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  • MIL-OSI Banking: ACP Statement on Lengthy New Review Procedures from DOI for Energy Projects

    Source: American Clean Power Association (ACP)

    Headline: ACP Statement on Lengthy New Review Procedures from DOI for Energy Projects

    WASHINGTON, D.C., July 17, 2025 – The American Clean Power Association (ACP) issued the following statement from ACP CEO Jason Grumet in response to the announcement of new lengthy review procedures from the Department of the Interior targeting solar and wind development: 
    “The recently released memo from the Interior Department is a bewildering departure from the Administration’s promise to bring down energy prices and make America competitive in the race against China for AI and data centers.     
    “In stark contradiction to the Administration’s commitment to tackling bureaucracy, this directive adds three new layers of needless process and unprecedented political review to the construction of domestic energy projects. The Secretary of the Interior will apparently now be personally reviewing thousands of documents and permit applications for everything from the location and types of fences to the grading of access roads on construction sites across the country.  
    “This intentional effort to slow energy production comes at the worst possible moment. U.S. electricity demand is projected to surge 35-50% by 2040, with data centers alone requiring over 100 GW of new capacity. To meet this demand, America needs a true ‘all of the above’ strategy, which includes additional natural gas and intense efforts to accelerate geothermal and advanced nuclear technologies.   
    “Clean energy represented 93% of new capacity added to the grid last year because these sources are the best way to meet demand right now. It’s basic economics that cutting off the fastest and most affordable energy available to the grid just as demand surges will constrain our energy supply and lead to significant cost increases for American businesses and families.   
    “This isn’t oversight. It’s obstruction that will needlessly harm the fastest growing sources of electric power. The move is particularly confounding as we look to the Administration to support bipartisan efforts in Congress to streamline permitting for all sources of American energy.”   
    ###

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The UK is deeply concerned by violence and attacks on civilians in Syria: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    The UK is deeply concerned by violence and attacks on civilians in Syria: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Statement by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Syria.

    I would like to make three points.  

    First, the UK is deeply concerned by the escalating violence in Suwayda. 

    We have urged all parties to de-escalate and take immediate action to protect civilians. 

    We are alarmed by reports of attacks on medical personnel and facilities. 

    Civilians and civilian infrastructure must never be targeted, and we call on all parties to ensure humanitarian aid can reach those who need it.

    We take note of President Al Sharaa’s comments on the importance of protection of Syria’s Druze community and accountability for those who have committed attacks. 

    And we urge that investigations and steps towards accountability take place swiftly.

    Second, we are deeply concerned by Israel’s escalatory strikes in Damascus. 

    We repeat our call for Israel to refrain from actions that risk destabilising Syria and the wider region. 

    Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity must be respected.  

    We welcome the news that a ceasefire has been agreed. 

    And we urge all parties to commit to maintaining it.

    Third, this is a critical moment for Syria and for the stability of the region. 

    My Foreign Secretary travelled to Damascus earlier this month, where he held productive talks and heard from the Syrian Government and ordinary Syrians about their aspirations for the country. 

    A peaceful and secure future for the Syrian people requires all of Syria’s communities to be protected and fully included in the political transition. 

    So we call on the Syrian Government to prioritise genuine inclusivity and representation in the appointment and election of People’s Assembly members and in all further elements of the political transition.  

    An accountability process is also critical to ensuring stability and lasting peace. 

    We urge the Syrian Government to investigate human rights violations and abuses by all parties and ensure those responsible are held to account. 

    We look forward to seeing the Syrian Government’s report on the violence in the coastal areas in March. 

    This is a crucial step towards justice and reconciliation for the Syrian people.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: End of lockdown and search at Joyceville Institution

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    July 17, 2025 – Joyceville, Ontario – Correctional Service Canada

    The lockdown put in place at Joyceville Institution on July 11, 2025, has ended and the exceptional search has been completed. The institution has continued with its normal operations and visits have resumed.

    During the exceptional search, contraband and unauthorized items were found. The contraband and unauthorized items seized items included marijuana, tabacco, edged weapons, tattoo paraphernalia, as well as items for producing alcohol.

    The Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) is strengthening measures to prevent the entry of contraband into its institutions in order to ensure a safe and secure environment for everyone. CSC also works in partnership with the police to take action against those who attempt to have contraband brought into correctional institutions.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Province moves to protect supply of two more diabetes drugs

    The Province is limiting sales of the drugs tirzepatide and dulaglutide, commonly known by the brand names Mounjaro and Trulicity, to preserve the supply for people with diabetes who really need it.

    In April 2023, the provincial government added a “limits on sale” regulation to the Pharmacy Operations and Drug Scheduling Act to prevent sales of semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus) to non-Canadian residents, to limit the impact of a supply shortage.

    “Tirzepatide, dulaglutide and semaglutide are prescription drugs approved for the management of Type 2 diabetes, but their off-label use for weight loss is driving shortages of the drugs in several countries, including the United States,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health. “Our government is continuing to take action to ensure that people living with diabetes have reliable access to these essential medications.”

    Drugs in the regulation, which now include tirzepatide and dulaglutide, can be purchased from B.C. pharmacies, online or in-person, by B.C. residents, Canadian citizens and permanent residents.

    B.C. pharmacists will not be able to sell tirzepatide, dulaglutide and semaglutides to people who are not a citizen or permanent resident of Canada and who are not at the pharmacy in person. However, they will still be able to sell the drugs, in person at the pharmacy, to non-Canadians who have a valid prescription signed by a Canadian doctor or nurse practitioner.

    The College of Pharmacists of B.C. is responsible for ensuring that college registrants comply with the regulation.

    Learn More:

    Learn about B.C. PharmaCare: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/health-drug-coverage/pharmacare-for-bc-residents

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Norcross, Labor Leaders Hold Press Conference on Collective Bargaining Discharge Petition

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01), co-chair of the Congressional Labor Caucus, joined Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02), House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08), AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Congressional Progressive Caucus Chair Congressman Greg Casar (TX-35), AFGE President Dr. Everett B. Kelley, National Federation of Federal Employees President Randy Erwin, and IFPTE President Matthew Biggs to announce a discharge petition on the Protect America’s Workforce Act, forcing a vote on the House floor to overturn President Trump’s executive order that stripped collective bargaining rights away from over one million federal workers. 

    A discharge petition is a procedural tool that can be used to bypass House Republican leadership and force a vote on the Protect America’s Workforce Act. If 218 representatives sign on to the discharge petition, the bill will come to the House floor for a vote. 

    “I’ve spent my life fighting for workers’ rights, at the bargaining table, on the picket line, and now in Congress. President Trump’s executive order to strip federal workers of their collective bargaining rights is a clear union-busting tactic, plain and simple,” said Congressman Norcross, co-chair of the Congressional Labor Caucus and an IBEW member. “This week, I fought back against this illegal attack on workers by authoring an NDAA amendment to restore collective bargaining rights for defense workers, which passed with bipartisan support. Now, the Protect America’s Workforce Act discharge petition is our chance to ensure ALL federal employees have their collective bargaining rights restored.”  

    The Protect America’s Workforce Act, introduced by Representatives Jared Golden (ME-02) and Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), is a bipartisan effort to protect the collective bargaining rights of federal employees. The bill directly counters President Trump’s executive order issued on March 27, which eliminated collective bargaining rights for unionized federal employees, including the Department of Defense. 

    Earlier this week, Rep. Norcross introduced an amendment to the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to block Trump’s illegal attack on collective bargaining rights for Department of Defense (DoD) employees. The amendment passed out of committee, with three Republicans voting in favor of it. 

    Rep. Norcross, a co-founder of the Congressional Labor Caucus, is a union electrician by trade, a former union organizer, and was president of an AFL-CIO regional labor council for nearly two decades.  

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Foreign Minister Lin leads business delegation to visit Taiwan-Paraguay Smart Technology Park in Ciudad del Este

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    July 13, 2025No. 240During his extensive trip to Paraguay, Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung visited the Taiwan-Paraguay Smart Technology Park in Ciudad del Este on July 12. He was accompanied by Paraguayan Minister of Foreign Affairs Rubén Ramírez Lezcano, Minister of Industry and Commerce Javier Giménez García de Zúñiga, Minister of Information and Communication Technologies Gustavo Villate, Executive Secretary of the Office of the President Marianna Saldívar Gadea, Deputy Minister of Public Works Emiliano Fernández, Governor of Alto Paraná César Landy Torres, President of the Taiwan-Paraguay Polytechnic University Jorge Daniel Duarte Rolon, and other officials.
     
    The technology park originates from a commitment made by President Lai Ching-te to assist Paraguay with economic development and job creation. Then Vice President Lai made the pledge in August 2023 while visiting Paraguay as a special envoy to attend the inauguration of President Santiago Peña Palacios.
     
    When Minister Lin took office on May 20 last year, he held in-depth talks on the project—which would have a profound impact on Paraguay—with President Peña, who was visiting Taiwan to attend President Lai’s inauguration. The two agreed that Taiwan and Paraguay would work together to make Paraguay a South American base for the smart technology industry and talent incubation.
     
    During his visit to the park, Minister Lin remarked that promotion of the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project in Paraguay followed a comprehensive plan led by a national team of businesses from Taiwan. He said that the project integrated civil engineering, private 5G network architecture, and smart applications. Minister Lin added that the initiative would not only create favorable conditions for Taiwanese enterprises investing in Paraguay, but that it would also bring substantial industrial development and employment opportunities to Paraguay. He noted that the process of building the park had been a team effort. Although there had been challenges along the way, Minister Lin said that the difficulties were a source of strength for today. He stated that the newly revitalized Taiwan-Paraguay Smart Technology Park would offer Taiwanese companies the same 006688 land rental incentive provided by special zones in Taiwan. (The 006688 plan offers free rent in years one and two, a 40 percent discount in years three and four, and a 20 percent discount in years five and six.) This is the first time that the preferential policy has been made available to Taiwanese enterprises overseas. Paraguay is also the first country outside Taiwan to apply the incentive. Minister Lin said that he had long advocated for the strategy of larger enterprises guiding smaller ones, combining soft and hard tactics, promoting public-private cooperation, and facilitating internal-external exchanges. He explained that the integration of various technological, financial, and human resources would help Taiwanese industries deploy investments in Paraguay. Minister Lin indicated that Paraguay’s stable economy, abundant and cheap supplies of water and electricity, and convenient business environment could make it a base for Taiwanese enterprises entering the South American market. 
     
    For the trip, Minister Lin extended special invitations to prominent manufacturers from all areas of the supply chain to join the delegation, tour the technology park, and explore business opportunities in Paraguay. The group included representatives from the semiconductor, AI applications, smart manufacturing, smart transportation, animal husbandry, cold chain logistics, and food processing industries. It is hoped that the companies will establish a presence in Paraguay as a joint fleet, joining forces in a new flying geese pattern of development and creating a Taiwan+n model of global industrial deployment. Taiwan will work together with Paraguay to create mutual prosperity and well-being, realizing President Lai’s policy vision of making Taiwan a global economic powerhouse.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOFA sincerely thanks Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba for publicly extending sympathies to Taiwan over losses caused by Typhoon Danas

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    MOFA sincerely thanks Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba for publicly extending sympathies to Taiwan over losses caused by Typhoon Danas

    Date：2025-07-13
    Data Source：TAIWAN-JAPAN RELATIONS ASSOCIATION

    July 13, 2025 
    No.241 

    In the evening of July 12, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba posted a message on social media platform X extending sympathies to Taiwan over the losses caused by Typhoon Danas and expressing the hope that all those affected would be able to resume their normal lives as soon as possible. 
     
    Both the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in Japan immediately extended appreciation to the government of Japan for the thoughtful message. 
     
    Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Taipei Office Chief Representative Kazuyuki Katayama; Mrs. Akie Abe, widow of late Japanese Prime Minster Shinzo Abe; and many Japanese parliamentarians friendly to Taiwan from across the political spectrum also openly and promptly expressed empathy. These gestures fully demonstrate the mutual concern and genuine friendship between Taiwan and Japan. 
     
    Taiwan and Japan are both situated in areas that frequently experience typhoons and earthquakes. Whenever a natural disaster strikes, Taiwan and Japan can count on each other for assistance to overcome related impacts. Indeed, the cordial and cooperative relations between Taiwan and Japan serve as an important asset and model for the international community. Immediately after the occurrence of the typhoon, the people and government of Taiwan fully embarked on disaster relief. Taiwan will continue to maintain close contact with Japan on these efforts. 
     
    Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung once again sincerely thanks the people and government of Japan for their warm sentiments and assistance. He hopes that in the future Taiwan and Japan will continue to engage in extensive and substantive collaboration and exchanges in all areas, including natural disaster prevention and mitigation, so as to bolster the resilience of their societies and develop an even stronger, closer, and more robust bilateral partnership. (E) 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: MOFA sincerely thanks Pope Leo XIV for publicly extending sympathies to Taiwan over losses caused by Typhoon Danas

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    MOFA sincerely thanks Pope Leo XIV for publicly extending sympathies to Taiwan over losses caused by Typhoon Danas

    Date：2025-07-17
    Data Source：Department of European Affairs

    July 17, 2025No. 247On July 16, Holy See Press Office Director Matteo Bruni stated that after learning about the casualties and severe damage caused by Typhoon Danas in Taiwan, Pope Leo XIV had been praying for those affected by the disaster and had instructed the Office of Papal Charities to provide concrete aid to the people of Taiwan.On behalf of President Lai Ching-te, Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung sincerely thanks Pope Leo XIV for expressing concern over losses caused by Typhoon Danas and offering prayers for those affected in the spirit of God’s love for all people. Moving forward, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to cooperate with Pope Leo XIV to promote related humanitarian assistance and charity work, thereby jointly advancing the universal values shared by all humankind. (E)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Registration Opens for 2025 NASA International Space Apps Challenge

    Source: NASA

    Lee esta historia en español aquí
    NASA invites innovators of all ages to register for the NASA Space Apps Challenge, held on Oct. 4-5. The 2025 theme is Learn, Launch, Lead, and participants will work alongside a vibrant community of scientists, technologists, and storytellers at more than 450 events worldwide. Participants can expect to learn skills to succeed in STEM fields, launch ideas that transform NASA’s open data into actionable tools, and lead their communities in driving technological innovation. During the NASA Space Apps Challenge, participants in the U.S. and around the world gather at hundreds of in-person and virtual events to address challenges authored by subject matter experts across NASA divisions. These challenges range in complexity and topic, tasking participants with everything from creating machine learning models and leveraging artificial intelligence, to improving access to NASA research, to designing sustainable recycling systems for Mars, and to developing tools to evaluate local air quality here on Earth. Dr. Yoseline Angel Lopez, a former space apps challenge winner and now an assistant research scientist at NASA’s Goddard Spaceflight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, can attest that the opportunity to Learn, Launch, Lead goes far beyond the hackathon.    “The NASA Space Apps Challenge gave me and my team a meaningful opportunity to apply science to real-world problems and gain validation from NASA scientists and industry experts,” said Angel. In 2021, her team’s winning web-app prototype was adopted by Colombia’s Ministry of Agriculture, connecting smallholder farmers with local buyers. The platform also supported agricultural land-use monitoring using satellite imagery. After the hackathon, project submissions are judged by NASA and space agency experts. Winners are selected for one of 10 global awards. “Participating in the hackathon is exciting on its own. But when your project can lead to greater opportunities and make a difference in your community, that’s a dream come true,” said Angel. She will return to the 2025 hackathon as a NASA subject matter expert and challenge author, giving a Golden Age of innovators the opportunity to make a difference in their communities through the use of data from NASA and 14 space agency partners. This year’s partners include: Bahrain Space Agency; Brazilian Space Agency; CSA (Canadian Space Agency); ESA (European Space Agency); ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation); Italian Space Agency; JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency); Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre of the United Arab Emirates; National Space Activities Commission of Argentina;  Paraguayan Space Agency; South African National Space Agency; Spanish Space Agency; Turkish Space Agency; and the UK Space Agency. NASA Space Apps is funded by NASA’s Earth Science Division through a contract with Booz Allen Hamilton, Mindgrub, and SecondMuse. We invite you to register for the 2025 NASA Space Apps Challenge and choose a virtual or in-person event near you at:
    https://www.spaceappschallenge.org
    Find videos about Space Apps at:
    youtube.com/c/NASASpaceAppsChallenge

    Stay up to date with #SpaceApps by following these accounts:

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE arrests foreign fugitive from Honduras wanted for homicide

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    EASTON, Pa – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations Philadelphia, in collaboration with Homeland Security Investigations Allentown and Drug Enforcement Administration Allentown arrested Yobani Bonilla-Bonilla, aka, Gilberto Perez-Alvarado, a 29-year-old citizen of Honduras in Easton, Pennsylvania June 14. Bonilla is a foreign fugitive wanted in Honduras for homicide, under the alias Gilberto Perez-Alvarado.

    Bonilla was previously arrested for driving under the influence by the Wilson Borough Police Department in Wilson, Pennsylvania.

    “ICE Philadelphia remains steadfast in our mission to protect public safety by apprehending and removing individuals who pose a threat to our communities,” said ERO Philadelphia acting Field Office Director Brian McShane. “We will not allow foreign, violent actors to find sanctuary in the U.S. We will find them and remove them, so that they cannot harm the citizens of this country.”

    The U.S. Border Patrol arrested Bonilla near Hidalgo, Texas June 9, 2015, after he entered the U.S. without admission or parole by an immigration officer. He was subsequently served with a Notice and Order of Expedited Removal, finding him inadmissible to the U.S. pursuant to section 212 of the Immigration and Nationality Act. On June 15, 2015, ERO San Antonio removed Bonilla from the U.S. to Honduras.

    On Jan. 4, 2016, a court in Honduras issued an arrest warrant for Bonilla for homicide.

    Bonilla again unlawfully reentered the U.S. without admission or parole by an immigration officer at an undetermined time and location.

    On Sep. 13, 2024, the Wilson Borough Police Department in Wilson, Pennsylvania arrested Bonilla for driving under the influence. These charges remain pending.

    Bonilla will remain in ICE custody pending prosecution for unlawful reentry and his removal from the U.S.

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

    Learn more about ICE Philadelphia’s mission to increase public safety in our Pennsylvania, Delaware and West Virginia communities on X, at @EROPhiladelphia.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Utah’s Monroe Fire

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Utah’s Monroe Fire

    FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Utah’s Monroe Fire

    DENVER – This afternoon FEMA authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Monroe Fire burning in Sevier County, Utah
    The fire started July 13, 2025 and is 0-percent contained
    Acting FEMA Region 8 Administrator Katherine Fox approved the state’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) this afternoon after determining the fire threatened such destruction that it would constitute a major disaster.
    At the time of the request, the fire had burned 8000 acres and was threatening critical infrastructure including essential communications as well as the local watershed
    There are also several other large fires burning uncontrolled within the state of Utah and fire weather conditions remain a concern
    The authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating and controlling designated fires
    These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire
    Fire Management Assistance Grants are provided through the President’s Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster
    Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies
    For more information on FMAGs, visit  https://www
    fema
    gov/fire-management-assistance-grants-program-details

    minh
    phan
    Thu, 07/17/2025 – 13:35

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: S. 539, PROTECT Our Children Reauthorization Act of 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    S. 539 would reauthorize the PROTECT our Children Act of 2008 and authorize the appropriation of specific amounts for each year from 2026 through 2028 totaling $240 million for programs at the Department of Justice that assist federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in investigating and prosecuting child exploitation. Most of the authorized funding would support the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) program, a network of task forces that support state and local governments’ efforts to investigate and prosecute child sexual exploitation and other crimes against children committed over the Internet. S. 539 also would limit liability for ICAC task forces in civil and criminal lawsuits filed in federal or state courts with respect to investigations of crimes against children. The underlying authorizations for those programs expired at the end of 2024.

    Lastly, the bill would require the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) to provide all supplemental information reported to the CyberTipline to law enforcement agencies. The CyberTipline is the national reporting system for online child sexual exploitation.

    Based on historical spending patterns for similar activities, CBO estimates that implementing S. 539 would cost $157 million over the 2025-2030 period and $83 million after 2030, assuming appropriation of the authorized amounts.

    The costs of the legislation, detailed in Table 1, fall within budget function 750 (administration of justice).

    Table 1.

    Estimated Increases in Spending Subject to Appropriation Under S. 539
     

    By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars

    		  
     

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    2025-2030

    Authorization

    0

    70

    80

    90

    0

    0

    240

    Estimated Outlays

    0

    5

    20

    36

    48

    48

    157

    S. 539 would impose intergovernmental and private-sector mandates as defined in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (UMRA) by providing certain liability protections against criminal or civil cases arising in federal or state courts with respect to ICAC’s investigations of crimes against children.This would remove a right of action from public and private entities. The cost of this mandate would be the lost financial rewards from successful litigation. CBO cannot anticipate the number of cases that would be prohibited under the bill, the outcome of such cases, or the financial awards from successful litigation. Therefore, CBO cannot determine whether the cost of the mandate would exceed the intergovernmental and private-sector thresholds established in UMRA ($103 million and $206 million respectfully, in 2025, adjusted annually for inflation).

    The bill also would impose a private-sector mandate on the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children by requiring NCMEC to include supplemental information with their reports on child abuse to law enforcement agencies. CBO assumes that this information is readily available because NCMEC already compiles this information in the process of creating those reports. Therefore, CBO expects the cost of this mandate would be well below the private-sector threshold established in UMRA.

    The CBO staff contacts for this estimate are Jeremy Crimm (for federal costs) and Erich Dvorak (for mandates). The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 3477, Ensuring Airline Resiliency to Reduce Delays and Cancellations Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 3477 would require passenger air carriers to develop and regularly update a strategy to prevent or limit the effects of severe weather and other anticipated disruptions on passengers. The bill would require the Department of Transportation to develop a method to protect the confidentiality of trade secrets or proprietary information in those strategies. In addition, H.R. 3477 would require the Government Accountability Office to evaluate the effectiveness of the strategies and report to the Congress.

    Based on the cost of similar activities, CBO estimates that implementing the bill would cost $1 million over the 2025-2030 period. Any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    The bill would impose a private-sector mandate as defined in the Unfunded Mandate Reform Act (UMRA) by requiring passenger air carriers to develop a strategy for preventing or limiting the effect of weather and other foreseeable disruptions on passengers. This would marginally expand existing requirements on air carriers to plan for, and respond to, certain disruptions in service. CBO expects that because carriers would build on existing operational policies for responding to those events, the cost of compliance would fall well below the threshold established in UMRA for private-sector mandates ($206 million in 2025, adjusted annually for inflation).

    H.R. 3477 would not impose intergovernmental mandates as defined in UMRA.

    The CBO staff contacts for this estimate are Aaron Krupkin (for federal costs) and Brandon Lever (for mandates). The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Oregon Department of Human Services takes first steps in moving to new and historic Astoria location

    Source: US State of Oregon

    span dir=”ltr”>The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) will be moving to a newly renovated but historic location in the heart of Astoria in about a year.

    The building, at 1535 Commercial Street, was the first structure completed in 1923 after the 1922 fire that leveled much of Astoria. It is one of the first buildings you see as you drive into historic downtown Astoria. Over the years it has been an active part of the community. It’s been a police station, a fire station, a car dealership, a furniture and appliance store and a public market. There is a door in the building that leads to the infamous tunnels that, according to history, ferried crimped sailors to waiting ships and were also used during Prohibition to transport alcohol.

    Just as this building has been a part of the community throughout its past, that community legacy will continue with ODHS moving to that location. The renovation work when feasible will be done by local contractors and using local products. Cork has met with staff, Clatsop and Nehalem Tribes, local non-profits such as CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) and local school staff in the area to learn what their needs for the building would be.

    It is also more accessible inside and outside for people and easier to find than where the ODHS offices are now located in the port area at 450 Marine Drive. The city will be removing curbs for better wheelchair access. Also, it will be renovated to be a completely trauma-aware building.

    The agency will be leasing the building from Astoria Waterfront Group LLC. The Managing Member of AWG is former Astorian John Dulcich, of Goldsmith Land Investments, who remembers when he was a child coming to this building’s public market with his parents. Dulcich’s mother, Donna Mary, spent her entire career as a speech pathologist with the Clatsop County Educational Service District visiting the local schools helping children with speech therapy. Dulcich’s father, Vince Dulcich, was long-time football coach and Athletic Director at Astoria High School and also a commercial gillnetter.

    “This building has had a lot of public use. People know this building. And a lot of people in this area use human services. This is a safe area for people to come to. This building is also bringing family wage jobs here. I’m very excited ODHS will be bringing life back to this building,” Dulcich said.

    Because of the building’s history of service to the community, Dulcich decided to name the building the Van Dusen Mercantile Building to pay homage to the Van Dusen family.

    In 1849 wagon train pioneers Caroline and Adam Van Dusen started a general store by the same name in downtown Astoria. Later the Van Dusen family ventured into other industries including insurance, soft drink bottling and hospitality. Their grandson, Willis, born in 1953, and the family earned the distinction of having operated Oregon’s Oldest Business. Willis went on to serve the community as an Astoria Council member for more than 30 years and Astoria Mayor for 24 years.

    Dulcich said he is honored that the Van Dusen’s agreed to let him name the building after their family. Dulcich also noted that bringing the State ODHS to the building was originally the vision of the Van Dusen’s (Willis, Trudy and Junior) as they had initiated conversations with the State.

    “They got the ball rolling and now we just need to execute the plan so we can restore the luster to this jewel of a building,” Dulcich said.

    “It is an iconic building. If the walls could talk, I’m sure we’d hear a lot of great stories. We’re very excited to be coming to this building and to able to bring services to people in the area,” Tim Cork said. He is the District 1 Manager, which includes Clatsop, Columbia and Tillamook counties. The building will house Child Welfare, Self-Sufficiency, Oregon Eligibility Partnership and Vocational Rehabilitation programs.

    The building sits in a very scenic area, just across the street from the Nordic Park with its interpretive signage and cattycorner from the Columbia River Maritime Museum. The building’s front windows look out onto the expansive view of the mouth of the Columbia River.

    —

    Watch the video and listen to the interviews of what is to come for the future of the Astoria ODHS offices: https://vimeo.com/1097989057/b74600b04c?share=copy

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Homeland Security Task Force Created in Houston

    Source: US FBI

    Task Force Will Combat Emerging Transnational Criminal Threats

    HOUSTON—The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Houston Field Office and FBI Houston announced the establishment of a regional Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) on July 17 to combat emerging threats from transnational criminal organizations in Southeast Texas.

    The task force was created as a regional component to the national Homeland Security Task Force established by the Department of Homeland Security and Department of Justice pursuant to an Executive Order issued by President Donald Trump on January 29, 2025, to protect the American people from invasion by transnational criminals.

    The Houston HSTF’s objective is to end the presence of criminal cartels, foreign gangs, and transnational criminal organizations operating in Southeast Texas through a collaborative, whole-of-government approach. To accomplish this mission, the HSTF will conduct intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional investigations targeting drug trafficking, money laundering, weapons trafficking, human trafficking, alien smuggling, homicide, extortion, kidnapping, child exploitation, and other transnational crimes. The task force will work closely with state and local partners to identify, investigate, and eliminate violent criminal organizations and associates operating in communities throughout Southeast Texas.

    “As transnational criminal organizations, foreign terrorist organizations, drug cartels, foreign gangs and other bad actors continue to evolve and become more sophisticated, it’s vital that we work together as a law enforcement community to find transformative ways to confront emerging threats,” said HSI Houston Special Agent in Charge Chad Plantz. “This is especially true in Southeast Texas where we face a myriad of unique border-related challenges and threats from transnational criminal organizations. By establishing this permanently integrated multi-agency task force with dedicated personnel from federal, state and local law enforcement working side-by-side with a common mission, we will be better postured to detect and respond to any type of threat we might face.”

    “Foreign terror organizations who profit off violence, drugs, and human lives now face a united front unseen before in Houston,” said FBI Houston Special Agent in Charge Douglas Williams. “For the first time, law enforcement and intelligence agencies are focused on hunting down and eradicating transnational criminals within Houston communities. Federal, state, and local police will coordinate with the U.S. Intelligence Community and overseas partners to efficiently eliminate newly designated terrorists wreaking havoc in our neighborhoods.”

    The Homeland Security Task Force will be headquartered in Houston and have a satellite office in Corpus Christi. The heads of HSI Houston and FBI Houston will co-lead the task force with input from a regional executive committee comprised of leaders from participating agencies. Task force personnel will include law enforcement agents, intelligence analysts, and professional staff.

    Participating agencies will include the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigative Division, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Field Operations, Texas Department of Public Safety, Houston Police Department, Harris County Sheriff’s Office, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Director, U.S. Attorneys from the Southern and Eastern Districts of Texas, and other federal, state, and local partners.

    For more news and information on the Houston Homeland Security Task Force follow @FBIHouston and @HSIHouston on X.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Seizing the XRP bull run, GoldenMining launches XRP contracts, releasing $8,700 per day

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, England, July 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In July 2025, the price of Ripple (XRP) continued to recover, breaking through $3, and the market generally expects it to reach $10 by the end of the year. The crazy influx of OTC funds has made it one of the strongest performing and most watched assets in the current market.

    Most investors just hold ETH, BTC or XRP, hoping that the price will rise – while dealing with market volatility and uncertain regulation. But the real question is whether to continue holding, reduce positions, or find a better and more balanced strategy? GoldenMining provides another solution.

    At GoldenMining, users can turn assets into a continuous source of income by signing XRP cloud mining contracts. There is no need to configure any hardware, and there is no need to worry about price fluctuations during transactions. As long as you participate in the contract, you can get a stable daily income as the value of XRP rises.

    What is XRP Cloud Mining Contract

    XRP Cloud Mining Contract allows users to directly purchase cloud mining services with XRP, without having to purchase mining machines or deal with maintenance issues. After signing the contract, the GoldenMining platform will run the mining business on behalf of users, and users will automatically receive income on a daily basis. This means that you can easily participate and enjoy the benefits of mining without complicated operations or knowledge thresholds.

      XRP Investor Contract Recommendation

    contract Investment Amount Contract Rewards Total income
    New User Experience $15 $0.60 $15.60
    Elphapex DG1+ $100 $3 $106
    Bitmain S23 Hyd $650 $42.25 $692.25
    AntminerL917GH $1800   $287.28 $2087.28
    L916GH $4500  $1890 $6390
    ElphaPex DG Hydro1 $7800 $3276 $11076
    Elphapex DG2 $12,000 $8,100.00 $20,100.00

    XRP Cloud Mining Contract How to Participate

    1. Register an account and get a $15 reward immediately without paying any fees. This reward can be used to test run the XRP cloud mining contract to help users quickly understand the platform operation and profit model

    2. Choose a contract that suits you
    Users can recharge XRP to the platform account through the wallet. The system supports a variety of mainstream cryptocurrencies: Dogecoin (DOGE), Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), SOL, Ripple (XRP), US Dollar (USDC), etc. Afterwards, users can choose the XRP contract that suits their needs (such as 2 days, 5 days, 12 days or longer periods), and the amount and term can be flexibly selected.

    3. After the contract is activated, the system will automatically settle the mining income into the account every day, without manual operation by the user, and income can be generated within 24 hours，Can be withdrawn or reinvested at any time,

    4. All contracts are fully managed by GoldenMining’s professional operation team. No hardware setup, electricity bill management or technical maintenance is required. SSL encryption, AIG-backed investment insurance and fund custody through top financial institutions ensure safety.
    The data center deployed by the platform in the early stage can provide stable mining services even when the currency price fluctuates violently, is not affected by local electricity and network, and guarantees the contract income.

    About GoldenMining

    GoldenMining was founded in London, UK. After years of steady development, it has established a strong technical foundation and professional team. The platform always adheres to the concept of “user first”, serves global users, and is committed to providing investors with stable, safe and efficient crypto asset value-added solutions. Amid market fluctuations and changing policies, more and more investors realize that it is difficult to cope with the current market rhythm by just holding coins and waiting. The XRP cloud mining contract provided by GoldenMining provides users with a more stable way to participate-so that the assets in their hands not only have the potential for long-term growth, but also have the ability to bring substantial benefits every day.

    This is not only a change in investment methods, but also an advance response to the future market pattern. As the XRP market continues to heat up, it is better to choose to actively participate instead of waiting. For visionary investors, now is the critical moment to enter this contract mechanism and steadily accumulate profits.

    For more information, please visit the official website: www.Goldenmining.com

    For business cooperation, please contact the official email: For more information, please visit the official website: info@Goldenmining.com

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above. 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Verizon to report earnings July 21, 2025

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Verizon to report earnings July 21, 2025

    NEW YORK, N.Y. – Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) will report second-quarter 2025 earnings on Monday, July 21, 2025.

    The company will present results on a webcast beginning at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time. Second-quarter 2025 materials will be available at 7:00 a.m. ET on Verizon’s Investor Relations website, https://www.verizon.com/about/investors. These materials will include:

    • Detailed information on Verizon’s second quarter results;
    • Verizon’s earnings news release; and
    • Financial tables.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: UK gives CHF 850,000 to boost developing economies’ capacity to negotiate trade deals

    Source: World Trade Organization

    Over the past 10 years, the Global Trust Fund has covered on average 50 per cent of the costs allocated to trade-related training activities designed for government officials from developing economies. Services, agriculture and trade facilitation are among the broad range of areas covered.

    The UK Ambassador to the WTO, Simon Manley, said: “The UK is pleased to be working with the WTO’s Global Trust Fund to ensure that trade in services – and in particular the Trade in Services for Development initiative – helps developing countries harness the benefits of this sector for job creation and economic development. As the fastest-growing area of international trade, services offer a key pathway for these countries to better integrate into the multilateral trading system.”

    The Trade in Services for Development initiative is an Aid for Trade work programme developed jointly by the WTO and the World Bank to help developing economies and LDCs benefit more fully from the economic growth and development opportunities resulting from services trade.

    WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said: “We are grateful to the UK for generously supporting the WTO’s efforts to boost the trading and negotiating capacities of developing economies and LDCs. This support will help government officials translate the international market opportunities undergirded by WTO rules into concrete benefits for businesses and people in their home countries.”

    Overall, the UK has contributed over CHF 14 million (close to GBP 13 million) to the various WTO trust funds over more than 20 years.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: TAU Systems and Thales announce pioneering collaboration in laser-driven particle acceleration

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: TAU Systems and Thales announce pioneering collaboration in laser-driven particle acceleration

    Austin, TX – July 17, 2025 – TAU Systems, the developer of next-generation ultrafast laser-plasma accelerators, today announced the collaboration with solid-state laser producer Thales. The collaboration leverages Thales’ expertise in high peak power laser systems and TAU Systems’ innovation in laser-driven particle acceleration.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Angola: Authorities must respect and ensure the right to freedom of peaceful assembly

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Angolan authorities must respect and ensure the right of peaceful assembly and guarantee that nationwide protests planned for 19 and 26 July against high cost of living, are facilitated and protected, said Amnesty International.

    Police must refrain from violating the right to freedom of peaceful assembly, including through the use of unnecessary and excessive force against protestors as witnessed in past protests, including on 12 July, where some of the protesters were arbitrarily arrested and others injured following unlawful use of force by the police

    Vongai Chikwanda, Amnesty International’s Deputy Regional Director for Campaigns in East and Southern Africa.

    The organization has documented how members of the Rapid Intervention Police and the Service for Criminal Investigation repressed similar protests held in Luanda, on 12 July where at least two people were critically injured, and 17 others were arrested.

    “Police must refrain from violating the right to freedom of peaceful assembly, including through the use of unnecessary and excessive force against protestors as witnessed in past protests, including on 12 July, where some of the protesters were arbitrarily arrested and others injured following unlawful use of force by the police,” said Vongai Chikwanda, Amnesty International’s Deputy Regional Director for Campaigns in East and Southern Africa.

    “Angolan authorities must immediately open independent, thorough and impartial investigation into the allegations of human rights violations committed by members of the Angola Police and to bring the perpetrators to account in a fair trial”.

    “Authorities must refrain from harassing and intimidating those who exercise their right of peaceful assembly”.

    Background

    Members from civil society organizations, such as Movement Fúria 99, from the Union for Total Independence of Angola (UNITA) and from the Angola Students Movement called for a two-day protest on 12 and 19 July 2025, following high fuel and transportation costs. On 12 July, thousands of people joined the protest, which was planned to start at the São Paulo Square and to end at the Maianga Square, in front of the National Assembly, in Luanda. The protest was impeded by the Police.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Big milestone for the future of quantum computing. We are delivering the world’s first operational deployment of a Level 2 quantum computer, powered by our stack and in partnership with Atom Computing. Congrats to EIFO, Novo Nordisk Foundation and QuNorth.

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Big milestone for the future of quantum computing. We are delivering the world’s first operational deployment of a Level 2 quantum computer, powered by our stack and in partnership with Atom Computing. Congrats to EIFO, Novo Nordisk Foundation and QuNorth.

    Powerful things can happen when Nordic vision and global collaboration come together. Today, Denmark’s – and Europe’s – quantum ambitions take a bold step forward with the launch of QuNorth. In this new initiative, the EIFO and Novo Nordisk Foundation together invest €80 million to establish QuNorth. Its mission is to acquire, build and operate the world’s most powerful commercial quantum computer. This computer will be called Magne, inspired by a figure of strength in Norse mythology.  We are so proud that this computer will be delivered by Microsoft and Atom Computing and that Magne will be the first operational deployment anywhere in the world of a Level 2 machine powered by logical qubits. This is a milestone moment for the quantum industry as we step past the era of Level 1 NISQ machines and into a new era of increasingly powerful reliable quantum computation. I am also proud that our partnership with QuNorth reflects trust in Microsoft’s quantum expertise and exemplifies our deep roots and commitment to Denmark, the Nordic region, and Europe’s success. It mirrors our mission to help develop vibrant quantum ecosystems through technology-forward investments. Magne will provide quantum startups, academic and research institutions, and the private sector with the latest quantum capabilities, which promise to accelerate innovation and drive further economic growth. At Microsoft, we stand behind milestones like this that represent what we deeply value: advancing technology in ways that matter for our partners and that enable further innovation. QuNorth and Magne are clear examples of what can be achieved when the right people, institutions and ideas come together. I am excited to see QuNorth and Magne come to life over the coming months! #QuantumComputing #Innovation #Microsoft #MicrosoftQuantum #Magne

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: On House Floor, Pressley Assails CLARITY Act as Green Light for Corruption, Financial Abuse

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

    “This bill gives a green light to the self-enriching crypto schemes we’ve seen where officials at the highest levels of power, including in the White House, have generated hundreds of millions of dollars in personal profit.”

    “The American people deserve crypto legislation that is fair, transparent, and accountable—not a bill that opens the floodgates to conflicts of interest and weakens investor protections.”

    Video (YouTube)

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) delivered a floor speech in which she assailed the CLARITY Act, harmful legislation that lacks consumer protections and would legalize Donald Trump’s crypto corruption and brazen abuse of power. In her remarks, Rep. Pressley condemned the bill as a green light for self-enriching crypto schemes and urged Congress to instead pass crypto legislation that is fair, transparent, and accountable.

    A full transcript of her remarks is available below and the full video is available here.

    Transcript: On House Floor, Pressley Assails CLARITY Act as Green Light for Corruption, Financial Abuse
    House of Representatives
    July 17, 2025

    Thank you, Ranking Member Waters.

    Mr. Speaker, I rise in vigorous opposition to the CLARITY Act.

    This bill gives a green light to self-enriching crypto schemes where officials at the highest levels of power, including in the White House, have generated hundreds of billions of dollars in personal profit.

    We need legislation that stops financial abuse, not encourages it, especially during a time when the SEC has dropped enforcement actions against major crypto firms and undermined investor safety.

    Across our country, millions of working families are battling rising costs, our elders are targeted by financial scams, and investors are trying to recover from volatile markets, but Republicans are ignoring all of that to prioritize the crypto industry’s wish list.

    To be clear: the people deserve crypto legislation that is fair, transparent, and accountable—not a bill that opens the floodgates to conflicts of interest and weakens investor protections.

    The CLARITY Act fails that test.

    Republicans’ need some clarity alright, moral and legislative.

    I agree with Ranking Member Waters, this is really the CALAMITY Act and I urge my colleagues to oppose this bill.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Read More (Steube and Bynum Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Investigate Health Risks of Microplastics)

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

    July 17, 2025 | Press ReleasesWASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Greg Steube (R-Fla.) and Janelle Bynum (D-Ore.) today introduced bipartisan legislation requiring the FDA to begin studying the health impacts of microplastic exposure in food and water. This bill addresses growing concerns regarding the link between microplastics and serious health conditions affecting coastal communities in the United States.
    “For years, the federal government buried its head in the sand while microplastics infected our water and food supply,” said Rep. Steube. “Charlotte, Lee, and Sarasota Counties have all been flagged as high-risk areas for microplastic exposure, with alarming rates of chronic illness and disease. Yet the FDA still tells Americans not to worry. This is unacceptable. Americans deserve to know what they’re being exposed to, how it’s affecting their health, and what Washington plans to do about it.”
    “We can’t take a wait-and-see approach here – it’s time to be proactive. We’ve got to get a handle on how microplastics are getting in our food, beverages, and everyday items, and figure out how they’re affecting our health.” said Rep. Bynum. “I’m all about the data. That’s why I’m teaming up with Senator Merkley, Senator Scott, and Representative Steube to get the information we need to keep our constituents – and all Americans – safe and healthy.”
    This legislation has been introduced in the Senate by Senators Rick Scott (R-Fla) and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore): 
    “I’m deeply concerned about how microplastics may be impacting the health of Americans – particularly vulnerable groups like our youth. As chairman of the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging, I’m also especially focused on the long-term harm microplastics pose to aging Americans,” said Senator Rick Scott. “Microplastics have been found throughout the human body, including in the blood, liver, placenta, and even brain tissue, and have been linked to serious health conditions such as cancer, endocrine disruption, and chronic illness. The Microplastics Safety Act is a critical step toward understanding the full scope of these risks. As exposure continues to grow through food, water, air, and everyday products, this legislation will help ensure we’re guided by sound science to protect public health and our next generation.”“Most of us have been taught the three Rs: reduce, reuse, and recycle. Too often, the reality for plastics is really the three Bs—buried, burned, and borne out to sea—as dangerous chemicals are seeping into our soil, air, and water,” said Senator Merkley. “Microplastics threaten human health and our environment, and our bipartisan effort will ensure the federal government better understands the dangers they pose, ensuring a healthier planet and future for all Americans.”Background:The bill directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting through the FDA Commissioner, to study the effects of microplastic exposure on cancer, chronic illness, the endocrine system, reproductive health, and children’s health. It also requires a report to Congress within one year detailing the findings and policy recommendations.The federal government has never conducted a formal study on how microplastics in food and water affect human health. There is no government data, no health risk assessment, and no plan in place. This bill fills that gap.
    A recent American Heart Association study found significantly higher rates of diabetes, stroke, and heart disease in counties with very high marine microplastic levels. That list includes all three counties in Florida’s 17th District: Charlotte, Lee, and Sarasota. The MAHA report, issued by HHS Secretary Kennedy, also identified microplastics as an emerging concern, yet no federal agency has ever conducted a formal study on the issue. The FDA still claims there is no evidence that microplastics in food and water pose a threat to human health.
    Rep. Steube previously co-sponsored the bipartisan MICRO Plastics Act to monitor plastic pollution in waterways and has long championed clean water and coastal health in Congress.Read the full bill text here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Foreign Minister Lin meets with Paraguayan Foreign Minister Ramírez, cohosts reception celebrating 68th anniversary of diplomatic relations

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    July 13, 2025No. 239
    After arriving in Paraguay in the evening of July 10, Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung visited the Paraguayan Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the morning of the following day to meet with Minister of Foreign Affairs Rubén Ramírez Lezcano. The two reviewed progress made on key components of the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project, which is being implemented by the government of Taiwan under the policy framework of integrated diplomacy. Based on mutual trust and mutual benefit, Taiwan and Paraguay are jointly promoting exchanges in economics, trade, investment, infrastructure, smart medicine, technology, education, and smart transportation. Cooperation has brought prosperity to both countries and benefited the Taiwanese and Paraguayan people.
     
    Speaking at a joint press conference with Minister Ramírez after the meeting, Minister Lin said that Taiwan and Paraguay shared the core values of democracy, freedom, human rights, and the rule of law. He affirmed that the bilateral diplomatic relationship was rock-solid. Looking ahead, Minister Lin pledged that both countries would continue to work together to deepen interactions and collaboration in various fields and jointly enhance the well-being of their people. Minister Lin noted that this demonstrated Taiwan’s policy of values-based diplomacy was steadily developing into value-added diplomacy, showing the world that Taiwan-Paraguay ties were a model of successful cooperation.
     
    In the evening, Minister Lin and Minister Ramírez cohosted a reception celebrating the 68th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the Republic of Paraguay. The event was attended by over 250 guests, including Paraguayan Supreme Court President César Diesel, Chamber of Deputies Speaker Raúl Latorre Martínez, other deputies and senators, members of the diplomatic corps, and representatives of the overseas Taiwanese community. In his remarks, Minister Lin commended the fruitful outcomes of the long-term and close partnership between Taiwan and Paraguay. He said that recent benchmark initiatives such as the Taiwan-Paraguay Smart Technology Park, the Taiwan-Paraguay Polytechnic University, the Health Information Management Efficiency Enhancement Project, and an electric bus pilot program were steadily yielding results. Noting that Taiwan was a vital link in global supply chains, Minister Lin said that Taiwan was willing to use its advantages in ICT to further deepen cooperation with Paraguay on comprehensive technological development. Minister Lin added that Taiwan was ready to assist its fraternal ally Paraguay in achieving its national blueprint for development and transformation, jointly realizing the vision of sustainability and prosperity.
     
    In his address, Minister Ramírez thanked Taiwan for its long-term assistance in promoting the development of agriculture, livestock, public health, medicine, education, innovation, and infrastructure in Paraguay. He said that cooperation had targeted the sectors of society that were most in need, benefiting farming communities and young students. Praising the Taiwan-Paraguay Polytechnic University as a landmark bilateral cooperation project, Minister Ramírez said that more than 170 engineers had already been trained. He noted that the two countries were working together to construct campus buildings, representing their shared commitment to investing in knowledge and talent. Minister Ramírez added that Taiwan and Paraguay were jointly creating a future for the next generation by incorporating smart industries and global supply chain integration into their cooperation projects. 
     
    Paraguay is an important diplomatic ally of Taiwan. A mutual agreement on visa-free entry for ordinary passport holders between the two countries that will come into effect on July 25 is expected to further advance exchanges among the people of Taiwan and Paraguay and make investment by Taiwanese companies in Paraguay more convenient. The two nations will continue to deepen cooperation in all spheres and jointly inject new momentum into their democratic partnership.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: US Department of Labor launches online resource to increase employment opportunities for 5 million disabled veterans

    Source: US Department of Labor

    WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the launch of the Veterans Accommodations Toolkit, a resource aimed at increasing employment rates and participation in apprenticeship programs for disabled American veterans. 

    Released ahead of National Hire a Veteran Day and the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the toolkit supports the Trump Administration’s goals to combat the cost-of-living crisis and expand the number of Registered Apprenticeships to one million new active apprentices nationally.

    Developed by the department’s Veterans’ Employment and Training Service and the Office of Disability Employment Policy, the Veterans Accommodations Toolkit offers tips and strategies on ways to enhance workplace supports and accommodations designed to facilitate the recruitment, hiring, training, and retention of disabled American veterans in apprenticeship and other employment settings. The toolkit includes resources that not only help disabled veterans, but also benefit employers, apprenticeship sponsors, and workforce development specialists.

    “Our nation owes a debt of gratitude to the brave men and women who have sacrificed so much to secure our freedoms,” said Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer. “One of the most meaningful ways we can honor their service is by increasing employment opportunities for all veterans, including the disabled. By supporting our distinguished veterans through Registered Apprenticeships and other job opportunities, the Veterans Accommodations Toolkit will ensure they have every tool at their disposal to build valuable skills, earn a paycheck, and provide for themselves and their families.” 

    Currently, more than 5 million American veterans aged 18 or older have service-connected disabilities. Each year, roughly 200,000 service members – including approximately 22,000 who have some type of disability – transition to the private sector and many remain unemployed after transition. The employment rate for working-age veterans with disabilities is 43.5%, compared to 79.8% for nondisabled veterans. The toolkit aims to help close this employment gap and get skilled, capable Americans back into the workforce.

    Learn more about the Veterans Accommodations Toolkit.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement on Passage of the GENIUS Act by the House of Representatives

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    I would like to congratulate the House of Representatives on passing the GENIUS Act and commend the work both the House and Senate put into this important legislation. Advancement of this bill to President Trump’s desk marks a historic milestone for crypto entrepreneurs, financial market participants, and everyday Americans. I would like to thank Senate Banking Committee Chairman Tim Scott, House Financial Services Committee Chairman French Hill, Senator Cynthia Lummis, and my longtime friend Senator Bill Hagerty, who sponsored this legislation, for their leadership in advancing this much-needed legislation.

    Blockchain and crypto asset technologies have the potential to revolutionize America’s financial infrastructure and deliver new efficiencies, cost reductions, transparency, and risk mitigation for the benefit of all Americans. Innovators experimenting with these exciting technologies deserve clear rules of the road, which the GENIUS Act provides for payment stablecoins. Over the coming months and years, I look forward to watching the market leverage the regulatory framework provided by the GENIUS Act to go to market with payment stablecoins solutions that make transactions quicker, cheaper, and safer—all while maintaining robust risk safeguards.

    Financial innovation is critical for making the U.S. the best and most secure place in the world to invest and do business. This is an important step to spur innovation by providing the crypto industry with clear rules of the road. Today’s passage of the GENIUS Act sends a powerful message that this Administration is charting a new course. I look forward to continuing to work to make America—already the world’s leader in financial market innovation—the center of crypto asset innovation as well.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: 287,000 jobs and $55 billion in economic growth on the line with key climate program’s extension

    Source: US State of California 2

    Jul 17, 2025

    SACRAMENTO – As Governor Gavin Newsom and legislative leaders continue to work on extending the state’s preeminent climate program – Cap-and-Invest – new reports out this week highlight how critical the program is to the state’s economic future, and how uncertainty is costing the state billions. 

    According to a study released by the Environmental Defense Fund and Greenline Insights, extending Cap-and-Invest, also known as Cap-and-Trade, through 2045 is “expected to generate 287,000 jobs, $55 billion in economic growth, and $232 million in net savings for households.” Extending the program is estimated to “raise a minimum of $47 billion for California Climate Investments.” 

    That builds on the program’s $28 billion already invested in the last 10 years – which has wiped out emissions equivalent to taking 80% of the state’s gas cars off the road.

    This comes as another report released this week shows the need for extension this year. According to Clean and Prosperous California, the program has lost up to $3 billion in potential revenue in the past year due to poor auction results “caused by uncertainty over legislative extension.” 

    Clean and Prosperous California reports: “We expect California will continue losing between around $600 million and $1 billion in revenue from each quarterly auction until the California legislature reauthorizes the cap-and-trade program.” 

    As Governor Newsom, Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, and Senate Pro Tempore Mike McGuire said in April announcing efforts to extend the program this year: “Cap-and-trade is a huge success and, working together, we’ll demonstrate real climate leadership that will attract investment and innovation to deliver the technologies of tomorrow, right here in California.” 

    Press releases, Recent news

    Recent news

    Jul 16, 2025

    News What you need to know: With the Trump administration illegally terminating grant agreements funding California high-speed rail, Governor Newsom said the state is “putting all options on the table” to fight Trump’s action. SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom issued…

    Jul 16, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Jennifer Osborn, of Orangevale, has been appointed Director at the California Department of Industrial Relations. Osborn has been Chief Deputy Director at the California Department of…

    Jul 16, 2025

    News What you need to know: Governor Newsom visited local businesses in the Los Angeles area that have been impacted by the federal government’s indiscriminate immigration raids, called on Trump to end his deployment of soldiers, and shared new “know your rights”…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Valentina Matvienko, Dmitry Chernyshenko and Valery Falkov launched the 1st All-Russian Festival of Student Families

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The first All-Russian Festival of Student Families is taking place in Moscow on the site of the Bauman Moscow State Technical University on July 17 and 18.

    During the plenary session in the question-and-answer format, the Chairperson of the Federation Council Valentina Matviyenko, Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko, and the head of the Ministry of Education and Science Valery Falkov told students about support measures in the event of starting a family. The event was also attended by the Chairperson of the Federation Council Committee on Science, Education and Culture Lilia Gumerova and the Head of the Republic of Mordovia, Chairman of the State Council Commission on Family Artem Zdunov.

    Welcoming the festival participants, Valentina Matvienko noted that the number of student families in Russia increased by 17% in 2024, and thanked the Ministry of Education and Science for the work done.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko answered a question from a student family from Volgograd State University, Yakub and Victoria Ziba, about existing and planned measures of support from the state for young families.

    “The day before in Magnitogorsk, our head of state, talking to young guys at the plant, said: “There is no greater happiness in life than children. This is the meaning of life.” Therefore, do not delay this matter. As President Vladimir Putin said, the state will lend a shoulder. We will do everything in this direction. It is gratifying that the majority of Russians would like to have not one or two children, but three or more,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

    According to VTsIOM, the trend towards having many children is becoming increasingly stable.

    The Deputy Prime Minister thanked Valentina Matviyenko for the adoption by the Federation Council of laws to increase maternity benefits for female students and to establish the concept of a “student family.”

    He added that key tools for self-realization, including for student families, are included in the national project “Youth and Children”.

    Recently, participants of the youth forum “Territory of Meanings” in “Senezh” proposed to create a year-round center dedicated to family and social policy. In August, Rosmolodezh will announce a competition among the subjects of our country. The winning region will receive up to 150 million rubles for organizing programs in 2026 from the federal budget.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko noted that, on the initiative of Valentina Matvienko, a draft standard for family policy in universities was developed.

    “We will need to standardize family units in dormitories, providing for a separate kitchen, mother and child rooms. We have introduced this as a requirement for competitive selection in world-class campuses under construction,” the Deputy Prime Minister concluded.

    He also noted the importance of developing social volunteering and suggested paying special attention to the families of young scientists at the annual Congress of Young Scientists, which will take place this fall.

    Valery Falkov, in turn, said that in order to increase awareness of support measures, universities have launched a “single window” format for young families, mothers and fathers with children. 458 head universities and 264 branches have already implemented this format. In addition, work is underway together with the Ministry of Digital Development and Communications and the Analytical Center under the Government to create a navigator of support measures for student families on the State Services portal.

    “We have so many student families in many universities that the rector should know them all and treat each of them attentively. Along with the presence of a department, the ability to contact a “one-stop shop”, the presence of the corresponding service, we, of course, count on – and see in many universities – the active, proactive participation of rectors, so do not hesitate to communicate directly with the university management,” the head of the Ministry of Education and Science addressed the students.

    Concluding the meeting, Valentina Matvienko put forward the initiative to hold an All-Russian Forum of Student Families annually.

    In addition, Valentina Matvienko, Dmitry Chernyshenko and Valery Falkov got acquainted with the forum’s exposition dedicated to supporting student families. Today, there are more than 25.7 thousand families in Russian universities, of which about 13 thousand families have children.

    Since the beginning of the 2024/2025 academic year, the job description of vice-rectors for youth policy and educational work has officially included the function of supporting young families. This practice is already used in more than 450 universities.

    The exhibition presented a model of a short-term stay group for children (at the beginning of 2024, there were 40 such rooms in universities, their number has already grown to 207, by 2030, 1 thousand rooms will be opened) and a family room in a dormitory (it is planned to be used as a conditional standard for universities). At the moment, 348 universities provide rooms in dormitories for student families.

    Also, the rectors of five Russian universities (Tambov State University, National Research University Higher School of Economics, Buryat State University, State University of Management and Kabardino-Balkarian State University) presented best practices for working with student families.

    The 1st All-Russian Festival of Student Families is held within the framework of the national project “Family”, among its main goals is the popularization of family values, the institution of family and marriage among student youth.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: Russia is rightfully proud of its mentoring system.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    On July 17, the All-Russian competition “Mentoring” was launched – one of the key projects of the Ministry of Education in the field of mentoring.

    The competition was launched as part of the All-Russian seminar-conference “Mentoring: Traditions, Experience, Cooperation”, which is taking place in Kaluga at the Federal Technopark of Professional Education on July 17-18. The seminar participants will present effective mentoring practices, join the work of pedagogical workshops, round tables and educational events.

    “As our President Vladimir Putin said, issues of training and mentoring are always an appeal to the future. Russia is rightfully proud of its mentoring system, which unites experienced masters and young specialists. It is mentors who tell young people how to become real professionals, support them and help them to reveal their potential, develop and strive for new heights. Continuity of generations is the key to the technological sovereignty of the country,” said Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    Minister of Education Sergey Kravtsov noted that through mentoring it is possible not only to preserve professional knowledge, but also to increase it, creating a strong connection between the past and the future.

    “The Mentoring competition is of great importance for strengthening the system of training qualified personnel in Russia. Mentoring is a bridge between experience and innovation, between traditions and advanced solutions. It is through the transfer of knowledge, skills and values that we form specialists capable of ensuring the technological leadership of our country. Behind every great achievement there is a mentor who inspired, supported and guided,” the head of the Ministry of Education emphasized.

    Contest will be held in online format in the following nominations:

    — “Mentoring in production”: mentoring practices aimed at the professional development and socialization of the mentee/mentees, adaptation in the work collective;

    — “Mentoring in the field of education, upbringing and youth policy”: mentoring practices of educational organizations (regardless of the level of education, form of ownership and departmental affiliation);

    — “Mentoring in the social sphere and public activities”: mentoring practices in the sphere of healthcare, culture, sports, social protection, including practices aimed at accompanying and supporting mentees who are in a difficult life situation and (or) a socially dangerous situation, in various spheres of life, as well as mentoring practices as a voluntary type of activity of socially active people;

    — “Mentoring in service”: mentoring practices in the system of executive bodies of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation, local government bodies of municipal districts, municipal districts or urban districts, aimed at organizing the activities of mentored employees (employees) or students mastering professions of the state civil or municipal service.

    “The All-Russian Mentoring Competition covers various areas of mentoring practice application – these are educational and social spheres, public activities, civil service and production. This is a bright and promising project, which last year brought together more than 20 thousand participants. I am sure that this year their number will grow and relevant and promising solutions will be presented to the competition. And the best of them will find their application not only in the SPO system, but also beyond it,” commented the rector of the Institute for the Development of Professional Education Sergey Kozhevnikov.

    The organizer of the competition is the Ministry of Education, the operator is the Institute for the Development of Professional Education. The partners of the competition are the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, the Federal Agency for Youth Affairs, the autonomous non-profit organization Russia is a Country of Opportunities, the autonomous non-profit organization Mashuk Knowledge Center, the Association of Volunteer Centers, Non-Commercial Organizations and Institutes of Public Development Dobro.RF, the All-Russian public and state movement of children and youth Movement of the First, the All-Russian public and state educational organization Russian Society Knowledge, the youth all-Russian public organization Russian Student Teams, the All-Russian public organization of small and medium entrepreneurship Opora Rossii.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sergey Nazarov assessed the progress of investment projects in the Chechen Republic

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Ministry of Economic Development (Russia) – Ministry of Economic Development (Russia) –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    On July 16, 2025, Deputy Minister of Economic Development of the Russian Federation Sergei Nazarov visited the Chechen Republic on a working visit.

    The program of the visit included a working meeting with the Chairman of the Government of the Chechen Republic Magomed Daudov. The issues of development of the special economic zone of industrial and production type “Grozny”, the course of implementation of the federal and republican investment programs, as well as the development of the all-season tourism and recreation project “Veduchi” were discussed. Special attention was paid to the provision of energy infrastructure for the current residents of the SEZ “Grozny”, as well as strengthening control over the implementation of the objects of the VTRK “Veduchi”.

    “We see the interest of investors, the activity of residents and the significant economic potential of the region. The task is to ensure the full readiness of the infrastructure and precise synchronization of actions at all levels,” noted Sergey Nazarov.

    During the visit, the Deputy Minister also got acquainted with the implementation of the Veduchi VTRK. The participants inspected the engineering and ski infrastructure facilities, including cable cars, trails, pumping stations and an artificial snowmaking system. The site was also attended by the General Director of Kavkaz. RF Andrey Yumshanov, representatives of the Government of the Chechen Republic, employees of contracting organizations and the General Director of the management company OOO CHUS Sulimbek Tsentroyev, who reported on the current stage of work.

    Active construction of all planned facilities is underway. In particular, the construction readiness of the VL1 cable car, the largest facility in the complex, has reached 66%. Its commissioning is expected in 2026. And this year, work is planned to be completed on a number of key facilities, including cable cars, ski slopes and an artificial snowmaking system.

    “Veduchi is one of the most promising tourism projects in the North Caucasus. It has already received serious support and will continue to develop within the framework of the SEZ mechanism. There is a team here that knows what it is doing. It is important for us to maintain the pace and ensure the smooth implementation of all stages,” the deputy minister emphasized.

    Following the visit, proposals were made to federal and regional authorities for further support of the Grozny SEZ and Veduchi VTRK facilities. They will cover priorities in upgrading infrastructure, updating design documentation and financing mechanisms in order to ensure sustainable implementation of strategically important projects.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –