect-how-well-the-internet-is-policed-new-study-261386

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Sweden provides SEK 10 million in humanitarian assistance to Save the Children in Gaza

    Source: Government of Sweden

    The humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire. Children are particularly vulnerable and severely affected under the current circumstances. In light of this, the Swedish Government has decided to allocate SEK 10 million to Save the Children’s efforts in Gaza.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Sweden provides SEK 10 million in humanitarian assistance to Save the Children in Gaza

    Source: Government of Sweden

    The humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire. Children are particularly vulnerable and severely affected under the current circumstances. In light of this, the Swedish Government has decided to allocate SEK 10 million to Save the Children’s efforts in Gaza.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: NATO Defence Ministers agree on new capability targets

    Source: Government of Sweden

    At the meeting of NATO Defence Ministers in Brussels on 5 June, member countries’ defence ministers agreed on new capability targets for the Alliance. In conjunction with the meeting, Swedish Minister for Defence Pål Jonson also signed a number of agreements on behalf of Sweden.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Appropriations Committee Approves Chairman Fleischmann’s FY26 Energy and Water Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN)

    Washington, DC – The House Appropriations Committee met to consider the Fiscal Year 2026 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, led by Energy and Water Appropriations Chairman Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03). The bill was approved by the Committee with a vote of 35 to 27. Approval of Rep. Fleischmann’s FY26 Energy and Water Appropriations bill by the Appropriations Committee is a key step before the bill can be brought to the House Floor for a vote.

    Energy and Water Chairman Chuck Fleischmann said, “To achieve America’s new Golden Age, we must safeguard our national security, unleash American energy dominance, and increase economic prosperity for all our citizens. I am proud that, in tight fiscal times where every dollar spent must be scrutinized, the Fiscal Year 2026 Energy and Water Development appropriations bill makes historic investments in our national security and nuclear deterrent, advances American leadership in deploying new nuclear technologies, provides robust funding for waterways infrastructure projects nationwide, reduces our reliance on foreign sources of critical minerals, unleashes American energy production, and stops wasteful, inflationary spending. This bill is the product of close collaboration with the Trump Administration and my colleagues on the Appropriations Committee, and I thank them for their strong support.”

    House Committee on Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole (OK-04) said, “This FY26 Energy and Water bill is focused on lowering energy costs and advancing affordable, reliable, and secure power for the nation. It recognizes that American energy dominance is essential to our economic strength, national security, and global leadership—fueling jobs, innovation, and resilience across every community. Further, we make clear to our adversaries that America will lead with strength built on domestic energy and critical mineral production. We also prioritize essential waterway, flood control, and ports and harbors projects. Chairman Fleischmann’s approach ensures a stronger future reinforced through cutting-edge technology, strategic use of abundant resources, and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars, and I commend its full committee approval.”

    Energy and Water Subcommittee Chairman Fleischmann’s opening remarks are available here.
    Chairman Cole’s opening remarks are available here.

    Fiscal Year 2026 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill
    The Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill provides a total discretionary allocation of $57.300 billion, which is $766.4 million below the Fiscal Year 2025 enacted level. The defense portion of the allocation is $33.223 billion, and the non-defense portion of the allocation is $24.077 billion.

    The bill prioritizes funding for agencies and programs that safeguard U.S. national security, unleash American energy dominance, and advance economic competitiveness.

    Key Takeaways

    Champions America’s nuclear deterrent and strengthens national security by: 

    • Providing $20.662 billion for the continued modernization of the nuclear weapons stockpile and infrastructure.
    • Providing $2.171 billion to support the U.S. Navy’s nuclear fleet by investing in infrastructure and new technologies to maintain America’s advantage over our adversaries.
    • Providing $1.984 billion to reduce the danger of hostile nations or terrorist groups acquiring nuclear weapons.
    • Prohibiting the sale of crude oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to the Chinese Communist Party.
    • Prohibiting access to U.S. nuclear weapons production facilities by citizens of China and Russia.
    • Prohibiting the Department of Energy from providing financial assistance to any foreign entity of concern.
    • Prohibiting the purchase of technology and telecommunications equipment from China and other adversaries.

    Supports the Trump Administration and mandate of the American people by: 

    • Codifying President Trump’s executive actions by prohibiting funding for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and Critical Race Theory programs and ending federal censorship of free speech.
    • Continuing the prohibition on funding for any discriminatory action against individuals advocating for traditional marriage.
    • Allowing for the lawful carry of firearms on Corps of Engineers land.

    Restores American energy dominance and bolsters the national economy by: 

    • Supporting one of the largest investments focused on mining production technologies for critical minerals extraction in decades, reducing reliance on foreign sources.
    • Robustly funding small modular reactor and advanced reactor demonstration projects, as well as increasing funding for the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to expand capacity for the review, licensing, and oversight of new nuclear reactors.
      • These investments are key to regaining international dominance in the nuclear market and achieving the Trump Administration’s goal to expand nuclear energy capacity to 400 gigawatts by 2050.
    • Facilitating the efficient transport of goods and commodities through improvements and maintenance of America’s ports and waterways.
    • Increasing investments to develop new baseload geothermal energy sources to capitalize on our vast domestic resources.
    • Maintaining funding for cybersecurity efforts that enable a resilient, reliable, and secure electric grid.

    Safeguards American taxpayer dollars and preserves core functions by: 

    • Eliminating the Biden-era Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations.
    • Including no funds for the Department of Energy Office of Energy Justice and Equity.
    • Refocusing applied energy technology program funding to ensure taxpayer resources are directed to the highest priority research and development efforts.
    • Reducing global dependency on the U.S. for foreign nuclear reactor conversions.

    During the markup, Committee Republicans also stood with the America First agenda and rejected Democrat amendments that would have: 

    • Restricted the implementation of the America First agenda.
    • Repealed reconciliation efforts that reformed green new scam climate initiatives.
    • Sought to hamper enforcement efforts at Alligator Alcatraz.
    • Promoted and advanced critical race theory.
    • Allowed unapproved flags to be flown over federal facilities.
    • Funded polarizing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
    • Exposed Americans to religious discrimination.
    • Prohibited the implementation of certain President Trump executive orders.
    • Increased taxpayer spending to unnecessary levels for certain programs.

    Adopted Amendments 

    • Fleischmann #1 (Manager’s Amendment) – Makes technical, bipartisan changes to the bill and report.
      • The amendment was adopted by voice vote.
    • Clyde #1 – Addresses the collection and utilization of recreation fees.
      • The amendment was adopted by voice vote.
    • Moore #2 – Increases funding for Regional Commissions.
      • The amendment was adopted by voice vote. 

    Bill text, before adoption of amendments, is available here.
    Bill report, before adoption of amendments, is available here.
    A table of included Community Project Funding requests is available here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Fleischmann Honors the Tenth Anniversary of the Fallen Five

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN)

    Washington, DC – U.S. Representative Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03), released the following statement commemorating the tenth anniversary of the July 16, 2015, terrorist attacks in Chattanooga that took the lives of five brave U.S. servicemen, remembered forever as the Fallen Five.

    “Ten years ago today, tragedy struck our Chattanooga community when a radical jihadist terrorist took the lives of five heroic servicemen and wounded two others in one of the darkest days Chattanooga and Tennessee have endured. Out of the horror and violence of that terrible day, our community has stood firmly together in love, support, kindness, and strength to honor and remember the ultimate sacrifice and legacy of the Fallen Five and to uplift and support their beloved families,” said Congressman Fleischmann.

    “Chattanoogans, Tennesseans, and Americans nationwide will never forget the Fallen Five. We will always pay homage to U.S Marine Gunnery Sergeant Thomas J. Sullivan, U.S. Marine Staff Sergeant David A. Wyatt, U.S. Marine Sergeant Carson A. Holmquist, U.S. Marine Lance Corporal Squire K. “Skip” Wells, and U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Randall J. Smith. Their dedication to America, our community, our military, our freedoms, and service to others will always be remembered.”

    “Please join Brenda and me in praying for the eternal souls of the Fallen Five who are home now with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and for their families and loved ones. We remember the eternal, healing words spoken through Psalms, ‘God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble,’ and ‘Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me’”.

    “May God bless the Fallen Five and their families, and may God continue to bless Chattanooga and our great nation.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Moolenaar Votes for Funding for Military Readiness and Service Member Pay Raise

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Moolenaar (4th District of Michigan)

    Headline: Moolenaar Votes for Funding for Military Readiness and Service Member Pay Raise

    Last night, Congressman John Moolenaar voted in favor of H.R. 4016, The Defense Appropriations Act, 2026. The legislation contains key provisions to advance American interests, strengthens America’s national security, deters our adversaries, and invests in military readiness through funding exercises like Northern Strike in Michigan. It also delivers significant support for servicemembers with a 3.8% pay raise, and provides increased support for their families.

    “The Defense Appropriations Act passed today restores peace through strength, gives a well-deserved pay raise to our troops, and supports Northern Strike right here in Michigan,” said Moolenaar. “It ensures our military remains the most capable in the world by funding next generation aircraft, missile defense, and space capabilities to deter our adversaries like the Chinese Communist Party. This critical legislation puts our service members and their families first, with funding for equipment upgrades and enhanced quality of services so they can continue to keep America safe.”

    Exercise Northern Strike is a semi-annual military training hosted by the Michigan National Guard. The Defense Appropriation Act, 2026 allocates increased funding for personnel and operations, maintaining Northern Strike as a premier joint readiness exercise for American military personnel and our allies.

    The legislation passed the House of Representatives in a vote of 221 to 209. More information about the Defense Appropriations Act can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schakowsky, Jayapal, Raskin, Senate Colleagues Fight for Children’s Fundamental Right to a Healthy, Livable Planet

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (9th District of Illinois)

    Full Text of Resolution (PDF)

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representatives Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), and Jamie Raskin (MD-08) led over 40 Representatives in the introduction of a new resolution to protect the fundamental rights of the nation’s children to a safe, habitable environment in the face of climate chaos’ increasingly destructive and deadly impacts.

    “There is no room for debate: climate change is real, and as this crisis grows, our kids are increasingly paying the price. The movement to protect our planet is more important than ever before because we have a president who continues to ignore the science and cozy up to the fossil fuel industry,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “I am introducing the Children’s Fundamental Rights to Life and a Stable Climate System Resolution to emphasize that we as leaders have a duty to ensure that all people, especially our young people, are protected from the existential threat of climate change. Our children and grandchildren should not be forced to suffer the consequences of our lack of action. Together we can save our planet.”

    “Every single one of us — no matter our age, our background, our race, our income — has the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. But those rights are in jeopardy, because the future of our planet is in jeopardy. I applaud the young people who are taking their futures into their own hands and standing up to the Trump administration’s efforts to sell out our clean air and water to the highest fossil fuel bidder. Inaction is not an option and we all must stand up for climate justice and a future where we can all thrive,” said Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal.

    “Children have a right to live and therefore a right to a livable planet,” said Congressman Jamie Raskin. “But the Trump Administration wants to carve out more giveaways to the Carbon Kings rather than protect the climate for children and future generations of Americans. Our Resolution with Representatives Jayapal and Schakowsky and Senator Merkley is about uplifting the voices of those who will be most affected by this climate irresponsibility and corruption—young people and children—and sounding the alarm on America’s accelerating climate disaster. The time to act for public accountability is right now. I salute everyone involved in this important campaign.”

    The resolution — led in the U.S. Senate by Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR) — responds to the Trump Administration’s ‘Polluters over People’ agenda that has enriched Big Oil, fueled climate chaos, and increased energy costs for working families. The resolution calls for leadership to put the United States on a trajectory to avoid the worst impacts of climate chaos.   

    “Every child in America deserves a healthy and prosperous future, but the Trump Administration is selling out our health, safety, planet, and future to make billionaire corporate polluters even richer,” said Senator Jeff Merkley. “We stand with these courageous young activists in Oregon and across the country who are taking matters into their own hands with immediate and decisive steps to fight for themselves and future generations, address climate chaos, and tackle environmental injustice.”

    The resolution highlights the principles underpinning Lighthiser v. Trump, a youth-led lawsuit that was filed by 22 young plaintiffs from five states, challenging the Trump Administration’s Executive Orders that “unleash fossil fuels” and endanger the lives of children and future generations.

    In addition to Reps. Schakowsky, Jayapal, and Raskin, cosponsors of the resolution include Reps. Rashida Tlaib, Summer L. Lee, Shri Thanedar, Delia C. Ramirez, Yassamin Ansari, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Andre Carson, Nydia M. Velázquez, Nanette Barragán, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Dina Titus, Maxwell Frost, Bonnie Watson Coleman, Steve Cohen, Mary Gay Scanlon, Lateefah Simon, Jerrold Nadler, Kathy Castor, Kevin Mullin, Danny Davis, Julia Brownley, Dave Min, Sara Jacobs, Judy Chu, Maxine Dexter, David Scott, Mark Takano, Gabe Amo, Jared Huffman, Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Valerie Foushee, Becca Balint, Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr., Ro Khanna, Alma S. Adams, Ritchie Torres, James P. McGovern, Jill Tokuda, Darren Soto, Stephen F. Lynch, LaMonica McIver, Val Hoyle, and Jahana Hayes.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Schakowsky, Huffman, Johnson Introduce Legislation to Empower Franchise Owners

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (9th District of Illinois)

    Full Text of Bill (PDF) | One-Pager of Bill (PDF)

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representatives Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Jared Huffman (CA-02), and Hank Johnson (GA-04) introduced legislation to ensure that small business owners who enter into franchise agreements with big corporations will be afforded the opportunity to address claims against the franchisor, putting them on a level playing field. The Franchisee Freedom Act will explicitly give franchise owners private right of action on FTC Franchise Rule violations. 

    “Becoming a franchisee can be a lifeline for those looking to create their own American dream. Unfortunately, due to a weak rule and even weaker enforcement of the Federal Trade Commission’s Franchise Rule, that dream can turn into a nightmare, one in which they are under the thumb of a predatory corporation,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “That is why it is imperative for franchisees that we pass this legislation, which provides small business owners harmed by violations of the Franchise Rule with the means to recover from the harm done.”

    “Entering franchise agreements is a great way for small business owners to gain the assurance and financial support of a larger corporation, but current law enables franchisers to unfairly take advantage of these negotiations,” said Congressman Jared Huffman. “Our bill would help prevent franchisees from falling victim to predatory practices and put them on a level playing field with their franchisers. This legislation is a necessary step toward ensuring fairness in franchising and accommodating for the current gaps in Federal Trade Commission regulations.”

    “The vast majority of franchisees are small businesses with less than 20 employees,” said Congressman Hank Johnson. “I’m proud to co-lead this bill with Congresswoman Schakowsky and Congressman Huffman to give franchisees access to the courts so that they can address claims against the franchisor, putting them on a level playing field when enforcing their rights.”

    Currently there is no private right of action allowed on FTC Franchise Rule violations. Courts have ruled, and it has been footnoted in the FTC Act, that since Congress has not given a private right of action, none can be implied. 

    The bill has been endorsed by over 45 organizations. Find a full list of endorsements here.

    “I appreciate Reps. Schakowsky, Huffman, and Johnson for reintroducing the Franchisee Freedom Act. Giving franchisees access to the courts to mitigate claims of improper disclosure seems like a fundamental right. This year she has added the franchisees’ right to association without interference or retaliation. It actually blows me away that we even have to fight for what most would consider basic American protections”, said Keith Miller, Principal, Franchisee Advocacy Consulting.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: As Chaotic Trump Tariffs Drive Price Hikes, Schakowsky, Deluzio, Warren, Baldwin Propose New Tools to Fight Price Gouging

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (9th District of Illinois)

    Full Text of Bill (PDF) | Bill One-Pager (PDF)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Representatives Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) and Chris Deluzio (PA-17), along with U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) reintroduced the Price Gouging Prevention Act to fight back against the corporate greed enabled by the Trump administration’s chaotic tariff policies. The bill would give the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and state attorneys general new tools to enforce a federal ban against grossly excessive price increases.

    The last five years have repeatedly shown us that giant corporations will take advantage of inflation and supply chain disruptions to expand their profit margins by raising prices higher than necessary to cover cost increases. President Trump’s on-again, off-again tariffs have created yet another opportunity for corporate price gouging. The tariff-driven uncertainty gives companies the opportunity to raise prices on all goods, regardless of whether they are actually subject to new tariffs, higher and for longer than what is necessary to cover any cost increases. Now, dozens of companies have reported raising the prices of goods and services unaffected by Trump’s tariffs. 

    “President Donald Trump promised to lower costs, but we have seen the exact opposite. Greedy corporations are using the economic turmoil the Trump Administration has created to gouge the American people on everything from groceries to consumer goods. While these large corporations rake in record profits, families in my community and across the country are struggling to put food on the table,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “Our bill will finally put an end to price gouging by empowering the FTC and state attorneys general to hold bad actors accountable when they take advantage of consumers.”

    “Prices are still too high, and inflation is still pounding folks. Especially now, we need to rein in monopolists and other huge corporations with the power to price gouge the American people,” said Congressman Chris Deluzio. “By upping FTC enforcement practices and boosting transparency, this bill will take some of the squeeze off American families and small businesses suffering under the thumb of out-of-control corporate power.”

    “Donald Trump’s reckless tariff policies are giving companies cover to squeeze families and raise prices more than necessary. My bill is an opportunity for Congress to stand up for families by cracking down on price gouging and fighting back against corporate abuse,” said Senator Elizabeth Warren.

    “The biggest corporations in our country jack up the cost of everyday household items, take in record profits, and give their executives huge bonuses – all on the backs of hard-working Wisconsin families. Donald Trump claimed he would lower prices – so far, he has done just the opposite and is even opening the door to more price gouging. But, if we pass this bill, we can rein that in and give Wisconsinites some breathing room and allow them to save for the future,” said Senator Tammy Baldwin. “Our bill will finally crack down on corporate greed and help stop those big companies at the top of the food chain from sticking families with exorbitant costs.”

    The Price Gouging Prevention Act of 2025 would help the federal government and state attorneys general fight corporate price gouging. The bill would: 

    • Prohibit price gouging at the federal level—anytime and anywhere. The bill would clarify that price gouging is an unfair and deceptive practice under the FTC Act. It would allow the FTC and state attorneys general to stop sellers from charging a grossly excessive price, regardless of where the price gouging occurs in a supply chain or distribution network;
    • Help enforcers establish when price gouging is occurring during a significant shift in trade policy. The bill lists a set of exceptional market shocks—including an “abrupt or significant shift in trade policy”—and outlines a standard for a presumptive violation of the price gouging prohibition during such a shock, such as when companies brag about increasing prices;
    • Create an affirmative defense for small businesses acting in good faith. Small and local businesses sometimes must raise prices in response to crisis-driven increases in their costs because they have little negotiating power with their price-gouging suppliers. This affirmative defense protects small businesses earning less than $100 million from frivolous litigation if they show legitimate cost increases;
    • Require public companies to clearly disclose costs and pricing strategies. During periods of exceptional market shock, the bill requires public companies to transparently disclose and explain changes in their cost of goods sold, gross margins, and pricing strategies in their quarterly SEC filings; and
    • Provide $1 billion in additional funding to the FTC to carry out its work.

    Representatives Angie Craig (MN-02), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr (GA-04), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Jerry Nadler (NY-12), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) and Paul Tonko (NY-20) joined as co-sponsors. 

    Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), John Fetterman (D-PA), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) joined as co-sponsors. 

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Schakowsky, Fletcher, Matsui, Pressley Introduce Safer Beauty Bill Package

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (9th District of Illinois)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Ranking Member of the Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade Subcommittee of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, on Wednesday reintroduced the Safer Beauty Bill Package with her colleagues, Reps. Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07), Doris Matsui (CA-07), and Ayanna Pressley (MA-07). The bill package includes four separate bills that offer progressive updates to an increasingly outdated set of federal cosmetics laws. This package builds upon the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act (MoCRA), which passed under President Joe Biden and expanded FDA oversight to include the regulation of the cosmetics industry, including mandatory recall authority, adverse event reporting, and requiring facility registration, and more.

    “Safe, accessible beauty cannot wait. After more than 80 years of inaction, the United States finally updated its cosmetics laws in 2022. President Biden was able to sign into law the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act, which now gives authority to the Food and Drug Administration to recall beauty and personal care products that are harming human health. While this was an important first step, our work is not done,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “I am proud to reintroduce the Safer Beauty Bill Package with my colleagues, Reps. Lizzie Fletcher, Doris Matsui, and Ayanna Pressley, which would protect consumers from toxic chemicals linked to hormone disruption, cancer and other health problems; require full ingredient transparency for consumers and manufacturers; and protect the health of women of color and salon workers, who are among the most highly exposed to toxic chemicals because of the products marketed to them or commonly found in their workplaces. We must pass the Safer Beauty Bill Package now!”

    “Many people assume that the personal care and beauty items they use are safe, but with minimal oversight, many of the care, beauty, and salon products sold across the country actually contain toxic chemicals,” said Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher.  “I am glad to partner with Congresswoman Schakowsky to reintroduce the Toxic-Free Beauty Act to protect the health and safety of people across the country by banning chemicals known to cause significant harm in beauty products.”

    “Americans deserve the comfort of knowing the products they use every day are safe and properly labeled,” said Congresswoman Doris Matsui. “That’s why I am proud to join Congresswoman Schakowsky in announcing the Cosmetic Hazardous Ingredient Right to Know Act, which will introduce much needed transparency and accountability to the cosmetics industry. This is a commonsense step toward protecting consumers and our public health. Whether it’s a parent buying shampoo for their child or a professional exposed to dozens of products daily, every person should have clear, honest information about what they’re putting on their bodies.” 

    “For decades, the beauty products marketed to Black women and girls and found in our salons have contained toxic, unregulated chemicals – leaving us to disproportionately suffer from increased incidences of cancer, respiratory issues, and adverse reproductive outcomes,” said Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley. “This isn’t a coincidence – this is exploitation. Black women, girls, and salon workers should be able to show up everyday as our beautiful, authentic selves, without fear for our health and safety. It’s past time that we regulate these hazardous products and affirm our right to safer alternatives, and I am proud to co-lead the Cosmetic Safety Protections for Communities of Color and Salon Workers Act and partner with my colleagues and dedicated advocates on the Safer Beauty Bill Package to do exactly that.”

    The four bills cover almost every aspect of personal care product safety. They are:  

    • H.R. 4433 – The Toxic-Free Beauty Act (Reps. Schakowsky and Fletcher): Bans 18 of the most toxic chemicals and two whole classes of chemicals (phthalates and formaldehyde releasing preservatives) that have been banned by the European Union and a number of states including California, Maryland, Oregon, Washington, and Vermont.
    • H.R. 4434 – Cosmetic Supply Chain Transparency Act (Rep. Schakowsky): Requires suppliers of raw materials, ingredients, and private label products to provide full ingredient disclosure and safety data to cosmetic companies so they can make safer products.
    • H.R. 4435 – Cosmetic Hazardous Ingredient Right to Know Act (Reps. Schakowsky and Matsui): Requires product label and website disclosure of secret, unlabeled, and often toxic chemicals in our personal care products. Last Congress, this bill only required transparency for fragrance and flavor ingredients and has been expanded to cover all ingredients that can pose a health risk to consumers.
    • H.R. 4436 – Cosmetic Safety Protections for Communities of Color and Salon Workers (Reps. Schakowsky and Pressley): Funds research, resource materials, education and outreach, and the development of safer chemicals to protect the health of women of color and salon workers, two vulnerable populations who are among the most highly exposed to toxic chemicals because of the cosmetic products marketed to them or commonly found in their workplaces. This bill also requires the FDA to regulate the safety of synthetic braids, which can contain toxic chemicals.

    The average American adult uses about 12 personal care products a day, resulting in exposure to an average of 168 unique chemicals. Children are also exposed to products containing risky chemicals during critical stages of childhood development. As these products range from toothpaste to makeup, it is easy for companies to conceal harmful chemicals that risk American livelihoods. Chemicals in beauty and personal care products have been linked to cancer, infertility, poor infant and maternal health outcomes, asthma, and many other serious health concerns. Women of color are disproportionately exposed to these harmful chemicals due to workplace conditions.

    Joining Reps. Schakowsky, Fletcher, Matsui, and Pressley as original cosponsors of the Safer Beauty Bill Package are Reps. Dingell, Khanna, Norton, and Tlaib. 

    The bill has been endorsed by a coalition of over 150 organizations and safe cosmetics companies. Find a full list of endorsements here.

    “Thank you, Rep. Schakowsky, for your steadfast advocacy on behalf of cosmetic safety and for introducing the 2025 Safer Beauty Bill Package which will protect everyone regardless of where they live, shop or work” said Janet Nudelman, Director of Breast Cancer Prevention Partner’s Campaign for Safe Cosmetics. “This important suite of bills will match the new high bar for ingredient safety set by laws recently enacted in CA, MD, OR, WA, VT, and NY; create long overdue protections for women of color and professional salon workers; and set a new industry standard for ingredient and supply chain transparency.”

    For over a decade, Congresswoman Schakowsky has fought tirelessly to pass a robust regulatory framework for cosmetics and personal care products. The efforts focus on closing major loopholes in federal law that allow companies to use nearly any ingredient in these products, even chemicals that are known to harm human health and the environment like coal tar dyes, formaldehyde, lead acetate, parabens, and phthalates.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Krishnamoorthi Slams Republican Rescissions Package as “Reckless Attack on Services Families Depend On”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08) issued the following statement after House Republicans passed their latest rescissions package, which slashes funding for essential public services while handing out massive tax breaks to the wealthiest among us:

    “Last night, House Republicans chose to gut public health, emergency communications, and national security in order to appease Donald Trump. Slashing funding for public broadcasting in the middle of climate disasters and handing tax breaks to the wealthiest among us while ballooning the deficit and risking a government shutdown is not fiscal discipline—it’s a reckless attack on the services families depend on.”

    The rescissions package includes sweeping cuts to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, pandemic preparedness programs, and emergency response funding—all while preserving tax giveaways that overwhelmingly benefit billionaires.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Krishnamoorthi Denounces FDA Authorization of Juul E-Cigarettes as Step Backward in Fight Against Youth Nicotine Addiction

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), a national leader in the fight to end youth vaping, condemned the Food and Drug Administration’s decision to authorize the sale of Juul e-cigarettes, including menthol-flavored products. As co-founder of the bipartisan Congressional Caucus to End the Youth Vaping Epidemic and the first Member of Congress to launch an investigation into Juul’s role in fueling youth nicotine addiction, Congressman Krishnamoorthi has long pushed for stricter enforcement and regulation of e-cigarette products that target children.

    “Juul helped ignite the youth vaping epidemic, and the FDA’s decision to reauthorize its products—including menthol-flavored vapes popular with kids—is a profound mistake,” said Congressman Krishnamoorthi. “This ruling is a clear win for Big Tobacco and undermines years of bipartisan work to get these addictive products off the market. The FDA must reverse course before more young people are hooked for life.”

    Congressman Krishnamoorthi has been at the forefront of efforts to protect children from harmful e-cigarette products. In 2019, he launched the first congressional investigation into youth vaping, exposing Juul’s marketing tactics and pushing legislation to ban flavored e-cigarettes and close the synthetic nicotine loophole. He has led bipartisan letters urging the FDA to crack down on illegal flavored vapes still widely sold online and in stores, and in April, he applauded the Supreme Court’s unanimous decision to uphold the FDA’s rejection of fruit- and dessert-flavored vaping products. In December, Congressman Krishnamoorthi, through his role as Ranking Member of the Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), announced a new investigation into illicit vaping products from China with advertising targeted at children. Most recently, he partnered with Congresswoman Celeste Maloy (R-UT), his fellow co-chair of the bipartisan Caucus to End Youth Vaping, in calling on the FDA to strengthen enforcement as over 6,000 flavored products remain on the market, many of them designed to appeal directly to children.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Krishnamoorthi Leads 104 Colleagues in Letter to Protect 988 LGBTQI+ Youth Lifeline

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

    WASHINGTON – On Thursday, U.S. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), a national leader in bipartisan efforts to protect crisis services for vulnerable youth, led a letter with Reps. Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Sharice Davids (KS-03), Doris Matsui (CA-07), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Chris Pappas (NH-01), and Paul Tonko (NY-20), urging House Appropriations Committee leaders to preserve funding for the 988 LGBTQI+ Youth Lifeline. The letter—sent to Subcommittee Chair Robert Aderholt (AL-04) and Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (CT-03)—was co-signed by 104 Democratic Members of Congress.

    The letter comes as the Trump Administration moved to eliminate the 988 LGBTQI+ Youth Lifeline, a service that has received nearly 1.5 million contacts since its inception. It has served as a critical resource for LGBTQI+ youth nationwide, who are at significantly higher risk of suicide and mental health challenges.

    Dear Chair Aderholt and Ranking Member DeLauro:

    As you craft the Fiscal Year 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and related Agencies appropriations bill, the undersigned Members urge you to maintain funding for the 988 LGBTQ+ Youth Specialized Services within the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Budget. 

    In 2022, SAMHSA launched the LGBTQ+ youth specialized services as a pilot program in coordination with the broader 988 lifeline. Since its launch, the line has received nearly 1.5 million contacts from LGBTQ+ youth through calls, texts, and online chats[1]. In 2024 alone the LGBTQ+ service served over 600,000 crisis contacts, demonstrating both its necessity and impact[2].

    Suicide is the second leading cause of death among youth aged 10 to 14, and LGBTQ+ young people are four times more likely to attempt suicide than their non-LGBTQ+ peers. It is estimated that one LGBTQ+ young person attempts suicide every 45 seconds[3]. 

    The LGBTQ+ Youth lifeline was designed to address this higher risk of suicide for this population. When an adolescent reaches out to the LGBTQ+ Youth lifeline, they can access specialized services from somebody who cares, who may have shared experience, understands where they are coming from, and is trained to address the unique situation LGBTQ+ youth may face[4].

    LGBTQ+ identifying youth can face distinct mental health issues rooted in rejection and social discrimination. In fact, of LGBTQ+ youth who reported they slept away from parents or were kicked out of the house, 40 percent were abandoned due to their identity and 28 percent of LGBTQ+ youth report experiencing homelessness or housing instability during their lives[5]. 

    Despite the need, a 2024 study demonstrated that 50 percent of LGBTQ+ youth who wanted mental health care in the previous year were unable to access i[6]t. More than 80 percent say it is important that crisis services include a specific focus on LGBTQ+ youth[7].

    In the midst of a youth mental health crisis, we cannot afford to eliminate a critical, life-saving resource for LGBTQ+ youth, who face both higher risks and greater barriers to care. These young people deserve to speak with professionals who are trained and equipped to meet their unique needs.

    Please maintain the lifesaving funding for the 988 LGBTQ+ youth specialized services so we can continue to serve LGBTQ+ young people across the country who are at an elevated risk of suicide and mental illness. 

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Krishnamoorthi Introduces BURDEN Act to Force Congress to Complete the Medicaid and SNAP Paperwork They Imposed on Millions

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

    The bill requires Members of Congress to comply with the same bureaucratic red tape now mandated for Medicaid and SNAP recipients under the “Large Lousy Law.”

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08) introduced the Bringing Unfair Reporting Duties to Electeds Now (BURDEN) Act, a bill that would require Members of Congress to personally comply with the same burdensome work requirement paperwork they imposed on low-income Americans under President Trump’s so-called “Large Lousy Law” budget reconciliation package, which became law earlier this month.

    Under the BURDEN Act, Members of Congress would be barred from enrolling in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program unless they submit monthly proof of “community engagement,” the same bureaucratic reporting required of Medicaid recipients. Additionally, the bill requires Members to complete and submit the same paperwork now mandated for SNAP recipients to verify employment, income, and eligibility on a recurring basis.

    “President Trump’s reckless ‘Large Lousy Law’ forces millions of vulnerable Americans to jump through hoops just to keep food on the table or get the medical care they need,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. “If Congressional Republicans think these burdens are appropriate for struggling families, then Members of Congress should shoulder them too. The BURDEN Act simply says, if you want taxpayer-funded health coverage, prove you meet the same standards you’re imposing on the American people.”

    The “Large Lousy Law” slashes Medicaid by over $1 trillion, imposes sweeping work requirements, and adds layers of red tape that threaten access to health care and nutrition assistance for millions of Americans—including working parents, caregivers, and individuals with unstable or part-time employment. According to the Congressional Budget Office, more than 17 million Americans are projected to lose their health care under the new law.

    Key provisions of the BURDEN Act include:

    • Requiring Members of Congress to submit monthly certifications proving they meet Medicaid work requirement standards for “community engagement” — typically including documented employment, job training, or approved volunteer work.

    • Requiring Members to complete and submit recurring SNAP eligibility documentation, including income reporting, employment verification, and other required paperwork, on the same schedule as SNAP recipients.

    • Prohibiting enrollment in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program for Members who fail to comply with these requirements.

    By exposing the double standard in how burdensome requirements are applied, the BURDEN Act seeks to restore basic fairness and highlight the real-world consequences of Republican policies that target working families.

    The full copy of the bill is available here.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Krishnamoorthi Condemns Vandalism of Little Village Community Centers as “Cowardly Acts of Hate”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

    CHICAGO– Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08) issued the following statement in response to the hateful vandalism of several buildings in the Little Village neighborhood, including swastikas and anti-immigrant graffiti:

    “These cowardly acts of hate are meant to intimidate and divide, but they will fail. I stand with the people of Little Village and the community organizations targeted in this vile attack. There is no place for anti-immigrant extremism or Nazi imagery in any of our neighborhoods. At a time when immigrant communities are under siege, we must stand shoulder to shoulder against xenophobia and all forms of hate.”

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Johnson’s Statement on Supreme Court’s Ruling on Dismantling of Department of Education

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Hank Johnson (GA-04)

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Norton Introduces Bill to Give D.C. Authority to Appoint All Members of Board that Deals Exclusively with Local D.C. Zoning

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (District of Columbia)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) today introduced her bill to give the District of Columbia the authority to appoint all members of the D.C. Board of Zoning Adjustment (Board), except when the Board is performing functions regarding an application by a foreign mission with respect to a chancery. Under current law, in general, the Board consists of a representative of the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) and the D.C. Zoning Commission, each of whom may be a federal official, and three mayoral appointees, subject to D.C. Council approval. The Board has no authority over federal property and Norton’s bill would not alter the Board’s authority.

    “The District of Columbia should be free to set its own local land-use policies like every other jurisdiction in the United States,” Norton said. “We face local issues, such as a growing population and economic development, that require local solutions. Land use is a quintessentially local issue. The Board of Zoning Adjustment should be accountable to District residents and local elected officials.”

    When the Board is performing functions regarding an application by a foreign mission with respect to the location, expansion, or replacement of a chancery, the Board consists of the Executive Director of NCPC, the Director of the National Park Service (or, if the President so designates, the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of the Interior or the Administrator of General Services), and the three mayoral appointees. Norton’s bill would not change this composition.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Norton Calls D.C. Appropriations Bill Text “Unreasonable” and “Patronizing” to 700,000+ D.C. Residents

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (District of Columbia)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – The House Committee on Appropriations today released the text of its fiscal year 2026 (FY 26) Financial Services and General Government (FSSG) Appropriations bill, which Norton said includes an outrageous number of anti-home rule riders. Republicans try to attach the riders to the annual D.C. spending bill to exert control over local D.C. matters, despite their positions as federal officials who do not represent D.C. residents. Significantly, the bill would halve funding for DCTAG, a program established by a 1999 Norton bill. DCTAG makes up the difference for D.C. residents between in-state and out-of-state tuition up to $10,000 at public institutions of higher education in the U.S.

    “I am outraged at the number and scope of anti-D.C. home rule riders in the bill released today,” Norton said. “In my long career representing D.C. residents in Congress, I have rarely seen a bill as unreasonable and patronizing to the more than 700,000 people who live in the nation’s capital as this one. I will use every tool at my disposal to stop these riders from becoming law, and I commit to reminding my fellow lawmakers across the aisle that D.C. residents deserve the same consideration as their own constituents at every opportunity.” 

    The text released today:

    • Would permit anyone with a concealed carry permit from any state or territory to carry a concealed handgun in D.C. and on WMATA.
    • Would provide $20 million for the D.C. Tuition Assistance Grant Program (DCTAG), a 50% decrease from the current funding level.
    • Would prohibit D.C. from spending its own local funds on abortion services for low-income women.
    • Would prohibit D.C. from using local funds to carry out its Reproductive Health Non-Discrimination Amendment Act of 2014.
    • Would repeal D.C.’s Death with Dignity Act, and prohibits enacting any similar act.
    • Would require D.C. to submit a report on its enforcement of the Partial Birth Abortion Ban Act.
    • Would prohibit D.C. from spending its own local funds to enforce its vehicle emission standards.
    • Would prohibit D.C. from using local funds to carry out its automated traffic enforcement law.
    • Would prohibit D.C. from using its local funds to enact or carry out any law which prohibits motorists from making right turns on red.
    • Would repeal the provision of D.C.’s Anti-Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation law, or Anti-SLAPP law, that exempts from that law any claim brought by the D.C. government.
    • Would prohibit D.C. from using local funds to implement its law allowing noncitizens to vote in local elections or on activities related to enrolling or registering noncitizens into voter rolls for local elections.
    • Would prohibit D.C. from using local funds to implement its Comprehensive Policing and Justice Reform Amendment Act of 2022.
    • Would repeal parts of the Youth Rehabilitation Amendment Act of 2018 that allows courts to use sentencing alternatives for a person who was sentenced as an adult but was under the age of 24 at the time the person committed a crime, changing that age back to 22.
    • Would prohibit the use of funds to implement, administer, or enforce any COVID–19 mask or vaccine mandate.
    • Would prohibit the use of funds to commercialize recreational marijuana.
    • Would prohibit the use of funds to implement the Insurance Regulation Amendment Act of 2024, which relates to reproductive health care and gender-affirming care.
    • Would prohibit funds to implement or enforce provisions of the Consumer Protection Act against oil and gas companies for environmental claims.

    Among the anti-home rule riders are several victories secured by Norton, despite Republican control of the House.

    “Even among the long list of anti-home rule riders in the bill text released today, there are a number of victories for residents of the nation’s capital,” Norton said. “I was pleased to secure these wins for the District, including increasing the DCTAG yearly cap from $10,000 to $15,000 and lifetime award cap from $50,000 to $75,000, a change I have requested for years. Even in the face of funding for the overall program being cut by half, these increases are a positive for D.C. residents who are recipients of the program. I will continue to work to secure full funding for DCTAG.”

    The bill also maintains the provision to exempt the D.C. government from a federal government shutdown in FY 2026, a provision she has gotten enacted every year since FY 2015. It also approves D.C. to spend under its FY 26 local budget.

    Norton also secured the following victories in the bill:

    • Increasing the yearly cap on DCTAG to $15,000 from $10,000 and increasing the lifetime cap from $50,000 to $75,000.
    • Requiring ratably reducing the amount of tuition and fee payment of each eligible DCTAG student who receives more than $10,000 for the award year if there are insufficient funds.
    • Exempting D.C. from federal government shutdowns in FY 2026.
    • Providing $5.7 million for D.C. Water Clean Rivers Project.
    • Providing $70 million for the Emergency Planning and Security Fund. The fund pays for the unique public safety and security costs the District incurs as the nation’s capital, and is designed to cover the District’s costs upfront so D.C. does not need to expend local funds and then seek an appropriation to be reimbursed for such costs after the fact.
    • Providing $600,000 for the Major General David F. Wherley, Jr. District of Columbia National Guard Retention and College Access Program.
    • Providing $4 million to combat HIV/AIDS in D.C.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Norton, Raskin, Van Hollen Introduce Bill to Remove Name of Segregationist from Chevy Chase Circle

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (District of Columbia)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Congressman Jamie Raskin (D-MD), and Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) today introduced a bill which would remove the plaque and inscriptions bearing Francis Newlands’ name from Chevy Chase Circle a federal park located in both the District of Columbia and in Maryland’s 8th Congressional District, which Raskin represents. Newlands was a U.S. senator from Nevada, a conservationist and the founder of the Chevy Chase Land Company, which developed the Chevy Chase neighborhood. Newlands was also a segregationist and held racist views. The Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests, and Public Lands held a hearing on the bill in 2022, where Norton testified that “Newlands does not deserve to be honored on federal land.”

    “I’ve long called for statues dedicated to Confederates and segregationists to be placed in museums, where they can be better contextualized, instead of being showcased in locations that connote honor,” CongresswomanNorton said. “However, there is no redeeming value in preserving an honorific to an avowed and unrepentant racist. The plaque and fountain in Chevy Chase Circle tell no story. They are meant only to honor Newlands, a segregationist who argued that voting rights won for African Americans as a result of the Civil War should be repealed. Newlands belongs in the dust bins of history, not preserved on a traffic circle that symbolizes the unity between the nation’s capital and the state of Maryland.”

    “Associating an avowed segregationist and white supremacist with Chevy Chase Circle is an affront to the people of Maryland and D.C.,” said Rep. Raskin. “I’m partnering with Congresswoman Norton and Senators Van Hollen and Alsobrooks on legislation to remove Francis Newlands’ name from the Circle’s fountain and reclaim this beautiful space at the intersection of the Free State and the Capital City—two proudly diverse and welcoming places—for the recreation and enjoyment of all our neighbors.”

    “Francis Newlands was a white supremacist who worked to make his developments, including Chevy Chase, inaccessible to Black, Jewish, and working class families. We should not be memorializing him and the bigoted policies he stood for – the legacies of which are still harmful to this day. Instead of glorifying those who promoted exclusion and division, we should be working together to build communities that support growth and economic inclusion for all,” said Senator Van Hollen.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Norton Says Anti-Home Rule Riders on Subcommittee-Passed D.C. Appropriations Bill are “Appalling” and “Unsurprising”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (District of Columbia)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – The House Committee on Appropriations marked up and passed the fiscal year 2026 (FY 26) Financial Services and General Government (FSSG) Appropriations bill tonight, which Norton said includes an outrageous and irresponsible number of anti-home rule riders. Republicans try to attach the riders to the annual D.C. spending bill to exert control over local D.C. matters, despite their positions as federal officials who do not represent D.C. residents. Significantly, the bill would halve funding for DCTAG, a program established by a 1999 Norton bill. DCTAG makes up the difference for D.C. residents between in-state and out-of-state tuition up to $10,000 at public institutions of higher education in the U.S.

    “It is unsurprising that at a time when there are more frequent Republican attacks on D.C. home rule than any time since the 1990s, the D.C. appropriations bill reported out of a Republican-controlled subcommittee contains numerous and extensive riders that would overrule the expressed will of D.C. residents,” Norton said. “I am particularly appalled by the 50% cut in funding for DCTAG, a program created in 1999 by a bill I authored that simply helps pay for students who are D.C. residents to attend college.

    “I will use every tool at my disposal to stop these riders from becoming law, and I commit to reminding my fellow lawmakers across the aisle that D.C. residents deserve consideration equal to that given to as their own constituents.”

    As reported out of the subcommittee today, the bill:

    • Would provide $20 million for the D.C. Tuition Assistance Grant Program (DCTAG), a 50% decrease from the current funding level.
    • Would permit anyone with a concealed carry permit from any state or territory to carry a concealed handgun in D.C. and on WMATA.
    • Would prohibit D.C. from spending its own local funds on abortion services for low-income women.
    • Would prohibit D.C. from using local funds to carry out its Reproductive Health Non-Discrimination Amendment Act of 2014.
    • Would repeal D.C.’s Death with Dignity Act and prohibit enacting any similar act.
    • Would require D.C. to submit a report on its enforcement of the Partial Birth Abortion Ban Act.
    • Would prohibit D.C. from spending its own local funds to enforce its vehicle emission standards.
    • Would prohibit D.C. from using local funds to carry out its automated traffic enforcement law.
    • Would prohibit D.C. from using its local funds to enact or carry out any law which prohibits motorists from making right turns on red.
    • Would repeal the provision of D.C.’s Anti-Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation law, or Anti-SLAPP law, that exempts from that law any claim brought by the D.C. government.
    • Would prohibit D.C. from using local funds to implement its law allowing noncitizens to vote in local elections or on activities related to enrolling or registering noncitizens into voter rolls for local elections.
    • Would prohibit D.C. from using local funds to implement its Comprehensive Policing and Justice Reform Amendment Act of 2022.
    • Would repeal parts of the Youth Rehabilitation Amendment Act of 2018 that allows courts to use sentencing alternatives for a person who was sentenced as an adult but was under the age of 24 at the time the person committed a crime, changing that age back to 22.
    • Would prohibit the use of funds to implement, administer, or enforce any COVID–19 mask or vaccine mandate.
    • Would prohibit the use of funds to commercialize recreational marijuana.
    • Would prohibit the use of funds to implement the Insurance Regulation Amendment Act of 2024, which relates to reproductive health care and gender-affirming care.
    • Would prohibit funds to implement or enforce provisions of the Consumer Protection Act against oil and gas companies for environmental claims.

    Despite Republican control of the House, Norton secured several key victories for D.C., including the first increase in the annual and lifetime award caps for DCTAG recipients since the program was created in 1999.

    “I was pleased the bill that passed out of subcommittee tonight maintained several wins I secured for D.C., including increasing the DCTAG yearly cap from $10,000 to $15,000 and lifetime award cap from $50,000 to $75,000, a change I have requested for many years. Even in the face of funding for the overall program being cut by half, these increases are a positive for DCTAG recipients. I will continue to work to secure full funding for DCTAG.”

    The bill also maintains the provision to exempt the D.C. government from a federal government shutdown in FY 2027, a provision Norton has gotten enacted every year since FY 2015. It also approves D.C. to spend under its FY 26 local budget.

    Norton secured the following victories in the bill:

    • Increasing the yearly cap on DCTAG to $15,000 from $10,000 and increasing the lifetime cap from $50,000 to $75,000.
    • Requiring ratably reducing the amount of tuition and fee payment of each eligible DCTAG student who receives more than $10,000 for the award year if there are insufficient funds.
    • Exempting D.C. from federal government shutdowns in FY 2027.
    • Providing $5.7 million for D.C. Water Clean Rivers Project.
    • Providing $70 million for the Emergency Planning and Security Fund. The fund pays for the unique public safety and security costs the District incurs as the nation’s capital, and is designed to cover the District’s costs upfront so D.C. does not need to expend local funds and then seek an appropriation to be reimbursed for such costs after the fact.
    • Providing $600,000 for the Major General David F. Wherley, Jr. District of Columbia National Guard Retention and College Access Program.
    • Providing $4 million to combat HIV/AIDS in D.C.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Norton Introduces Bill to Give D.C. Control Over Operations of Local D.C. Courts

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (District of Columbia)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.–– Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) introduced her District of Columbia Courts Home Rule Act today, which would give the D.C. Council authority over the jurisdiction and organization of the local D.C. courts. The D.C. Home Rule Act expressly prohibits D.C. from enacting any law with respect to any provision of the D.C. Code that relates to the jurisdiction and organization of the local D.C. courts. Congress can give D.C. this authority even before the District becomes the 51st state.

    “The District has never had authority over its local courts, even before 1997 when it was responsible for paying for the courts’ operations,” Norton said. “As the duly elected and accountable local legislature for the District, it is irresponsible for the D.C. Council to be left on the sidelines while Congress, which could not care less about the local D.C. courts, remains in charge of improving their operations. My bill would correct this wrong and increase democratic autonomy and self-government for the District.”

    Under the Home Rule Act, the D.C. Council has no authority to “enact any act, resolution, or rule with respect to any provision of title 11 of the District of Columbia Code (relating to organization and jurisdiction of the District of Columbia courts).”

    In 1997, under the National Capital Revitalization and Self-Government Improvement Act, the federal government assumed the costs for several state-level functions from D.C., including the local D.C. courts. This bill would not affect the authority of the President to nominate, or the Senate to confirm, local D.C. judges, which has been within their purview since the creation of the District’s modern local court system in 1970.

    Norton’s introductory statement follows.

    Statement of Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton

    on the Introduction of the District of Columbia Courts Home Rule Act

     

    July 21, 2025

    Today, I introduce the District of Columbia Courts Home Rule Act.  This bill would give the Council of the District of Columbia authority over the jurisdiction and organization of the local D.C. courts.  The D.C. Home Rule Act (HRA) prohibits the Council from enacting any law with respect to title 11 of the D.C. Code, which relates to the jurisdiction and organization of the local D.C. courts. 

    More than 50 years after passage of the HRA and notwithstanding the importance of the local D.C. courts to D.C., the Council, which is the legislative body accountable to D.C. residents, is left on the sidelines while Congress, which could not care less about the local D.C. courts, remains the only legislative body that can amend title 11 of the D.C. Code.

    Under the HRA, the Council has no authority to “enact any act, resolution, or rule with respect to any provision of title 11 of the District of Columbia Code (relating to organization and jurisdiction of the District of Columbia courts).”  Title 11 of the D.C. Code primarily relates to the rules of criminal and civil procedure, court administration, the branches of the courts, jury service and admission to the bar. 

    D.C. has never had authority over its local courts, even when it was responsible for paying for them.  Under the National Capital Revitalization and Self-Government Improvement Act of 1997, the federal government assumed from D.C. the costs for several state-level functions, including the courts.  This bill would not change the federal government’s responsibility for funding the local D.C. courts or the authority of the President to nominate, and the Senate to confirm, local D.C. judges.

    This bill is an important step to increase self-government for D.C.  I urge my colleagues to support it.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sánchez, colleagues to Trump administration: Restore immigrants’ wrongly invalidated SSNs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (38th District of CA)

    WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Linda T. Sánchez and nine of her colleagues called on the Trump administration to restore Social Security numbers of more than 6,300 legally present immigrants that were listed as “unverified,” months after declaring them deceased. 

    “These people are our neighbors, our friends, and our community members,” the members wrote. “Invalidating their Social Security numbers will wreak havoc on their lives. SSA’s action could bar them from receiving federal benefits, working, or opening a bank account, and could even cut their citizen children off from survivor benefits in the event of their death. Using intimidation and manipulation to oust law-abiding, legally present individuals from our country is cruel and un-American.”

    In April, the SSA improperly classified these immigrants as deceased to encourage them to self-deport. Although the agency later reclassified them as “unverified,” their Social Security numbers remain flagged in systems used by federal agencies, employers and financial institutions.

    This misclassification reportedly stems from an enforcement policy implemented during the Trump administration targeting immigrants. As a result, thousands now face financial and legal uncertainty – many with U.S. citizen children who may now be denied essential survivor benefits.

    In addition to Sánchez, the letter was signed by Representatives Gwen Moore (D-Wis.), Mike Thompson (D-Calif.), Danny Davis (D-Ill.), Mark Pocan (D-Wis.), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), Dwight Evans (D-Pa.), Judy Chu (D-Calif.), Paul D. Tonko (D-N.Y.) and Shri Thanedar (D-Mich.)

    Full text of the letter is available here and follows: 

    July 18, 2025

    The Honorable Frank Bisignano
    Commissioner
    Social Security Administration
    6401 Security Blvd.
    Baltimore, MD 21235

    Dear Commissioner Bisignano: 

    We write out of grave concern for the 6,300 immigrants who the Social Security Administration (SSA) first listed as dead, and who have now had their Social Security numbers rendered unverifiable. We are alarmed that SSA took this unprecedented action with the punitive intent of “terminating” immigrants’ financial lives to encourage them to self-deport, and we urge you to restore these individuals’ Social Security numbers as soon as possible.

    These 6,300 individuals have reportedly been targeted in a Trump Administration immigration enforcement effort focused on people who were legally present and eligible to work until the Administration abruptly terminated their lawful status.

    In April, SSA wrongfully classified these legally present, living immigrants as dead – a shocking and unprecedented action by SSA designed to throw people into financial limbo. Almost three months later, SSA has now reportedly reclassified these individuals: they are no longer “dead” but will instead be flagged as “unverified” by the systems used by other agencies, financial institutions, employers, and others to check Social Security numbers.

    These people are our neighbors, our friends, and our community members. Invalidating their Social Security numbers will wreak havoc on their lives. SSA’s action could bar them from receiving federal benefits, working, or opening a bank account, and could even cut their citizen children off from survivor benefits in the event of their death. Using intimidation and manipulation to oust law-abiding, legally present individuals from our country is cruel and un-American.

    We ask that within two weeks you provide answers to the following questions regarding SSA’s action to render the Social Security numbers of 6,300 immigrants unverifiable, these individuals’ status, and your future plans:

    1. Who requested that SSA take this action? Was the request made or supported by Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Kristi L. Noem or any employee of the White House?
       
    2. Who at SSA authorized this action? Please provide copies of all signed memoranda regarding this action, including any between the Department of Homeland Security and SSA.
       
    3. What flags or special indicators have SSA placed in agency systems for the Social Security numbers of these 6,300 individuals?
       
    4. When a third party such as another federal agency, an employer, or a financial institution uses one of SSA’s Social Security number verification systems or data exchanges, what response will be provided for the 6,300 individuals as a result of these flags?
       
    5. What is your assessment of how this action will affect the 6,300 individuals, including potential financial loss?
       
    6. Has SSA been asked to take similar action against additional immigrants, beyond the 6,300? If so, who has requested this action, how many additional individuals may be affected, and when?

    We urge you to restore these individuals’ Social Security numbers as soon as possible. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

    Sincerely,

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sánchez: Brazil trade investigation politically motivated, anti-democratic

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (38th District of CA)

    WASHINGTON – Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Ranking Member Linda T. Sánchez released the following statement in response to the Trump administration announcing a Section 301 trade investigation of Brazil:

    “It is unacceptable that President Trump is weaponizing the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative and Section 301 authority to subvert democracy, prop up his friends and target his foes. 

    “This investigation is clearly being driven by the president’s own political motives. You need to look no further than his letter to Brazil, citing grievances that range from Brazil’s treatment of his far-right ally Bolsonaro to the country’s efforts to crack down on hate speech. 

    “And it’s rich to focus on Brazil’s anti-corruption efforts when President Trump’s administration is refusing to enforce the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and is engaging in blatant self-dealing and grifting.

    “It’s completely anti-democratic and corrupt for American trade policies to benefit one individual’s personal interests. House Republicans must join Democrats in reclaiming our constitutional trade authority and stop enabling this president’s incessant abuses of power.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman DeSaulnier Statement on FDA Reversal of Ban on Dangerous Juul E-Cigarettes

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mark DeSaulnier Representing the 11th District of California

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10) made the following statement about the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) reckless reversal of its ban on the sale of Juul e-cigarettes.

    “Juul is Big Tobacco with sleeker marketing. It is outrageous and dangerous that the FDA would approve Juul e-cigarettes for sale while in the same breath conceding that the reversal of the ban ‘does not mean these tobacco products are safe,’ especially when we know these products pose a particular threat to the health and safety of young people whom Juul has targeted with predatory marketing,” said Congressman DeSaulnier. “I have been at the forefront of trying to protect American consumers, particularly children, from greedy tobacco companies, including Juul, who care more about profits than public health. I will continue the fight in Congress to ban these products as long as they threaten the health of children and the general public.”

    Congressman DeSaulnier is a member of the Congressional Caucus to End the Youth Vaping Epidemic and has previously introduced legislation to immediately halt the sale of all e-cigarettes nationwide until the FDA conducts a pre-market review of these products. He has been a long-time advocate of policies to reduce the public health impacts of tobacco products, including as mayor of Concord, California where he helped enact one of the nation’s first efforts to curb secondhand smoke in public places.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Progressive Caucus Launches New Task Forces Aimed at Reclaiming a Democratic Majority in 2026

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mark DeSaulnier Representing the 11th District of California

    Washington, D.C. — Today, the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) announced four newly constituted Task Forces aimed at helping Democrats reclaim the House majority in 2026—with a sharp, populist, pro-working-class agenda that meets the moment.

    These four Task Forces—focused on lowering costs, ending corporate greed, fighting corruption, and securing better pay and benefits—are part of a broader effort by the CPC to define a Democratic governing agenda that is clear, popular, easy to understand, and quickly delivers material benefits to working people. Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10) was named Vice Chair of the Task Force on Better Pay and Benefits.

    Among other work, the Task Forces will be focused on advancing a slate of policy proposals members have been working on internally for several months that are not only progressive, but also enjoy support from voters across the ideological and demographic spectrum—from suburban voters to non-college-educated to independents—and could be passed by a Democratic House after the midterms. New polling from Data for Progress finds these policies enjoy a supermajority and give a 9-point advantage for Democrats who lead with these themes compared to a generic Democratic message against a Republican opponent.

    The four new Task Forces are:

    • Lowering Costs

      Chair: Rep. Yassamin Ansari

    • Fighting Corruption

      Chair: Rep. Dave Min
      Vice Chair: Rep. Hank Johnson

    • Ending Corporate Greed

      Chair: Rep. Becca Balint

    • Better Pay and Benefits

      Chair: Rep. Emily Randall
      Vice Chair: Rep. Mark DeSaulnier

    “In a time of record-breaking income inequality and rampant corporate greed, it is more important than ever that we as Democrats reassert and reinforce our commitment to working people,” said Rep. Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10). “As both a former union member and small business owner, I have seen firsthand how American workers have for too long been taken advantage of by big corporations and greedy CEOs. I am proud to help lead the Task Force for Better Pay and Benefits as Vice Chair to restore power to working people, the engine of our economy, so they can continue to be the best, most productive labor force in the world while living with the respect and dignity they deserve.”

    “In my family and in my community, I’ve seen firsthand how good Union wages and pensions open doors to stability, to opportunity, to economic security. I’ve seen my grandparents, my teachers, my neighbors afford homes and vacations and childcare because they had good jobs. But over the years, affording a good life has gotten harder and harder,” said Rep. Emily Randall (WA-06). “Our neighbors deserve leaders who put people before profits and stand up for what’s right. They deserve leaders who understand that an economy that is centered on working people is a stronger economy for everyone. As Chair of the Better Pay and Benefits Task Force, I’m committed to fighting for fairer wages, stronger benefits, safer workplaces, and an economy that puts working people first – right at the center of our policies.”

    Video from the press conference available HERE.
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Sichuan Ganzi: Lively cultural tourism festival draws big crowds

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

    On July 19, the 2025 Sichuan Ganzi Mountain Culture and Tourism Festival – G318 Outdoor Life Carnival kicked off at Tagong Grassland in Kangding City, Sichuan Province. Featuring the G318 Outdoor Life Series, Sky Market, a motorcycle parade, and an intangible heritage fashion show, this lively event, blending natural beauty with diverse cultures, set on a 3,730-meter-high grassland, is drawing big crowds.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Wetland scenery near Mapam Yumco Lake in China’s Xizang

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

    Wetland scenery near Mapam Yumco Lake in China’s Xizang

    Updated: July 23, 2025 09:23 Xinhua
    This aerial drone photo taken on July 22, 2025 shows the scenery of a wetland near Mapam Yumco Lake in Burang County of Ngari Prefecture, southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This aerial drone photo taken on July 22, 2025 shows a herd of yaks in a wetland near Mapam Yumco Lake in Burang County of Ngari Prefecture, southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on July 22, 2025 shows a herd of yaks in a wetland near Mapam Yumco Lake in Burang County of Ngari Prefecture, southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo taken on July 22, 2025 shows a herd of yaks in a wetland near Mapam Yumco Lake in Burang County of Ngari Prefecture, southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –