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Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI Canada: ASIRT investigates use of force during arrest

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The male was placed under arrest for public intoxication and secured in a police vehicle. The officers attempted to place the female in custody and a struggle occurred during which she was brought to the ground, suffering an injury that required hospitalization and surgery. One officer was also injured during the struggle and required treatment in hospital. The officer was released later the same day. ASIRT’s investigation will examine the use of force by the officers.

    As of September 2024, the EPS began providing body-worn cameras to officers in a phased rollout of the devices. The two officers involved in this incident were not yet equipped with body-worn cameras.

    The amount of information ASIRT releases in the first stages of an investigation varies depending on the available evidence. In some situations, ASIRT can provide significant early details due to the presence of body-worn camera video footage or other objective evidence. Other times, this may not be possible.

    If ASIRT is aware of outstanding witnesses then an early release of details may also risk compromising the independent memory of these witnesses. ASIRT may withhold some details when their release would threaten the integrity of the investigation, including in some situations where objective evidence is available.

    ASIRT’s mandate is to effectively, independently and objectively investigate incidents involving Alberta’s police that have resulted in serious injury or death to any person, as well as serious or sensitive allegations of police misconduct.

    This release is distributed by the Government of Alberta on behalf of the Alberta Serious Incident Response Team.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Manitoba Government Opening its Second Extended Hours Primary Care Clinic

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    October 23, 2024

    Manitoba Government Opening its Second Extended Hours Primary Care Clinic

    – – –
    Concordia Hospital’s New Extended Hours Primary Care Clinic Will Bring Care Closer to Home: Premier

    The Manitoba government is opening its second Extended Hours Primary Care Clinic on Oct. 23, which will be open on evenings, weekends and holidays so patients can access care when and where they need it, Premier Wab Kinew and Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara announced today.

    “We are bringing health care closer to home for northeast Winnipeggers.” said Kinew. “We were elected on the promise to provide convenient and accessible health care to families across Manitoba and these clinics are doing just that. If your kid scrapes their knee, your parents need a checkup or you need to renew your prescription, you can head down to Concordia’s new clinic.”

    Located in Room 127A at Concordia Hospital, the Extended Hours Primary Care Clinic offers family doctors and nurses who can treat patients for common ailments and support the ongoing management of chronic conditions.

    “Life can’t always adapt to a nine to five schedule and folks can’t always plan for their health-care needs,” Asagwara. “Hard-working Manitobans need convenient options for accessing local care. We had an incredible response to the first Extended Hours Primary Care Clinic at the Grace Hospital. More than 560 patients have been seen since the clinic opened just over a month ago. I’m so glad to be opening another Extended Hours Primary Care Clinic that will reach even more Manitobans.”

    “As a long-time resident of the area, it’s great news to hear we’re getting more local health care in northeast Winnipeg,” said Mave Dickson, northeast Winnipeg resident. “Our community will really benefit from accessible and convenient care closer to home.”

    Extended Hours Primary Care Clinics are an excellent way to supplement the care patients receive from their regular providers, offering options when their primary physician is unavailable, noted the premier.

    The clinic at Concordia Hospital is the second extended-hours clinic to open in Winnipeg. It will be open after hours from 5:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. on weekdays and 1:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. on weekends, and offer special hours during the holidays. Patients can register for same-day appointments online at https://myrightcare.ca and some walk-in spots will be available every day.

    For more information on where to seek care for common illnesses, injuries and mental health concerns, visit the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority’s Find Your Right Care page at  https://myrightcare.ca.

    – 30 –

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Beatty & Waters Lead Call for Stronger, More Accountable IFIs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (3rd District of Ohio)

    WASHINGTON, DC –  Today, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (D-OH), the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on National Security, Illicit Finance, and International Financial Institutions, and Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA), the top Democrat on the House Financial Services Committee announced plans this week to introduce a legislative package aimed at strengthening and reforming the International Financial Institutions. With the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group underway, this bill will help initiate reforms related to transparency, accountability, and institutional management. Specifically, this bill seeks to hold accountable the persons involved in the child sexual abuse scandal at the Bridge Academies project in Kenya, eliminate onerous loan conditions on developing or distressed countries, improve the debt forgiveness efforts of the IFIs, reduce reliance on Russian agriculture, combat corruption, and more.

    “Countries around the world continue to face significant social and economic challenges, from corruption and human rights abuses to debt sustainability crises and the disastrous effects of climate change,” said Congresswoman Beatty. “International Financial Institutions (IFIs) have done substantial work to promote financial stability, poverty reduction, and economic development, but they can do more to address systemic inequities and facilitate debt relief for distressed countries. I am proud to join Ranking Member Waters in introducing this package of meaningful reforms to increase transparency and accountability at the IFIs, strengthen support for low-income countries, and establish robust human rights protections.”

    “Over the years, our International Financial Institutions (IFI) have played a crucial role in establishing international order and addressing some of the most pressing economic challenges across the globe,” said Congresswoman Waters. “Despite this success, there have been troubling instances of child abuse, corruption, discrimination, and mismanagement that has hindered IFIs from reaching their full potential. I am eager to advance this bill to the President’s desk and look forward to working across the aisle on ways to strengthen the IMF, World Bank and other Development Banks so that they can create a more equitable and prosperous global economy.”

    Key provisions in the legislative package include:

    • Treasury Report on Accountability of the World Bank in Child Sexual Abuse – This provision would mandate that Treasury report to Congress on a quarterly basis on actions completed by the World Bank to compensate survivors of child sexual abuse, including with financial compensation and other relief, and to hold accountable those involved in the Bridge Academies project. The quarterly report to Congress must also include details of reforms adopted by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to prevent such failures in the future, as well as any steps taken by the IFC to impede Treasury from sharing any information around this report or the Bridge Academies case with Congress.
    • Anti-corruption measures in lending agreements – This provision states that the US press for the incorporation of anti-corruption measures in lending agreements at the IMF to build sustainable economies. Such measures must include ensuring that governments receiving loans make specific, measurable, and time-bound commitments as part of the loan agreements, with consequences for noncompliance. 
    • Protections for human rights, including LGBTQ+ persons – This provision would mandate that Treasury oppose the World Bank providing financial assistance to countries that engage in the human rights abuses as reported in the State Department’s Annual Country Reports on Human Rights Practices, including those of people who identify as LGBTQ+.
    • Loan Conditions – This provision states that the U.S. encourage the reduction or elimination of loan conditions that: limit spending on key social needs such as health, education, or climate action; weaken environmental, labor, public health regulations; or increase taxes or reduce subsidies in such a way that falls regressively on recipient country populations.
    • Reporting on Human Rights Abuses in For-Profit Healthcare – This provision mandates that Treasury report to Congress on a biannual basis on any known accusations made by community groups, CSOs, media, or other credible actors, of human rights abuses at MDB-funded, for-profit hospitals, included those funded by the IFC, and on actions completed by the MDB private sector arms to investigate and address or respond to these accusations. This provision also mandates that the U.S. advocate for the MDBs to examine their investments in healthcare to determine contribution to universal health coverage, the strengthening of national health systems, and the reduction of health inequities.
    • Resilience and Sustainability Trust (RST) Financing – This provision would amend the most recent appropriations law so that U.S. money could be used to finance loans to the RST in addition to the Poverty Reduction and Growth Trust. This is important because the Republicans cut the RST out from potentially receiving loans. 
    • Quota Increase – This provision would authorize an equiproportional increase in quota at the IMF consistent with the increase Treasury negotiated with the IMF Member countries. If Congress passes this provision the US would retain its veto power and percent of shareholding at the IMF and China’s share would not increase (even though it probably should based on its growth). At the IMF, Member countries’ maximum financial commitments to the Fund are called “quota.” Quota is broadly matched to a Member country’s relative position in the world’s economy, and voting shares at the IMF are in line with how much quota a country pays. This was in President Biden’s most recent budget request.

    Read the full bill here.
    Read the Section by Section here.

    For media inquiries, please contact Cassandra.Johnson@mail.house.gov.

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Biden & Harris “are lying to the American people” about the border crisis

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Chip Roy (R-TX)

    WASHINGTON, DC — On Wednesday, on Mornings with Maria, Representative Chip Roy (TX-21) demanded accountability from the Biden-Harris administration on the violent Tren de Aragua gang members being released into the country.

    Some key quotes from Representative Roy are below, and footage of the remarks can be found at the link here.

    ●“What Senator Cruz and I are really trying to do, is set the stage for what we need when we get control again of the Department of Homeland Security… We’ve got to go through and have a total clearing out. The American people deserve to know what this administration has done to the American people”

    ● “[Tren de Aragua] is all over the country, not just Aurora Colorado, but right here in Texas, where we’re getting hammered for this. So, Ted and I just want to know what the hell is going on? Ted and I just want to know how many of these freaking gangs are running all over the country? How many Americans have suffered and what are we going to do about it”

    ● “Our Democratic colleagues and Kamala Harris and the president, President Biden, are liars. They are lying to the American people this nonsense that, oh, the numbers are going down in the border crossings. Well, that completely Ignores the fact that they are purposely flying and moving people into our country, directly, releasing them into our country.”

    ● “My great great grandfather was a Texas Ranger. The people who settled Texas came in here and fought to try to give us a state that is free and secure and prosperous, and now this administration is endangering us and giving it away. We’ve got to stand up and fight them, and then we’ve got to support President Trump and secure the support.”

    ● “You’ve got radical progressive Democrats who want to destroy our country and are doing it in real time.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Submit Your 2025 Event Proposal to NASA

    Source: NASA

    NASA is making event plans for the 2025 calendar year, and we want to pencil you in! We are looking for the Midwest’s biggest and best community events with the broadest audiences to share NASA’s content and raise awareness of the agency’s most exciting aeronautics and space missions. NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland is leading the agency’s efforts to inspire the Midwest through engagement.

    Interested organizations can submit an event proposal to Glenn now through Nov. 18, 2024. Those selected will receive notification via email by Dec. 31, 2024. Through this collaboration, selected organizations will gain access to NASA exhibits and artifacts, hands-on demonstrations, STEM and internship opportunities for students and educators, NASA’s innovative technology, and experts that align to the topics and themes of their events.

    NASA is seeking:

    Organizations with direct community connections and an established event that reaches diverse audiences. 
    Events scheduled to occur between Jan. 1, 2025, and Dec. 31, 2025.
    Events that are mutually beneficial – where a NASA presence will enhance the event experience and raise awareness of NASA’s contributions to the advancement of aeronautics and space exploration.

    Selected organizations must agree to the following:

    Attend virtual planning meetings through an online business communication platform.
    Work with NASA Glenn’s Office of Communications when coordinating marketing, media communications, and logistics as described in the event proposal.
    Adhere to NASA Media Usage Guidelines for NASA media and logos.
    Provide final attendance data within two weeks of the conclusion of the event including the following:

    Number of attendees
    Estimated percentage of attendees from underrepresented audiences

    All proposals are to be submitted through the online proposal form. Proposals must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Eastern on Nov. 18, 2024. Only proposals submitted online will be accepted.
    Proposal Review Process
    Proposals will be evaluated and scored, and selections will be made using the following criteria:

    Estimated audience size.
    Percentage of audience from underserved and/or underrepresented communities as defined below.

    For purposes of this solicitation, underserved and/or underrepresented communities include Black, Latino, and Indigenous and Native American persons, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and other persons of color; members of religious minorities; lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) persons; persons with disabilities; persons who live in rural areas; and persons otherwise adversely affected by persistent poverty or inequality. (Source: NASA’s Mission Equity).

    Alignment of the program’s goals and objectives to those of this opportunity.
    Plans to maximize audience participation through marketing and media communications.
    Evidence of historical attendance at this or similar events hosted by the proposing organization.

    Proposing organizations will be notified of their selection status by Dec. 31, 2024.

    If you have questions about this opportunity or the online proposal form, contact NASA Glenn’s Office of Communications: GRC-Public-Engagement@mail.nasa.gov.

    Solicitation posted: Oct. 23, 2024Proposal form URL: https://osirris.grc.nasa.gov/request/request.cfmProposal submission deadline: Nov. 18, 2024Notification of event selection: Dec. 13, 2024 

    NASA’s Glenn Research Center designs, develops, and tests innovative technology to revolutionize air travel, advance space exploration, and improve life on Earth. As one of 10 NASA centers, and the only one in the Midwest, Glenn is a vital contributor to the region’s economy and culture. Many NASA missions have Glenn contributions, and every U.S. aircraft has NASA Glenn technology on board, making flight cleaner, safer, and quieter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China becomes largest online retail market for 12 years

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    A press conference on ensuring market supply and promoting consumption during the Spring Festival is held by the State Council Information Office in Beijing, capital of China, Jan. 24, 2025. (Xinhua/Pan Xu)

    China has become the world’s largest online retail market for 12 consecutive years, with online retail sales reaching 15.5 trillion yuan (about 2.16 trillion U.S. dollars) in 2024, the Ministry of Commerce said Friday.

    China’s wholesale and retail industries have made steady progress driven by various policies, providing strong support for expanding domestic demand and forging a new development paradigm, Vice Commerce Minister Sheng Qiuping told a press conference.

    Sheng said that the added value of the wholesale and retail industries reached 13.8 trillion yuan in 2024, accounting for 10.2 percent of the GDP and playing a vital role in smoothing circulation, creating jobs and reducing logistics costs.

    The ministry will work with relevant departments to further enrich supporting policies, implement detailed measures and accelerate the promotion of high-quality development of wholesale and retail industries, so as to further smooth the circulation of the national economy, Sheng added. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Ancient capital Xi’an ready for Spring Festival

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

    Ancient capital Xi’an ready for Spring Festival

    Updated: January 25, 2025 11:44 Xinhua
    An aerial drone photo shows people visiting the Datang Everbright City scenic area in Xi’an, northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, Jan. 22, 2025. As the Spring Festival approaches, Xi’an, one of the ancient capitals in Chinese history, is brimming with bright lights and splendid festive atmosphere. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo shows tourists enjoying the view of lanterns at the Tang Paradise in Xi’an, northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, Jan. 22, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo shows a giant lantern decoration at the Tang Paradise in Xi’an, northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, Jan. 22, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo shows a view of lanterns at the Tang Paradise in Xi’an, northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, Jan. 22, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    An aerial drone photo shows the night view of the Datang Everbright City scenic area, in Xi’an, northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, Jan. 22, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A drone photo shows visitors watching a performance at the Datang Everbright City scenic area in Xi’an, northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, Jan. 22, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Remarks by S for S at media session

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Remarks by S for S at media session
    Remarks by S for S at media session
    ***********************************

         Following are the remarks by the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-Leung, at a media session after attending a radio programme this morning (January 25):Reporter: Could you please recap in English the rescue work that you have mentioned on the radio, that the 29 (year-old) teenager has been rescued, and when will he be back in Hong Kong? Secondly, can you also recap in English, the rapid test kit for the space oil? You mentioned there are two scenarios when checking, that the police officers may have to be attentive of. Can you say in English how do they have to be aware of during checking? Secretary for Security: First of all, regarding the 29 years old Hong Kong victim, who was earlier being lured to a Southeast Asian country to work illegally, and had been rescued to Thailand. Actually, he had been moved to Bangkok yesterday, and our task force member was able to see him and talk with him. With the assistance from Thai authorities and the Chinese Embassy in Thailand, and also with the help of the Thai Consulate in Hong Kong, we are able to arrange him to be back to Hong Kong on coming Monday. We are delighted that he can see his family members before the Chinese New Year and have a family reunion.      Regarding the rapid test kits on space oil drug, since the promulgation last Saturday, we have two positive cases. In the course of doing the test, our officers are being trained to handle different situations. If someone is really innocent, our officers have to tactfully handle how to make a request. We understand that, if someone is really in possession of space oil drug, and they have certain reactions, our officers are being trained to handle different scenarios. Thank you.Reporter: Will the Government also work with the Myanmar and Cambodian governments? And what kind of challenges are there?Secretary for Security: In fact, I have been seeing the Myanmar Consulate and also the Cambodian Consulate in Hong Kong to discuss on how to have the safe return of our Hong Kong people. All of us, including the two Consulates-General that I mentioned, and also the Thai authorities, are all committed to paying our utmost efforts to have the safe return of our Hong Kong residents.(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the remarks)

     
    Ends/Saturday, January 25, 2025Issued at HKT 12:16

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Baldwin Releases Statement on Opposing Confirmation of Pete Hegseth for DOD Secretary

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    “When it comes to keeping Wisconsin families and servicemembers safe, Pete Hegseth is simply not up to the job”

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) released the following statement after voting ‘no’ to confirm Pete Hegseth as Secretary of the Department of Defense:

    “I’ve said from day one that I would give all of President Trump’s nominees a fair shake and carefully consider if they will help or hurt Wisconsinites – and this was especially true for who leads our military. Running the Department of Defense and keeping our troops and the country safe is one of the most important jobs in the country. That leader must have the experience and character to do it, or we all pay the price. Given Pete Hegseth’s history of running even a small organization into the ground, credible allegations of sexual assault, and degrading statements about women in service, he has proven that he is just not fit to lead the three million men and women in service and protect our country. When it comes to keeping Wisconsin families and servicemembers safe, Pete Hegseth is simply not up to the job.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Schiff Joint Statement on President Trump Visit to Southern California

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff (both D-Calif.) issued the following statement after President Trump toured the devastation of the fires in Southern California:

    “We’re grateful to President Trump for coming to California amidst the ongoing response to these historic fires. It’s difficult to comprehend the scale of the devastation — entire neighborhoods gone — until you see it firsthand. While his continued comments threatening conditions on federal aid and to eliminate FEMA are deeply concerning, we remain hopeful this visit moves the President and Congress closer to focus on relief over partisanship.

    “Let us be clear — leveraging disaster aid as a bargaining chip runs in stark contrast to how both Democrats and Republicans have responded to natural disasters for decades. Natural disasters don’t discriminate between blue states or red states. And Americans should be able to count on our support to recover and rebuild in the wake of these tragedies, no matter what state they call home. We will continue to work with our colleagues to ensure that’s the case in California.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: President Meloni’s statement on attack in Türkiye

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    23 Ottobre 2024

    Both personally and on behalf of the Government, the President of the Council of Ministers, Giorgia Meloni, extends deep condolences and heartfelt sympathy to the Turkish authorities for the despicable attack on the headquarters of Turkish Aerospace Industries, which has resulted in numerous casualties.

    Firmly condemning all forms of terrorism, President Meloni expresses her deepest condolences to the families of the victims and those who were injured. Her thoughts go out to them.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General – on terrorist attack on Turkish Aerospace Industries’ facilities in Ankara

    Source: United Nations – English

    he Secretary-General strongly condemns the terrorist attack on Turkish Aerospace Industries’ facilities in Ankara.  He expresses his deepest condolences to the victims and their families and wishes a speedy and full recovery to those injured.  The United Nations stands in solidarity with the people and Government of the Republic of Türkiye.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell Statement on the Passing of Senator Johnnie Turner

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell

    LOUISVILLE, KY – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) issued the following statement today regarding the passing of Kentucky State Senator Johnnie Turner:

    “Elaine and I were saddened to hear of the passing of our friend, Senator Johnnie Turner. Throughout his service to Kentucky and the nation – in the U.S. Army, the State House, and the State Senate, representing Eastern Kentucky’s communities – Johnnie lived his life for others. In recent years, I remember crossing paths with Johnnie to survey the damage left by the devastating floods that hit Eastern Kentucky. Johnnie was on the scene, ankle-deep in mud, his equipment from home in tow, ready to help folks in Letcher County. That’s just who he was: a good man who loved the mountains and its people. We send our condolences to the entire Turner family, Johnnie’s colleagues in the Senate, and all those touched by his service.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Deputy Prime Minister to attend G7 and G20 Finance Ministers’ Meetings and Annual Meetings of the IMF and World Bank

    Source: Government of Canada News

    News release

    October 23, 2024 – Ottawa, Canada – Department of Finance Canada

    This week, from October 23 to 25, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, will attend the Fall Meetings of G7 and G20 Finance Ministers and the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank in Washington D.C.

    At these meetings, the Deputy Prime Minister will advance work with Canada’s allies to strengthen supply chains with trusted trading partners to create jobs and economic growth that is shared by all Canadians.

    While in Washington, the Deputy Prime Minister will discuss with allies further efforts to support Ukraine through to victory and into reconstruction. Canada was an early champion of G7 efforts to make full use of frozen Russian sovereign assets, and provided a CA$5 billion (US$3.7 billion) contribution to the G7’s CA$68 billion (US$50 billion) Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration Loans for Ukraine. 

    The Deputy Prime Minister will further Canada’s work to build resilient economies and reduce economic inequalities—as demonstrated by the government’s historic investments in early learning and child care, national dental care coverage, and free contraception and diabetes medication. The Deputy Prime Minister will also advance Canada’s work on international tax cooperation.

    An itinerary of events will be released in advance of the meetings.

    Quotes

    “Canada is leading the G7 in cutting interest rates four times this year and reducing inflation to target for all of this year. The wages of Canadian workers have outpaced inflation for 20 months. And, the IMF expects Canada’s economic growth to be the best in the G7 next year. Together, Canada and our allies are working to ensure recent economic gains are not unwound, but rather built upon, so we can create more good-paying jobs, help people get ahead, and build a fairer future for every generation.”

    – The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance

    Quick facts

    • Canada is leading the G7 in:

      • Cutting interest rates; the first to cut rates twice, the first to cut rates a third time, and now the first to cut rates a fourth time;
      • Economic growth expectations, with the IMF predicting that Canada’s GDP will be the fastest growing in 2025;
      • Maintaining the lowest net debt-to-GDP ratio—by a significant margin—in the G7; and,
      • Securing AAA credit ratings from at least two of the world’s three major credit rating agencies, along with only Germany.

    • Inflation has been within the target range of 1 per cent to 3 per cent for all of 2024, with inflation in Canada falling to 1.6 per cent in September—a 43 month low. 

    • Wages in Canada have outpaced inflation for 20 months in a row, which means Canadian workers today on average have larger pay cheques, even accounting for inflation, than they did before the pandemic.

    • The Annual Meetings of the IMF and World Bank, which generally take place in October, have customarily been held in Washington for two consecutive years and in another member country in the third year.

    Contacts

    Media may contact:

    Katherine Cuplinskas
    Deputy Director of Communications
    Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance
    Katherine.Cuplinskas@fin.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Department of Finance Canada
    mediare@fin.gc.ca
    613-369-4000

    General enquiries

    Phone: 1-833-712-2292
    TTY: 613-369-3230
    E-mail: financepublic-financepublique@fin.gc.ca

    Stay Connected

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Change of Command Ceremony in Central Ontario District 

    Source: Government of Canada News

    On October 23, 2024, the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) held a Change of Command Ceremony in the Central Ontario District in the Ontario Region. This occasion marked the change in command from the outgoing District Director Scott Tempest to the incoming District Director Sherri Rousell.

    October 23, 2024 – Toronto, Ontario – Correctional Service Canada

    On October 23, 2024, the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) held a Change of Command Ceremony in the Central Ontario District in the Ontario Region. This occasion marked the change in command from the outgoing District Director Scott Tempest to the incoming District Director Sherri Rousell.

    The ceremony reinforces the responsibility of leadership in the role of District Director. It represents the symbolic passing of responsibility, authority, and accountability from one correctional leader to another.

    This ceremony is an important tradition for CSC. It reaffirms the incoming leader’s pledge to support CSC’s mission and contribute to the safety and security of the public, employees, and offenders.

    CSC is proud of the dedicated staff members in the Central Ontario District who work tirelessly every day to make a difference in the lives of offenders. Their professionalism and commitment contributes to public safety for Canadians.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CONGRESSMAN BOYLE STATEMENT ON $39 MILLION FUNDING AWARD TO REPLACE AGING CAST IRON GAS PIPES IN PHILADELPHIA

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brendan Boyle (13th District of Pennsylvania)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02) released the statement below following Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW) announcement of a $39.9 million dollar funding award from the U.S. Department of Transportation. The funding will support the replacement of more than 20 miles of aging cast iron gas delivery pipes within the city of Philadelphia.

    “I am proud to help deliver this funding for my district. Working with Sen Casey and others, we were able to pass the historic Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Now, funding from this law is making a significant improvement to the aging infrastructure of Philadelphia and the region beyond. The replacement of these gas pipes will ensure a more secure transportation of hazardous materials that are essential to our daily lives. In addition to creating hundreds of jobs, this project will be the first of many in the future to bring Philadelphia’s aging infrastructure into the 21st century.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: BOYLE, CASEY, FETTERMAN, EVANS, SCANLON AND PARKER ANNOUNCE $27.5 MILLION INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING FOR PHILADELPHIA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brendan Boyle (13th District of Pennsylvania)

    Funding will be used to upgrade terminals, including modernizing HVAC and electrical systems. With this funding, PHL has received more than $347 million in federal funding since the start of 2021

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (D-PA-02), along with U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and John Fetterman (D-PA), U.S. Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA-5), Congressman Dwight Evans (D-PA-3), and Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker announced that Philadelphia International Airport is receiving $27,500,000 in new federal infrastructure funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). This funding comes from the Airport Terminal Program (ATP), which was created by the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) to revitalize the Nation’s aging airports. 

    “The IIJA funding award, which I supported, is more than just an investment in infrastructure”, said Congressman Boyle. “It strengthens one of our region’s key economic drivers. By improving the efficiency of the internal infrastructures of the airport facility, we create smoother operations, draw more visitors, and deliver a top-tier experience for global travelers. This funding reaffirms my dedication to keeping Philadelphia International Airport a vital hub, fueling growth and prosperity for our community and beyond.”

    “Philadelphia International Airport serves as a vital transportation and economic gateway to the rest of the Commonwealth and the world,” said Senator Casey. “This investment from the infrastructure law will help modernize the airport by upgrading HVAC and electrical systems in Terminals D and E. I will always fight for investments that boost Southeastern Pennsylvania’s economy and keep the region moving.”

    “It’s investments like this that help keep Philadelphia a world-class city with world-class infrastructure. This $27.5 million for terminal energy upgrades guarantees that the commonwealth’s largest airport stays efficient, resilient, and ready for the future. That’s how we keep Philly competitive and connected,” said Senator Fetterman.

    “I’m pleased to see another $27.5 million in federal funding that I voted for coming to Philadelphia! The airport has also received other federal funding for improvements through the Biden-Harris administration’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and this will all benefit people traveling from and to our area, along with our local economy,” said Congressman Evans.

    “I’m proud to see PHL earning the competitive grants we authorized in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, bringing good jobs to our region as PHL upgrades its terminals.” said Congresswoman Scanlon. “Modernizing our region’s airport infrastructure will improve air travel for passengers and position our local economy for success in an increasingly competitive global economy.”

    “It is tremendous news that our Philadelphia International Airport will be receiving $27.5 million from the Federal Aviation Administration to help with important HVAC and energy efficiency projects,” said Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “Every single federal grant or funding allocation coming into Philadelphia is because of the hard work of all our federal partners, including Senator Casey and every member of our delegation, along with the support of the Biden-Harris administration.  It’s another step forward for Philadelphia, and we are profoundly grateful.”

    The funding for Philadelphia International Airport will support improvements to the existing upper levels of portions of Terminals D & E that have reached the end of their useful lives, including HVAC and electrical efficiency upgrades and improvements. PHL has received a total of $374,545,577 in federal investments since the start of 2021. 
    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Clarenville — Clarenville RCMP investigates fatal moose vehicle collision on TCH near Goobies

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    A 64-year-old man is deceased following a moose-vehicle collision that occurred on the Trans-Canada Highway (TCH) near Goobies on the evening of October 22, 2024.

    Shortly after 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Clarenville RCMP received the report of the collision involving a moose and two vehicles. A vehicle collided with a moose, crossed into the oncoming lane of travel and collided with another vehicle. The driver and lone occupant of the vehicle that collided with the moose died at the scene. The driver and lone occupant of the second vehicle was transported to Dr. G.B. Cross Memorial Hospital in Clarenville with non-life-threatening injuries.

    The TCH was impassable for a number of hours. A Collision Reconstructionist with RCMP Traffic Services attended the scene and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner is engaged.

    The investigation is continuing.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Georgia Woman Sentenced for Possessing Methamphetamine in Trunk of Car when Traveling Through Acadiana Area

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LAFAYETTE, La. – United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Sarah Rose Cea, 34, of Lawrenceville, Georgia, has been sentenced by United States District Judge David C. Joseph to 180 months (15 years) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, on drug trafficking charges. 

    On June 8, 2023, Cea was stopped while traveling on Interstate 10 near Lafayette, Louisiana by troopers with the Louisiana State Police. Cea was the sole occupant of the vehicle at the time of the traffic stop.  A Louisiana State Police K-9 conducted an open air sniff of the vehicle and alerted to the presence of narcotics in Cea’s vehicle. A search of the vehicle was conducted, and law enforcement agents located approximately 20 kilograms of methamphetamine in the trunk of her vehicle. The seized substance was sent to the criminalistics laboratory for testing, and it was confirmed to be approximately 19,943 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride with a substance purity of 100%. 

    At the guilty plea hearing on July 31, 2024, Cea admitted to possessing the methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it to another individual. 

    The case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and Louisiana State Police and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John W. Nickel.

    # # #

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Cortez Man Pleads Guilty To Making Threats Against Election Official

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DENVER – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Teak Ty Brockbank, 45, of Cortez, pleaded guilty today to one count of transmitting interstate threats.

    According to the plea agreement, Brockbank made a series of online threats toward elections officials in Colorado and Arizona, a Colorado state judge, and federal law enforcement agents between September 2021 and August 2022. On September 21, 2021, for example, Brockbank posted on a social media account: “I live in Communist Colorado and this Crazed liberal [referring to Election Official-1] and many others in Communist Colorado needs to- No has to Hang she has to Hang by the neck till she is Dead Dead Dead. There will be accountability for these peoples actions in Communist Colorado and it won’t be judges and it won’t be weakmided cops that bring it!!! It will be Me it will be You it Will be every day people that understand that there life does not matter anymore with the future our country has laid out before it.”

    In the plea agreement, Brockbank also admitted that, during that time, he used that account, as well as another social media account to post messages threatening Colorado and Arizona election officials. Brockbank admitted to other threats as well. On August 4, 2022, for example, Brockbank posted a message referring to separate election officials in Arizona and Colorado and then stated: “Once those people start getting put to death then the rest will melt like snowflakes and turn on each other. . . . This is the only way. So those of us that have the stomach for what has to be done should prepare our minds for what we all [a]re going to do!!!!!! It is time.”

    Brockbank also posted a message threatening a Colorado state judge on Oct. 2, 2021: “I could pick up my rifle and I could go put a bullet in this Mans head and send him to explain himself to our Creator right now. I would be Justified!!! Not only justified but obligated by those in my family who fought and died for the freedom in this country. . . . What can I do other than kill this man my self?”

    Finally, Brockbank allegedly threatened federal law enforcement on July 20, 2022, posting: “ATF CIA FBI show up to my house I am shooting them peace’s of shit first No Warning!! Then I will call the sheriff!!! With everything that these piece of shit agencies have done I am completely justified to just start dropping them as soon as they step on my property! justified.”

    United States District Judge S. Kato Crews presided over the change of plea hearing. The FBI Denver Field Office investigated the case. Trial Attorney Jonathan E. Jacobson of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section and Assistant United States Attorney Cyrus Y. Chung for the District of Colorado handled the prosecution.

    Sentencing will be held on February 3, 2025.

    This case is part of the Justice Department’s Election Threats Task Force. Announced by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland and launched by Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco in June 2021, the task force has led the Department’s efforts to address threats of violence against election workers, and to ensure that all election workers — whether elected, appointed, or volunteer — are able to do their jobs free from threats and intimidation. The task force engages with the election community and state and local law enforcement to assess allegations and reports of threats against election workers, and has investigated and prosecuted these matters where appropriate, in partnership with FBI Field Offices and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout the country. A year after its formation, the task force is continuing this work and supporting the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and FBI Field Offices nationwide as they carry on the critical work that the Task Force has begun.

    Under the leadership of Deputy Attorney General Monaco, the Task Force is led by the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section and includes several other entities within the Justice Department, including the Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section of the Criminal Division, the Civil Rights Division, the National Security Division, and the FBI, as well as key interagency partners, such as the Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. For more information regarding the Justice Department’s efforts to combat threats against election workers, read the Deputy Attorney General’s memo.

    To report suspected threats or violent acts, contact your local FBI office and request to speak with the Election Crimes Coordinator. Contact information for every FBI field office may be found here: www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/. You may also contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324) or file an online complaint at www.tips.fbi.gov. Complaints submitted will be reviewed by the task force and referred for investigation or response accordingly. If someone is in imminent danger or risk of harm, contact 911 or your local police immediately.

    Case Number: 24-cr-00291-SKC

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Member of Large-Scale Drug Trafficking Organization Sentenced to 16 Years in Prison for Distributing Meth, PCP, Fentanyl, and Other Narcotics

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Diane Gillard, 41, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge John M. Gallagher to 192 months in prison, 10 years of supervised release, and $2,100 in restitution for drug trafficking and gun offenses.

    On July 18, 2023, a grand jury in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania returned a 54-count superseding indictment charging Gillard, brother Phillip Gillard, and seven other codefendants with their participation in a large-scale drug trafficking organization operating in the Port Richmond section of Philadelphia, in the immediate vicinity of the Memphis Street Academy, a charter school located at 2950 Memphis Street.

    In November 2023, Diane Gillard pleaded guilty to all charges in the superseding indictment.

    Those charges arose from the FBI’s two-year investigation into the Gillard drug trafficking organization, which supplied other drug traffickers with wholesale quantities of methamphetamine, phencyclidine (“PCP”), fentanyl, and other narcotics.

    Throughout the course of the investigation, law enforcement agents conducted surveillance and undercover sting operations, during which drugs were purchased from the defendants. The group maintained three separate properties in connection with their drug trafficking organization, all of which were less than 1,000 feet away from the Memphis Street Academy.

    In total, the FBI confiscated over 20 pounds of pure methamphetamine, three gallons of PCP, one and a half kilograms of cocaine, 900 grams of crack cocaine, 400 grams of fentanyl, and 11 firearms.

    Codefendants Sharif Jackson, Amin Whitehead, Cesar Maldonado, Terrence Maxwell, Raphael Sanchez, Melvin Dreher, and Arron Preno previously pleaded guilty and received prison sentences in this case. Jackson was sentenced to 180 months in prison, Whitehead to 138 months, Maldonado to 96 months, Maxwell to 93 months, Sanchez to 90 months, Dreher to 60 months, and Preno to six months. Phillip Gillard, who was convicted at trial in February, is scheduled to be sentenced in December.

    “Diane Gillard was a central participant in the Gillard Street Gang’s trafficking, caught red-handed selling large amounts of drugs on multiple occasions,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “This is a group that helped flood Philly’s streets with meth, PCP, fentanyl, and more. My office and our partners will continue to target those fueling our city’s drug epidemic and callously profiting from people’s pain and addiction.”

    “Drugs like fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine devastate communities across our nation and have no place in our city,” said Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Philadelphia. “Today’s sentence is a culmination of a years-long investigation, and the tireless dedication of the FBI and our law enforcement partners in pursuit of those who bring these harmful drugs into our communities.”

    “The interagency cooperation on this case has been truly outstanding,” said Edward V. Owens, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Philadelphia. “I commend the special agents and prosecutors who worked to ensure that these criminals and the dangerous drugs that they were trafficking will no longer threaten the American public.”

    The case was investigated by the FBI, Philadelphia Police Department, and Homeland Security Investigations, with extraordinary cooperation from the Memphis Street Academy, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Everett Witherell and Robert W. Schopf.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney Names District Election Officer to Oversee the Handling of Complaints of Election Fraud and Voting Rights Abuses in the November 2024 General Election

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. — U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced today that Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin C. Khasigian will serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Eastern District of California in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5 general election. The DEO is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of Election Day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington, DC.

    The 34 counties in the Eastern District are: Alpine, Amador, Butte, Calaveras, Colusa, El Dorado, Fresno, Glenn, Inyo, Kern, Kings, Lassen, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Modoc, Mono, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Shasta, Sierra, Siskiyou, Solano, Stanislaus, Sutter, Tehama, Trinity, Tulare, Tuolumne, Yolo, and Yuba.

    “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election,” said U.S. Attorney Talbert. “Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”

    The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

    Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).

    In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA/DEO Khasigian will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. He can be reached by the public at the following telephone number: 916-554-2723.

    U.S. Attorney Talbert stated, “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”

    In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on Election Day. The local FBI field office can be reached by phone at 916-746-7000.

    Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC, by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.

    Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Bern Man Pleads Guilty for Posing as Landlord to Fraudulently Collect Nearly $150,000 in COVID-19 Rental Assistance

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RALEIGH, N.C. – New Bern resident Anthony Lynch, 35, pled guilty to charges that he defrauded a program designed to help struggling North Carolina residents stay in their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic.

    “Mr. Lynch exploited a taxpayer-funded program meant to support struggling families and individuals trying to stay in their homes during an unprecedented global pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Michael Easley. “Lynch sought nearly $400,000 in emergency federal funds in 25 separate relief applications. His ill-gotten profits have now landed him a federal conviction.”

    According to court documents and other information presented in court, Lynch pled guilty to one count of mail fraud for falsely claiming to be the landlord of properties in Craven, Pamlico and Onslow Counties with renters who were unable to pay rent due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  Lynch submitted 25 applications to the North Carolina Housing Opportunities and Prevention of Evictions Program (NC HOPE), which was established during the pandemic to provide emergency rental assistance to tenants who struggled to pay rent and therefore faced eviction due to financial difficulties caused by the pandemic.

    Despite having no ownership or management responsibilities for any of the properties listed in the 25 applications he submitted, Lynch requested nearly $400,000 in emergency federal funding.  His fraudulent applications resulted in 11 checks, totaling $144,000 being mailed to Lynch at his home in New Bern.  He faces up to 27 months in prison, if convicted.     

    The NC HOPE Program administered federal COVID-19 relief funds and provided emergency rental assistance to North Carolina renters who faced eviction and homelessness during the pandemic.  The program allowed renters to submit an online application to apply for rental assistance.  If approved, the program paid the tenant’s rent, in checks sent directly to the landlord, for up to 15 months of overdue or future rent payments.

    Michael F. Easley, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after the guilty plea was accepted by Chief United States District Judge Richard E. Myers.  The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General; the United States Department of Treasury, Office of Inspector General; and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation investigated the case and it is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Haughton.

    Related court documents and information are located on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:24-cr-00061.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Martin City man charged with producing, distributing child pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MISSOULA — A Martin City man accused of producing and distributing images of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct appeared on Oct. 22 for arraignment on charges, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today.

    The defendant, Raymond Owen Bonner, Jr., 39, pleaded not guilty to an indictment charging him with production of child pornography and distribution of child pornography. If convicted, Bonner faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years to 30 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and not less than five years to life of supervised release on the production charge, and a mandatory minimum of five years to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and not less than five years to life of supervised release on the distribution charge.

    U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. Bonner was detained pending further proceedings.

    The indictment alleges that between about June 2024 and Sept. 5, 2024 in Martin City, in Flathead County, Bonner coerced a minor, identified as Jane Doe, to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual images and that he distributed visual images of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct using a computer.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the Case. The FBI and Flathead County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation.

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

    Charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    PACER case reference. 24-57.

    The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html. To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl.

    XXX

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Colleagues Slam McDonald’s for Squeezing Customers with Excessive Price Increases

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    October 23, 2024
    “Corporate profits must not come at the expense of people’s ability to put food on the table.”
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., said today he has joined with Senators Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Bob Casey, D-Pa. to press McDonald’s for more information on the company’s pricing decisions as fast food prices continue to increase, outpacing inflation and squeezing customers. 
    “While McDonald’s is not the only fast food restaurant that has increased prices significantly in recent years, its dominant market position as the largest fast food chain in the United States has an outsize impact on American consumers. While working families are trying to make ends meet, McDonald’s and its corporate counterparts have continued to grow their profits,” the senators wrote to McDonald’s President and Chief Executive Officer Chris Kempczinski .
    Earlier this year, McDonald’s USA President Joe Erlinger tried to blame the company’s menu price increases on inflationary pressures and input costs, but the data tells another story. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, fast food prices have consistently outpaced inflation, and since 2020, overall inflation has increased by 20 percent, while McDonald’s has increased its menu prices for several items substantially more. McDonald’s net annual income rose by over 79 percent – nearly $8.5 billion, from 2020 to 2023.
    While McDonald’s raised prices, the company also spent nearly $4 billion on stock buybacks in 2022 and $3 billion in 2023. The company also benefits from a tax loophole that favors buybacks. This prioritizes Wall Street shareholders over investments in McDonald’s own business and workers. 
    “Corporate profits must not come at the expense of people’s ability to put food on the table,” concluded the senators. “As we seek to investigate and understand the increased consumer costs in the economy, we hope McDonald’s will help us to understand why its prices have risen so high.”
    The text of the letter is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: October 22nd, 2024 Heinrich Highlights New Ballistics Testing Machine in Las Cruces to Help Tackle Gun Violence & Solve Violent Crime in Southern New Mexico

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    LAS CRUCES, N.M. — Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, highlighted recent funding he’s secured for law enforcement to tackle gun violence, solve crimes, and hold criminals accountable in Southern New Mexico, including a new ballistics testing machine, known as a National Integrated Ballistics Information Network (NIBIN) machine, for Las Cruces.
    Currently, there are only four NIBIN machines in New Mexico: two in Albuquerque, one in Santa Fe, and one on loan in Las Cruces, which the Las Cruces Police Department demonstrated today. Over $1 million Heinrich secured through the Appropriations process will add four new NIBIN machines for Las Cruces, Farmington, Gallup, and Roswell.
    CAPTION: Heinrich visits with the Las Cruces Police Department to discuss funding he’s secured for a new NIBIN machine in Las Cruces, October 22, 2024.
    “A permanent NIBIN machine in Las Cruces will make a real difference in helping to solve violent crime in the region, allowing law enforcement to trace firearms used in crimes and hold criminals accountable, all while saving officers valuable time and resources,” said Heinrich. “When it comes to crime, my focus is on preventing what we can and solving it when we can’t. These machines will help us do both – solving the crimes that happen before those same criminals can do more harm. I will continue to deliver investments to support and better equip our law enforcement with the tools needed to keep New Mexicans safe.”
    NIBIN machines are vital to assisting law enforcement in identifying and prosecuting crimes involving firearms through ballistic intelligence.  
    The intelligence gathered by these NIBIN machines will go to the New Mexico Attorney General’s Crime Gun Intelligence Center, where dedicated and trained analysts will use the information to trace and network firearms used in crimes across the state. The Center will then be able to feed that information back to law enforcement agencies to improve identification of suspects and support successful prosecutions. In addition to securing funding for the NIBIN machines, Heinrich secured language in the 2024 Appropriations Bill directing the expanded use of NIBIN for state and local agencies in the Southwest Border region.     
    Heinrich-secured funding for the Las Cruces Police Department
    Heinrich secured $194,000 in the 2024 Appropriations Bills for the Las Cruces Police Department to purchase equipment to safely analyze fentanyl and other illicit narcotics and create a community engagement effort to educate youth on the dangers of illicit drugs. 
    In the 2o23 Appropriations Bills, Heinrich secured $1,750,000 for the Las Cruces Police Department’s Regional Critical Response Team to purchase emergency response equipment to keep New Mexicans safe. The legislation also included $450,000 Heinrich secured for the Las Cruces Police Department to purchase camera trailers, drones, automatic license plate readers, and auto-activated car and body cameras to improve public safety and accountability. 
    For a list of Heinrich’s actions to support law enforcement and first responders across New Mexico, click here. 
    Heinrich’s longtime leadership to tackle gun violence:     
    A gun owner and father, Heinrich has long worked to advance and pass bipartisan policies that save lives, protect public safety, and reduce gun violence. 
    The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA) was the first significant federal gun safety legislation to become law in 30 years. During the bill negotiations, Heinrich specifically worked with U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) to increase criminal penalties for straw purchases and stop illegal gun trafficking out of our country.  
    Heinrich-led gun trafficking and straw purchase provisions:
    Heinrich-led provisions in the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act increased criminal penalties for straw purchasers and made it a crime, for the first time ever, to traffic firearms out of the United States. Straw purchasers are people who buy guns for those who cannot buy them directly themselves due to their age, felony criminal convictions, or other limitations. By increasing penalties for straw purchasing, Heinrich’s provision is helping to keep guns out of the hands of criminals and those who would use them against our communities. By making it illegal to traffic firearms out of the country, Heinrich’s provision gave law enforcement the tools needed to prosecute and disrupt the flow of firearms to Mexico and the Northern Triangle, fueling the violence that has driven so many to flee their home countries.  
    To date, the Department of Justice has charged more than 600 defendants using BSCA’s gun trafficking and straw purchasing laws, removing hundreds of firearms off the streets in the process. These cases are significant, often preventing and prosecuting highly dangerous activity, such as crimes linked to organized trafficking rings and transnational criminal organizations.  
    For example, in March 2024, the Justice Department charged several defendants with trafficking and straw purchasing over 100 firearms, including many military-grade weapons, that were allegedly intended to be smuggled to a Mexican drug cartel. In April, a defendant was sentenced to 276 months in prison for firearms trafficking and straw purchasing, as well as distribution of fentanyl, where the evidence showed that two of the trafficked firearms had been used in gang-related shootings. Late last year, a defendant was sentenced to two years in prison for running an illegal gun trafficking enterprise, repeatedly taking money to lie on firearm purchase forms and obtain weapons for convicted felons. 
    In New Mexico, the Office of the United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico has charged 11 defendants with BSCA violations.  
    In June, Heinrich brought his Banning Unlawful Machinegun Parts (BUMP) Act, bipartisan legislation to ban bump stocks, to the Senate floor through a unanimous consent (UC) request. The effort directly followed a recent Supreme Court ruling to overturn a Trump-era ban on bump stocks, devices designed to indiscriminately kill the highest number of people in the shortest amount of time. U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), objected to Heinrich’s UC request, blocking passage of the legislation. Since the Supreme Court ruling, over 20 senators have signed onto Heinrich’s BUMP Act, bringing support up to over a quarter of the Senate.  
    Heinrich, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), and former Senator Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.) initially introduced the BUMP Act in the 115th Congress, following the October 1, 2017, mass shooting in which a bump stock was used to fire more than 1,000 bullets into a crowd in just 10 minutes, killing 60 people. U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) also cosponsored that legislation.  
    Last November, Heinrich introduced the Gas-Operated Semi-Automatic Firearms Exclusion (GOSAFE) Act, legislation to protect communities from gun violence, while safeguarding Americans’ constitutional right to own a firearm for legitimate self-defense, hunting, and sporting purposes. In addition to regulating the sale, transfer, and manufacture of gas-operated semi-automatic weapons, the GOSAFE Act would prevent unlawful modifications of permissible firearms, including bump stocks. Earlier this summer, Heinrich announced that his GOSAFE Act has been introduced in the House by U.S. Representative Lucy McBath (D-Ga.).       
    In July 2023, Heinrich cosponsored the bicameral Ghost Guns and Untraceable Firearms Act, led by Blumenthal, to require online and other sellers of gun-making kits to comply with federal firearm safety regulations.      
    In 2017, Heinrich cosponsored the bipartisan Fix NICS Act, which now requires federal and state authorities to produce background check implementation plans and holds federal agencies accountable for reporting relevant criminal records to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). He also led the successful call to repeal the Dickey Amendment, which had previously prevented the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) from funding research on gun violence and its effects on public health. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner Announces New Federal Application for Individuals Looking to Separate Joint Consolidated Student Loans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) issued the statement below in response to a new form released by the U.S. Department of Education, which has begun to accept applications from joint consolidation loan borrowers seeking to separate their loans.
    This announcement and new application follows longtime efforts by Sen. Warner to provide relief for individuals who previously consolidated their federal student loan debt. Borrowers who consolidated their student debt with a spouse, did so under a program that was created by Congress and subsequently eliminated without providing a way for spouses to sever existing loans – even in the event of domestic violence, economic abuse, or an unresponsive partner. In 2022, Sen. Warner secured the passage of the Joint Consolidation Loan Separation Act of 2021 in order to help borrowers who remain liable for their abusive or uncommunicative spouse’s portion of their consolidated debts. In July of 2024, Sen. Warner hailed new Ed implementation guidance that today culminates in the launch of this new application.
    “Two years after getting the Joint Consolidation Loan Separation Act into law, I’m proud to say that borrowers can now apply to separate their joint consolidation loans. While this took longer than I had hoped for, I have no doubt that it brings a sigh of relief to so many borrowers who remain trapped in financial agreements with unresponsive or abusive ex-spouses, and unable to access important loan forgiveness programs. I’m proud to have written the law that’s bringing this process to life and I’m glad to see the Department of Education take such a significant step towards freeing borrowers from these burdensome loans,” said Sen. Warner.
    Through the new Department of Education form, borrowers are able to submit a:
    Joint Application: Both co-borrowers submit individual App/Notes to the Department, which will separate the JCL and create a new, individual Direct Consolidation Loan for each individual; or,
    Separate Application: An individual JCL applicant submits an App/Note to the Department without regard to whether or when the co-borrower applies, if the applicant has experienced an act of domestic violence or economic abuse from the other co-borrower, or if they are unable to reasonably reach or access the loan information of the other co-borrower.
    Once the loans are separated, the applicants’ loan obligation will be consolidated into a Direct Consolidation Loan if both borrowers completed the joint application process. For those who submit a separate application, the loan obligation will follow the same process as the joint application process, but if the remaining co-borrower does not complete an application, their loan obligation will remain a JCL with one borrower.
    Sen. Warner’s Joint Consolidation Loan Separation Act, originally introduced in 2017, was inspired by Sara, a constituent from McLean, Virginia who contacted Sen. Warner to communicate her struggles with a joint consolidation loan. Sara was raising two children on a public school teacher’s salary in Northern Virginia and trying to keep up with payments on her student loans. Unfortunately, her ex-spouse, whom she had divorced and moved thousands of miles away from to start fresh, refused to pay his share of their joint loan. Because joint consolidation loans create joint and several liability for borrowers, Sara faced the threat of having her wages as a public school teacher garnished if she did not pay both her and her ex-husband’s portions of their debt. Sen. Warner did not think this was fair and sought to create a solution, so that constituents like Sara could control their own financial futures. You can hear Sen. Warner tell Sara’s story here.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: News 10/22/2024 ICYMI in The Hill: Blackburn Pushes Back Against KOSA Lies

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
    NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released a memo rebutting Big Tech’s lies about the Kids Online Safety Act, which passed the Senate 91-3. Read more about this memo in the article here and below. 
    Republican senator pushes back against KOSA ‘lies’
    Miranda NazzaroThe Hill
    Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) pushed back against tech companies’ criticism of the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), responding in a memo Monday to what she described as “lies” about the privacy legislation.
    The memo, released Monday morning by her office, rebuked a series of arguments made by some leading tech companies and lawmakers opposed to the bill’s current form. It comes as the legislation faces an uncertain future in the House after passing in the Senate earlier this year.
    Blackburn, the co-author of the Senate-passed version, wrote KOSA does not censor speech nor affect the First Amendment — concerns raised by some House Republicans.
    “KOSA would not censor, limit, or remove any content from the internet and it does not give the FTC or state AGs the power to bring lawsuits over content or speech, no matter who it is from,” the memo stated. “The bill passes First Amendment scrutiny because it is content neutral.
    The bill would not give any new “rulemaking power” to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Blackburn wrote in response to some Republicans’ concerns it would give the FTC too much authority to regulate social media platforms.
    KOSA, which overwhelmingly passed the Senate in a 91-3 vote in late July, is aimed at boosting online privacy and safety for children. The bill would create regulations for the kinds of features tech and social media companies offer kids online and intends to reduce the addictive nature and mental health impact of these platforms.
    Some House Republicans suggested last month the bill could specifically censor conservative voices or anti-abortion views. Blackburn disagreed with this, writing online platforms will not be held liable for hosting or boosting users with these views, and emphasized the bill does not grant enforcement powers related to speech or content.
    “Claims that KOSA allows the FTC to decide what kids see online are blatant falsehoods circulated by tech companies trying to stop the bill from becoming law,” Blackburn wrote. “The bill gives the FTC the ability to hold social media accountable for their product designs — their own predatory business practices and deadly apps.”
    While the bill advanced out of the House Energy and Commerce Committee last month, members in both parties expressed concerns with its language, for different reasons. 
    Some lawmakers took issue with the language of KOSA’s “duty of care” provision. As written in the Senate version, the provision would require platforms to design and implement features for minors to prevent and reduce harms, such as those caused by content promoting suicide and eating disorders.
    Blackburn offered her definition of the provision, writing it “simply states that online platforms cannot put products on the market that will cause specific harms to kids, such as suicide and sexual predation. These harms are specified and defined by Congress, not the FTC.”
    The House version that advanced out of committee last month includes amendments changing this provision.
    The Tennessee Republican further emphasized that KOSA applies to commercial and online platforms like social media, online video games and video streaming services, but it does not apply to nonprofit organizations, blogs, news outlets, churches or broadband companies.
    “It would not impact the ability of kids to watch online sports, news or a church sermon,” Blackburn wrote.
    The bill would “give parents a seat at the table” and a place to voice their concerns with leading tech companies, she added.
    The push comes nearly a week after House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) revealed he likes the concept of KOSA, though he claims the details of the Senate-passed version are “very problematic.”
    “I love the principle, but the details of that are very problematic,” Johnson told Punchbowl News in an interview in Pennsylvania.
    The Speaker said the Senate bill, as written, would have “unintended consequences,” Punchbowl reported. Johnson’s office confirmed his comments to The Hill. 
    Punchbowl reported Johnson did not appear open to persuasion on the Senate version, a potential blow to KOSA advocates who previously told the outlet the House leader might be flexible. 
    Monday’s memo follows a series of other efforts led by Blackburn and tech advocacy groups to pass the legislation on the full House floor.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: News 10/23/2024 VIDEO: Blackburn Recognizes Breast Cancer Awareness Month

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
    NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following video recognizing October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month and encouraging women to get their yearly mammogram.
    One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, and now is the perfect time to encourage your mothers, sisters, daughters, and friends to go in for a yearly checkup. Last year, Senator Blackburn led a bipartisan effort to address the challenges female veterans face when seeking mammogram services. Expanding access to mobile mammography units, improving advanced mammography equipment, and enhancing outreach services to better publicize mammography services will increase female veterans’ access to lifesaving preventative screening.
     
    Click here to download this video of Senator Blackburn discussing Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
    “As we think about breast cancer, one in eight women is expected to experience breast cancer in her lifetime, so breast health and mammograms are important. Last year, I led an effort to make certain that our female veterans have access to mammograms, and we did that through legislation that would allow mobile mammography. So ‘think pink’ during the month of October, and wear some pink, as you remind moms and sisters and daughters and friends to get that mammogram.”– Senator Blackburn

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Schumer, Gillibrand Announce Over $11 Million In Federal Funding For Airports Across New York State

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand

    Today, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced $11,195,520 in federal funding to strengthen infrastructure and rehabilitate facilities at four airports across New York State. The funding, granted through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Airport Terminal Program, will finance projects that address reconstruction and expansion at New York’s airports. The projects include constructing and rehabilitating air traffic control towers, expanding airport terminals and roadways, and upgrading HVAC and security systems.

    “When I became majority leader, I promised to deliver the federal funding needed to support much-needed infrastructure improvements at New York’s airports, and that is just what we delivered when created the Airport Terminal Program in our Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law. With this $11+ million in federal funding, long overdue upgrades such as new control towers and expanded terminals at airports from Long Island to Western NY are now ready for take-off!” said Senator Schumer. “Upgrading terminals means more jobs, increased safety, and smoother travel experiences, and I’m proud that the program is continuing to help New York reach new heights.”

    “This significant federal investment of more than $11 million through the Airport Terminal Program will bring much-needed infrastructure modernization to airports across New York State,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Funding like this is vital for the safety and security of passengers and airport employees. I am proud to announce these awards and will continue fighting to deliver critical funding to airports across New York State.”

    A full list of funding recipients can be found below:

    Region Awardee Project Description Federal Funding
    Long Island Francis S. Gabreski Airport Air traffic control tower construction $1,000,000
    Mohawk Valley Griffiss International Airport Air traffic control tower rehabilitation $1,750,000
    North Country Adirondack Regional Airport Terminal expansion and reconstruction $500,000
    Western NY Buffalo Niagara International Airport Airport terminal roadway rehabilitation $7,945,520

    MIL OSI USA News –