Source: Reserve Bank of India
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Category: KB
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MIL-OSI Economics: Money Market Operations as on January 30, 2025
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MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Electronics Announces Fourth Quarter and FY 2024 Results
Source: Samsung
Samsung Electronics today reported financial results for the fourth quarter and the fiscal year 2024.
The Company posted KRW 75.8 trillion in consolidated revenue and KRW 6.5 trillion in operating profit in the quarter ended December 31, 2024. For the full year, it reported KRW 300.9 trillion in annual revenue and KRW 32.7 trillion in operating profit.
Although fourth quarter revenue and operating profit decreased on a quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) basis, annual revenue reached the second-highest on record, surpassed only in 2022. Meanwhile, operating profit was down KRW 2.7 trillion QoQ, due to soft market conditions especially for IT products, and an increase in expenditures including R&D.
In the first quarter of 2025, while overall earnings improvement may be limited due to weakness in the semiconductors business, the Company aims to pursue growth through increased sales of smartphones with differentiated AI experiences, as well as premium products in the Device eXperience (DX) Division.
For 2025 as a whole, the Company plans to enhance technological and product advantages in AI, continue to meet future demand for high-value-added products and drive sales growth in premium segments.
With market conditions expected to remain soft in 1H for the Device Solutions (DS) Division, the Company will focus on securing technology leadership for mid- to long-term growth. Samsung Display Corporation (SDC) will look to strengthen its leading position in high-end products by enhancing product competitiveness, and the DX Division will focus on extending its leadership in delivering AI experiences across a diverse product portfolio.
The Company’s capital expenditures in 2024 reached a total of KRW 53.6 trillion, including KRW 46.3 trillion spent in the DS Division and KRW 4.8 trillion in SDC. In the fourth quarter, the total was KRW 17.8 trillion, with KRW 16 trillion allocated to the DS Division and KRW 1 trillion to SDC.
Semiconductors To Optimize Portfolio Centered on Advanced Nodes
The DS Division posted KRW 30.1 trillion in consolidated revenue and KRW 2.9 trillion in operating profit in the fourth quarter of 2024.
The Memory Business achieved record-high fourth-quarter revenue, backed by a higher blended DRAM average selling price (ASP) due to the increased sales of high-bandwidth memory (HBM) and high-density DDR5 for servers. However, operating profit decreased slightly compared to the previous quarter as a result of increased R&D expenses to secure future technology leadership, as well as the initial ramp-up costs to secure production capacity for cutting-edge nodes.
In the first quarter of 2025, amid ongoing uncertainties in demand, the Memory Business will shift its business portfolio to more high-value-added products by accelerating the migration to cutting-edge nodes to respond to the demand for high-performance and high-density products.
For DRAM, the Memory Business seeks to increase the share of DDR5 and LPPDR5x shipments by accelerating the transition to the 1b nanometer (nm) process. As for NAND, the Business is executing the technology migration from V6 to V8 while increasing sales of V7 QLC-based server SSDs.
In 2025, overall memory market demand is expected to recover from the second quarter. The Memory Business is reducing the portion of legacy DRAM and NAND products to align with market demand and accelerating the migration to cutting-edge nodes. The Business will continue to strengthen its business competitiveness and optimize its portfolio by increasing the portion of high value-added products such as HBM, DDR5, LPDDR5x, GDDR7 and server SSDs based on advanced process nodes.
Earnings at the System LSI Business declined in the quarter due to weak mobile demand and higher R&D expenses to advance cutting-edge product development.
In the first quarter of 2025, earnings are expected to remain weak due to delayed entry into the flagship system-on-a-chip (SoC) market. However, demand for core products such as image sensors and DDI is expected to increase on the back of flagship smartphone launches.
In 2025, the System LSI Business will focus on further enhancing its flagship SoC through product optimization. For image sensors, the Business will proactively respond to high-resolution needs — such as for 200-megapixel (MP) telephoto and main cameras.
The overall profit for the Foundry Business decreased due to lower utilization rates and higher R&D expenses for advanced-node technology. Its 2nm GAA technology is under active development, with the design-kit (DK) already distributed to customers for product design, while the 4nm process is mass producing HPC products based on stable yields.
Looking ahead to the first quarter of 2025, earnings are expected to remain weak due to sluggish mobile demand and fixed-cost burden stemming from lower utilization rates. In this environment, the Foundry Business will concentrate on advancing leading-edge process development and enhancing process maturity to expand opportunities in AI and HPC applications and customer engagement for advanced nodes.
As for 2025, the Business will continue to secure orders from major customers by ramping up and stabilizing the 2nm GAA technology, while simultaneously bolstering the 4nm technology and design infrastructure to meet the growing mobile and HPC needs.
Display To Strengthen Product Competitiveness in 2025
SDC posted KRW 8.1 trillion in consolidated revenue and KRW 0.9 trillion in operating profit for the fourth quarter.
SDC reported declining profits QoQ due to sluggish smartphone demand and rising competition for the mobile display business, and achieved double-digit revenue growth QoQ for the large display business, with an increase in year-end TV sales.
In the first quarter of 2025, the earnings outlook for the mobile display business is conservative, as the overall smartphone market demand is expected to remain weak. For the large display business, TVs with enhanced image quality are scheduled to launch, as well as high-resolution monitors.
In 2025, SDC aims to sustain its leadership in the high-end segment by strengthening product competitiveness. For the large display business, SDC will increase sales of diversified high-performance TVs and monitors.
MX To Drive Flagship-Centric Sales, Reinforce Leadership in Mobile AI
The Mobile eXperience (MX) and Networks businesses posted KRW 25.8 trillion in consolidated revenue and KRW 2.1 trillion in operating profit for the fourth quarter.
The MX Business reported a QoQ decrease in sales and profit, in part due to the fading effects of new flagship model launches. However, on a full-year basis, flagship sales saw robust growth on the back of double-digit growth of the Galaxy S24 series featuring Galaxy AI, with tablets and wearables also increasing in both value and shipments.
In the first quarter of 2025, the MX Business plans to drive sales growth based on its flagship models, particularly the newly launched Galaxy S25 series, and will continue to lead the AI smartphone market through promotion of new AI experiences and product competitiveness.
In 2025, the MX Business will reinforce its mobile AI leadership by providing more personalized, differentiated AI experiences while also strengthening the foldable lineup to generate new customer demand. Additionally, the Business plans to expand sales by providing advanced AI features and rich Galaxy ecosystem experiences for premium tablets, notebooks, wearables and the upcoming XR device.
While prices of major components are expected to increase this year due to advancements in hardware specifications, the MX Business aims to improve profitability by continuing to build out Galaxy AI and expand sales centered on flagship products.
In the fourth quarter, the Networks Business reported significant improvements in revenue and operating profit in key markets. For 2025, performance is set to improve as the Business expects to win new orders and as major operators expand their network and increase adoption of virtualized and open radio access networks (vRAN/ORAN).
Vision AI Expected To Drive Growth for Visual Display
The Visual Display (VD) and Digital Appliances (DA) Businesses posted KRW 14.4 trillion in consolidated revenue and KRW 0.2 trillion in operating profit in the fourth quarter.
The VD Business saw revenue increase in the fourth quarter due to expanded sales and an improved sales mix through peak-season promotion, yet profitability decreased slightly as a result of increased cost from intensified competition amid largely stagnant TV demand.
In the first quarter of 2025, while overall TV demand is expected to decrease YoY due to growing domestic and global economic uncertainties, demand for high-value-added products is projected to remain solid. The Business will try to improve profitability and expand strategic product sales through new model launches based on the Vision AI strategy for Samsung’s AI screens.
In 2025, the overall TV market is expected to grow slightly in major emerging markets. The VD Business plans to lead the AI screen market under Samsung’s “Home AI” vision, integrating AI into all connected device experiences based on the SmartThings platform and expand the adoption of Samsung Knox security solutions. -
MIL-Evening Report: Planes have high-tech systems to stop midair crashes. So what went wrong in Washington?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Chrystal Zhang, Associate Professor, Aerospace Engineering & Aviation, RMIT University
On Wednesday night US time, a passenger jet and US Army helicopter collided at a low altitude near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, and crashed into the the Potomac River.
A total of 60 passengers – including US and Russian champion figure skaters – and four crew were on board the American Airlines flight AA5342 from Wichita, Kansas. Three military personnel were in the chopper, which was conducting a routine training flight. Authorities say no one on board either aircraft survived.
This crash comes just over a month after a passenger jet crashed in South Korea – possibly as a result of a bird strike – killing all but two of the 181 people on board. The two incidents have focused attention on aviation safety around the world.
In the case of the most recent tragedy in the US, technology exists that is designed to help pilots avoid midair collisions with other aircraft. It is known as the Traffic Collision Avoidance System – or TCAS.
So how does it work? And why might it have failed to prevent disaster in this case?
What is a TCAS?
A TCAS is an aircraft safety system that monitors the airspace around a plane for other aircraft equipped with transponders. These are devices that listen for and respond to incoming electronic signals.
The system – also sometimes referred to as an ACAS (Airborne Collision Avoidance System) – operates independently of an external air traffic control system. Its purpose is to alert pilots immediately to nearby aircraft and potential midair collisions.
Since the technology was developed in 1974, it has undergone a number of advances.
The first generation technology, known as TCAS I, monitors what’s around an aircraft. It provides information on the bearing and altitude of any nearby aircraft. If there is a risk of collision, it generates what’s known as a “Traffic Advisory” – or TA. When a TA is issued, the pilot is notified of the threat, but must themselves determine the best evasive action to take.
The second generation technology, known as TCAS II, goes a step further: it provides a pilot with specific instructions on how to avoid a collision with a nearby aircraft or conflict with traffic, either by descending, climbing, turning or adjusting their speed.
These newer systems are also able to communicate with each other. This ensures the advice given to each aircraft is coordinated.
Any aircraft used for commercial purposes must be equipped with a TCAS in accordance with international regulations under what’s known as the Chicago Convention. There are specific provisions under the convention for noncommercial aircraft.
Military helicopters are not subject to the provisions of the Chicago Convention (although they are subject to domestic laws and regulations). And there are reports the military helicopter did not have a TCAS system on board.
Limitations of TCAS at low altitudes
Regardless of whether the military helicopter involved in the crash was fitted with a TCAS, the technology still has limitations. In particular, it is inhibited at altitudes below roughly 300 metres.
The last recorded altitude of American Airlines flight AA5342 was roughly 90 metres. The last recorded altitude of the US military helicopter that collided with the plane was roughly 60 metres.
It is not an accident that a TCAS is inhibited at low altitudes. In fact, this is part of the design of the technology.
This is primarily because the system relies on radio altimeter data, which measures altitude and becomes less accurate near the ground. This could potentially result in unreliable collision-avoidance instructions.
Another issue is that an aircraft at such a low altitude cannot descend any further to avoid a collision.
The site of several near misses
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is one of the busiest airports in the United States. Commercial, military and private aircraft share very limited airspace and corridors.
It has been the site of several near misses in recent years.
For example, in April 2024, a commercial plane pilot coming into land had to take evasive action to avoid a helicopter that was roughly 100 metres beneath it. In an incident report, the pilot said:
We never received a warning of the traffic from (air traffic control) so we were unaware it was there.
Many people, including Democratic US senator Tim Kaine, pointed to this near miss as evidence of why a plan to allow more flights into Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport should not proceed. Despite this, the plan was approved the following month.
All of this will undoubtedly be examined as part of the investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board into this disaster.
Chrystal Zhang does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
– ref. Planes have high-tech systems to stop midair crashes. So what went wrong in Washington? – https://theconversation.com/planes-have-high-tech-systems-to-stop-midair-crashes-so-what-went-wrong-in-washington-248744
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MIL-OSI Australia: Prepare now ahead of heightened bushfire conditions
Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority
Temperatures are set to soar into the high 30s and low 40s across Victoria with the chance of dry thunderstorms and lightning in the western and central districts.
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan is urging all Victorians to ensure they are prepared as the fire season will continue for several more weeks.
“With multiple significant fires already burning in the Grampians and Little Desert, this stretch of hot and dry weather could make conditions even more challenging for firefighters.
“We need all Victorians, particularly those in high-risk areas, to act now. Don’t wait until it’s too late,” he said.
“Review your bushfire survival plan, discuss it with your family, and ensure everyone knows what to do if a fire threatens your area.”
For Halls Gap resident Trish Ravenhall, the importance of being prepared became clear when the recent Grampians fire reached her community.
Earlier this month, as smoke intensified in the area, Trish and her family made the decision to evacuate.
“Even though we were quietly confident we could have stayed to defend the house, we knew if something went wrong, we may not get assistance, and we would not be able to leave as there is only one road out of our street,” Trish said.
“In hindsight, we should have been more prepared before we got the evacuation message, with an emergency kit ready to go.”
With little time to think, she and her family grabbed what they could and left, later realising they had forgotten several essential items.
Trish and her family have now refined their bushfire survival plan, creating a detailed checklist to ensure nothing is forgotten in an emergency.
“People need to have a bushfire plan and an evacuation kit ready with medications, phone chargers, food for pets, and anything else you’ll need,” she said.
“Do it not just for yourself but for your family, your neighbours, and the emergency services who are there to protect us. They should be focused on fighting the fire, not wondering where people are and if they’re safe.”
With heatwave conditions approaching, CFA is urging residents to:
- Finalise your bushfire survival plan. Discuss with family members what you will do and when you will leave.
- Pack an emergency kit with medications, important documents, pet supplies, and essentials.
- Stay informed via VicEmergency alerts and warnings. Conditions can change rapidly.
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MIL-OSI New Zealand: The Privacy Amendment Bill is coming soon – here’s what you need to know
Source: Privacy Commissioner
The Privacy Amendment Bill is making its way through Parliament, and we know organisations are starting to think about how this will impact them. Weve put together key information on the Bill, which well update as it progresses. Guidance
One of the important changes in the Bill is adding Information Privacy Principle (IPP)3A. Well be developing guidance for organisations on the requirements of IPP3A, as well as reviewing OPCs Codes of Practice to determine whether any amendments are required. In the meantime digital. govt. nz has an overview of IPP3A planning for indirect notification requirements. When is this happening?
The Minister of Justice has indicated that the commencement date will be six months after the Act passes. Were aiming to have the guidance developed and published on our website to allow organisations plenty of time to implement the requirements of the new Act. -
MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven: Doug Burgum Receives Broad Bipartisan Support in U.S. Senate, Confirmed as Interior Secretary
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
01.30.25
Senator Worked to Shepherd Burgum’s Nomination through Senate, Made Case to Colleagues to Ensure Bipartisan Vote for Confirmation
WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement after the U.S. Senate voted to confirm Doug Burgum as Secretary of the Interior with a bipartisan vote of 79 to 18. As a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Hoeven has been working to shepherd Burgum’s nomination through the Senate and swiftly secure his confirmation. The senator repeatedly made the case to his colleagues, stressing Burgum’s experience with issues surrounding public lands and his broad support from Native American tribes.
“With the right kind of policies and a focus on innovation, our nation can be energy dominant, supporting a more secure nation, a stronger economy and more affordable living for the American people,” said Hoeven. “Doug Burgum clearly understands the potential of our abundant, taxpayer-owned energy resources and will treat them as the strategic asset they are, including our oil, gas and coal reserves. Coupled with his strong relationship with Native American tribes and his support for maintaining access to public lands for multiple use, he is the right person for the job. That’s the case I worked to make to my colleagues, and I appreciate their support in promptly confirming Doug as our nation’s 55th Secretary of the Interior. I look forward to continuing our work together as he enters this new role.”
Hoeven will now work with Burgum in his role as Interior Secretary and head of the National Energy Dominance Council to rescind the harmful Green New Deal policies imposed by the Biden-Harris administration. Hoeven’s priorities include:
Pushing back on overreaching and restrictive federal rules, like those imposed by President Biden through the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), which would fall under Burgum’s authority as Interior Secretary. These include:
The Public Lands Rule, which would overhaul the management of more than 245 million acres of taxpayer-owned lands and establish “conservation leases” to lock away federal lands.
The Resource Management Plan (RMP) for North Dakota, which closes off leasing to vast areas of potential federal oil and gas acreage and a majority of federal coal acreage in the state.Advancing his BLM Mineral Spacing Act, which would remove duplicative BLM permitting regulations and better respect the rights of private mineral holders.
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MIL-OSI Australia: Accelerating community electrification across Australia
Source: Australian Renewable Energy Agency
In 2024, the Minister for Climate Change and Energy requested ARENA to consider expanding funding to support more community electrification demonstration projects across Australia.
The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) continues to be committed to supporting innovative electrification projects that will help accelerate the transition to electrification and emissions reduction. Since 2018, ARENA has invested $144.5 million into 49 projects that achieve this purpose.
Community electrification holds the promise of unlocking renewable energy demand across the residential sector, reducing bills and giving households a stake in the clean energy transition.
ARENA’s announcement on 4 May 2024 of $6.2 million for SA Power Networks’ “Energy Masters Project” alongside the 15 October 2024 announcement of $5.4 million in support for the “Electrify 2515” Project in North Wollongong are early and leading examples of community electrification demonstration projects of this type.
Under the Flexible Demand focus area, ARENA looks to support high merit, innovative projects that enable flexible demand for residents. Projects that overcome barriers and deliver the required infrastructure to orchestrate and integrate consumer energy resources to maximise the value of those resources.
As part of any process associated with this focus area, ARENA is engaging with industry and other key stakeholders to understand the opportunities that are available, and which are consistent with our strategic priorities and funding model.
We are also committed to ensuring that any projects that receive funding from ARENA deliver new insights and knowledge that can be shared across industry and meets our independent assessment and board approval process.
ARENA applies a rigorous probity and merit-based approach, which gives government and all stakeholders confidence in the quality of projects we fund.
ARENA has found over time that successful projects have strong project proponents who can manage technical, regulatory and delivery risk and can access finance to share the project’s costs.
More information about the types of projects ARENA funds and how to apply for funding can be found on the ARENA website.
Questions and funding enquiries related to community electrification can be directed to proposals@arena.gov.au.
ARENA media contact:
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MIL-OSI Australia: Construction begins on new Port Stephens refuge for women and children escaping domestic violence
Source: New South Wales Government 2
Headline: Construction begins on new Port Stephens refuge for women and children escaping domestic violence
The NSW Government is building a safer New South Wales for regional women and children with construction now beginning on a new safe haven in Port Stephens.
Built under the Core and Cluster program, $7.2 million is being invested in a new six-unit refuge in Port Stephens being developed by Hume Community Housing.
The Core and Cluster refuge model promotes independent living by providing self-contained accommodation located next to a ‘core’ of support that facilitates access to services such as counselling, legal assistance, education, and employment support.
Hume Community Housing is a Tier 1 Community Housing Provider with more than 30 years’ experience, providing social and affordable housing and specialist disability accommodation.
Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services (PSFaNS) has been nominated as the future service provider to deliver tailored support services to victim-survivors at the completed refuge, helping them rebuild their lives and heal from trauma.
The NSW Government has invested $426.6 million over four years to provide new crisis accommodation across NSW for victim-survivors of domestic and family violence as part of the Core and Cluster program.
Once all 49 new Core and Cluster refuges are completed, and the replacement of eight existing government-owned women’s refuge buildings are refurbished, they will support more than an additional 2,900 women and children escaping domestic and family violence each year.
The Minns Labor Government is addressing domestic and family violence at all stages, by investing in primary prevention, early intervention, crisis responses and recovery. Making sure women and children have a safe place to go when they escape abuse is crucial to their recovery and helping them rebuild their lives.
Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said:
“For women and children escaping abusive and violent homes, having a safe haven is vital to begin recovering, healing and rebuilding their lives.
“The NSW Government is continuing the roll out of Core and Cluster refuges for domestic violence victim-survivors across the state, with a total of 49 new refuges set to be up and running by 2026.
“We’re proud to partner with local service providers to ensure that Core and Cluster residents receive tailored support so they can regain their confidence, recover and thrive.”
Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington said:
“Domestic and family violence has a devastating impact on the lives of people in Port Stephens and across the state. It must stop.
“This new Core and Cluster refuge will be life-changing for local women and children, giving them a safe and secure place to begin rebuilding their lives after trauma.
“For too long, women and children in our community have had to leave behind their jobs, schools, and support networks to find safety. This refuge means they will now have access to the crisis accommodation and support they need, right here in Port Stephens.”
Brad Braithwaite, CEO of Hume Housing said:
“Hume Community Housing is proud to be partnering with the Department of Communities and Justice and Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services to deliver this Core and Cluster refuge.
“Breaking ground today is just the beginning as we look towards providing a safe place for women and children fleeing domestic and family violence.
“This is central to Hume’s purpose: to create homes and opportunities for people to heal, rebuild and prosper in vibrant and connected communities.”
Sue Pollock, Manager Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services said:
“Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services has been providing services to our community for over 35 years.
“For most of those years women in our community have been advocating for a refuge to be available for women and children living with domestic and family violence.
“Women in Karuah Aboriginal Community have been working for nearly two years now to make sure that the refuge will be a place of comfort and safety, a place where women and children can breathe and be nurtured by the surroundings. They have been meeting each week designing and sewing the soft furnishings and mapping out the outdoor and living areas. We are grateful for such generosity of spirit.
“With the hard work and commitment from women in this community, with Hume Community Housing and funding from Department of Communities and Justice, women and children can now know that a place of safety and respite will exist in their community. A place where they can stay close to their supports, their schools, their jobs. Everyone deserves to feel safe and supported and live a life free from violence.”
Support:
If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, call the Police on Triple Zero / 000.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, call the NSW Domestic Violence Line on 1800 65 64 63 for free counselling and referrals, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
For confidential advice, support, and referrals, contact 1800 RESPECT or 13 YARN.
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MIL-OSI USA: HOCHUL, SCHUMER ANNOUNCE FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND CHILDREN’S SPECIALTY HOSPITAL IN NEW YORK STATE FOR CHILDREN WITH COMPLEX DISABILITIES NOW OPEN UNDER THE CENTER FOR DISCOVERY
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer
Hospital’s Innovative Care Model Will Provide Comprehensive Medical Care for Children, Providing Relief to Families and Leading to Better Health Outcomes
Governor Kathy Hochul and Senator Charles Schumer today announced the opening of The Center for Discovery’s Children’s Specialty Hospital in Rock Hill, New York. This innovative facility is dedicated to supporting children and adolescents with complex disabilities, including autism, through specialized short-term inpatient care. Developed by The Center for Discovery’s multidisciplinary team over the past decade in close partnership with the NYS Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), it introduces a new care model focused on proactive treatments to reduce long-term residential placements.
“New York State is devoted to improving health outcomes for all children, particularly those with developmental disabilities whose families face challenges in accessing suitable medical care for their child’s needs,” Governor Hochul said. “By bolstering this continuum of care through The Center for Discovery’s Children’s Specialty Hospital, families will spend less time apart and remain connected to their communities following treatment.”
Senator Charles Schumer said, “The Center for Discovery’s Children’s Specialty Hospital will provide critical life enhancing care to children and teens and be a beacon of hope in Sullivan County for generations to come. The impacts of the discoveries and systems of care made at this facility will stretch far beyond the Hudson Valley to help thousands of kids across America and the world. I was proud to deliver the historic federal investment to jumpstart this new first-of-its-kind hospital paving the way for a healthier future for vulnerable young patients and brighter future for the Hudson Valley, and I deeply appreciate the partnership of Governor Hochul and New York State legislative leaders in making this facility a reality. The Center for Discovery is a pillar of the Sullivan County economy, and this new hospital will create 400+ jobs while expanding the world class care provided here at the Center. Governor Hochul has been a tremendous partner and thanks to our team effort the dream for this facility that started so many years ago is finally a reality.”
Funding for the Children’s Specialty Hospital project was made possible through a $48 million low-interest loan from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Office of Rural Development’s Community Facilities Program, that Senator Schumer a longtime TCFD advocate helped secure, as well as a $4 million investment from New York State’s Empire State Development. The project also received critical support from the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), the New York State Department of Health (DOH), and the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY).
Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State has made significant strides with this innovative initiative, positioning itself as a national leader in preventive and holistic care for people with developmental disabilities. The launch of this facility reflects Governor Hochul’s dedication to improving the lives of families across New York.
The Specialty Hospital is designed for children ages five to 21 who meet OPWDD’s eligibility criteria and require medical care, in addition to supporting their developmental disabilities. The Children’s Specialty Hospital will provide inpatient treatment and conduct comprehensive medical, behavioral, and clinical assessments over a maximum of six months. Through a collaborative approach, this program is designed to help children and adolescents thrive at home, in school, and remain integrated in the community.
New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities Acting Commissioner Willow Baer said, “Achieving health equity for people with developmental disabilities is a priority for the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities and ensuring access to complete medical care for children, in an appropriate setting, is a part of that goal. We’re so excited for The Center for Discovery’s new Children’s Specialty Hospital to begin to help New York families and are grateful to our state and federal partners for making this vital resource possible for children and teenagers with complex medical conditions.”
Designed with both medical and therapeutic needs in mind, the new facility where the Children’s Specialty Hospital is located includes classrooms, a health clinic, sensory rooms, a therapeutic gym for physical and occupational therapies, a café, and a training kitchen. The 15-acre campus also offers outdoor walking trails, healing gardens, and a Food is Medicine® greenhouse, all supporting TCFD’s holistic approach to care.
After completing short-term treatment at the Hospital, patients will return home with a specialized care plan that includes training for families, caregivers, and school districts. TCFD’s team of experts will continue to support families as they build on the progress made during their child’s stay.
The Center for Discovery President & CEO Dr. Terry Hamlin said, “The Center for Discovery is deeply committed to supporting children and adolescents in innovative and expanded ways. With the launch of our new Children’s Specialty Hospital, we are thrilled to extend our reach and impact, providing a lifeline to families in search of answers. The children admitted to our hospital face extraordinary challenges. They live with co-occurring medical conditions that make their developmental disabilities profoundly complex to treat. Many of these medical issues are accompanied by pain, which often leads to maladaptive behaviors that further impact their quality of life. Families have long needed a place where their children’s complex needs are understood, and where there is integrated and coordinated care in one place. At The Center for Discovery, we are dedicated to addressing these medical complexities head-on, treating the root causes, and improving outcomes in ways that transform lives.”
The Children’s Specialty Hospital is poised to establish a new benchmark for specialized care and is projected to make a significant impact both nationally and internationally. This new facility will enhance the range of services available throughout New York State, offering a model of care that has the ability to revolutionize the treatment of children with complex disabilities while providing essential support for families statewide.
This groundbreaking initiative not only improves the level of care for children with disabilities but also aims to reduce extended hospital stays, enabling them to return home more swiftly.
Assemblymember Angelo Santabarbara said, “As Chair of the Assembly Committee on People with Disabilities and as a parent of a child with autism who attends The Center for Discovery, I know firsthand the challenges families face in accessing specialized care for children with complex disabilities. The opening of this first-of-its-kind Children’s Specialty Hospital is a monumental step forward for New York, providing critical medical care and much-needed support for families. This innovative model will not only improve health outcomes but also help reduce the need for long-term residential placements. I thank Governor Hochul, Senator Schumer, and all those who made this vision a reality.”
About The Center for Discovery
The Center for Discovery (TCFD) is a leading provider of healthcare and education services for more than 1,200 children and adults with complex conditions, medical frailties and autism spectrum disorders, located 90 miles northwest of New York City. Named a Center of Excellence in 2016, TCFD has long been a leader in developing new models of care for individuals with complex conditions. Located on 1,500 acres of land in Sullivan County, TCFD houses school campuses, residences, medical and research facilities, organic and biodynamic farmland, and leased private businesses offering meaningful employment opportunities. Deeply focused on an individual’s personal potential and possibilities, rather than a disability, TCFD strives to create better care and unique and challenging opportunities for the most vulnerable populations. For more information about TCFD, please visit www.tcfd.org/.
For more information about The Children’s Specialty Hospital, please contact Michael Rosen, Executive VP of Development, Marketing, and Strategic Communications, at Mrosen@tcfd.org. -
MIL-OSI USA: Hawley Secures Promises from Kash Patel to Clean Up FBI, End Biden’s Abuses
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo)
Thursday, January 30, 2025
U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) today secured the commitment of Kash Patel, President Donald Trump’s pick to lead the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), to end the Biden-era FBI attacks on Christians and parents and seek accountability for those responsible.
During his Senate Judiciary confirmation hearing, Patel assured Senator Hawley that he would, “[F]ully utilize, if confirmed, the investigative powers of the FBI to give you the information you require and also to hold those accountable who violated the sacred trust placed upon the FBI.”
[embedded content]
Watch the full exchange here, or click on the image above.
Senator Hawley highlighted the FBI’s political persecutions of pro-life Christians exercising their faith, parents speaking out at school-board meetings, and Americans posting about politics on social media.
“Do you think it’s appropriate for the FBI to single out and target people of faith in order to discourage the exercise of their First Amendment rights?” Senator Hawley asked Patel.
The Senator continued, asking “Do you think it’s appropriate for the FBI to try to pressure the largest technology corporations in the world . . . to censor the political speech of everyday American citizens to try and violate the First Amendment?”
Patel unequivocally condemned the Biden Administration’s miscarriage of justice and vowed to deliver Americans the “new brand of justice” they deserve. -
MIL-OSI USA: Hawley Secures Commitments from HHS Nominee RFK on Crucial Social Issues
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo)
Thursday, January 30, 2025
Today in a hearing with Department of Health and Human Services nominee Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) secured commitments on four crucial social issues: so-called “gender affirming care,” fetal tissue research, Title X funding for abortions, and the chemical abortion drug mifepristone.
Senator Hawley asked Kennedy if he would rescind the Biden Administration’s mandate that every doctor in America who receives federal funding–including pediatricians–must prescribe puberty blockers and perform gender “transition” surgeries on children, regardless of their conscience.
“This rule purported to preempt all state law,” Senator Hawley said. “So in states like mine and many others, where the voters have said we don’t want gender transition procedures performed on minors, the Biden Administration attempted to use federal money and force pediatricians to do it anyway. So I’m glad to hear you say you’ll rescind that rule.”
The Senator also received assurances from Kennedy that he would reinstate a Trump policy ensuring that “no federal tax dollars” would be used to fund National Institutes of Health (NIH) research using human fetal tissue from elective abortions.
[embedded content]
Watch the full exchange here, or click on the video above.
Finally, Senator Hawley secured Kennedy’s commitment to reestablish a Trump rule that blocked Title X taxpayer dollars from flowing to entities like Planned Parenthood that perform abortions or refer people to abortions. Kennedy also promised to implement President Trump’s policies on protecting unborn life, including mifepristone, a chemical abortion drug the Biden Administration required to be mailed upon request to women in every state, including those with laws protecting life.
Senator Hawley has been a staunch supporter of protecting minors from gender mutilation and defending the unborn. This week, he introduced the Jamie Reed Protecting Our Kids from Child Abuse Act to allow those harmed by gender-transition procedures as minors to bring lawsuits against the participating individuals and entities.
Earlier this month, he also introduced the End Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Providers Act, which would defund Planned Parenthood and abortion providers across the nation, as well as the Defense of Conscience in Healthcare Act which would safeguard the conscience rights of healthcare providers. -
MIL-OSI USA: 01.30.2025 Sens. Cruz, Cornyn Accepting Applications for District Court, U.S. Attorney, U.S. Marshal Vacancies
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) announced that they are accepting applications for federal judicial vacancies in the Northern, Southern, and Western Districts of Texas. These vacancies are located in Dallas, Houston, McAllen, Austin, and Waco. The Senators are also accepting applications for U.S. Attorney and U.S. Marshal vacancies in the Eastern, Northern, Southern, and Western Districts of Texas.
Sen. Cruz said, “Selecting lawyers to serve as federal judges is one of the most important duties I have as a U.S. Senator. Texans deserve principled, unwavering leaders who will defend the Constitution, honor the rule of law, and serve with integrity. Texas is home to some of the nation’s most brilliant legal minds, and Senator Cornyn and I will recommend exceptional candidates who embody those strengths.”
Sen. Cornyn said, “As a former judge and Attorney General of Texas, I know firsthand how critical it is for our state to have the best and brightest jurists sitting on the federal bench and working to uphold the rule of law. I encourage qualified Texans who are interested in serving to submit their applications to our review committee.”
Sens. Cruz and Cornyn have established the Federal Judicial Evaluation Committee (FJEC), a bipartisan panel of leading attorneys in Texas, which reviews applications, interviews candidates, and makes recommendations to the Senators to help fill judicial vacancies.
APPLICATION INFORMATION
Sens. Cruz and Cornyn invite qualified candidates to seek appointment by submitting their resumes and completed questionnaires to both lawmakers’ offices.
The questionnaire is available here.
Completed application packets must be received at the below email addresses no later than March 3, 2025. Email is strongly recommended because of delays due to security procedures involving Congressional mail. Submitted questionnaires for judicial vacancies will be reviewed by the Federal Judicial Evaluation Committee, and selected candidates will be invited to interview. Questions regarding applications may also be directed to the contacts listed below.
U.S. Senator Ted Cruz
FJEC@cruz.senate.gov
Attn: Kenneth Lee
U.S. Senator John Cornyn
FJEC@cornyn.senate.gov
Attn: Franci Rooney Becker -
MIL-OSI USA: 01.30.2025 Sens. Cruz, Scott, Cassidy, Colleagues Introduce Resolution Recognizing National School Choice Week
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) joined Sens. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), and several of their Republican colleagues in Congress in introducing a resolution recognizing January 26 – February 1 as National School Choice Week.
Upon introduction, Sen. Cruz said, “School choice is the civil rights issue of the 21st century. Every student in America deserves the freedom to choose the best education. I am proud to join my colleagues in designating this week as National School Choice Week. This resolution sends a clear message to parents across the country that their children’s future matters. I will remain a staunch advocate in the Senate until every child has access to the quality education they deserve.”
This resolution was co-sponsored by Sens. James Lankford (R-Okla.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Todd Young (R-Ind.), and Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.).
In the House of Representatives, the resolution is also cosponsored by Reps. Randy Weber (R-Texas-14), Aaron Bean (R-Fla.-04), Dan Meuser (R-Pa.-09), Juan Ciscomani (R-Ariz.-06), Vern Buchanan (R-Fla.-16), Dale Strong (R-Ala.-05), Darrell Issa (R-Calif.-48), Riley Moore (R-W.Va.-02), Kat Cammack (R-Fla.-03), Jack Bergman (R-Mich.-01), Nancy Mace (R-S.C.-01), Julia Letlow (R-La.-05), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-Iowa-01), Rich McCormick (R-Ga.-07), Scott Fitzgerald (R-Wis.-05), Mike Kelly (R-Pa.-16), Joe Wilson (R-S.C.-02), Tim Moore (R-N.C.-14), Eric Burlison (R-Mo.-07), Neal Dunn (R-Fla.-02), Tom Barrett (R-Mich.-07), Mark Green (R-Tenn.-07), Scott Franklin (R-Fla.-18), Dan Newhouse (R-Wash.-04), Buddy Carter (R-Ga.-01), and John James (R-Mich.-10).
Read the National School Choice Week resolution here.
BACKGROUND
Sen. Cruz is the leading fighter for school choice in the Senate:
Sen. Cruz authored and passed into law the Student Opportunity Amendment, the most far-reaching federal school choice legislation, which was enacted into law as part of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. This amendment expanded 529 College Savings Plans to include K-12 elementary and secondary school tuition for public, private, and religious schools.
Sen. Cruz championed the Education Freedom Scholarships and Opportunity Act, which would create a federal tax credit for taxpayers who donate to scholarship organizations supporting post-secondary workforce education, including trade schools and apprenticeship programs, and K-12 education. This bill focuses on making quality schooling and workforce education more affordable than ever for all Americans.
Sen. Cruz has continually defended parental rights in education. In 2021, he introduced the END CRT Act and demanded the DOJ not interfere with local school board meetings or threaten the use of federal law enforcement to deter parents’ free speech.
Sen. Cruz also led the fight to fully reopen schools and introduced the Catch Up Our Kids Act, legislation to combat K-12 learning loss. -
MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Wicker Meets with President Trump to Discuss Peace Through Strength
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today met with the 47th President of the United States, Donald J. Trump, to discuss their shared goal of restoring peace through strength and rebuilding the military.
“It was an honor to visit with President Trump at the White House today. The president has a mandate for reform and a vision for American prosperity. This is the moment for the president and Congress to enact the ‘peace through strength’ policies that America needs,” Chairman Wicker said. “Alongside Secretary of Defense Hegseth, I will keep my commitment to build the Iron Dome for America, construct a next-generation naval fleet to command the seas, restore our nation’s arsenal of munitions, and empower our country’s best entrepreneurs to dominate the technology race with China. That starts with a strong reconciliation process. Since we also cannot have national security without border security, I strongly support the president’s mission to defend our sovereignty and territorial integrity against the cartels and other foreign elements. We are already at work so that we can realize a Golden Age for America.”
Chairman Wicker and President Trump discussed:
Supercharging the ‘peace through strength’ agenda through defense investment in upcoming budget reconciliation legislation.
Revitalizing our Navy and merchant fleet.
Fielding a national missile defense system and new space-based capabilities.
Rebuilding our defense industrial base and deterring China.
Increasing innovation and technology dominance in American national defense.
Ensuring air and ground dominance for the next generation.
Passing a funding bill for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2025 and a budget resolution for the next fiscal year. -
MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Wicker Leads Senate Armed Services Committee in Secretary of the Army Nomination Hearing
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today led his committee colleagues in a hearing examining the nomination of Mr. Daniel P. Driscoll, President Trump’s nominee to serve as the next Secretary of the Army.
In his opening remarks, Chairman Wicker recounted the many challenges facing the United States Army in its effort to modernize and develop new ways of deterring our adversaries.
The Army, Chairman Wicker noted, is failing to realize the full potential of recruitment opportunities. He also noted the Army’s need to refocus on transforming its material readiness to ensure it can properly support conflict in Europe or the Western Pacific. Specifically, Chairman Wicker called for Mr. Driscoll to improve army initiatives on small unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and counter unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS).
“I believe Mr. Driscoll’s record, his Army service, his legal background, and financial experience have prepared him to handle the myriad responsibilities of Army Secretary. If he’s confirmed, Mr. Driscoll will face the challenges I’ve already outlined. He will be handed a budget that has not kept pace with inflation. He’ll also take the helm at a time of increasing danger around the world,” Chairman Wicker said. “…[The Army] must choose to remain relevant in today’s complex threat environment, the Army should accelerate its transformation efforts and focus on new portions of the defense industrial base. It should expand its work on small unmanned aerial systems, or UAS, and counter-UAS.”
Chairman Wicker previously met with Driscoll, commenting that the nominee that “would bring relevant combat experience, a decorated military career, and a proven track record at the highest levels of law and business to keep the Army focused on its mission.”
Read the remarks as delivered below or watch them here.
The hearing will come to order. We thank the witnesses for being here, and those in attendance.
Certainly, all of us are concerned and saddened by the tragedy which occurred near Reagan National Airport last night, and I ask that the committee observe a moment of silence before we begin the hearing.
Thank you very much.
The Committee on Armed Services has convened this hearing to consider the pending nomination of Mr. Dan Driscoll to be the 26th Secretary of the Army. In support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Mr. Driscoll served our country in Iraq, spending four years with the Army. So, we thank him, and the entire Driscoll family: his wife Dr. Cassie Driscoll, and their two children, Daniel and Lila, who could not be with us today, for their willingness to serve this country again, by accepting this new assignment.
After his military service, Mr. Driscoll received his law degree from Yale and has worked in private equity and venture capital, all the while he’s retained many ties to his former service.
The Army faces a complex array of challenges. Recruitment and retention improved last year, but the Army still has more than 10,000 fewer recruits than it did in 2023. Since the beginning of the Biden administration, the service is down 36,000 soldiers. On top of that, the Army is not taking full advantage of opportunities to nurture interest in military service. Almost 300 high schools sit on a waiting list to get their own Army Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps unit. These units mean more than potential individual recruits. They represent communities where the Department of Defense can put down roots, developing the Army of leaders for tomorrow, as well as excellent citizens for our entire society.
As the service catches up on recruitment, it must also ensure that those who do enlist are equipped for the mission. The nature of large-scale combat operations is changing. The world sees this every week in Ukraine. To be ready for potential combat in the Western Pacific, the Army must expedite modernization efforts.
On top of recruitment and modernization projects, the next Secretary of the Army must address the service member quality of life issues that afflict this, the largest service. In the Fiscal Year 2025 budget, the Army increased funding for barracks maintenance problems, but the effects of decades of neglect cannot be fixed overnight. The Army has a facility backlog of more than $100 billion. I offered an amendment which passed the most recent NDAA requiring all of the service to adopt minimum annual facility sustainment levels. My colleagues and I need to see evidence that this change has been embraced within the service.
I believe Mr. Driscoll’s record, his Army service, his legal background, and financial experience have prepared him to handle the myriad responsibilities of Army Secretary. If he’s confirmed, Mr. Driscoll will face the challenges I’ve already outlined.
He will be handed a budget that has not kept pace with inflation. He’ll also take the helm at a time of increasing danger around the world.
The Army is playing a largely quiet but crucial role in the Western Pacific. It is deepening partnerships with our allies and partners in Southeast Asia. Meanwhile, the service is helping us maintain deterrence against the Chinese Communist Party, and it ensures that our South Korean allies are postured to prevent North Korean aggression.
Soldiers from across the United States remain stationed in Europe. Their presence helps deter Russia and helps assure our NATO allies.
In the Middle East, the Army continues to play a lead role in combating Iranian aggression.
Clearly, the Army’s work has been instrumental in these theaters. It must choose to remain relevant in today’s complex threat environment, the Army should accelerate its transformation efforts and focus on new portions of the defense industrial base. It should expand its work on small unmanned aerial systems, or UAS, and counter-UAS. And I say that even as I recognize and appreciate the chief of staff the Army’s focus in this area.
In the Western Pacific theater, the Army’s contribution to sensing and shooting remains in its infancy. The service has the chance to realize its key logistics role for the joint force in contested areas, but it can do so with significant investment and focus.
So, I look forward to this hearing on how Mr. Driscoll will work to change the culture around the issues I have listed, as well as other pressing matters. And I now recognize my friend, the ranking member of the committee, Senator Jack Reed for any opening remarks he may offer. -
MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Senator Baldwin Pens Op-ed Outlining Her Opposition to RFK, Jr.’s Nomination to be Nation’s Top Health Official
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Newsweek published the following op-ed penned by U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) ahead of her questioning of Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., nominee for Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, in front of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP):
Newsweek: RFK Jr. Is Bad for Our Health
When I was 9 years old, I was diagnosed with a serious illness similar to spinal meningitis. The experience not only landed me in the hospital for three months, it also shaped the rest of my life. I was a child with a pre-existing condition, uninsurable for more than a decade after I got better.
I got into politics because of my experience with health care, and it informs how I think about keeping Americans safe and well today. I know what it’s like to be a child in a hospital bed and just how important it is to protect children from life-threatening diseases.
I’m committed to giving President Donald Trump’s nominees a fair shake and continue to carefully evaluate if each nominee will help or hurt my constituents. This, of course, includes the position to lead our nation’s largest public health agency. While I have been proud to support various Republican nominees—I even introduced former Wisconsin Rep. Sean Duffy in front of the Senate Commerce Committee to be secretary of transportation—there are some that clearly will hurt American families.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is one of them. RFK Jr. has been nominated to lead the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), an agency that is responsible for keeping our nation healthy. HHS is charged with overseeing vaccines to stop the spread of diseases like polio and measles, spearheading lifesaving research into cures for cancer and Alzheimer’s, and so much more.
Make no mistake, this agency has helped save the lives of millions from diseases through safe vaccines. It has given hope to millions who now have treatments and cures for cancer and other illnesses. The agency is far from perfect and needs reforms—and I have some good places to start—but the head of the HHS better believe in its core mission to keep people healthy and believe the experts, not conspiracy theories. That’s why I believe Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is simply unfit for this position.
Kennedy is one of the top spreaders of misinformation about vaccines, peddling bogus conspiracy theories that these safe and effective protections for Americans are harmful. He said that “no vaccine is safe and effective.”
Well, I’d bet the tens of millions of people who don’t have polio, measles, mumps, and many other diseases because of vaccines would beg to differ.
He’s questioned the safety of the COVID-19 vaccine that was first developed under President Donald Trump and even tried to stop it from being used just six months after its rollout. This vaccine saved millions of lives and allowed Americans to return to work and school safely.
RFK Jr. helped spread anti-vaccination conspiracy theories, fueling a measles outbreak in Samoa that led to the deaths of 83 people, primarily infants and children. He’s threatened to downsize the National Institutes of Health, which work every day to find lifesaving breakthroughs and treatments for cancer, Alzheimer’s, infectious diseases, chronic health conditions, diabetes, and so many other illnesses that have an impact millions of American families.
As a child who spent months in a hospital bed, I know the consequences of not protecting our kids from serious illness. I know the toll it takes on a family, emotionally and financially, to have a loved one hospitalized for a serious disease. I also know what it’s like to have science-backed medicine and good health care. And that all starts at the top of the federal government’s largest health agency, the Department of Health and Human Services. All of us have the responsibility to protect our kids and families, and that includes soundly rejecting a nominee who has spent much of his career spreading misinformation that endangers American lives.
Americans deserve a leading health official who believes in science, not conspiracies. And Americans agree. I urge my colleagues to ask themselves a simple question: will this nominee keep your constituents safe, or harm them? For Robert F. Kennedy Jr., I think the answer is clear. -
MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin, Colleagues Introduce Resolution Warning of Serious Public Health Threats from Trump Administration Freeze on Critical Health Alerts, Including Disease Outbreak and Food Contamination
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
WISCONSIN – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) joined a group of her colleagues in introducing a resolution calling for uninterrupted health warning services for the American people following reports that the Trump Administration has paused critical communications from federal health agencies, including warnings on disease outbreaks and food contamination.
“Wisconsinites need to know if diseases are spreading nearby, if there are food recalls, or about ongoing outbreaks, like the avian bird flu. But, this misguided directive stops that and could put families and businesses in harm’s way,” said Senator Baldwin. “Keeping people informed and healthy all starts with communications and this freeze prevents that and needlessly puts lives at risk.”
The resolution is co-sponsored by Senators Brian Schatz (D-HI), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD.), Peter Welch (D-VT) Ed Markey (D-MA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Tina Smith (D-MN).
The full text of the resolution is available here and below.
Expressing the sense of the Senate that the people of the United States should have continuous access to timely, up-to-date, and accurate health information.
Whereas the Department of Health and Human Services provides crucial external communications to protect the health and well-being of the people of the United States;
Whereas urgent communications provided by the Department of Health and Human Services help health care providers and the public learn about and respond to public health incidents and threats, including outbreaks of infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and the opioid overdose epidemic;
Whereas the United States has published the epidemiological digest, Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, every week since 1961;
Whereas foodborne disease outbreak notices published by the Department of Health and Human Services are essential in coordinating and investigating illness, helping to respond to the estimated 48,000,000 people who get sick from foodborne disease each year in the United States; and
Whereas in 2024, public health information reported through the Health Alert Network of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention included information regarding increased risks in the United States of avian influenza, dengue virus, and measles: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That it is the sense of the Senate that the people of the United States should have continuous access to timely, up-to-date, and accurate health information provided through the Department of Health and Human Services. -
MIL-OSI New Zealand: First Responders – Tiwai Peninsula vegetation fire update #3
Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand
Fire and Emergency New Zealand crews have made good progress in clearing hotspots out of the burnt scrub and wetland on Tiwai Peninsula today.Incident Controller Hamish Angus says that despite warmer conditions this afternoon, firefighters have been able to hold down any potential flare-ups.“As well as having four helicopters dousing the fireground from above, we’re using four excavators to widen firebreaks around the perimeter so the fire doesn’t spread if the wind gets up,” he says.“This work will also help firefighters if they need to deal with any more fires here in the future.”Fire crews will work until 6pm, and one crew will remain overnight to monitor the fireground.“Our crews will be back on-site tomorrow morning to continue mopping up and ensuring there are no hotspots left,” Hamish Angus says.“They’ve all worked incredibly hard over the last two days, and done a great job at getting such a large vegetation fire under control.” -
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Transport – Pothole repairs are paying off
Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand
Transporting New Zealand says the intensified focus on road maintenance and pothole repair is paying off, preventing damage to vehicles, supporting road safety and keeping Kiwis moving.Transport Minister Chris Bishop announced this afternoon that 98 per cent of potholes on state highways were repaired within 24 hours of identification every month since targets were introduced by the Coalition Government.Transporting New Zealand Chief Executive Dom Kalasih says this will be welcome news to its road freight members across the country.“Potholes and other road surfacing issues can be a nightmare for our members and other motorists. Transporting New Zealand has consistently called for a greater share of road user charges and fuel excise revenue to be directed to road maintenance and rehabilitation.” says Kalasih.“Over the past couple of years, we’ve been hearing more complaints from our members and other road users about potholes and road surfacing issues, and these concerns were borne out by the data. In 2023, more than 62,000 potholes required repair on state highways, the highest figure in a decade.”“Potholes can easily do thousands of dollars of damage to trucks and trailers vehicles.“We’ve had members report erratic driving from other motorists trying to avoid them, or slowing to a crawl, which can be very dangerous.”Kalasih says that with 92.8 per cent of New Zealand’s freight moving via road, potholes and other road surface issues are a major drag on economic growth and labour productivity.“The Coalition Government’s establishment of the $3.9 billion Pothole Prevention Fund and ambitious targets for the repair of potholes on main state highways and regional state highways is now paying dividends.“It’s a big endorsement of providing clear directions and targets to the New Zealand Transport Agency, and we encourage the new Minister Chris Bishop to continue the hands-on approach of his immediate predecessor, Simeon Brown.”However Kalasih also says while Transporting New Zealand is grateful for how these repairs are going, the reality is that in an ideal world, the work shouldn’t be needed.“Potholes are isolated failures in stretches of road. When roads are built to a high and consistent standard, these should be minimal. We’ll be engaging with NZTA to ensure road quality remains a priority and that our roads are built to last.”About Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New ZealandIa Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand https://www.transporting.nz/ is the peak national membership association representing the road freight transport industry. Our members operate urban, rural and inter-regional commercial freight transport services throughout the country.Road is the dominant freight mode in New Zealand, transporting 92.8% of the freight task on a tonnage basis, and 75.1% on a tonne-km basis. The road freight transport industry employs over 34,000 people across more than 4700 businesses, with an annual turnover of $6 billion. -
MIL-OSI USA: Murphy To RFK Jr.: It Isn’t Believable You Will Become Consistent With Science If You Become HHS Secretary
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy
January 30, 2025
[embedded content]
WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, on Thursday questioned Robert F. Kennedy Jr. at a hearing on his nomination for Secretary of Health and Human Services. Murphy challenged Kennedy’s credibility and pressed him on past statements comparing America’s vaccine program to the Holocaust and the Catholic Church’s pedophilia scandal. Murphy argued that Kennedy’s long history of spreading misinformation about vaccines raises serious concerns about his ability to lead HHS, emphasizing the need for a Secretary who prioritizes science and public trust.
A full transcript of Murphy’s exchange with Kennedy can be found below:
MURPHY: “Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Kennedy, thank you for joining us here today. Listen, credibility matters so much when you lead the most important health agency in the world. The Secretary of HHS has got to be trusted that he’s telling the truth, that he cares about science, [and] has no political agenda.
“Mr. Kennedy, I want to go back to some of your testimony yesterday, before the Finance Committee, when you either feigned ignorance about some very clear statements that you have made in the past, or you outright denied saying things about the vaccine program that you have undoubtedly said.
“So with a day’s hindsight, I want to give you another chance to be honest about the things you have said. Senator Warnock asked you yesterday if you had compared America’s vaccine program to the Catholic Church’s pedophilia scandal. You said you never said that. Now I’m not asking you to explain what you said.”
KENNEDY: “I didn’t say I never said that. I did not say that I hadn’t said that, Senator. I said [I didn’t say] the other question he asked me, about the Nazi death camps.”
MURPHY: “That’s fine, you’re doubling down on that. Senator Warnock also asked you if you compared America’s vaccine campaign to the Nazi death camps and the Holocaust. Again, you said yesterday you didn’t say that.”
KENNEDY: “I did not say that.”
MURPHY: “Senator Bennett asked you yesterday if you had made an allegation that AIDS is a different disease in Africa than it is in America. On that one you said you didn’t recall. Having had a day to think about it, do you recall saying that AIDS is a different disease in Africa than it is in the United States?”
KENNEDY: “I looked up that passage in my book and found that indeed the diagnostics for AIDS are very different in Africa and the United States– that the list of symptoms is almost completely different.”
MURPHY: “So let me just– I’ll submit this for the record, but having denied the first two statements, let me just read what you said. You said in 2013, ‘Is it hyperbole to say that the people who run our vaccine program should be in jail? They should be in jail. To me, this is like Nazi death camps. Look at what it does to the families [who participate in the vaccine program]. I can’t tell why somebody would do something like that. I can’t tell you why ordinary Germans participated in the Holocaust. I can’t tell you what was going on in their minds.’
“With respect to the pedophilia scandal, you said: ‘The pedophilia scandal in the Catholic Church is a perfect metaphor for what’s happening in the United States. The vaccine program– it’s the same reason we had a pedophilia scandal in the Catholic Church. It’s because people were able to convince themselves that the institution of the church was more important than these little boys and girls who were being raped.
“I don’t disagree with Senator Mullin. I don’t want a HHS Secretary that’s not going to question science. I think it’s important to question science. But you’re not questioning science– you’ve made up your mind. You have spent your entire career undermining America’s vaccine program. You make these purposeful comparisons to those that are administering the vaccine program to the Nazi executioners, to the people who covered up the Catholic Church’s pedophilia scandal, because you have made a decision that there is a comparison; that there is evil in the vaccine program as there was evil in the pedophilia scandal and the Nazi death camps.
“You aren’t exploring science, you have made up your mind. You have spent your entire career trying to undermine these programs. The reason that these statements–these incredibly aggressive, over-the-top statements–matter to us is because it just isn’t believable that when you become secretary, you are all of a sudden going to be consistent with science. People who have spent their career saying these kinds of things, running the kinds of campaigns that you have run, don’t all of a sudden change their stripes. So Mr. Chairman, I will submit these statements into the record.”
KENNEDY: “Can I respond to that, Senator? My statement about the Catholic Church is almost identical to the findings of the Government Oversight Investigation Committee that investigated the CDC’s vaccine program in 2003. Senator Burr was Chairman of that committee. And he said that the certain individuals in that program had written off a generation of kids because of ‘misplaced institutional loyalty to the CDC’ and because of ‘entanglements with the drug companies.’”
MURPHY: “You equate pedophilia to the administration of vaccines?”
KENNEDY: “It wasn’t pedophilia.”
MURPHY: “You said it was a perfect metaphor.”
KENNEDY: “If you have one in 36 kids who has neurological injuries, and if that is linked, that should be studied.”
MURPHY: “Is it a perfect metaphor?”
KENNEDY: “It’s not a perfect metaphor, but there’s no metaphor that’s perfect. I am pro-vaccine. I am going to support the vaccine program. I want kids to be healthy, and I’m coming in here to get rid of the conflicts of interest within the agency and make sure that we have gold standard, evidence-based science. And if you show me where I’m wrong on this, show me a single statement I’ve made about science that is erroneous.”
MURPHY: “Thank you.”
-
MIL-OSI China: Hong Kong marks Chinese New Year with dazzling fireworks display
Source: China State Council Information Office 3
As the clock struck eight on Thursday evening, the sky above Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour erupted in a kaleidoscope of colors, marking the arrival of the Chinese New Year.
Fireworks illuminate the sky over Victoria Harbour in celebration of the Spring Festival in Hong Kong, south China, Jan. 30, 2025. (Xinhua/Chen Duo)
This year’s 23-minute fireworks display, a dazzling spectacle of 23,888 pyrotechnic bursts featuring nine scenes, drew over 250,000 residents and tourists to the waterfront, united in celebration of the Year of the Snake.
The annual event, co-organized by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, is a must-see for many Hong Kong residents and tourists.
Addressing the crowd on Thursday night, HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee underscored the significance of the fireworks display as a centerpiece of the Chinese New Year festivities in Hong Kong, noting that each year’s performance features new elements, bringing fresh brilliance to the skies above Victoria Harbour. Much like the agile snake symbolizes flexibility and adaptability, this reflects the spirit of innovation and resilience of the people of Hong Kong.
As dusk settled, the promenade at Tsim Sha Tsui buzzed with anticipation. Families, couples, and international visitors staked out prime viewing spots hours in advance, eager to witness the grand spectacle. From Wan Chai to Causeway Bay, the atmosphere was electric, filled with laughter and the chatter of excited spectators.
The show began with the first scene, titled “A Brand New Beginning,” igniting cheers from the crowd. The scene “Blossoming Prosperity” painted golden ingots in the sky, symbolizing prosperity and abundance. The eighth scene, “Double Luck and Goodness,” featured giant panda images against a backdrop of green lighting representing bamboo and decorative silver illumination. Six adorable “panda head” images representing “An An,” “Ke Ke,” “Ying Ying,” and “Le Le,” along with the newborn twins “Elder Sister” and “Little Brother,” illuminated the sky, signifying reunion and happiness.
The fireworks display reached its climax in the final act, “Harvesting Year of the Snake.” The vibrant scene featured wandering star pattern fireworks dancing against the powerful gongs and drums of the background music “Golden Snake Dance,” wishing continued prosperity for the nation and peaceful lives for the people.
For many, this was more than just a show; it was a moment of collective celebration and hope. Seventy-year-old local resident Mrs. Suen shared her thoughts: “This is one of the most crowded displays I’ve ever seen. The influx of tourists has added to the festive spirit, and it fills us all with optimism for the year ahead.”
Among the visitors was Mr. Xu from Zhejiang, who expressed his awe, saying, “Incredible! Emotional!” He had long heard of Hong Kong’s spectacular celebrations and had planned this trip specifically to experience the fireworks. “This is a highlight of our family trip and is definitely worth it,” he said.
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MIL-OSI Australia: Victorian Goldfields World Heritage bid celebrates tentative listing
Source: State of Victoria Local Government 2
The Victorian Goldfields has been officially included on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List, a promising step on the road to the goldfields receiving World Heritage Listing.
The City of Greater Bendigo, City of Ballarat and 13 other Local Government counterparts involved in the bid are today celebrating the exciting news.
The Tentative List is controlled by the Australian Government. Inclusion on the Tentative List means the Victorian Goldfields is considered a strong candidate to be submitted to UNESCO for World Heritage Listing, which can only be applied for after 12 months on the Tentative List.
Six sites across the region have been included in the Tentative List, with three additional places identified as being subject to further investigation and the possibility other sites may also be added.
Over the next 12 months all possible sites will be assessed in preparation for the Victorian Goldfields bid to be submitted formally to UNESCO in February 2026, with a final outcome likely to be determined after mid-2027.
Getting the Victorian Goldfields on the Tentative List now was critical, as Australia can only make one nomination to UNESCO per year and there are many other places from around Australia that are being considered.
Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said securing a World Heritage Listing was a long process but today’s Tentative Listing announcement represented a significant milestone.
“In 2020, international world heritage expert Barry Gamble confirmed the Victorian Goldfields was the best surviving landscape from the 19th century goldrush anywhere in the world. This validation propelled the efforts of the 15 councils involved to continue our push to celebrate and protect this outstanding example of global significance,” Cr Metcalf said.
“If World Heritage Listing is achieved, it puts the Victorian Goldfields on the same map as the Pyramids of Egypt or the Taj Mahal in India. This would be an incredible achievement for our region, with economic modelling forecasting a Victorian Goldfields World Heritage site could attract 2.5 million new visitors to the region over 10 years, injecting more than $500M into local economies.
“The sites selected for the Tentative List demonstrate outstanding global heritage significance and celebrate the region’s multi-layered history – from the First Peoples living on Country to the goldrush, and subsequent waves of immigration and the contribution made by people who were chasing riches.”
The Victorian Goldfields is currently represented in the Tentative List submission by:
- Castlemaine Goldfields and Historic Townships – pre-eminent alluvial diggings of an early major gold rush in Victoria
- Creswick and the Deep Lead Landscape – unparalleled example of this rare type of gold mining
- Bendigo Historic Urban Landscape – one of the world’s most notable gold rush cities
- Lalgambuk (Mt Franklin) – an area that evidences Aboriginal connection to Country before, during and after the gold rushes
- Great Nuggets Historic Landscape – these diggings yielded the greatest concentration of the largest gold nuggets the world had ever known
- Walhalla Alpine Mining Landscape –steep topography that guided settlement centred on Victoria’s richest gold mine
Other places mentioned in the Tentative List submission for inclusion at the World Heritage nomination stage, which will be developed in 2025/2026, include:
- Ballarat Historic Urban Landscape
- Beechworth Historic Township and Sluicing Landscape
- Whroo and the Balaclava Open Cut Mine
Cr Metcalf said further investigations over the coming 12 months were likely to mean an updated list would make up the final nomination.
“A working group, led by Heritage Victoria and including Traditional Owners and councils involved in the bid, will lead consultation with the communities where each of the sites are located, including with site owners and nearby residents,” she said.
“Tentative Listing should be considered a placeholder only. Sites may change and are all subject to consultation, but the focus will be on confirming a list that ensures the best examples of the lasting legacy of the Victorian Goldfields are celebrated and this critical piece of Australia’s history is conserved and shared with future generations.”
The World Heritage bid is the initiative of a regional partnership made up of 15 councils and the Victorian Goldfields Tourism Executive, led by the City of Greater Bendigo and the City of Ballarat. The Victorian Government announced $2M to progress the Victorian Goldfields World Heritage nomination in 2023.
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MIL-OSI New Zealand: Waikato & Bay of Plenty state highway works January/February 2025
Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
State Highway 29 continues to be a hive of activity with night works starting on the Kaimai Range from Sunday 9 February for 10 nights.
SH29 Kaimai Range night closure schedule:
- Sunday 9 February to Friday 14 February, 8pm to 4.30am
- Sunday 16 February to Friday 21 February, 8pm to 4.30am
“The SH29 scheduled full closures for maintenance are providing huge safety benefits for both our crews and road users,” says Sandra King, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi System Manger, Bay of Plenty.
The Kaimai Range closures are enabling crews to carry out scheduled maintenance more efficiently. By locking in a schedule, regular road users including freight operators, can make plans to minimise disruption to themselves and their customers.
We’re taking advantage of the closure to do other work on SH29, increasing the effectiveness while traffic volumes are reduced across the Tauranga and Western Bay of Plenty state highway network.
“With so much work taking place it is inevitable road users will come across worksites and traffic management. When you see roadworkers out on the road, travel safely through their site, follow signage and any instructions you receive, and give them a wave to say thanks for their tremendous work,” says Ms King.
And, it’s likely there’s another long weekend in the mix for a lot of people, for those who decide to take Friday 7 February off after Waitangi day. If you do take the break with friends and whānau, don’t let your extra day lose its charm by getting stuck in the car, beat the traffic by using the NZTA Holiday Journey Planner, which shows predicted traffic flow across popular journeys.
“Patience is key when driving public holidays. Keep a safe following distance from vehicles in front so you can stop safely and drive to the conditions. We want to see people enjoying the long weekend and arriving at their destinations safely,” says Ms King.
To plan ahead and see where disruptive works are, people can use the NZTA Journey Planner (journeys.nzta.govt.nz(external link)) This is kept up to date in real time so you can see all disruptive activity and potential hazards on the state highway network.
Waikato Bay of Plenty works as at 31 January 2025 [PDF, 334 KB]
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MIL-OSI New Zealand: Further rockfall protection and slip repair work at State Highway 6 Dellows Bluff
Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
Drivers can expect to see more work on State Highway 6 at Dellows Bluff with work to fix a new slip site set to get underway in February.
Resilience work has been ongoing at the area since a major rockfall in July 2022. This has seen rock scaling and rock blasting to remove overhanging rock and debris from the cliff face above the highway. Rock anchors, steel mesh, and protective shipping container barriers have also been installed at the site.
SH6 Dellows Bluff rockfall, July 2022.
Rob Service, System Manager Nelson/Tasman, says bad weather late last year caused a slip less than 200 metres away from the original rockfall site.
“This site also has an ongoing rockfall risk that we need to fix. From 10 February we’ll have crews and heavy machinery on site for around six to eight weeks carrying out remedial work.”
“Contractors will need to excavate and remove roughly 10,000 cubic metres of clay and rocks to establish a more stable face and create a bench above the road to capture any further rock falls,” Mr Service says.
Slip clearing, SH6 Dellows Bluff slip site – October 2024
He says the job is a big one and cannot be completed without affecting traffic on State Highway 6.
“We will have to close the highway’s southbound lane during the project. The space is needed to allow heavy machinery to operate and also to provide a safety buffer zone for traffic.”
“Reducing the road to one lane also means we will have to use stop/go traffic management and there will be times when we will have to stop traffic in both directions for 45-minute periods to ensure material, particularly dangerous overhanging boulders and trees, can be removed safely. Night closures are also likely to be used to help complete tree-felling too,” Mr Service says.
He appreciates the work will create significant delays for traffic.
“The nature of the work and the need to keep the public safe means this is unavoidable. Please bear with us while we get this job done. State Highway 6 is a critical transport link and resilience work like this is all about make the highway safer and more resilient in the future. There will be short-term pain, but it’s all about getting a long-term gain for road users and the local community.”
Steps will be in place to ensure access is available when needed. Allowances are being made to ensure school buses and school traffic can get through the work site, and access will always be available for emergency services. Updates on the project will be shared with the community as it progresses, including updates on any changes to traffic management at the slip site.
Works schedule
- 10 February to 13 March. Monday to Friday, 7 am to 6 pm
- Southbound lane closure.
- Stop/Stop controls will operate from 13 February to 15 February, 8 am – 6 pm.
- These will be on the hour with the road to reopen at 45 minutes past the hour to allow queued traffic to clear.
- Stop/Stop may occur outside of these times if there is a risk to road users, like a tree or boulder dislodged.
- Outside these times stop/go will be in place, when necessary, please plan accordingly.
- Drivers can expect delays of up to 10 minutes under stop/go.
- There will be lot of truck movements from the works area up to 1.5 kms to the north of the site. Drivers must follow all speed signs and warnings in place.
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MIL-OSI New Zealand: Our Tamariki Deserve Better than Seymour’s Slop
Source: Te Pati Maori
Te Pāti Māori is appalled by the government’s blatant mishandling of the school lunch programme. David Seymour’s ‘cost-saving’ measures have left tamariki across Aotearoa with unidentifiable meals, causing distress and outrage among parents and communities alike.
“What’s the difference between providing inedible food, and providing no food at all?” Said Te Pāti Māori spokesperson for Education Tākuta Ferris.
“Many tamariki rely on these meals as their only nourishment of the day, it is disgraceful that the government has put the wellbeing of their books over the wellbeing of our mokopuna.
“David Seymour may as well have cut the program entirely instead of insulting our tamariki with this slop.
“You do not sweep this kind of failure under the rug by blaming “teething problems.” This should have been thoroughly planned and tested before it was rolled out to ensure it worked for all tamariki. Instead, we have a system that has failed them, and now, it seems, no one wants to take responsibility.
“For every serious issue in this country, the government’s only solution has been to hand off their responsibility to someone else.
“We don’t have enough housing? Get overseas investors to sort it out. Our education system is failing? Charter schools will save us.
“School lunches are ‘too expensive’? Let’s get the cheapest contractor we can find and hope our kids don’t get food poisoning.
“It’s time for these Ministers to stop passing the buck. They must apologise- publicly and without delay- to all the tamariki, mātua, and kura affected by this. They must own their mistakes and fix the system, because right now, it is failing the very people it was supposed to help”, said Ferris.
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MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Durbin Seek Presidential Explanation for IG Dismissals
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Ranking Member Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) are requesting President Trump provide the lawfully-required substantive rationale behind his recent decision to dismiss Inspectors General (IGs) from 18 offices. The senators are additionally asking President Trump to share the names of each official who will serve in an acting IG capacity, and are urging the President to quickly nominate qualified and nonpartisan individuals to permanently fill the current IG vacancies.
IGs are nonpartisan watchdogs responsible for identifying and rooting out waste, fraud and abuse at federal agencies. IGs serve at the President’s disposal. However, a Grassley-authored amendment signed into law as part of the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) requires the President to provide written, detailed communication informing Congress of the President’s decision to dismiss or transfer an Inspector General at least 30 days before taking action to do so.
“While IGs aren’t immune from committing acts requiring their removal, and they can be removed by the president, the law must be followed. The communication to Congress must contain more than just broad and vague statements; rather, it must include sufficient facts and details to assure Congress and the public that the termination is due to real concerns about the Inspector General’s ability to carry out their mission,” the senators wrote.
“This is a matter of public and congressional accountability and ensuring the public’s confidence in the Inspector General community, a sentiment shared more broadly by other Members of Congress,” the senators continued. “IGs are critical to rooting out waste, fraud, abuse, and misconduct within the Executive Branch bureaucracy, which you have publicly made clear you are also intent on doing.”
The Honorable Donald J. Trump
President of the United States
Dear President Trump:
We write to you today concerning the reported firing of Inspectors General (IGs) from 18 offices.[1] Congress was not provided the legally required 30-day notice and case-specific reasons for removal, as required by law.[2] Accordingly, we request that you provide that information immediately.
On December 23, 2022, the “James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023” was signed into law and included provisions from the Securing Inspector General Independence Act, which was introduced by a bipartisan group of members.[3] Those provisions require that the President “shall” communicate to Congress in writing 30 days before removing or transferring an IG from office the “substantive rationale, including detailed and case-specific reasons” for the removal or transfer.[4] The law also prohibits an IG from being placed on non-duty status during the 30-day period preceding the date of removal or transfer unless the continued presence of the Inspector General in the workplace poses a threat as described by requirements in the Administrative Leave Act and the President submits a report to Congress.[5]
While IGs aren’t immune from committing acts requiring their removal, and they can be removed by the president, the law must be followed.[6] The communication to Congress must contain more than just broad and vague statements, rather it must include sufficient facts and details to assure Congress and the public that the termination is due to real concerns about the Inspector General’s ability to carry out their mission.[7]
This is a matter of public and congressional accountability and ensuring the public’s confidence in the Inspector General community, a sentiment shared more broadly by other Members of Congress. IGs are critical to rooting out waste, fraud, abuse, and misconduct within the Executive Branch bureaucracy, which you have publicly made clear you are also intent on doing.
Accordingly, we request that you provide Congress with a written communication that contains the “substantive rationale, including detailed and case-specific reasons” for each of the IG’s removed. Further, we request the name of each official that will serve in an acting capacity and that you work quickly to nominate qualified and non-partisan individuals to serve in these open positions.
-30-[1] Yamiche Alcindor, Vaughn Hillyard and Laura Strickler, Trump fires 18 inspectors general overnight in legally murky move, NBC News (Jan. 25, 2025) https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/white-house/trump-fires-multiple-inspectors-general-legally-murky-overnight-move-rcna189261.
[2] Id.; see Pub. L. 117-263.
[3] See S. 587, Securing Inspector General Independence Act of 2021, 117th Congress (introduced Mar. 4, 2021) https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/587/text.
[4] Pub. L. 117–263.
[5] Id.; see 5 U.S.C. § 6329b(b)(2)(A)(i)-(iv) (2) Requirements.-An agency may place an employee in leave under paragraph (1) only if the agency has-(A) made a determination with respect to the employee that the continued presence of the employee in the workplace during an investigation of the employee or while the employee is in a notice period, as applicable, may- (i) pose a threat to the employee or others; (ii) result in the destruction of evidence relevant to an investigation; (iii) result in loss of or damage to Government property; or (iv) otherwise jeopardize legitimate Government interests.
[6] Pub. L. 117–263.
[7] Pub. L. 117–263. -
MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Secures HHS Nominee Kennedy’s Support for Rural Health Care, Ag, Key Agency Issues
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a senior member and former chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, laid out his priorities and expectations for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) during a hearing to consider Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. to be HHS Secretary. Grassley discussed the importance of lowering prescription drug prices, holding pharmacy benefit managers accountable, bolstering rural health care, answering congressional oversight and more.
In response to Grassley, Kennedy said: “I agree with all those provisions, Senator. My approach to the administration of HHS will be radical transparency. If members of this committee or other members of Congress want information, the doors are open… If Congress asked me for information, you would get it immediately.”
Video and excerpts from Grassley follow.
[embedded content]
VIDEO
Oversight:
“A key responsibility of each member of Congress is oversight. Oversight allows us to hold bureaucrats accountable to the rule of law, and it helps keep faith with taxpayers. I expect HHS to provide timely and complete responses to congressional oversight.”
PBMs:
“I’ve been working to hold Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) accountable in order to lower prescription drug costs. I expect you to work with us to hold PBMs accountable and ask for your support for legislation that’s before Congress.”
Prescription Drug Pricing:
“Senator Durbin and I have been trying to get a bill passed that requires price disclosures on TV ads for prescription drugs. Knowing what something costs before buying it is just common sense. President Trump tried to do this by regulation in his first term and Vice President Vance cosponsored our bill last Congress. I ask you to support my bill, or if you can do it by regulation, do it by regulation.”
Rural Health Care:
The previous administration dragged its feet in opening up slots for the Rural Community Hospital demonstration program. It also ignored concerns from rural pharmacies when implementing changes to Medicare Part D and ignored rural needs when it comes to distributing physician residency slots. I expect you to prioritize rural Americans’ health care needs.”
Agriculture:
“In our meeting earlier this month, we talked at length about agriculture. You prefaced the conversation by saying you will not have jurisdiction over those issues. I expect you to leave agricultural practices regulations to the proper agencies, and for the most part that’s USDA and EPA.”
Dietary Guidelines:
“I’ve sent letters to the Secretaries of Agriculture and HHS requesting they provide information regarding conflicts of interest on the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee to increase transparency. I expect you to provide Congress with confidential financial disclosures from the Advisory Committee before finalizing the Dietary Guidelines, so we know that nobody has a vested interest in it.”
HHS Office of Refugee Resettlement Oversight (ORR):
“Last year, I expanded my investigation into HHS’s Office of Refugee Resettlement. I wrote to two dozen contractors and grantees whose job it is to place unaccompanied children with sponsors. In many cases, children have been placed with improperly vetted sponsors, placing them at risk of trafficking. The Biden administration’s HHS directed these taxpayer-funded contractors and grantees to not respond to my inquiry. This is obstruction by the executive branch.
“I expect you to produce to me the records and data I’ve requested and instruct HHS contractors to fully cooperate as well. I also expect HHS to not retaliate against any whistleblowers, including those who identify ORR’s failures in vetting sponsors of unaccompanied [children].”
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MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Cruz Seek to Boost Penalties for Repeat Criminal Illegal Immigrants
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) joined Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) in introducing the Stop Illegal Reentry Act. The legislation would impose a mandatory minimum sentence of five years for any person who illegally enters the country with multiple convictions, or a conviction for an aggravated felony. Rep. Stephanie Bice (R-Okla.) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.
“America is a sovereign nation, and our borders shouldn’t be abused. We need tougher penalties for individuals who re-enter our country illegally, especially those who do so with a criminal history. The Stop Illegal Reentry Act would help keep dangerous criminals off the streets and crack down on those who consistently disregard our nation’s immigration laws,” Grassley said.
“I first introduced the Stop Illegal Reentry Act, also known as Kate’s Law, a decade ago. It is named in honor of Kate Steinle, who was murdered by an illegal alien and convicted felon who had reentered our country. President Trump and the new Republican Congress are taking decisive action to restore order and address the chaos created by the Biden administration. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation and pass it expeditiously,” Cruz said.
Sens. Rick Scott (R-Fla.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) and Jim Justice (R-W.Va.) cosponsor the bill.
Find bill text HERE.
Background:
The Stop Illegal Reentry Act was inspired by Kate Steinle, a 32-year-old woman tragically shot and killed by an illegal immigrant with several felony convictions who had previously been deported five times. In 2015, as Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Grassley?convened a hearing?with testimonies from the Steinle family and others who lost loved ones to criminal illegal immigrants.
Earlier this month, the Senate passed the Grassley-backed Laken Riley Act to detain illegal immigrants found guilty of theft or burglary. Among the amendments adopted to the bill was Sarah’s Law, legislation Grassley co-led alongside Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) to hold accountable illegal immigrants who commit violent crimes.
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MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Cassidy, Heinrich Propose Permanent Scheduling Fix for Fentanyl-Related Substances
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today joined Sens. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) in introducing the Halt Lethal Trafficking (HALT) Fentanyl Act. The bipartisan bill would permanently classify fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I under the Controlled Substances Act.
Grassley will chair a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing to examine permanent fentanyl scheduling on Tuesday, February 4.
“Today, roughly 150 Americans will die from fentanyl poisoning. Cartels fuel this crisis by marketing their poison as legitimate prescription pills. They also avoid regulation by chemically altering the drugs to create powerful fentanyl knock-offs,” Grassley said. “Congress closed that loophole by temporarily classifying fentanyl related substances under Schedule 1. The HALT Fentanyl Act would make permanent fentanyl related substances’ Schedule 1 classification and ensure law enforcement has the tools they need to combat these deadly drugs.”
“The Biden administration’s open border was an invitation to drug cartels smuggling Chinese fentanyl into the U.S., fueling the U.S. overdose epidemic,” Cassidy said. “Law enforcement must have the tools necessary to combat this trend. We cannot let this Schedule I classification lapse.”
The HALT Fentanyl Act is cosponsored by Sens. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Maggie Hassan (D-Nev.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), John Kennedy (R-La.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H).
Background:
Fentanyl is a controlled substance, meaning U.S. statute prohibits its use. Illicit drug manufacturers and traffickers sidestep the law by producing fentanyl-related substances – drugs that are substantially similar to fentanyl, but chemically tweaked ever so slightly – to push potent drugs into the U.S. on a technicality.
To keep pace with rapidly evolving drugs and combat opioid-related deaths, in 2018, the Drug Enforcement Administration under the leadership of President Trump temporarily restricted all fentanyl-related substances. Congress has extended President Trump’s temporary scheduling order multiple times since. The HALT Fentanyl Act would permanently extend the 2018 Schedule I classification for fentanyl-related substances, which is set to expire on March 31, 2025.
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MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Johnson Make Public Whistleblower Records Revealing DOJ and FBI Plot to Pin Trump in Jack Smith Elector Case
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations Chairman Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) are releasing legally protected whistleblower disclosures that prove the genesis of the federal election interference case brought against President Trump began at the hands of a prolific anti-Trump FBI agent who acted outside of established protocol for opening cases.
Internal FBI emails and predicating documents provided to Grassley and released jointly by the two senators show Timothy Thibault, a former FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge (ASAC) who was forced to retire from the Bureau after Grassley exposed his public anti-Trump bias, authored the initial language for what ultimately became Jack Smith’s federal case against Trump regarding the 2020 presidential election. Records show Thibault essentially opened and approved his own investigation. The FBI titled the ensuing investigation “Arctic Frost.”
Records further reveal Richard Pilger, an official in the Justice Department (DOJ)’s Public Integrity Section, reviewed and approved the FBI’s Arctic Frost investigation, authorizing DOJ to move forward with a full field criminal and Grand Jury investigation that ultimately transformed into the Trump elector case. Grassley published a 2021 report that raised concerns regarding Pilger’s troubling record at DOJ.
Grassley in 2022 additionally questioned Thibault’s role at the FBI, writing, “I remain very concerned that political bias by a select group of Justice Department and FBI officials has infected the Justice Department’s and FBI’s usual process and procedure to open and pursue high-profile and politically charged investigations.” Grassley and Johnson in November called on Jack Smith to preserve all records related to Trump-targeted investigations.
The records released by Grassley and Johnson are linked below:
Grassley provided an overview of the records in his opening statement during the Senate Judiciary Committee’s hearing on Kash Patel’s nomination to be FBI Director. Excerpts from Grassley’s opening statement follow:
“In my hand are a series of FBI emails.
“The first is an email that Thibault sent to a subordinate agent on February 14, 2022.
“He said, ‘Here is draft opening language we discussed.’ The draft opening was attached, and it included material that would later become part of Jack Smith’s elector case.
“The second email is a February 24, 2022, email from Thibault to John Crabb, a prosecutor in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, saying, ‘I had a discussion with the case team and we believe there to be predication to include former President of the United States Donald J. Trump as a predicated subject.’ This FBI case would later be codenamed Arctic Frost.
“The third email is a February 24, 2022, email from Thibault to John Crabb noting that Attorney General and FBI Director approval will be sought to open the case.
“The fourth email is a February 25, 2022, email from Thibault’s subordinate agents saying they added Trump, and others, as a criminal subject to the case. Thibault responded ‘Perfect.’
“The fifth email is a March 22, 2022, email from Thibault emailing a version of an investigative opening for approval. This didn’t include President Trump as a criminal subject.
“The sixth email is an April 11, 2022, email from Thibault approving the opening of Arctic Frost.
“The seventh email is an April 13, 2022, email from an FBI agent to Thibault stating that the FBI Deputy Director approved its opening.
“The eighth email on that same date had Thibault emailing John Crabb that the elector case was approved. Crabb responded, ‘Thanks a lot. Let’s talk next week.’
“Between March 22 and April 13, other versions of the document opening the investigation existed, because a ninth email shows that the FBI General Counsel’s office made edits on March 25.
“Was Trump still removed as an investigative subject? If so, which Justice Department and FBI officials – other than Jack Smith – later added him for prosecution?
“I expect the production of all records on this matter to better understand the full fact pattern and whether other records exist.”
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