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  • MIL-OSI USA: More Than 80 Lawmakers Demand Investigation Into State Department Decision to Intentionally Destroy Food for Starving Children, Millions in Contraceptives

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Don Beyer (D-VA)

    U.S. Representative Don Beyer (D-VA), Appropriations Subcommittee Ranking Members Grace Meng (D-NY) and Lois Frankel (D-FL), and Rep. Judy Chu (D-CA), Chair of the Reproductive Freedom Caucus’s Contraception, Family Planning, and Education Task Force, today led 79 Representatives in demanding an investigation into the U.S. Department of State’s decision to spend an additional $300,000 in taxpayer dollars to destroy nearly 500 metric tons of life-saving emergency food aid and $9.7 million worth of contraceptives, rather than distributing the aid as intended or working with another trusted partner willing to take over distribution. In the letter addressed to Acting Inspector General for the U.S. Department of State Arne B. Baker, the lawmakers condemned the State Department’s decision as financial mismanagement that squanders taxpayer dollars and a moral failure, abandoning vulnerable populations who depend on U.S. aid to survive. 

    They wrote to Acting Inspector General for the U.S. Department of State Arne B. Baker:

    “We write to request an investigation into waste and mismanagement on the part of the U.S. Department of State, which has reportedly chosen to destroy nearly 500 metric tons of emergency food aid and $9.7 million worth of contraceptives rather than delivering the much-needed aid as intended.

    “According to reporting, the State Department intends to destroy roughly $800,000 worth of high-energy biscuits intended to feed children under five years of age. That comes after alleged severe mismanagement of the food aid, including multiple officials failing to respond to memos regarding future plans for the biscuits for months. After that failure of leadership, the Department now plans to spend $130,000 – on top of the original $800,000 – to incinerate the planned food aid.

    “Following a similar pattern, the State Department also reportedly still intends to destroy $9.7 million of contraceptives, including IUDs and birth control implants, at the cost of $167,000 to the American taxpayer. Concerningly, the reporting found that these contraceptives are perfectly viable for delivery; they are long-lasting, with an expiration date of 2027, and most do not include USAID labels that would require rebranding. Incinerating contraceptives that are viable, with no rush and clear demand, is the equivalent of lighting U.S. taxpayer dollars on fire.

    “This pattern of intentional incineration at the expense of the U.S. taxpayer is financially wasteful, morally bankrupt, and an attack on the American humanitarian tradition. These actions place ideological beliefs and politics above a faithful commitment to U.S. law, contracts, and humanitarian agreements. Given that these officials have given no indication that they will place the law over their personal vendettas against our humanitarian tradition, external oversight is necessary.

    “We therefore request that your office immediately open an investigation into this documented waste of existing State Department supplies and waste of additional taxpayer funds to destroy those supplies, as well as the Department’s refusal to use these commodities for their intended purposes or partner with organizations or countries willing to take on responsibility for these commodities. Please provide an update on the status of such investigation by August 8, 2025.” 

    The letter to Acting Inspector General Baker was sent by U.S. Representatives Don Beyer (VA), Grace Meng (NY), Lois Frankel (FL), Judy Chu (CA), Robert Garcia (CA), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL), Betty McCollum (MN), Emanuel Cleaver (MO), Sarah Elfreth (MD), Nikema Williams (GA), Brendan Boyle (PA), Yassamin Ansari (AZ), Jonathan Jackson (IL), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY), Mike Quigley (IL), Greg Landsman (OH), Stephen Lynch (MA), Dave Min (CA), Maxine Waters (CA), Lateefah Simon (CA), Nanette Barragán (CA), Lloyd Doggett (CA), Debbie Dingell (MI), Sylvia Garcia (TX), Sarah McBride (DE), Seth Moulton (MA), Deborah Ross (NC), Josh Gottheimer (NJ), Mike Thompson (CA), Maggie Goodlander (NH), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA), Sean Casten (IL), Ami Bera (CA), Dina Titus (NV), Troy Carter (LA), Mark DeSaulnier (CA), Chellie Pingree (ME), Steve Cohen (TN), Dwight Evans (PA), Nydia Velázquez (NY), Haley Stevens (MI), Marc Veasey (TX), Darren Soto (FL), Danny Davis (IL), Mike Levin (CA), Mark Takano (CA), Suzan DelBene (WA), Julia Brownley (CA), Marcy Kaptur (OH), Adam Smith (WA), Jan Schakowsky (IL), Norma Torres (CA), Laura Friedman (CA), Rashida Tlaib (MI), John Garamendi (CA), Wesley Bell (MO), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL), Kelly Morrison (MN), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL), Hank Johnson (GA), Frederica Wilson (FL), Chrissy Houlahan (PA), Yvette Clarke (NY), Val Hoyle (OR), Kweisi Mfume (MD), Lori Trahan (MA), Jennifer McClellan (VA), Ed Case (HI), Brittany Pettersen (CO), Eric Swalwell (CA), Julie Johnson (TX), Paul Tonko (NY), André Carson (IN), Jerry Nadler (NY), Eugene Vindman (VA), Jill Tokuda (HI), Robin Kelly (IL), Bill Keating (MA), Madeleine Dean (PA), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ), Jared Huffman (D-CA), Jim McGovern (D-MA) and Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC).

    A signed copy of the letter is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FDA Requires Major Changes to Opioid Pain Medication Labeling to Emphasize Risks

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    For Immediate Release:
    July 31, 2025

    The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is requiring safety labeling changes to all opioid pain medications to better emphasize and explain the risks associated with their long-term use. These changes follow a public advisory committee meeting in May that reviewed data showing serious risks—such as misuse, addiction, and both fatal and non-fatal overdoses—for patients who use opioids over long periods. “The death of almost one million Americans during the opioid epidemic has been one of the cardinal failures of the public health establishment,” said FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, M.D., M.P.H. “This long-overdue labeling change is only part of what needs to be done — we also need to modernize our approval processes and post-market monitoring so that nothing like this ever happens again.” Tragically, the new drug application for OxyContin was initially approved without study data supporting its long term use to treat pain in many patient populations for which it has been prescribed. The updated labeling change reflects robust data from two large FDA-required observational studies, called postmarketing requirements (PMR) 3033-1 and 3033-2, which recently provided new data on how long-term opioid use can lead to serious side effects. After reviewing those results, public comments, medical research and recognizing the absence of adequate and well-controlled studies on long-term opioid effectiveness, the FDA decided to require safety labeling changes to help health care professionals and patients make treatment decisions rooted in the latest evidence.  “I know firsthand how devastating addiction is—not just for individuals, but for entire families and communities,” said HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “Today’s FDA action is a long-overdue step toward restoring honesty, accountability, and transparency to a system that betrayed the American people.”
    FDA has required an additional prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial to directly examine the benefits and risks of long-term opioid use. The Agency will be closely monitoring the progress of this clinical trial to ensure its timely completion.
    The labeling changes will include the following updates:    

    Clearer Risk Information: A summary of study results showing the estimated risks of addiction, misuse, and overdose during long-term use. 
    Dosing Warnings: Stronger warnings that higher doses come with greater risks, and that those risks remain over time. 
    Clarified Use Limits: Removing language which could be misinterpreted to support using opioid pain medications over indefinitely long duration 
    Treatment Guidance: Labels will reinforce that long-acting or extended-release opioids should only be considered when other treatments, including shorter-acting opioids, are inadequate. 
    Safe Discontinuation: A reminder not to stop opioids suddenly in patients who may be physically dependent, as it can cause serious harm. 
    Overdose Reversal Agents: Additional information on medicines that can reverse an opioid overdose. 
    Drug Interactions: Enhanced warning about combining opioids with other drugs that slow down the nervous system—now including gabapentinoids. 
    More Risks with Overdose: New information about toxic leukoencephalopathy—a serious brain condition that may occur after an overdose. 
    Digestive Health: Updates about opioid-related problems with the esophagus.  

    The FDA sent letters to the relevant applicants outlining the required changes. The companies will have 30 days to submit their labeling updates to the FDA for review.
    More information is available in the FDA’s Drug Safety Communication.

    Consumer:888-INFO-FDA

    ###

    Boilerplate

    The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, radiation-emitting electronic products, and for regulating tobacco products.

    Content current as of:
    07/31/2025

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: US Department of Labor cites paper products manufacturer for safety, health violations following 3 investigations

    Source: US Department of Labor

    APPLETON, WI – The U.S. Department of Labor has cited an Appleton paper products manufacturer for allegedly exposing employees to dangerous energy and machine guarding hazards after an employee suffered two finger-tip amputations. 

    Investigators with the department’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration conducted three investigations and concluded that Progressive Converting Inc. failed to properly guard machinery, did not have energy control procedures, and did not provide proper training for employees engaged in service and maintenance. 

    Progressive Converting was cited for three repeat, 13 serious, and three other than serious violations, with proposed penalties totaling $280,110.

    The employer has 15 business days from receipt of the citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

    Learn more about OSHA. Employers can also contact the agency for information about OSHA’s compliance assistance resources and for free help on complying with OSHA standards.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: 1-Hour Payday Loans No Credit Check: GreendayOnline Expands Digital Services to Serve 32 States Where Traditional Lending Remains Legal

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Digital lending platform addresses growing demand for accessible emergency funding across expanded geographic footprint

    Dallas, Texas , July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GreendayOnline, a leading digital lending platform, today announced the expansion of its services to 32 states where payday loan regulations permit 1-hour payday loans no credit check operations. This strategic geographic expansion positions GreendayOnline as a comprehensive solution for borrowers searching for “loans no credit check”, “instant approval”, and “online same day” funding options across a broader regional footprint.

    The expansion comes as search volume data reveals unprecedented demand for emergency lending solutions, with queries like “hour payday loans”, “payday loan no credit check”, and “loans online no credit check” experiencing significant increases across GreendayOnline‘s target markets. Industry analysis shows that over 12 million Americans annually seek short-term lending solutions, yet geographic limitations have historically restricted access to legitimate direct lender services. GreendayOnline now serves borrowers seeking online no credit check instant loan for bad credit solutions with streamlined digital processes.

    What Are 1-Hour Payday Loans No Credit Check and How GreendayOnline Delivers Fast Approval

    When financial emergencies strike, millions of Americans turn to search engines with desperate queries: “1 hour payday loans”, “bad credit” solutions, and “guaranteed approval direct lender” services. Behind every search for “payday loans online no credit check” lies a pressing financial need that traditional banking cannot address within the required timeframe.

    Understanding One Hour Payday Loans with Instant Approval Mechanism

    GreendayOnline’s 1-hour payday loans represent a streamlined approach to emergency lending that prioritizes speed without sacrificing borrower protection. Unlike traditional banking products that can take days or weeks for approval, GreendayOnline’s platform delivers decisions within minutes and funding within an hour of completed applications. The platform specializes in loan no credit check direct services that eliminate traditional banking barriers.

    The company’s instant approval process evaluates multiple data points beyond traditional credit metrics:

    1. Income verification through bank account analysis
    2. Employment stability assessment
    3. Debt-to-income ratio calculations
    4. Previous lending history evaluation
    5. Real-time affordability analysis

    “The term ‘1 hour payday loans no credit check’ has become shorthand for accessible emergency lending,” explained Tarquin Nemec, GreendayOnline’s Public Relations officer. “Our platform transforms what was once a lengthy, bureaucratic process into a seamless digital experience that respects both urgency and responsibility.”

    How Loans No Credit Check Work Through GreendayOnline’s Direct Lender Network

    The concept of “loans with no credit check direct lender” often confuses borrowers who assume their credit score is irrelevant to the lending decision. GreendayOnline clarifies this misunderstanding by focusing on current income while maintaining responsible lending standards. The platform provides no check loans guaranteed approval direct lender connections for qualified applicants.

    GreendayOnline’s network of licensed direct lenders utilizes soft credit inquiries that leave borrowers’ credit scores unaffected. This approach allows the platform to assess creditworthiness without a hard credit pull while still maintaining due diligence standards required by state regulations.

    Credit Check vs Soft Credit Inquiry: Why Your Credit Score Remains Unaffected

    Traditional lending involves hard credit inquiries that can temporarily lower credit scores by 5-10 points. GreendayOnline’s soft credit approach means that borrowers searching for “credit check loans” or “payday loans with no credit” requirements can explore their options without damaging their credit profiles. The platform offers loans no credit check guaranteed approval through its streamlined verification process.

    The distinction matters significantly for borrowers with low credit scores who cannot afford additional credit damage. GreendayOnline’s no credit check methodology evaluates the ability to repay the loan through alternative data sources, ensuring responsible lending without traditional credit barriers.

    GreendayOnline’s Geographic Expansion Brings Online Payday Loans to 32 States

    The digital lending landscape has evolved dramatically, with online payday loans now representing over 60% of total market volume. GreendayOnline’s expansion to 32 states addresses a critical gap in market coverage, particularly for borrowers in underserved communities where traditional payday storefronts may be limited or non-existent.

    Traditional Payday Lending Locations vs GreendayOnline’s Digital Reach

    While approximately 13,700 traditional payday storefronts operate nationwide, geographic concentration leaves significant coverage gaps. GreendayOnline’s digital platform eliminates location barriers, providing consistent access to small payday loans online same day services regardless of physical proximity to lending locations.

    The company’s research reveals striking disparities in lending access:

    • Rural areas: 73% lack physical payday lending locations within 25 miles
    • Urban centers: Average of 2.3 storefronts per 10,000 residents
    • Suburban regions: Limited evening and weekend availability
    • Digital platforms: 24/7 accessibility with consistent service standards

    State-by-State Analysis: Where Payday Loan No Credit Check Services Are Available

    GreendayOnline’s 32-state footprint covers regions where “payday loan no credit check” services remain legally permissible under current regulatory frameworks. This strategic geographic focus ensures compliance while maximizing borrower access to legitimate lending options. In California, the focus is on the famous 255 payday loans online, due to loan amount restrictions.

    Key expansion states include major population centers where demand for loans for bad credit in 2025 and short-term loans continues growing. Here is the full list in alphabetical order: Alabama, Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

    The company’s analysis shows particular opportunity in states where existing options remain limited despite legal permissibility.

    How GreendayOnline Serves Underbanked Communities Through Online Same Day Access

    Underbanked populations—estimated at 63 million Americans—face particular challenges accessing emergency credit. Search patterns reveal these communities frequently search for “payday loans online guaranteed approval”, “loans guaranteed approval”, and “instant payday loans online guaranteed” options as traditional banking relationships prove inadequate for urgent financial needs.

    GreendayOnline’s entirely online platform removes common barriers that underbanked consumers face:

    1. No physical branch visits required
    2. Minimal documentation through digital verification
    3. Bank account integration for streamlined processing
    4. Mobile-optimized application experience
    5. Multiple communication channels for customer support

    1 Hour Payday Loans Online: GreendayOnline’s Application and Approval

    The promise of 1 hour payday loans online requires sophisticated technology infrastructure capable of processing applications, verifying information, and disbursing funds within compressed timeframes. GreendayOnline’s platform architecture supports this commitment through automated decision-making and real-time bank integration. The platform offers credit payday loans with 1-hour processing for urgent financial needs.

    Completing a Secure Online Form for Loans Online No Credit Check

    GreendayOnline’s application process begins with completing a secure online form designed for maximum efficiency and security. The platform’s streamlined interface collects essential information while minimizing borrower effort and completion time.

    The application captures key data points necessary to evaluate loans online no credit check:

    • Personal identification information
    • Employment and income verification
    • Bank account details for funding and repayment
    • Contact information for communication
    • Loan amount and preferred terms

    Advanced encryption protects all submitted information, ensuring that borrowers’ financial data remains secure throughout the approval procedure. The platform’s mobile-responsive design accommodates borrowers who prefer smartphone applications over desktop interfaces.

    Income Rather Than Credit History: GreendayOnline’s Alternative Assessment Method

    GreendayOnline’s underwriting philosophy prioritizes income rather than credit history when evaluating loan approval decisions. This approach recognizes that credit scores may not accurately reflect current financial capacity, particularly for borrowers who have experienced temporary financial disruptions. The platform provides services that focus on current financial ability rather than past credit issues.

    The platform’s alternative assessment methodology examines:

    • Current monthly income stability
    • Bank account transaction patterns
    • Employment verification through multiple data sources
    • Existing debt obligations and payment history
    • Cash flow analysis for repayment capacity

    This comprehensive evaluation enables GreendayOnline to serve borrowers who might struggle with credit check payday loans from traditional lenders offering no credit check while maintaining responsible lending standards.

    From Application to Account Within an Hour: The GreendayOnline Timeline

    GreendayOnline’s commitment to “account within an hour” funding reflects significant technology investment in automated processing and real-time financial institution integration. The typical timeline progresses as follows:

    0-5 minutes: Application submission and initial verification 5-15 minutes: Income rather than credit assessment and underwriting review 15-30 minutes: Loan approval notification and terms confirmation 30-60 minutes: Fund disbursement to borrower’s designated account

    This accelerated timeline addresses the urgent nature of most 1 hour payday loans requests while ensuring thorough evaluation of each application.

    Payday Loans Online No Credit Check: Loan Options and Terms Through GreendayOnline

    GreendayOnline’s payday loans online no credit check offerings encompass multiple product variations designed to accommodate diverse borrower needs and financial circumstances. The platform’s loan options reflect both market demand and regulatory requirements across its 32-state operating region.

    Loan Amounts and Repayment Terms for 1 Hour Payday Loans No Credit

    Loan amounts available through GreendayOnline’s platform range from $100 to $1,000, with specific limits varying by state regulation and individual borrower qualification. The company’s “hour payday loans no credit” products feature flexible repayment structures designed to align with borrowers’ pay cycles.

    Standard loan terms include:

    • Repayment periods: 14-30 days based on borrower preference
    • Extension options: Available in states where legally permitted
    • Early repayment: No prepayment penalties
    • Automatic renewal: Optional with explicit borrower consent
    • Payment scheduling: Aligned with pay day cycles when possible

    The platform ensures that loans due dates are clearly communicated and aligned with borrower income schedules to minimize payment conflicts.

    Understanding APR and Loan Terms for Payday Loans with No Credit Requirements

    Transparency in loan terms represents a cornerstone of GreendayOnline’s approach to payday loans with no credit requirements. The platform provides clear APR calculations and fee structures before borrowers commit to any loan agreement.

    GreendayOnline’s fee structure adheres to state regulatory maximums while offering payday loans online with no credit check with a competitive marketplace. Borrowers receive detailed breakdowns of all costs associated with their payday lending experience, including:

    1. Principal loan amount
    2. Finance charges and fees
    3. Total repayment amount
    4. Effective APR calculation
    5. Payment due dates and methods

    Multiple Loan Offers vs Single Direct Lender: GreendayOnline’s Approach

    Unlike platforms that provide multiple loan offers from various lenders, GreendayOnline operates as a direct lender platform, streamlining the borrowing experience and eliminating confusion over varying terms and conditions. This approach ensures consistent service standards and simplified communication throughout the lending relationship.

    Bad Credit and Personal Loan Alternatives: How GreendayOnline Serves All Credit Types

    The intersection of bad credit and emergency lending needs creates particular challenges for borrowers who face rejection from traditional personal loan providers. GreendayOnline’s inclusive approach recognizes that financial history may not reflect current financial stability or repayment capacity.

    Loans for Bad Credit: GreendayOnline’s No Hard Credit Pull Policy

    GreendayOnline’s loans for bad credit methodology eliminates the anxiety many borrowers experience when applying for emergency funding. The platform’s no hard credit pull policy ensures that application inquiries do not involve a hard credit check that could further damage struggling credit profiles.

    This approach particularly benefits borrowers who have experienced:

    • Recent financial hardships affecting credit scores
    • Medical debt or unexpected emergency expenses
    • Employment disruptions or income reductions
    • Limited credit history or “thin file” credit profiles
    • Previous payday lending experiences

    Short-Term Loans vs Personal Loan Options for Low Credit Borrowers

    While personal loan products typically require extensive credit evaluation and longer approval timeframes, GreendayOnline’s short-term loans provide immediate access to emergency funding for borrowers with low credit scores. The platform’s products bridge the gap between expensive credit card advances and traditional installment lending.

    Short-term loan advantages include:

    • Faster approval and funding timelines
    • Lower qualification requirements
    • No collateral or cosigner requirements
    • Flexible repayment scheduling
    • Minimal impact on existing credit relationships

    Why Credit History Doesn’t Determine Loan Approval with GreendayOnline

    GreendayOnline’s underwriting philosophy recognizes that credit history represents past financial behavior rather than current repayment capacity. The platform’s alternative evaluation methods focus on real-time financial indicators that better predict successful loan repayment.

    Key evaluation factors beyond credit scores include:

    1. Current employment status and income stability
    2. Bank account activity and cash flow patterns
    3. Existing debt obligations and payment history
    4. Length of banking relationship and account management
    5. Geographic and demographic risk factors

    Instant Payday Loans Online Guaranteed Approval: GreendayOnline’s Direct Lender Network

    The concept of guaranteed approval in lending requires careful interpretation, as responsible lenders must maintain underwriting standards while maximizing approval rates. GreendayOnline’s approach to “instant payday loans online guaranteed approval” balances accessibility with prudent risk management.

    Guaranteed Approval Direct Lender Services vs Traditional Banking

    While no legitimate lender can offer truly guaranteed approval without any qualification requirements, GreendayOnline’s “guaranteed approval direct lender” approach maximizes approval rates through flexible underwriting criteria and alternative data evaluation methods.

    The platform’s approval rates significantly exceed traditional banking standards:

    • GreendayOnline approval rate: 89% for qualified applicants
    • Traditional bank personal loans: 23-31% approval rates
    • Credit union emergency loans: 45-52% approval rates
    • Credit card cash advances: 67% approval for existing cardholders

    Payday Loans Online Guaranteed Approval Process Through Licensed Lenders

    GreendayOnline’s “payday loans online guaranteed approval” process operates exclusively through licensed direct lenders compliant with state and federal regulations. This commitment ensures borrower protection while maintaining the accessibility that emergency lending requires.

    The platform’s network of lenders offering payday loans undergoes rigorous vetting to ensure:

    • Full licensing compliance in all operating states
    • Adherence to maximum fee and rate regulations
    • Transparent disclosure of all loan terms and conditions
    • Proper data security and privacy protections
    • Responsive customer service and dispute resolution

    How GreendayOnline Connects Borrowers with Licensed Direct Lenders

    GreendayOnline’s role as a connector between borrowers seeking “loans guaranteed approval direct lender” services and qualified lending partners streamlines the emergency funding process. The platform’s technology matches borrower profiles with appropriate offers based on qualification criteria and funding requirements.

    Online Loans No Credit Check: GreendayOnline’s Technology and Market Position

    As the digital lending landscape continues evolving, GreendayOnline’s position in the market, dedicated to online loans with no credit check, reflects both technological sophistication and market understanding. The platform’s expansion to 32 states positions it as a significant player in the estimated $35 billion annual payday lending market.

    Lenders Offering 1 Hour Payday Loans Through GreendayOnline’s Platform

    GreendayOnline’s network of lenders offering 1 hour payday loans represents carefully vetted financial institutions committed to responsible lending practices and rapid decision-making. The platform’s technology enables lenders through a secure online portal to access borrower applications and make real-time lending decisions.

    Partner lender qualifications include:

    • State licensing for payday lending operations
    • Minimum capitalization requirements for lending volume
    • Technology integration capabilities for real-time processing
    • Customer service standards meeting platform requirements
    • Compliance monitoring and reporting capabilities

    Credit Check Loans Guaranteed Approval vs No Credit Check Options

    The distinction between “credit check loans guaranteed approval” and true no credit check lending affects borrower experience and approval outcomes. GreendayOnline’s approach utilizes soft credit inquiries that provide lenders with credit information without a hard credit pull, affecting borrower credit scores.

    This hybrid methodology enables the platform to offer no credit check loans with guaranteed approval rates approaching true no credit check lending while maintaining responsible underwriting standards required by state regulations.

    Next Payday Funding: How GreendayOnline Ensures Timely Loan Processing

    GreendayOnline’s commitment to next payday funding timelines requires sophisticated coordination between application processing, underwriting decisions, and fund disbursement systems. The platform’s technology infrastructure supports same-day funding for applications approved before daily cutoff times.

    The company’s “repay the loan” scheduling system automatically aligns with borrower pay cycles when possible, reducing the likelihood of payment timing conflicts that could result in additional fees or credit inquiry impacts.

    About GreendayOnline

    GreendayOnline operates as a leading digital lending platform specializing in 1-hour payday loans no credit check services across 32 states where such lending remains legally permissible. The company’s technology-driven approach to offering no credit check loans serves borrowers who require fast access to emergency funding while maintaining responsible lending standards and regulatory compliance.

    For more information about GreendayOnline’s “loan no credit check options” and expanded geographic availability, visit https://greendayonline.com/ or contact the company’s customer service team.

    Media Contact:
    Tarquin Nemec
    GreendayOnline Public Relations Phone: (800) 424-2789
    Email: tarquin.nemec@greendayonline.com

    This press release contains forward-looking statements regarding GreendayOnline’s expansion plans and market position. Actual results may differ from those projected. Lending decisions are subject to state regulations and individual borrower qualification. All loan products are subject to regulatory approval and may not be available in all states.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Announcing Avery Prendergast’s Participation in the Successful Farmers of Salem Internship Program

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WILMINGTON, Del., July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Farmers of Salem (FOS), a regional mutual insurance company specializing in insurance for home and business owners, is pleased to announce Avery Prendergast’s successful participation in their internship program. Graduating from Levittown’s Neshaminy High School, Ms. Prendergast is completing a degree in both Legal Studies and Risk Management & Insurance with Temple University of Philadelphia. She is looking forward to a December 2025 graduation. When asked how her interest in RMI came about, Avery said, “I became interested in RMI when I took the Introduction to Risk Management class at Temple. It reminded me of torts, which was something I had studied at Bucks County Community College while in the Paralegal program. It mixed well with my Legal Studies major, so I decided to take both majors.”

    Of the Intern Delaware program, Ms. Prendergast said, “ID has introduced me to industries, and people that I would never have gotten the opportunity to meet. It is a great program that shows you how easy it is to get involved and get things done in this wonderful state. ID has provided unique opportunities like visiting Legislative Hall, meeting past and present senators, networking with other interns in a variety of industries, and learning from senior executives and other professionals firsthand.” With only one more semester left, Avery is excited to settle into a career and is making the most out of her summer with Farmers. In her free time, she enjoys reading novels, watching movies with friends, and camping with her family.

    When asked “Why Farmers?”, Ms. Prendergast said, “I have had an amazing time working at Farmers of Salem this summer. Transitioning from working retail and being a student, to working a 9-5 was daunting, but everyone was so welcoming and kind that it became an easier process. FOS has a great environment where my voice matters. I am seen as a person and not just an employee. I have been tasked with real projects and work that make each day feel productive and meaningful.” Avery added, “With the rotational internship, I have been able to go through multiple departments and learn the ins and outs of the business. There have been so many lightbulb moments when I am learning something new and connecting the dots to something else in another department. I have learned so much that will help me with my final college courses and my future career.”

    Temple University uniquely hosts Actuarial Science and Risk Management & Insurance degree programs. Dr. Drennan, Chair of Risk, Actuarial Science, and Legal Studies at Temple University, along with his team, challenge students through thought-provoking course work while setting the bar quite high. 

    Elizabeth Dean, Human Resources Director for Farmers of Salem said, “The difference with Farmers of Salem’s internship program, compared to other insurance companies, is that we ask interns to roll up their sleeves and get to work alongside our tenured team members. This job-shadowing approach has allowed interns to gain first-hand experiences as they rotate through the various departments of the organization. Our employees enjoy mentoring the interns, not only to share their knowledge, but to learn from interns that have been so well prepared by Temple.” Added by Jim Reagan, CPCU, Vice President Product & Regulatory Compliance, “Asking our interns to get down to business and work alongside our valued employees is precisely what sets our internship experience apart. This process has been validated by our intern feedback.”

    About Farmers of Salem
    Founded in 1851, and located on the Riverfront in Wilmington DE, Farmers of Salem provides insurance coverage to homeowners and businesses in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland through a network of independent agents. Rated A- Excellent by A.M. Best Company and a Financial Stability Rating of A Exceptional by Demotech, Inc. “We pride ourselves in providing Superior Service with Personal Attention,” says Kim Lorenzini, Vice President, Marketing & Business Development.

    For more information about Farmers of Salem, visit www.farmersofsalem.com

    As a mutual corporation, fundamentally rooted in serving our community, we engage in corporate philanthropy, giving annually to an array of organizations and causes. Through our giving, in local markets where we have a presence, Farmers of Salem has supported educational development, physical education, and health and wellness programs that provide communities in most need with essential services, opportunities to improve the quality of their lives and provide them with assets to create a better future.

    A partial list of events and organizations that Farmers of Salem supports annually:

    • Autism Delaware
    • Serviam Girls Academy
    • Vehicles for Veterans
    • Salem County Humane Society
    • Habitat for Humanity
    • VFW Post #253
    • Operation Legacy
    • Keeping Hope Alive, Inc.
    • Temple University 
    • Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts
    • Holiday Service Project – Thanksgiving Food Baskets – Salvation Army
    • Make A Wish
    • American Red Cross
    • American Cancer Society
    • Longwood Gardens
    • Bo Lends a Paw Pet Pantry
    Contact: Kim Lorenzini
      856-628-0150
      klorenzini@fosnj.com
     

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0d1f5ccc-9a93-4259-b449-b63c5eb4f69a

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Services trade growth slows in first quarter of 2025

    Source: World Trade Organization

    Services exports in Europe and North America increased by only 3% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025, down from 8% and 11% respectively in the first quarter of 2024. In contrast, strong growth was sustained in Asia at 9%.

    The overall slowdown in services trade was mainly due to “Other commercial services,” a category that encompasses a wide variety of mostly digitally deliverable services ranging from financial to professional services (Chart 1). In 2024, “Other commercial services” accounted for some 60% of global services trade, with Europe contributing 40% of those exports (Chart 2).

    Chart 1: Commercial services trade growth by main sector, 2024Q1-2025Q1
    Year-on-year % change

    Note: Services trade measured as exports.
    Source: WTO-UNCTAD estimates.

    Chart 2: Structure of world exports of commercial services, 2024
    % shares

    Source: WTO-UNCTAD estimates.

    Chart 3 shows a deceleration across selected subsectors of “Other commercial services” in the first quarter of 2025 compared with the same period of 2024. Growth in “Other business services,” covering various professional, technical and trade-related services, as well as research and development services, moderated. The United States posted a subdued 4% year-on-year increase in “Other business services” following an 8% expansion in the same period of 2024. Exports by the European Union remained flat in US dollar terms, although they rose by 4% when measured in euros.

    Financial services exports grew by only 3% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025, reflecting reduced investment activity amid increased global economic uncertainty. The sector was also affected by exchange rate movements, which dampened US dollar-denominated growth. Exports from both the European Union and the United States rose just 2% year-on-year while Switzerland’s exports fell by 3%. The United Kingdom, on the contrary, posted a robust 10% year-on-year increase sustained by double digit growth in exports to the United States (+13%).

    Intellectual property related services expanded by 4% year-on-year in the first three months of 2025 in comparison with a 7% growth in the same quarter of 2024. Global trade in IP-related services remains highly concentrated, with the European Union and the United States accounting for nearly 70% of exports in 2024. EU exports, measured in US dollars, rose by just 3% year-on-year, held back by exchange rate volatility, despite stronger underlying growth of 6% in euro terms.

    Global construction exports fell by 15% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025, reversing part of the strong 25% growth recorded during the same period in 2024. The decline reflects weaker performance across several key economies, including China (-25%), which alone accounted for over 28% of global construction exports in 2024, the Republic of Korea (-15%), and the European Union (-6%). The downturn in the first quarter likely reflects delayed investment due to uncertainty and rising costs.

    Computer services exports were only marginally affected by the broader slowdown, as strong global demand for artificial intelligence (AI), digital transformation, and cybersecurity solutions continued to drive growth. This momentum is expected to persist, supported by ongoing business adaptation to new technologies and rising consumer preferences for digital services. During the period, India’s computer services exports grew by 13%, while Ireland recorded a 9% increase.

    Chart 3: Other commercial services exports by selected subsector, 2024 and Q1 2025
    Year-on-year % change

    Note: Sectors are ranked according to their relative share in services trade in 2024.
    Source: WTO estimates for Q1 2025 and Q1 2024; WTO-UNCTAD estimates for 2024.

     As for the other main sectors of commercial services, global transport exports were up 3% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025, following rapid growth especially in the third and fourth quarter of 2024 due to frontloading. Asia recorded the fastest growth, up 10%, driven by a 31% rise in China, while Singapore and the Republic of Korea posted modest gains of 2%. Payments for shipping services increased by 19% in South and Central America and the Caribbean, as demand for goods surged.

    Despite a difficult economic and geopolitical context, international travel expanded by 5% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025. For the first time since the pandemic, international tourist arrivals were 3% above 2019 levels according to UN Tourism data. In Asia, travel receipts grew by 13%, driven by China (+96%), Viet Nam (+33%), Japan (+25%) and Thailand (+18%) as tourism continues to recover in the region. By contrast, North America’s travel receipts fell by 1%.

    Services trade performance varied across major traders in the first five months of 2025 according to available monthly statistics. Double digit exports growth was recorded in Asian economies such as China (+13%, through June), India (+12%) and Japan (+11%). In North America, the United States and Canada saw diverging trends. US service exports rose by 5%, while Canada recorded a 6% decline. The EU’s service exports to non-member countries rose by 3%, while imports from outside the Union grew more sharply, increasing by 6%. The United Kingdom recorded marked growth, with exports up 9% and imports rising by 13%.

    Chart 4: Services export and import growth of selected economies, January-May 2025
    Year-on-year % change

    Note: Statistics for Brazil, China and Pakistan refer to January-June.
    Source : National sources and Eurostat.

    Quarterly statistics are estimates as of time of publication and subject to frequent revisions. They are available for download at WTO Stats, as well as monthly statistics. Annual services trade data and related visualizations can be accessed at WTO | Statistics — Global Services Trade Data Hub and WTO | World Trade Statistics 2024.

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    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ‘STEM for ALL’ : Thales Joins the Singapore-Industry Scholarship (SgIS) Programme

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: ‘STEM for ALL’ : Thales Joins the Singapore-Industry Scholarship (SgIS) Programme

    • As a Sponsoring Organisation with SgIS, Thales will provide Singaporean undergraduate students scholarships in a comprehensive programme that includes internship, mentoring and a starting career with Thales.
    • With this initiative, Thales is extending its ‘STEM for ALL’ programme to Singapore, the first launch outside Europe, with its dedicated mission to advance STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education amongst youth.
    • In its inaugural intake, four nominated scholars will undertake engineering or research roles in strategic sectors including air traffic management, public security, cybersecurity and digital identity, working within Thales businesses and research labs like the Thales Digital Factory.
    © Thales

    With engineers comprising one-third of Thales Singapore’s 2000+ employees, the Group has a strong interest in promoting STEM education and growing the next generation of engineering talent. On 29thJuly, Thales was proud to join SgIS as a Sponsorship Organisation at its launch event and to present awards to the scholars, aligning with the government’s mandate to develop young talent in Singapore’s strategic sectors.

    Established in 2012, SgIS is an initiative which partners government and industries to nurture a strong core of Singaporean talent in 16 strategic industries which include Aerospace & Aviation and Engineering. It is the only government-led, multi-industry scholarship under the Ministry of Education which provides talented Singaporean students access to close to 150 Sponsoring Organisations, giving them development opportunities as they further their studies and begin their professional careers.

    Throughout May and June, over 100 potential candidates with diverse skillsets were introduced to Thales by SgIS and invited to an Open Day to get to know Thales’ businesses. From this, over 40 were taken through rigorous technical assessments, following which 12 were further shortlisted for panel interviews with Thales experts and business leaders to further assess their technical expertise and leadership attributes.

    Four talented candidates from the Nanyang Technological University (NTU), the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) and the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) were the final recipients of the Thales award. Currently at different stages in their university education, the four students will progressively join the cybersecurity and digital identity, public security, air traffic management and Thales Digital Factory teams over the next 2 years.

    Expanding the Thales Group’s STEM for ALL Programme to Singapore

    In early 2025, Thales, through its endowment fund Thales Solidarity, launched its STEM for ALL programme in France and Belgium to foster vocation in scientific fields to remarkable young students.

    By partnering the SgIS programme, Thales is extending the Group’s ambition in endorsing STEM education worldwide by reinforcing academic excellence. Singapore is the first country outside of Europe to have a STEM scholarship programme under the STEM for ALL umbrella.

    “Thales recognises the essential role that science and technology play in furthering human progress and creating a world that is safer, greener and more sustainable. Many of the younger generation are passionate about making an impact and we are constantly looking for talented individuals, skilled in STEM, to help bring this ambition to life.” said Emily TAN, Country Director & Chief Executive, Thales in Singapore. “The scholars we selected have strong technical skills which we hope to nurture when they join the Thales family. I believe that their enthusiasm to learn, coupled with the mentorship opportunities and experiences within Thales, will provide a good starting point for their careers.”

    About Thales

    Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies for the Defence, Aerospace, and Cyber & Digital sectors. Its portfolio of innovative products and services addresses several major challenges: sovereignty, security, sustainability and inclusion.

    The Group invests more than €4 billion per year in Research & Development in key areas, particularly for critical environments, such as Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum and cloud technologies.

    Thales has more than 83,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2024, the Group generated sales of €20.6 billion.

    About Thales in Singapore

    Thales established its presence in Singapore in 1973 to support the growth of aerospace activities in Asia. Since then, it has grown to be a leading deep-tech company operating in the Aeronautics (including avionics and air traffic management), Defence, Public Security, Cybersecurity & Digital Identity sectors.

    Thales in Singapore runs global industrial operations for avionics and digital identity solutions and has a strong commitment to Research, Technology and Innovation, with Centres of Excellence for radars, naval drones, space, avionics, public security and defence. With over 2000 employees across four locations, Thales is actively supporting Singapore in driving its digital transformation and Smart Nation ambitions.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Curaçao and Sint Maarten: Stress Testing: High-Level Summary Technical Assistance Report

    Source: International Monetary Fund

    Summary

    The technical assistance mission supported the Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten in strengthening its capacity to assess banking sector resilience through the development of a new macro-stress testing framework. The framework integrates macro-consistent scenarios, sectoral credit risk models, and detailed projections of balance sheet and income statement items. Key recommendations include institutionalizing regular biannual stress testing exercises, refining parameter calibration, enhancing scenario development, and expanding data collection aligned with IFRS 9 standards. These efforts position the CBCS to improve its macroprudential oversight and better safeguard financial stability in the monetary union.

    Subject: Bank soundness, Credit risk, Financial regulation and supervision, Financial sector policy and analysis, Financial sector stability, Stress testing

    Keywords: Bank Resilience, Bank soundness, Credit risk, Credit Risk Models, Data collection, Financial sector stability, Financial Stability, Financial stability assessment, Macroeconomic Scenarios, Regulatory Framework, Stress testing, Stress Testing

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lummis, Hageman Rebrand ESA to Highlight Recovery Over Endless Listings

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    Washington, D.C. – Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Representative Harriet Hageman (R-WY) today introduced the Endangered Species Recovery Act, legislation that would rename the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to better reflect the law’s original intent.

    “Washington bureaucrats have lost sight of the original mission of the Endangered Species Act,” said Sen. Lummis. “Instead of celebrating recovery success by removing federal intervention, they’ve created a system that keeps species listed indefinitely. The Endangered Species Recovery Act refocuses this law on its original purpose: recovering species and then getting the federal government out of the way. States like Wyoming have proven track records in wildlife management, and when species recover, we should celebrate that success by allowing appropriate local management to resume.”

    “For over 50 years, the Endangered Species Act has operated under a misleading title and a failed model, with only 3% of listed species ever delisted,” said Rep. Hageman. “This is land control, not conservation. By renaming it the Endangered Species Recovery Act, we are reflecting the law’s true intent, actually recovering species. This change is long overdue. With this legislation, we are putting action and accountability back into environmental policy.”

    The Endangered Species Recovery Act has received support from:

    “The Endangered Species Act is a remarkable law that was created to protect and recover species,” said Angi Bruce, Director of Wyoming Game and Fish. “While this landmark act has primarily focused on species protection over the past 50 years, this revision in the name of the Act is necessary to refocus how we think about listed species and better reflect its original intent. Changing the name sets the stage for emphasizing future work on recovery. With over 1600 species listed, now is the time to focus on actions needed for delisting. Special thanks to Senator Lummis for her leadership on endangered species reform.”

    “The ultimate goal of federally listing a species as endangered or threatened has always been the recovery of that species to a level where the species is no longer imperiled and can thrive without the need of federal protections,” said Judy Camuso, Commissioner of the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and President of the Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies. “Successfully recovering and delisting species allows limited resources to be focused on the species most in need of attention. State fish and wildlife agencies are dedicated partners in species recovery and management, and we appreciate Senator Lummis’ acknowledgment of the importance of species recovery and raising its prominence by including it in the title of the Endangered Species Recovery Act.”

    “The Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF) thanks Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus Member Senator Lummis for introducing the Endangered Species Recovery Act,” said CSF Senior Vice President Taylor Schmitz. “Despite the Endangered Species Act (ESA) becoming an endless place of entrapment for many listed fish and wildlife species, the intent behind the ESA was and remains to recover species and return the management of the species to state wildlife agencies, who have the primary authority over the majority of fish and wildlife across the country. This legislation reaffirms the intent of the ESA to recover species rather than needlessly keeping them on a list once they have met population recovery goals.”

    “I commend Senator Lummis for her legislation and trying to focus the Endangered Species Act (ESA) more on recovery,” said James L. Cummins, Executive Director, Wildlife Mississippi. “Many in our nation want the ESA to go away.  Others say don’t change one word.  That is like owning an International Scout with two plans: one is sell it and the other is never changing the oil.  Neither of those are helpful at the hunting club unless walking is your goal.  I think we need to keep and use the Scout but fix it when it needs fixing. The ESA should be treated no differently.  The ESA has been effective in preventing some species from becoming extinct; however, it can be significantly improved by creating new recovery efforts.  As long as the status quo of not increasing habitat, therefore not increasing populations, is maintained, the recovery and delisting of many species will not occur.”  

    “Renaming the Endangered Species Act as the Endangered Species Recovery Act is a thoughtful way to refocus national attention on what matters most—recovering imperiled wildlife,” said David Willms, associate vice president, public lands at the National Wildlife Federation. “This bill emphasizes outcomes over process, reinforcing that the goal isn’t to manage decline, but to return species to healthy, sustainable populations that don’t require the Act’s protections. It’s a commonsense update that aligns the name of the law with its original purpose.” 

    Senator John Barrasso (R-WY), Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Senator Mike Crapo (R-ID), and Senator Jim Risch (R-ID) are Senate cosponsors. 

    Read the entire bill here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fischer, Cortez Masto Introduce MAP for Broadband Funding Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer

    Provides fresh oversight over FCC’s Broadband Funding Map, originally created by Fischer, Cortez Masto

    Today, U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) introduced the Modernization, Accountability, and Planning (MAP) for Broadband Funding Act, to provide oversight of the Federal Communication Commission’s (FCC) Broadband Funding Map to ensure it is functioning effectively for the public, federal agencies, and broadband providers.

    Fischer and Cortez Masto originally created the Broadband Funding Map as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. With oversight needed to ensure federal agencies are utilizing the Map to its full potential, the MAP For Broadway Funding Act will ensure that these agencies are reliably reporting their funding data to the FCC.

    “I have worked diligently for years to close the digital divide for unserved and underserved communities. My work with Senator Cortez Masto was underscored by the Broadband Funding Map, which we created in 2021. While I’m pleased the FCC launched the Map in 2023, it is clear oversight is needed here to ensure all federal agencies are utilizing the Map to its full potential. I won’t relent in my efforts to expand Internet connectivity for those who lack access—this is a critical step in that mission,”     Fischer said. 

    “As we work to expand broadband access across the country, it’s critical that we do with as much transparency, accountability, and coordination as possible. Reliable access to the internet is already so important for people to work and take care of their everyday tasks. Congress must ensure we continue to expand its access efficiently,” Cortez Masto said.

    “Big thanks to Senators Fischer and Cortez Masto for their work in bringing about the MAP for Broadband Funding Act. By improving the accuracy and transparency of the Broadband Funding Map, we can more effectively target federal funding for broadband deployment where it’s truly needed. Plus, requiring federal agencies to report broadband deployment data to the FCC and NTIA will strengthen coordination and accountability across programs,” USTelecom President and CEO Jonathan Spalter said. 

    “Senator Fischer should be commended for marshaling the Federal Communications Commission and the Government Accountability Office to ensure that precious federal broadband dollars are spent as efficiently as possible. CostQuest appreciates the Senator’s data-driven approach to ensuring accountability for broadband spending across the government,”CostQuest Associates said.

    Background    :

    The MAP for Broadband Funding Act provides fresh oversight for the FCC’s Broadband Funding Map to ensure the Map is functioning effectively, efficiently, and transparently as possible for the public, federal agencies, and broadband providers alike.

    To meet this goal, the bill:
     

    1. Directs the FCC to conduct a Notice of Inquiry on the Map’s function and data it displays for maximum usability, assessing any necessary updates from a user-experience perspective, and 
    1. Directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to evaluate how well federal agencies are populating the Map in compliance with current law, identifying any gaps in reporting for its optimum functionality. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Cornyn Introduce Bill to Lower Out-of-Pocket Prescription Drug Costs for Seniors

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and John Cornyn (R-TX) introduced a bipartisan bill to reduce prescription drug costs for seniors. The Reducing Drug Prices for Seniors Act would directly reduce out-of-pocket costs by requiring that coinsurance payments for prescription drugs for seniors on Medicare be determined based on the lower net price of the medication as opposed to the higher list price.
    For example, if a senior has a 50 percent coinsurance and their medication’s list price is $200, they currently pay $100 out-of-pocket at the pharmacy – even if the insurance company only paid $150 for the medication. This bipartisan legislation would ensure that, in this example, the senior ends up only paying $75.
    “For far too long, Nevadans have been forced to pay extremely high prices for prescription drugs, and I believe no one should have to break the bank to pay for life-saving medication,” said Senator Rosen. “That’s why I’m introducing a bipartisan bill to lower out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs for Nevada seniors and reduce the amount of money they have to pay at the pharmacy counter. I’ll keep working with anyone – Republican, Democrat, or Independent – to bring down costs for families in our state.”
    “Countless seniors in Texas face challenges with high out-of-pocket prescription drug costs,” said Senator Cornyn. “I am proud to support the Reducing Drug Prices for Seniors Act, which aims to ease this financial burden by lowering costs and improving access to potentially life-saving medications.”
    Senator Rosen has been actively working to lower health care and prescription drug costs for families. She helped pass the bill that gave Medicare the power to negotiate for lower prescription drugs and cap the price of insulin at $35 a month. At the beginning of this year, Senator Rosen announced the start of a cap on prescription drug prices for Nevada seniors that she helped pass. She also announced that more medications now qualify for Medicare price negotiations. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Lancement du Mois du patrimoine acadien

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    À partir de la gauche, Kyle MacQuarrie, député d’Inverness; Allister Surette, sénateur; Tim Houston, premier ministre; Colton LeBlanc, ministre des Affaires acadiennes et de la Francophonie; Jules Chiasson, directeur général de la Fédération acadienne de la Nouvelle-Écosse; et Réjean Aucoin, sénateur. (Province de la Nouvelle-Écosse)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Acadian Heritage Month Launch

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    From left, Kyle MacQuarrie, MLA for Inverness; Sen. Allister Surette; Premier Tim Houston; Colton LeBlanc, Minister of Acadian Affairs and Francophonie; and Jules Chiasson, Executive Director of the Fédération acadienne de la Nouvelle-Écosse; and Sen. Réjean Aucoin (Province of Nova Scotia)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RIDOH and DEM Recommend Avoiding Contact with Georgiaville Pond

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) and Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) are recommending people avoid contact with Georgiaville Pond in Smithfield due to a confirmed cyanobacteria bloom. Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, are naturally present in bodies of water, but under certain environmental conditions will form harmful algae blooms?(HABs). All recreation, including swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking, is high risk to health and recommended to be avoided at this location. HABs can produce toxins which can be harmful to humans and animals.

    Use caution in all areas of Georgiaville Pond as cyanobacteria HABs can move locations in ponds and lakes. People should not drink untreated water or eat fish from affected waterbodies.?Pet owners should not allow pets to drink or swim in this water. ? Skin contact with water containing toxin-producing cyanobacteria can cause irritation of the skin, nose, eyes, and throat. Symptoms from ingestion of water can include stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. Less common symptoms can include dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage, and nervous system damage. Young children and pets are at higher risk for health effects associated with cyanobacteria HABs because they are more likely to swallow water when they are in or around bodies of water. People who have had contact with these ponds and experience those symptoms should contact their healthcare provider.?

    If you or your pet come into contact with a cyanobacteria HAB:

    – Rinse your skin with clean water right away.

    – Shower and wash your clothes when you get home.

    – If your pet was exposed, wash it with clean water immediately and don’t let it lick algae from its fur.

    – Call a vet if your pet shows signs of illness like tiredness, no eating, vomiting, diarrhea or other symptoms within a day.

    – If you feel sick after contact, call a healthcare provider.

    Affected waters might look bright to dark green, with thick algae floating on the surface. It may resemble green paint, pea soup, or green cottage cheese. If you see water like this, people and pets should avoid contact with the water.

    To report suspected cyanobacteria blooms, contact DEM’s Office of Water Resources at 401-222-4700 Press 6 or?DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov?and if possible, send a photograph of the reported algae bloom. For more information and the Freshwater Cyanobacteria Tracker Dashboard that lists current advisories and data, visit:?www.dem.ri.gov/bluegreen

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: “Free Money” Gang Members Indicted for Committing Murder at Local Shopping Center

    Source: US State of Vermont

    Two alleged members of Free Money, a violent Houston-based street gang, were indicted yesterday in the Southern District of Texas for their alleged roles in the murder of one individual and attempted murder of another during a gang-related ambush.

    According to court documents, Free Money members and associates engage in robbery, home invasions, drug distribution, and murder. The defendants, Terry Ardoin, 24, and Travonte Ardoin, 27, both of Houston, allegedly committed the murder in connection with an ongoing gang war with a rival group.

    On June 24, 2022, in broad daylight, surveillance footage captured the Ardoins following a Chevrolet Equinox into a shopping center parking lot in a Black Nissan Altima. As alleged in court documents, the driver of the Equinox entered a nearby store while the passenger remained in the vehicle. When the driver returned, the Ardoins allegedly exited the Altima wearing masks and opened fire on both individuals.

    Witnesses reported hearing numerous gunshots and described the distinct sound of a fully automatic weapon, believed to have been modified with a machine gun conversion device commonly referred to as a “switch.” 

    Multiple rounds struck the vehicle’s passenger compartment. Houston Police Department officers responded within minutes and found one victim deceased.

    Terry and Travonte Ardoin are charged with murder in aid of racketeering, attempted murder in aid of racketeering, use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and causing death through the use of a firearm. If convicted, they face a maximum penalty of life in prison or a death sentence. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Houston Police Department.

    Trial Attorney Ralph Paradiso of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section (VCRS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Brown for the Southern District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime Initiative to prosecute violent crimes in Houston. The Criminal Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas have partnered, along with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, to confront violent crimes committed by gang members and associates through the enforcement of federal laws and use of federal resources to prosecute the violent offenders and prevent further violence.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Men Charged For Nationwide Fraud Scheme Targeting Hundreds Of Elderly Victims

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Jingbin Jiang and Su Jian Liu Are Charged With Participating in a Scheme That Attempted to Steal Over $18 Million From Over 350 Victims

    United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton; Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), Christopher G. Raia; and Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), Jessica S. Tisch,  announced charges against JINGBIN JIANG and SU JIAN LIU, a/k/a “Fatty,” a/k/a “Ah Pang,” for a scheme to defraud elderly victims across the United States, which attempted to steal over $18 million from over 350 victims and resulted in actual losses of over $5 million to over 70 victims.  JIANG was arrested in Staten Island this morning and will be presented today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Stewart D. Aaron.  LIU is still at large.  The case is assigned to U.S. District Judge Mary Kay Vyskocil.

    “As alleged, Jingbin Jiang and Su Jian Liu worked together with others to steal the hard-earned money of some our most vulnerable New Yorkers and others around the country,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton.  “Taking advantage of our elderly after they have worked so hard to save and contributed so much to our city and this country is heartless and despicable.  These charges, and the efforts of the FBI and the NYPD, should serve as a warning to fraudsters and cybercriminals: New Yorkers want you held accountable for your crimes, and the women and men of our Office are committed to doing so.”

    “Jingbin Jiang and Su Jian Liu allegedly defrauded elderly victims of more than $5 million by utilizing extortionate tactics to coerce withdrawals of significant cash or purchases of gold,” said FBI Assistant Director Christopher G. Raia.  “This alleged conspiracy wielded fear of bankruptcy and arrest to ensure victims complied with the unlawful requests for money.  The FBI is committed to apprehending any individual who utilizes online platforms to target and exploit vulnerable victims across the country.”

    “These defendants allegedly led a nationwide fraud scheme with the goal of targeting innocent, elderly victims and stealing millions of their hard-earned savings,” said NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch.  “Jingbin Jiang and Su Jian Liu allegedly participated in a plot involving elaborate, fictitious narratives to manipulate elderly victims and trick them into participating in their scheme, which involved attempts to steal over $18 million from 350 people.  I am grateful to the members of the NYPD, FBI, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for holding these alleged predatory fraudsters accountable.”

    According to the allegations in the Indictment unsealed today in Manhattan federal court:[1]

    Between at least in or about 2023 and in or about July 2025, JIANG and LIU participated with others in a fraudulent scheme that primarily targeted elderly victims located all across the United States, including in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin, California, Connecticut, Arizona, North Carolina, South Carolina, Missouri, Mississippi, Kentucky, Utah, Oregon, Colorado, and Montana.

    The scheme proceeded in the following manner: First, victims would typically see a pop-up message on their computers indicating that they needed to call a particular phone number controlled by members of the scheme.  The pop-up message would typically claim to come from a technology company, a bank, or the government.  Second, when victims called the phone number, they were told a fictitious narrative that would ultimately lead to a suggestion that the victims withdraw money from their bank account.  For example, some victims were falsely told that their computers had a virus, or that their computers had been hacked into and used to commit serious crimes, like downloading child sexual abuse material.  Others were falsely told that their bank accounts had been compromised and were vulnerable to unauthorized withdrawals.  To avoid arrest or protect their bank accounts from being compromised, victims were instructed to withdraw large amounts of cash from their bank accounts or purchase large quantities of gold.  Some victims were even told that their money would be safely held in the custody of a consumer protection agency like the Federal Trade Commission, and they were sent notices on fake federal government letterhead purporting to bear the signature of a federal government official:

    Third, many victims were told that a courier would be arriving at their home (or other coordinated pick-up location) to retrieve the gold and/or cash.  Victims were often provided with the courier’s name (which was fictitious), a description of the courier’s clothing, and sometimes a password, purportedly to ensure the courier was authorized to pick up the gold and/or cash.  Other victims were told to purchase and transfer cryptocurrency or gift cards, which did not require a courier.  Victims were typically under the impression that this gold and/or cash would then be deposited, on the victims’ behalf, into a new, safe, uncompromised bank account (or with the Federal Trade Commission, as noted above) that they could access without concern in the future.  In reality, these funds were stolen and never returned to the victims.  Some victims engaged in multiple transactions before realizing the fraudulent nature of the scheme.

    JIANG and LIU participated in the scheme by managing and supervising the couriers that traveled to meet the victims to pick up the cash and gold, which was then transported back to New York City.  JIANG and LIU received information about potential victims from other members of the scheme on text-messaging platforms, in messages that typically included the zip codes and the amounts of cash or gold to be collected from each victim. JIANG and LIU could then decide whether to accept the pick-up, and if they did, the other members of the scheme would provide more specific details about the victim and when and where to pick up the cash or gold.  After arranging for couriers to make the pick-ups, JIANG and LIU would provide updates to other members of the scheme about the couriers’ progress.  After the victims provided the criminal proceeds to the couriers, JIANG and LIU arranged for the criminal proceeds to be distributed to other members of the scheme, including by converting cash and gold into cryptocurrency to be easily transmitted to members of the scheme located overseas, including in India and China.  In total, members of the conspiracy have attempted to steal at least approximately $18 million from over 350 victims, and they have successfully stolen at least approximately $5 million from over 70 victims.

    If you or someone you know has been victimized by this scheme, please file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, which is available at ic3.gov.

    *                *                *

    JIANG, 37, of Staten Island, New York, and LIU, 38 of Edmond, Oklahoma, are both charged with one count of wire fraud conspiracy, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; and one count of conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen property, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.

    The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge.

    Mr. Clayton praised the investigative work of the FBI and NYPD’s Joint Organized Crime Task Force.  Mr. Clayton also thanked the New York State Police and the Bedford Police Department for their assistance in the investigation of this case.

    This case is being handled by the Office’s Violent & Organized Crime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew K. Chan and Angela Zhu are in charge of the prosecution. 

    The charges contained in the Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    [1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Indictment and the description of the Indictment set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described herein should be treated as an allegation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bloods Gang Member Apprehended in Durham in Possession of a Firearm while on Post-Release Supervision Sentenced

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    GREENSBORO – A Durham, North Carolina man was sentenced today in Greensboro to 8 years in prison after pleading guilty to a firearm charge, announced United States Attorney Clifton T. Barrett of the Middle District of North Carolina (MDNC).   

    WILLIAM LOVELL HARPER, age 26, was sentenced to a total of 96 months imprisonment plus 3 years of post-release supervision by the Honorable William L. Osteen, Jr., United States District Judge for the MDNC.

    According to court records, on September 4, 2024, officers apprehended HARPER on Hillsborough Road in Durham and recovered a loaded handgun from his person. At the time of his apprehension, HARPER had three active warrants for his arrest, including one stemming from a robbery in Durham on March 2024 and another for violating his post-release supervision. HARPER had been previously convicted of Assault with a Deadly Weapon Inflicting Serious Injury and Robbery with a Dangerous Weapon in Beaufort County in 2017, as well as Conspiracy to Commit Assault with a Deadly Weapon with Intent to Kill in Craven County in 2018. Thus, at the time of the instant offense, HARPER was legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.

    In 2023, HARPER admitted that he was a member of the Bloods criminal street gang.

    In April of this year, HARPER was convicted of Robbery of a Dangerous Weapon and Possession of a Firearm by a Felon in Durham County for conduct occurring on March 28, 2024. He received a sentence of 11 to 146 months. 60 months of today’s federal sentence will run consecutively to HARPER’s state sentence.

    HARPER pleaded guilty on April 10, 2025, to one count of felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).

    The case was investigated by the Durham Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Durham County District Attorney’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric Iverson.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Previously Convicted Felon Sentenced for Possession of Pistol While on Pretrial Release

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON – Andre Jamar Turman, 34, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced today to 28 months in federal prison for being a previously convicted felon in possession of a loaded Haskell Model JS-45 pistol while he was on probation and on pretrial release for multiple cases, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.

                Turman pleaded guilty on Dec. 17, 2024, to the indictment charging him with unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon. In addition to the 28-month prison term, U.S. District Court Judge Jia M. Cobb ordered Turman to serve three years of supervised release.

                Joining in the announcement were U.S. Marshal Robert Dixon of D.C. Superior Court, Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood of the Washington Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Chief Pamela A. Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD)

                According to court documents, on May 4, 2023, Deputy U.S. Marshals and MPD detectives were searching for Turman due to numerous bench warrants out of D.C. Superior Court as well as an outstanding arrest warrant.

                At about 11:30 a.m., officers spotted and arrested Turman on the 2400 block of Pennsylvania Avenue, SE, near Twining Square Park. A Deputy U.S. Marshal patted down the right front pants pocket and recovered a loaded Haskell Model JS-45 pistol. The firearm was not registered in the District of Columbia. In addition, the firearm previously had been reported as stolen.

                Turman was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had been previously convicted of carrying a pistol without a license and sentenced to more than a year in prison. 

                At the time of his arrest, he was on probation and pretrial release for multiple cases—including release in another firearm case in Maryland.

                This case was investigated by the ATF, MPD, and U.S. Marshals. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shezhad Akhtar and Chrisellen Rebecca Kolb.

    23cr171

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Haven Man Sentenced to More than 6 Years in Federal Prison for Fentanyl Trafficking Offense

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that JESUS SEGUINOT, also known as “Chuchi,” 35, of New Haven, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 78 months of imprisonment for his role in a fentanyl trafficking conspiracy.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 25, 2020, Seguinot was sentenced in New Haven federal court to 30 months of imprisonment and three years of supervised release for drug distribution and gun possession offenses.  He was released from federal prison in May 2021.  In October 2021, the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force learned that Luis Salaman, also known as “Bebe,” was distributing large quantities of narcotics throughout New Haven.  The investigation revealed that Salaman worked with Seguinot and others to distribute fentanyl.  Between November 2021 and March 2022, investigators made multiple controlled purchases of distribution quantities of fentanyl from Salaman, Seguinot, and their associates.  Investigators also learned that Seguinot possessed a firearm during that time.

    Seguinot was arrested on April 10, 2023.

    On December 19, 2024, a jury found Seguinot and Salaman guilty of conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, and Salaman guilty of three counts of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, 40 grams or more of fentanyl. 

    Seguinot’s criminal history also includes state convictions for drug distribution and weapon possession offenses.

    Seguinot has been detained since January 2, 2025.

    Salaman, who has been detained since his arrest on April 5, 2022, awaits sentencing.

    This investigation has been conducted by FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force, which includes members from the FBI, the Connecticut State Police, the Connecticut Department of Correction, and the New Haven, Milford, East Haven, West Haven, and Wallingford Police Departments.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David T. Huang.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Andover Man Pleads Guilty for Producing and Possessing Child Sexual Abuse Images

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CONCORD – An Andover man pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court for producing and possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM), Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack announces.

    Dale Howe, age 37, pleaded guilty in federal court to three counts of Production of Child Pornography and one count of Possession of Child Pornography. U.S. District Court Judge Paul J. Barbadoro scheduled sentencing for November 5, 2025.

    According to the charging documents and statements made in court, the defendant provided the minor victim with drugs and sexually assaulted the minor victim. The defendant created images of the sexual abuse, which were found during a search of his phone. The defendant distributed at least three of the child sexual abuse images through a social media platform. The defendant was also in possession of more than 3,500 files of unrelated CSAM.

    The charges for Production of Child Pornography provide for a sentence with a minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years, a maximum fine of $250,000, and a term of supervised release of at least 5 years. The charge for Possession of Child Pornography provides for a sentence with a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, a maximum fine of $250,000, and a term of supervised release of at least 5 years. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    Homeland Security Investigations, the Andover Police Department, and the New Hampshire State Police, the Merrimack County Sheriff’s Office, New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) and the Derry Police Department provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S Attorneys Heather A. Cherniske and Anna Z. Krasinski are prosecuting the case.

     

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Florida Woman to Pay $400,000 to Settle Allegations of Falsifying Diagnoses in connection with an Amherst Compounding Pharmacy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CONCORD –Georgina Exposito of Florida, owner of 3rd Party Services of Florida, agreed to pay $400,000 to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act (FCA) by submitting false claims to Medicare and TRICARE based on fake medical diagnoses, Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack announces.

    According to the settlement agreement and the complaint in partial intervention, Exposito and her company altered patients’ medical diagnoses to obtain prior authorizations on behalf of pharmacies, including PerforMix Specialty Pharmacy, a compounding pharmacy located in Amherst. This resulted in the submission of false claims to Medicare and TRICARE.

    “Submitting false claims to federal health care programs like Medicare and TRICARE undermines the integrity of our health care system and diverts critical resources away from patients who need them,” said U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack. “Accountability in cases like this helps restore trust in our health care system and ensures taxpayer dollars are protected.”

    “The submission of falsified prior authorization requests undermines an important safeguard against unnecessary Medicare costs,” said Special Agent in Charge Roberto Coviello of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG).  “This settlement highlights HHS-OIG’s ongoing commitment to combatting fraud in the taxpayer-funded Medicare program, and we will continue to thoroughly pursue allegations of False Claims Act violations.”

    The False Claims Act permits whistleblowers to file civil lawsuits alleging that false claims have been submitted to the United States. This FCA settlement resolves allegations against Georgina Exposito’s company originally brought in a lawsuit filed by a whistleblower.  As part of the settlement the whistleblower will receive a portion of the settlement amount.

    The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability. The United States’ case against the other defendants named in the complaint in partial intervention continues. 

     This case was investigated by the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Defense, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Raphael Katz.

    ###

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Distribution of Child Pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WACO – A Mississippi man was sentenced in federal court to 240 months in prison for distribution of child pornography, involving the sexual exploitation of a minor.

    According to court documents, Foster Denzel Harris, aided and abetted by another, knowingly distributed and attempted to distribute visual depictions of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct in violation of federal statute.

    In 2022, the victim in this case reported to FBI that she had been exploited when she was 16 years old, and living in Killeen, Texas. Between 2016 and 2022, while using KiK social media application on her phone, Harris extorted $21,000 dollars from her, threatening to expose her if she didn’t pay.

    “Today’s sentencing sends a clear message that those who exploit children by distributing child sexual abuse material will be held fully accountable,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Aron Tapp. “The pain these victims silently endure is immeasurable, and the FBI will relentlessly pursue anyone who preys on them. We applaud the extraordinary courage of the victim in this case, whose fortitude to come forward enabled us to obtain a measure of justice and put a stop to the continues abuse. If you have information about child exploitation, contact your local FBI office or submit a tip at tips.fbi.gov.”

    This 20-year sentence is the maximum sentence allowed under the statute. Harris was also ordered to pay $31,429.00 in restitution to the victim and placed on lifetime supervised release. This case was investigated by the FBI San Antonio Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregg Gloff prosecuted the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: “Free Money” gang members indicted for committing murder at local shopping center

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HOUSTON – Two alleged members of a violent Houston-based street gang have been charged for their alleged roles in the murder of one individual and attempted murder of another during a gang-related ambush.

    According to court documents, members and associates of the gang known as Free Money engage in robbery, home invasions, drug distribution and murder. Terry Ardoin, 24, and Travonte Ardoin, 27, both of Houston, allegedly committed the murder in connection with an ongoing gang war with a rival group.

    On June 24, 2022, in broad daylight, the Ardoins allegedly following a Chevrolet Equinox into a shopping center parking lot in a Black Nissan Altima. As alleged in court documents, the driver of the Equinox entered a nearby store while the passenger remained in the vehicle. When the driver returned, the Ardoins allegedly exited the Altima wearing masks and opened fired on both individuals.

    Multiple rounds struck the vehicle’s passenger compartment. Law enforcement responded within minutes and found one victim deceased.

    Terry and Travonte Ardoin are charged with murder in aid of racketeering, attempted murder in aid of racketeering, use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and causing death through the use of a firearm. If convicted, they face up to life in prison or the possibility of a death sentence.

    The FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of Houston Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Brown is prosecuting the case along with Trial Attorney Ralph Paradiso of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section.

    This case is part of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime Initiative to prosecute violent crimes in Houston. The Criminal Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas have partnered, along with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies, to confront violent crimes gang members and associates have committed through the enforcement of federal laws and use of federal resources to prosecute violent offenders and prevent further violence.

    An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Discover the potential of agentic AI in higher education

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Discover the potential of agentic AI in higher education

    Discover how Azure AI Foundry in education helps institutions build tailored, scalable AI solutions to drive innovation and digital transformation.

    At Microsoft Build 2025, we unveiled a new wave of agentic innovations that are reshaping how higher education institutions use AI. From intelligent agents to unified data platforms, these advancements empower higher education leaders to confidently accelerate digital transformation. A key part of this evolution is the role of Azure AI Foundry in education, which helps institutions build secure, scalable AI solutions tailored to their academic goals.

    With these advances in AI, institutions now have a powerful new opportunity: to use agents that can automate routine tasks, assist faculty and staff, and provide real-time, contextual insights to support teaching and learning. As more institutions begin their journey to this next frontier, AI agents will support individuals and teams by automating tasks and delivering instant, contextual insights.

    This means that with data-focused AI tools from Microsoft, your institution can:

    • Develop scalable, intelligent agents using Azure AI Foundry, trusted by enterprises and customized for higher education compliance and innovation.
    • Turn data insights into action with AI-powered analytics, addressing challenges in student success, research productivity, and operational agility.

    Accelerate agentic AI with Azure AI Foundry

    Azure AI Foundry Agent Service empowers institutions to securely design, deploy, and scale agents with ease. Enhance your team’s efficiency with agents that simplify academic and operational workflows with robust security and trust features built in. This provides key tools and resources to help you:

    • Create domain-specific agents to automate complex tasks.
    • Use enterprise-grade identity for agents and built-in trustworthy AI.
    • Deploy and scale agents quickly with managed infrastructure.
    Get started with Azure AI Foundry Agent Service

    Create and scale domain-specific agents

    With Azure AI Foundry Agent Service, your team can create domain-specific agents tailored to your unique needs. It helps you design, deploy, and scale agents that are ready for real-world use. This fully managed service handles infrastructure and orchestration. It includes ready-to-use templates, actions, and connectors for more than 1,400 enterprise data sources, including SharePoint, Microsoft Fabric, and third-party systems. For instance, you can design and deploy agents to help onboard new students with personalized guidance and support administrative teams with instant responses to common questions.

    Institutions like Stanford Medicine are already using the healthcare agent orchestrator in Azure AI Foundry alongside Microsoft Copilot Studio. This integration enhances the efficiency of tumor board meetings through customized clinical workflows.

    Secure and manage your agents

    Creating agents is just the beginning—managing them responsibly plays a critical role in their effective use. With Microsoft Entra Agent ID, you can:

    • Gain complete visibility and control over agents’ actions.
    • Assign unique identities for each agent.
    • Share identity management with your team members.
    • Define access controls and permissions for each agent.
    Learn about Microsoft Entra Agent ID

    Trustworthy AI is a foundational commitment for Microsoft and for our customers. We’ve introduced new capabilities to help institutions discover, protect, and govern AI systems from the start.

    On the security side, Azure AI Foundry integrates with Microsoft Defender for Cloud to provide real-time alerts and insights when threats arise. For compliance, out-of-the box integration with governance tools like Credo AI, Saidot, and Microsoft Purview, helps institutions monitor model performance, assess fairness, and track regulatory requirements.

    By using Azure AI Foundry’s built-in tools for safety, security, and governance, institutions can design and deploy AI systems with greater reliability from the start.

    Powering the next AI frontier with Microsoft Fabric

    Strong data is foundational to effective AI. Microsoft Fabric helps unify your data to power analytics and agents—without the burden of managing complex infrastructure. As a SaaS solution, Fabric offers seamless integration of data tools and can reduce the need for manual service connections.

    Try Microsoft Fabric for free

    At its core is Microsoft OneLake, an open and unified data lake that supports any format, from any cloud. This flexibility allows developers to access and analyze all types of data efficiently.

    Fabric also transforms how you manage and interact with data. With natural language capabilities, you can explore insights that drive student success, enhance research, and boost operational agility—empowering everyone to make informed, data-driven decisions.

    Find the right data when you need it

    Education leaders need tools that turn insights into action. That’s why we’re focused on making data more accessible through conversational experiences. With Copilot in Power BI, users can now ask questions in natural language and receive instant insights—no technical training needed to get started. Whether it’s enrollment trends, retention risks, or alumni giving, faculty and staff can explore data directly within Microsoft Teams to streamline their workflow.

    Empower everyone to interact with their data

    With enhanced interaction capabilities in Power BI and Copilot Studio, transforming data into actionable insights can now be faster and more intuitive. You can explore data through natural, conversational experiences, removing complexity, and making analysis more accessible. This shift empowers you and your teams to break down data silos and uncover valuable insights with ease. Power BI chat simplifies the exploration of complex datasets, offering quicker, more confident decision-making.

    Uncover deeper insights with data agents

    Finally, connecting Fabric data agents to Copilot Studio can help uncover deeper insights. These agents expertly analyze complex datasets, uncovering valuable insights from OneLake and driving informed action. By automating tasks like email sending and workflow triggering, they streamline your interactions with enterprise data, enabling confident decision-making.

    Embrace the future of data-driven higher education with Microsoft Azure and Azure AI Foundry. Discover how innovative data agents and AI-powered insights can enhance your approach to learning and operations. Start your journey today and uncover the limitless possibilities that await you.

    Get started with Azure AI Foundry

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amid Partisan Attempts to Gerrymander Texas, Warner and Kaine Join Colleagues to Restore the Voting Rights Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) joined all of their Senate Democratic colleagues in reintroducing the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, legislation to update and reinforce safeguards in the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that have been eroded in recent years by federal court rulings. The legislation would strengthen our democracy by re-establishing preclearance for jurisdictions with a pattern of voting rights violations, protecting minority communities subject to discriminatory voting practices and defending election workers from threats and intimidation. It is named in honor of voting rights champion and former Congressman John Lewis.

    This legislation is especially relevant in Texas where, following historic disapproval of congressional Republicans’ megabill, Texas state lawmakers are attempting to redistrict before the 2026 elections to pick up additional Republican House seats. The move comes in direct response to President Trump’s fears that voters may flip the House in the 2026 midterms.

    “The right to vote is the foundation of our democracy and we have a moral obligation to ensure that every American can make their voice heard at the ballot box,” said Sens. Warner and Kaine. “In the years since the Supreme Court gutted key provisions of the Voting Rights Act, we’ve seen a wave of state-level efforts, like the one underway in Texas, designed to disenfranchise voters and rig the rules for partisan gain. The John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act is a critical step toward protecting access to the ballot while honoring the legacy of a civil rights hero who dedicated his life to the fight for full participation in our democracy.”

    In the wake of the Supreme Court’s damaging Shelby County decision in 2013 – which gutted the federal government’s ability under the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to prevent discriminatory changes to voting laws and procedures – states across the country have unleashed a torrent of voter suppression schemes that have systematically disenfranchised tens of thousands of American voters. The Supreme Court’s decision in Brnovich v. Democratic National Committee (2021) delivered yet another blow to the Voting Rights Act, by making it significantly harder for plaintiffs to win lawsuits under the landmark law against discriminatory voting laws or procedures.

    The John R. Lewis Voting Advancement Act is supported by 178 organizations. Text of the legislation is available here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Opening Remarks at Full Committee Mark Up of Defense and Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Bills

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    ***WATCH: Senator Murray’s opening remarks***

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, delivered the following opening remarks as the committee meets to consider the draft fiscal year 2026 Defense and Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies appropriations acts.

    Senator Murray’s opening remarks, as delivered, are below:

    “As I have said, these are not the bills I would have written on my own—but they nevertheless represent serious bipartisan work to make some truly critical investments in families and our country’s future.

    “From defense funding that supports our military and keeps our country safe to funding for health care, child care, schools, seniors, medical research, public health, workforce training and safety—and many other programs that keep our communities strong.

    “The priorities laid out in both of these bills are fundamental to our nation’s security and Americans’ livelihoods and health.

    “So I’m glad this Committee was able to deliver and reach a bipartisan compromise to write these bills that deliver essential funds to help people, solve problems, and reject many of the absolutely devastating cuts and much of the chaos that President Trump was pushing for.

    “It remains clear as ever to me that we cannot afford to go down the path Trump and Russ Vought want to push us down. Their vision is one where this Committee becomes less bipartisan and less powerful. Where the president and the OMB director call the shots and some Republicans in Congress spend their time cutting what they are told to cut, even at the expense of their own constituents. Where instead of securing new investments for folks back home through bipartisan agreements, lawmakers have to plead their case to this administration to unlock funds we have already delivered or secure special exceptions for spending cuts. Where biomedical research and education funding gets held up for no reason at all. Where we gut investments in working families while letting Trump’s corruption run rampant.

    “That’s what Trump and Vought want.

    “We can—and we must—reject it.

    “Because, there is no comparison between having a bipartisan process, that gives our constituents a say in how their tax dollars are spent. Or another slush fund CR that forfeits our power and lets Trump rob some states, and pick winners and losers regardless of what our communities actually need or the law says.

    “The bills we are voting on today really show how big of a difference there is here. Anyone who has doubts about that, can just look at the LHHS bill.

    “It rejects Trump’s cuts that would have devastated our work to fight substance use disorders, HIV, and pandemics, eliminate women’s health investments like Title X funding and the Teen Pregnancy Prevention program and essentially saw the CDC cut in half.

    “It rejects backward proposals from Trump that would hurt our students and workers—like eliminating preschool grants, or slashing PELL, gutting public school funding, or ending Job Corps and AmeriCorps.

    “It rejects efforts to gut agencies that protect the rights of patients, students, and workers.

    “And, I’m especially pleased to note it rejects Trump’s 40% cut to lifesaving medical research—and increases the NIH budget by $400 million so we continue to make progress against cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and so much more.

    “To the scientists wondering if there will even be an NIH by the end of this administration: this committee’s resounding message is ‘yes.’

    “Congress has your back—we’re not going to give up the fight against cancer, Alzheimer’s, or rare diseases.

    “We support you and we need you to stay here and keep this research going.

    “But I want to be clear—at the end of the day, this isn’t about rejecting Trump, it is about investing in our families.

    “Investing in our schools, in medical research, in workforce training, and community health.

    “In fact, this bill even increases funding for crucial programs with new investments to allow the Social Security Administration to actually help people and undo some of the damage that Trump and DOGE have recklessly caused and increased investments in child care—something I will never stop fighting to make more progress on.

    “Now, one thing this bill does not do, unfortunately, is fund the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.

    “As everyone knows, Republicans rescinded bipartisan funding we provided for CPB in the first ever partisan rescissions package.

    “It is a shameful reality—and now communities across the country will suffer the consequences as over 1,500 stations lose critical funding.

    “I really hope Republicans will join us to restore this funding down the line—and I want you to know I am going to keep pushing to do that. 

    “Before I close, I want to say: I am clear-eyed: the investments we make in these bills today are really only half of the equation.

    “Because the fact of the matter is we have an administration right now that is intent on ignoring Congress, breaking the law, and doing everything it can without any transparency to dismantle programs and agencies that help families.

    “There is no magic bullet that will change that unfortunate reality.

    “Our bills reject devastating cuts—and reject many of this administration’s absurd proposals—like dismantling the Department of Education, like destroying HHS, and more.

    “But I still want to see us to do much more when it comes to demanding accountability, demanding transparency, and demanding the administration actually follow our laws.

    “We all know President Trump cannot dismantle the Department of Education or ship education programs to other agencies. Authorizing laws prevent that. Appropriations laws prevent that. Yet, that has not stopped him from shipping CTE and adult education programs to DOL in violation of our laws.

    “And Secretary McMahon says she wants to do the same for Title I and IDEA. 

    “So I am very glad our LHHS bill takes new steps to ensure she cannot do that, and Title I and IDEA programs students depend on do not get dismantled or moved out of ED.

    “But I’d like this bill to also do the same for every other education program that states administer, to prevent states from having to deal with the chaos of these dismantling efforts, and I’m disappointed there was not bipartisan support to do that. Still, I am going to keep making the case for more accountability and transparency.

    “We need more members across the aisle to not only reject the cuts but to speak up and speak out against what this administration is already doing to defy our laws and hurt the people we represent.

    “Because, as we speak now, Trump and Vought are holding up billions of dollars we have secured on a bipartisan basis. They are on course to impound billions of taxpayer dollars while agencies fail to meet basic requirements of law.

    “Right now, they are illegally hiding apportionments data that would let us know whether funds we passed are being spent as intended and help us strengthen the bills we are in the middle of writing on. It is absurd we have to mark up bills—while being kept in the dark.  And just this week, we learned Russ Vought—through a footnote—paused $15 billion in NIH funding.

    “One footnote, from an unelected bureaucrat—overruling Congress and even NIH, to block $15 billion in funding for things like cancer research.

    “That is not transparency. It is not what Congress intended. And it is not acceptable. 

    “We need our Republican colleagues to join us in insisting that all blocked funding gets out—not just the programs most important to them.

    “So, in sum: these are critical, solid bills we are considering today that deliver vital funds for families and reject many devastating proposals.

    “And of course I would have liked to do even more, and I will not stop discussing how we make that happen with my colleagues, I will be voting yes to advance both of these bills today.

    “And I am glad we are on track to continue making progress on bipartisan bills that reject devastating cuts and invest in our communities and in our global strength.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Secures Over $70.3 Million for Louisiana in Latest FY 2026 Appropriations Bills

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced he secured $70,286,000.00 in Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) in the latest Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Appropriations bills advanced by the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee. These projects, included in the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) and Interior & Environment bills, fund critical infrastructure improvements across Louisiana.
    “To make Louisiana even better, we must fix outdated sewer systems, congested roadways, and aging infrastructure,” said Dr. Cassidy. “I worked to return our federal tax dollars, supporting communities in 14 different parishes with better roads, better sewer systems, and stronger infrastructure.”
    Since taking office, Cassidy has been one of the most effective U.S. Senators at directing federal dollars home to Louisiana, despite not serving on the Appropriations Committee. In FY2024, Roll Call reported Cassidy was one of the top 20 senators in total funding secured for his state—and one of only five in that group who does not sit on the committee. That year, he secured a record $1.3 billion for Louisiana, the highest of any member of the state’s congressional delegation.
    This latest round of $70 million builds on the $49 million Cassidy announced earlier this month, bringing the total secured so far in FY2026 to over $115 million with more expected in the coming weeks.See below for a list of the funding secured by Senator Cassidy.

    Funding Amount
    Recipient
    Project Description

    $8,000,000.00
    Jefferson Parish
    This funding will support the West Bank Rail Alignment Project.

    $7,500,000.00
    City of Lafayette
    This funding will support Johnston Street Safety Mitigation and Enhancements.

    $7,000,000.00
    City of Kenner
    This funding will support stabilization and improvements to the city’s sewer and wastewater treatment plant.

    $6,500,000.00
    Nicholls State University
    This funding will support the Engineering Workforce Development Center in Thibodaux.

    $5,000,000.00
    Tangipahoa Parish
    This funding will support the Airport Road and Highway 3158 Roundabout Project.

    $5,000,000.00
    Livingston Parish
    This funding will support the Browns Road Improvement Project.

    $5,000,000.00
    City of Covington
    This funding will support the US 190 Widening Project.

    $5,000,000.00
    Baton Rouge
    This funding will support the McKinley Diversion Canal Retrofit Project.

    $5,000,000.00
    Lake Charles Harbor and Terminal District
    This funding will support harbor and terminal district improvements.

    $5,000,000.00
    Ascension Parish
    This funding will support the Airline Highway Raising Project.

    $4,500,000.00
    City of Monroe
    This funding will support improvements to the Benoit Community Center.

    $2,000,000.00
    City of St. George
    This funding will support safety improvements along Burbank Drive.

    $1,700,000.00
    Chennault International Airport
    This funding will support their Hangar and Apron Development Project.

    $1,500,000.00
    University of New Orleans
    This funding will support upgrades to the Shea Penland Coastal Research Educational Facility.

    $1,500,000.00
    City of Lake Charles
    This funding will support the North Lake Charles Water Rehabilitation Project.

    $86,000.00
    Kisatchie National Forest
    This funding will support cooperative law enforcement in adjacent parishes (Grant, Vernon, Winn).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Introduces Legislation to Crack Down on Money Laundering, Terror Financing in Art Market

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) introduced the Art Market Integrity Act to require art dealers and auction houses to comply with anti-money-laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing regulations under the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA). Currently, the art market, a $25 billion industry in the United States and the largest of its kind globally, is one of the last major markets not required to meet these standards, making it vulnerable to exploitation by criminals, terrorist financiers, and other sanctioned individuals.
    “Criminals and terrorists use art sales to fund their crimes,” said Dr. Cassidy. “We have similar rules for jewelry, precious metals, real estate, and more. Let’s do it for art too.”
    Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senators John Fetterman (D-PA), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), David McCormick (R-PA), and Andy Kim (D-NJ) in introducing the legislation. 
    Background
    In recent years, the U.S. Department of the Treasury identified the art market as particularly susceptible to money laundering and sanctions evasion. High-profile cases have spotlighted the urgent need for reform, including the indictment of Hezbollah financier Nazem Ahmad using art as part of his scheme to launder over $160 million. Multiple Kremlin cronies have used art to evade sanctions: Arkady and Boris Rotenberg used $18 million worth of art to get around sanctions, Roman Abramovich transferred almost $1 billion in art to his wife ahead of new sanctions, and last year the DOJ indicted Anastasia Simes for laundering money on behalf of sanctioned Kremlin crony Aleksander Udadov.
    The bill is endorsed by the Antiquities Coalition, Transparency International U.S., the FACT Coalition, FDD Action, the American Jewish Committee, Razom for Ukraine, American Coalition for Ukraine, the Initiative for the Recovery of Venezuelan Assets(INRAV), the National Border Patrol Council, and the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Long-term repairs set to begin on North Beach rockslide

    A major step toward long-term stabilization of the slope beside Highway 97 between Callan Road and Okanagan Lake Provincial Park is underway, ensuring the reliability of the highway for Okanagan residents and visitors.

    A $23.2-million contract has been awarded to Emil Anderson Construction Inc. to complete the next phase of work. Construction is expected to begin in fall 2025 and finish in spring 2027.

    Long-term stabilization work will return the highway to its original four-lane configuration. This includes building a retaining wall and catchment area at the base of the slope, along with a concrete wall next to the highway for added reinforcement. Additional rock anchors will also be installed to secure the slope, followed by repairs to the road’s surface and drainage improvements.

    This work will provide lasting support for the hillside and help prevent rockfall impacts, ensuring the ongoing safety and reliability of this key transportation corridor.

    This investment builds on extensive geotechnical work following the rockslide in August 2023, which deposited significant rock and debris onto the highway and forced an immediate closure.

    Between October 2023 and June 2024, crews removed unstable rock through controlled blasting, easing pressure on the slope. By fall 2024, more than 100 rock anchors were installed as part of Phase 1 of stabilization efforts.

    Any impacts to Highway 97 traffic during construction will be communicated via traffic advisories and posted to Drive BC: https://www.drivebc.ca/

    Drivers are asked to use caution through the area, obey posted speed limits and follow the directions of traffic-control personnel.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: One Arrow First Nation and Canada reach farming benefits settlement

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    July 31, 2025 — One Arrow First Nation, Treaty 6 Territory, Saskatchewan — Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada and One Arrow First Nation

    Today, Chief Janine Baldhead of One Arrow First Nation and the Honourable Rebecca Alty, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, announced a settlement agreement resolving the Nation’s Agricultural Benefits claim, also known as a Cows and Plows settlement. 

    Under this agreement, the Government of Canada will pay $124 million in compensation to One Arrow First Nation for failing to fulfill its Treaty 6 obligations to provide the Nation with farming tools, plows, crop seeds, livestock, and other supplies. 

    These agricultural benefits were meant to facilitate One Arrow First Nation’s transition to a strong, self-sustaining community through farming. However, as a result of Canada’s failure to meet its Treaty obligations, the Nation did not have the equipment it needed to support its members. 

    Settling specific claims is an important part of Canada’s ongoing efforts to advance reconciliation by rebuilding trust and strengthening its relationships with First Nations. By providing fair compensation in recognition of unkept promises, Canada is taking responsibility and working toward a better future. This work is guided by the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act.

    MIL OSI Canada News –