NewzIntel.com

Category: Law

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Interactive Assets: BaFin additionally warns consumers about the website interactiveassets.cc

    Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English

    BaFin issued warnings on 27 January 2025, 12 February 2025 and 6 March 2025 about Interactive Assets. The unknown operators are now using the website interactiveassets.cc. BaFin suspects the operators of the websites of offering consumers financial, investment and cryptoasset services without the required authorisation.

    The unknown operators are contacting consumers, claiming that their offer is from Baden-Württembergische Wertpapierbörse GmbH or Börse Stuttgart GmbH. In addition, when advertising its services, the company claims to be supervised by BaFin. However, none of this information is correct. This is a case of identity fraud.

    BaFin is issuing this information on the basis of section 37 (4) of the German Banking Act (Kreditwesengesetz – KWG) and section 10 (7) of the German Cryptomarkets Supervision Act (Kryptomärkteaufsichtsgesetz).

    Please be aware:

    BaFin, the German Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt – BKA) and the German state criminal police offices (Landeskriminalämter) recommend that consumers seeking to invest money online should exercise the utmost caution and do the necessary research beforehand in order to identify fraud attempts at an early stage.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schakowsky, Jayapal, Carson, Welch Reintroduce Bill to Restore UNRWA Funding

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

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) has re-introduced H.R. 2411, the UNRWA Funding Emergency Restoration Act, with Rep. André Carson (IN-07), Rep. Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), and Senator Peter Welch (D-VT). This bill will end the congressionally and administratively mandated pause on funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). 

    The United States has historically been one of the largest financial supporters of UNRWA, which serves nearly 6 million Palestinian refugees across the West Bank, East Jerusalem, Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon. In March of last year, the U.S. paused UNRWA funding after the Israeli government alleged that 12 agency employees had direct involvement in Hamas’ October 7 terrorist attack. 

    Following the United Nations’ investigation and proactive commitments made by UNRWA toward complete accountability and reform, all countries except the U.S. have resumed their UNRWA funding, including the European Union, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Finland, Germany, Japan, and Sweden. 

    Humanitarian aid and supplies have not entered the Gaza Strip since March 2, when the Israeli authorities imposed a siege. Reports show that supplies are depleting at alarming rates, which could cause deaths from malnutrition and starvation. Several bakeries have already shut down after running out of cooking gas, and the U.N. World Food Programme reports that its flour supplies can only support bread production for five more day. UNRWA has served as the primary humanitarian aid organization operating in Gaza, and without funding, hundreds of thousands of Gaza civilians are left vulnerable.

    “For decades, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has been a lifeline for Palestinians throughout the Middle East, providing food, clean water, health care, shelter, education, and livelihoods. UNRWA has provided essential support to those in Gaza throughout the Israel-Hamas war and dire humanitarian crisis. UNRWA and the United Nations have taken swift and decisive actions to address the concerns raised by the U.S. government when it paused funding last year and our allies have long ago resumed funding for UNRWA. The U.S. must follow suit and finally resume funding for this critical humanitarian agency,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “I am proud to co-lead the UNRWA Funding Emergency Restoration Act to restore funding to UNRWA and help Gazans get the humanitarian assistance they need at a time of unprecedented crisis.”

    “The scale of this devastating, man-made crisis in Gaza cannot be overstated,” said Congressman André Carson. “Providing humanitarian aid to a starving nation – with funding Congress has appropriated year after year – should not be controversial. We need to end this blockade and restore full humanitarian funding to UNRWA. I urge my colleagues who care about basic human rights, the rights of pregnant women, and the wellbeing of innocent children to join our bill. It’s past time we restore funding and save lives.”

    “For decades, UNRWA has played a unique and integral role in supporting the welfare of Palestinian refugees,” said Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal. “The organization’s on-the-ground understanding is invaluable to ensuring that humanitarian aid makes it to the people who need it most — in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, and critically in this moment, in Gaza. Permanently revoking funding for UNRWA will unquestionably lead to more devastation and loss of life in Gaza and throughout the Middle East. We must restore U.S. funding to UNRWA to ensure that those acting in good faith to save civilian lives have the necessary resources to continue their irreplaceable work.”

    “Since day one of this conflict, UNRWA has proven to be the backbone of the humanitarian response in Gaza. It is unacceptable that the funding pause has gone on this long—the civilian populations of Gaza and the West Bank are paying the price. As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to intensify, support for humanitarian aid is more important than ever,” said Senator Peter Welch. “Congress must pass this legislation to ensure UNRWA can safely deliver humanitarian assistance to starving women, children, and families desperate for food, medicine, and shelter.”

    Below is a list of all endorsing organizations:

    National Organizations: 99 Coalition, American Friends Service Committee, Amnesty International USA, Amnesty International USA, Carolina Peace Center , Historians for Peace and Democracy, Center for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC), Center for Constitutional Rights, Center for Constitutional Rights, Center for Gender & Refugee Studies, Center for International Policy Advocacy, Center for Jewish Nonviolence, Charity & Security Network, Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA), CODEPINK, Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd, U.S. Provinces, Demand Progress, Doctors Against Genocide, DSA, End Wars Working Group of Progressive Democrats of America , Episcopal Peace Fellowship Palestine Israel Network, Friends Committee on National Legislation, Friends Committee on National Legislation , Friends of Sabeel North America (FOSNA), George Devendorf, Global Ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and United Church of Christ, Health Advocacy International, Hindus for Human Rights, Human Rights Watch, IfNotNow Movement, International Civil Society Action Network (ICAN), International Refugee Assistance Project, J Street, Jahalin Solidarity, Jahalin Solidarity, Jewish Voice for Peace Action, Justice4palestinians, MADRE, Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns, Medglobal , Middle East Democracy Center (MEDC), Migrant Roots Media, MoveOn, MPower Change Action Fund, Muslim Advocates, Muslims United PAC, National Advocacy Center of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd, National Council of Churches, New Jewish Narrative, No Dem Left Behind , Nonviolent Peaceforce, NRC USA, Partners for Progressive Israel, Pax Christi USA, Peace Action, Poligon Education Fund, Presbyterian Church, (USA), Office of Public Witness, Quincy Institute, ReThinking Foreign Policy, ReThinking Foreign Policy, RootsAction.org, Sisters of Mercy of the Americas – Justice Team, Terre des hommes Lausanne, The Borgen Project, The Tahrir Institute for Middle East Policy (TIMEP), United Methodists for Kairos Response (UMKR), UNRWA USA National Committee, USCPR Action, Win Without War, Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom, US Section (WILPF US), Yemen Relief and Reconstruction Foundation 

    State and Local Organizations:  Al Otro Lado, Atlanta Multifaith Coalition for Palestine (AMCP), Barry University, Brooklyn For Peace, Carolyn Eisenberg, Ceasefire Now NJ, Christian Jewish Allies for a just peace for Israel Palestine, Church Women United in New York State, Delawareans for Palestinian Human Rights, Florida Peace & Justice Alliance, FOSNA Pittsburgh , Greater Dayton Peace Coalition, Houston for Palestine Coalition, Indiana Center for Middle East Peace, Jews for Racial and Economic Justice, MARUF CT (Muslim Advocacy for Rights, Unity, and Fairness), Massachusetts Peace Action, Minnesota Peace Project, Muslim Justice League, Nebraskans for Peace Palestinian Rights Task Force, NorCal Sabeel, Oasis Legal Services, Peace Action Maine, Peace Action WI, Peace Action WI, Peace, Justice, Sustainability NOW!, Peace, Justice, Sustainability, NOW!, Progressive Democrats of America – Central New Mexico, Progressive Democrats of America- Central New Mexico, Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom DC-Metro Action Group, The Palestine Justice Network of the Presbyterian Church USA, Bay Area, UPTE Members for Palestine, Valley View Presbyterian Church, Voices for Justice in Palestine, YUSRA

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Davis and Fitzpatrick Push for Long-Needed Update to Supplemental Security Income Program

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Danny K Davis (7th District of Illinois)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Danny K. Davis (D-IL) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) introduced the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act to reform the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, which has not been updated in 40 years. Currently, the program unfairly punishes lower-income seniors and people with disabilities for saving responsibly for emergencies or their futures. A companion to this bill was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) and Bill Cassidy (R-LA), alongside Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-OR). 

    Right now, individuals with a disability or those aged 65 and older are only eligible for Supplemental Security Income if they have under $2,000 in assets. SSI’s marriage penalty restricts married couples to a total of $3,000 in financial resources to remain eligible. The bipartisan, bicameral legislation would update SSI’s asset limits for the first time since the 1980s to allow millions of Americans with disabilities to marry, work, earn, and save money without putting the benefits they rely on to live at risk.

    “I am honored to join with my colleagues to champion the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act that would improve the lives of lower-income seniors and people with disabilities,” said Rep. Davis.  “This bipartisan, bicameral bill would reform one of the most regressive, anti-savings measures in federal law by updating the outdated asset limits of the Supplemental Security Income program for the first time in almost 40 years.  The necessity of this legislation is reflected in its support by over 200 businesses, faith-based groups, and organizations from across the political spectrum.” 

    “Raising the SSI asset limits is a smart, long-overdue reform that updates a critical program to reflect today’s economic realities. For over forty years, outdated restrictions have discouraged work and penalized those who try to save for their future. The SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act modernizes these limits, ties them to inflation, and ensures that seniors and individuals with disabilities are not forced to choose between earning a paycheck and keeping the benefits they depend on. This bipartisan legislation promotes financial independence and strengthens the integrity of our safety net,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick (PA-1). 

    “A $2,000 rainy-day fund doesn’t go as far as it did in 1989, but that’s all the savings that people who rely on SSI benefits are allowed,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “We shouldn’t punish people who are working hard, saving their money, and planning for the future. Congress must raise the SSI asset limit to help our seniors and Americans with disabilities.”

    “Outdated rules are making disabled Americans pick between a better job and losing their safety net. That’s wrong,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Instead, let’s encourage work, help people save, and lift them out of poverty.”

    “Every year, SSI’s outdated rules prevent Americans from being able to work, save, or marry the one they love,” said Senator Wyden. “This bipartisan bill gives Americans who are trying to make ends meet the chance to live independently without fear of being forced to forfeit an economic lifeline. As the Ranking Member of the Finance Committee, I am committed to making sure SSI is no longer stuck in yesteryear so every American can live with dignity and respect.”

    A study by JPMorganChase suggests that current asset and income limits on federal benefits for people with disabilities make it harder for them to work a part-time job or save money for an emergency. The SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act would raise the SSI asset limits, which have not been changed since 1984, to $10,000 for individuals and $20,000 for married couples, and index them to inflation moving forward.

    Additional cosponsors include Representatives John Larson (D-CT), Mike Lawler (R-NY), Christopher Deluzio (D-PA), Christopher Smith (R-NJ), Brad Schneider (D-IL), Vern Buchanan (R-FL), Don Bacon (R-NE), and Steven Horsford (D-NV) as well as Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), James Lankford (R-OK), Patty Murray (D-WA), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Rick Scott (R-FL).

    The SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act has the support of more than 200 businesses, faith-based groups, and organizations dedicated to improving the lives of older adults and people with disabilities, including: the AARP, the Autism Society of America, the Aspen Institute Financial Security Program, the Jewish Federations of North America, Microsoft, the National Council on Aging, the National Council on Independent Living, the National Down Syndrome Congress, Justice in Aging, the Arc of the United States, Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) Action, the National Association of Evangelicals, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

    Read the bill summary here.

    “SSI’s $2,000 asset limit has been frozen in time since 1989. In today’s economy, that means SSI beneficiaries can’t save for necessary expenses like a security deposit or car repairs without the risk of losing their benefits. There’s also an outdated and unjust marriage penalty baked into the SSI asset limit that cuts the amount of money beneficiaries are allowed to save by 25% if they marry the person they love. We strongly endorse the bipartisan SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act because it will give Americans with disabilities more freedom to build the futures they want and deserve,” said Darcy Milburn, Director of Social Security and Healthcare Policy, The Arc of the United States.

    “Disabled people want to save their own money, but burdensome restrictions such as a $2,000 asset cap prevent them from achieving financial independence. With the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act, Congress has an opportunity to financially empower disabled people across the country by raising asset limits that have not been increased since the Reagan administration,” said Karen Tamley, CEO/President of Access Living.

    “Supplemental Security Income’s asset rules have been frozen since the 1980s and prevent disabled Americans from participating in everyday life, whether it be tying the knot to a long-term partner or putting a financial nest egg away. Raising the program’s resource limits will help eliminate work and marriage penalties and limit accidental overpayments. The Niskanen Center supports this pro-savings, pro-family legislative effort by Senators Cortez Masto, Cassidy, and their colleagues,” said Will Raderman, Employment Policy Analyst, Niskanen Center.

    “JPMorganChase, like many companies, wants to attract and retain the very best qualified people of all abilities. We applaud the bipartisan reintroduction of the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act, which would make common sense updates to the outdated rules for SSI benefits to reflect current economic conditions and keep pace with inflation,” said Bryan Gill, Global Head of the Office of Disability Affairs, JPMorganChase.

    “The U.S. Chamber of Commerce would like to thank Senators Cortez Masto and Cassidy and Representatives Davis and Fitzpatrick for their leadership in reintroducing the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act, which would help employers fill many open jobs with older, experienced American workers who wish to stay in the workforce by raising the current asset limits for Supplemental Security Income program eligibility,” said Chantel Sheaks, Vice President of Retirement Policy, U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

    “SSI’s outdated asset limits have prevented older Americans and those with disabilities from being able to save even a small amount for an emergency or to have a modicum of economic security as they age, without the risk of losing vital benefits. Americans should not be prevented from saving a few dollars for unforeseen circumstances, and SSI beneficiaries are no exception. It is long-past time for Congress to update SSI’s asset limits, which have become overly restrictive and prevent the accumulation of even a small amount of personal savings. AARP therefore urges Congress to pass your SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act as soon as possible,” said Bill Sweeney, Senior Vice President, AARP Government Affairs.

    “Current policy imposes a difficult choice on Americans living with disabilities: spend their money now or lose access to essential support. This is nonsensical and denies some people the ability to save for future needs and opportunities. The SSI savings limit is long overdue for reform. A big thank you to the senators and representatives who are leading the way to a more humane policy,” said Galen Carey, Vice President of Government Relations, National Association of Evangelicals.

    “The SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act will update asset limits for Supplemental Security Income and remove outdated barriers that restrict economic opportunity and hinder workforce participation. We thank Senators Cortez Masto and Cassidy and Representatives Davis and Fitzpatrick, for championing this bipartisan legislation that will help broaden America’s workforce, bolster supply chains, and support disabled workers,” said Rylin Rodgers, Disability Policy Director, Microsoft.

    “BPC Action commends this effort by Sens. Cortez Masto (D-NV) and Cassidy (R-LA) and Representatives Davis (D-IL) and Fitzpatrick (R-PA)  and urges Congress to act on long-overdue bipartisan measures to empower seniors and Americans with disabilities enrolled in Supplemental Security Income to increase their household savings,” said Michele Stockwell, President, Bipartisan Policy Center Action.

    “A core component of the nation’s Social Security system, SSI is nothing short of a lifeline for more than 7 million of the nation’s poorest seniors and disabled people, including more than one million disabled children. But because it’s been left to wither on the vine for decades, with key eligibility criteria never updated even for inflation, outdated savings limits now trap millions in poverty — even though SSI was established to offer a pathway out. Senators Cortez Masto, Cassidy, and Wyden and Reps. Davis and Fitzpatrick are to be commended for their bipartisan leadership on the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act — important legislation that would bring long overdue reform to one of the most regressive anti-savings policies on the books today. Even at a time of historic polarization, updating SSI’s asset limits is one issue Americans across the political spectrum can agree on — and the time is now to act,” said Rebecca Vallas, CEO, National Academy of Social Insurance. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Three women bitten by dingoes on K’gari

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Issued: 2 Apr 2025

    Rangers are investigating an incident where three female tourists were nipped on the lower legs by dingoes whilst they were walking on the track into Lake Wabby yesterday afternoon around 4pm.

    The tourists were part of two separate visitor groups that were returning from Lake Wabby, and they received minor injuries. Tour guides administered first aid before taking them to the Queensland Ambulance Service Happy Valley station for assessment.

    The tourists declined to leave the island.

    Information we have received to date indicates that tagged dingoes may have been involved, and the department is continuing to investigate the incident.

    Rangers will continue to patrol the area and provide Be dingo-safe! education to residents and visitors.

    Report any concerning dingo encounters by calling 07 4127 9150 or emailing dingo.ranger@des.qld.gov.au.

    Visitors to K’gari are reminded to Be dingo-safe! at all times:

    • always stay close (within arm’s reach) to children and young teenagers
    • always walk in groups and carry a stick
    • never feed dingoes
    • camp in fenced areas where possible
    • do not run – running or jogging can trigger a negative dingo interaction
    • lock up food stores and iceboxes (even on a boat)
    • never store food or food containers in tents
    • secure all rubbish, fish and bait.

    For more information go to K’gari dingoes.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Diesel spill in Mooloolaba

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Issued: 2 Apr 2025

    A broken pump handle has resulted in approximately 1500 litres of diesel being released into the Mooloolah River at the Mooloolaba Harbour.

    The Pollution Hotline received a call at 10:45am on 1 April 2025 reporting the spill at a refuelling station.

    Our officers investigated and were advised that the spill occurred after a broken pump handle failed to shut off, resulting in diesel entering the water.

    Executive Director at the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation, Brad Wirth said the department will continue to monitor the spill to assess the impacts to the environment.

    “Our officers quickly attended the site less than an hour after the spill was reported to us and investigated the incident.

    “The diesel was already widely dispersed with the outgoing tide. We will continue to work with Maritime Safety Queensland and Sunshine Coast Council to ensure any potential impacts of the spill are minimised.

    “If you ever find yourself in this situation where fuel is leaking, it is important to let the refuelling station know so they can activate the emergency stop.”

    To report pollution incidents to the department please call the Pollution Hotline on 1300 130 372 or complete an online environmental report.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Digging into soil conservation

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Issued: 2 Apr 2025

    Meet the women leading the next generation of soil stewardship from the ground up as they embark on a new graduate program led by the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation.

    Jessica Cook, Mali Eagle and Bec Reeves will be digging into the world of agricultural and environmental science, with a focus on preserving Queensland’s soil health, through the new Queensland Soil Science Graduate and First Nations Engagement Program.

    Queensland Chief Scientist Professor Kerrie Wilson said the program would help build Queensland’s capability in this important science sector as the trio would work with leading soil scientists and First Nations groups to develop innovative ways to enhance farming practices and protect our natural environment.

    “This is such an exciting collaboration, with these graduates’ understanding of soil helping to inform agricultural management strategies, which will positively contribute to the sustainability of our environment,” Prof Wilson said.

    “Soil is important to everyone – without soil we don’t have plants, and without plants we don’t have food or oxygen.

    “The program will accelerate the training and development of graduate scientists and rangers in both western and traditional soil science practices to address critical knowledge and capability gaps.

    “First Nations peoples were Queensland’s first scientists, and their knowledge is key to protecting our biodiversity for generations to come.

    “I look forward to seeing these women lead the way in soil science and become the next generation of soil science practitioners.”

    As part of their training, the graduates will be hosted by a regional Natural Resource Management (NRM) organisation and a Queensland Government agency over 12 months.

    The Queensland Soil Science Graduate and First Nations Engagement Program is a $1.1M initiative jointly funded by the State and Federal governments as part of the $20M National Soil Action Plan.

    Soil science ranger Bec Reeves said the opportunity to contribute to cultural conservation practices and learn more about soil processes such as soil survey techniques and digital soils mapping analyses was exciting.

    “I’m a very hands-on and practical learner and enjoy being On Country, so getting to go out and get your hands dirty certainly piqued my interest,” she said.

    “I am passionate about the environment and want to learn as much as possible while I’m in this program.

    “There are so many niches within soil science and culturally for me as a First Nations person, the connection around environmental practices and conservation practices like traditional burning is something I’m really interested in exploring.”

    An additional three graduates will be employed as part of the Queensland Soil Science Graduate and First Nations Engagement Program in 2026.

    View more information about the National Soil Action Plan program

    Media contact:                  DETSI Media Unit on (07) 3339 5831 or media@des.qld.gov.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Passes Unemployment Fraud Legislation

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas)

    Last night, the House passed H.R. 1156 – the Pandemic Unemployment Fraud Enforcement Act – by a vote of 295-127, with 83 Democrats joining all Republicans voting in favor of the bill. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) estimates $100 to $135 billion in stolen unemployment insurance (UI) benefits with only $5 billion recovered so far. The legislation extends the statute of limitations for combatting and prosecuting the theft of COVID-era unemployment benefits, giving more time for law enforcement to complete current cases, open new ones and recoup billions of taxpayer dollars. Before the House passed the bill, Rep. Ron Estes (R-Kansas) spoke in support of the legislation.

    “We know that during the COVID-19 pandemic, many Americans benefited from unemployment insurance,” said Rep. Estes. “But fraudsters took advantage of an overwhelmed system, resulting in more than $100 billion in sham UI payments, including $466 million in UI fraud in my home state of Kansas. But the statute of limitations is fast approaching on March 27, and if Congress doesn’t act, these scammers are off the hook.”

    View video of Rep. Estes’ remarks Thank you, Chairman Smith, for yielding, and I want to thank you for introducing this common sense legislation.

    Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Pandemic Unemployment Fraud Enforcement Act.

    But before I get into my planned remarks, I want to fact-check some of the colleagues on the other side of the aisle attacking President Trump, claiming that laid-off federal workers are being prevented from receiving unemployment. We’ve been in touch with the Department of Labor, and they’ve published documented guidelines describing filing and eligibility requirements that make it clear federal workers are eligible for unemployment.

    The biggest risk to federal workers is not being able to claim their benefits at all because fraudsters got there first.

    There have been multiple data breaches at agencies across the government, including the Office of Personnel Management, exposing the personal information of millions of federal workers.

    Democrats should be supporting this bill to catch fraudsters that are still out there using stolen identities to file illegitimate claims.

    My colleagues on the other side of the aisle have insisted that, despite their pushback on the Trump administration’s actions, they want to cut waste, fraud and abuse. Well today, they can prove it.

    The bill we’re debating is really pretty simple. We know that during the COVID-19 pandemic, many Americans benefited from unemployment insurance. But fraudsters took advantage of an overwhelmed system, resulting in more than $100 billion in sham UI payments, including $466 million in UI fraud in my home state of Kansas. But the statute of limitations is fast approaching on March 27, and if Congress doesn’t act, these scammers are off the hook.

    Our legislation today extends the statute of limitations from 5 to 10 years. With nearly 1,700 open cases, this bill gives the Labor and Justice departments the tools they need to go after the criminals. This should be an easy yes for everyone in this chamber. And with that, Mr. Speaker, I yield back.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Revolvo: BaFin additionally warns consumers about the website revolvo.online

    Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English

    On 5 March 2025, BaFin issued a warning about Revolvo and its website revolvo.pro, which has since been deactivated. The unknown operators are now using the website revolvo.online. BaFin suspects the operators of the website of offering consumers financial, investment and cryptoasset services without the required authorisation.

    The unknown operators are contacting consumers, claiming that their offer is from Baden-Württembergische Wertpapierbörse GmbH or Börse Stuttgart GmbH. However, none of this information is correct. This is a case of identity fraud.

    BaFin is issuing this information on the basis of section 37 (4) of the German Banking Act (Kreditwesengesetz – KWG) and section 10 (7) of the German Cryptomarkets Supervision Act (Kryptomärkteaufsichtsgesetz).

    Please be aware:

    BaFin, the German Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt – BKA) and the German state criminal police offices (Landeskriminalämter) recommend that consumers seeking to invest money online should exercise the utmost caution and do the necessary research beforehand in order to identify fraud attempts at an early stage.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Stoush breaks out between NZ Human Rights Commissioner and Jewish leader at Parliament

    By Anneke Smith, RNZ News political reporter

    A stoush between the Chief Human Rights Commissioner and a Jewish community leader has flared up following a showdown at Parliament.

    Appearing before a parliamentary select committee today, Dr Stephen Rainbow was asked about his recent apology for incorrect comments he made about Muslims earlier this year.

    “If my language has been injudicious . . .  then I have apologised for that,” he told MPs.

    “I’ve apologised publicly. I’ve apologised privately. I’ve met with FIANZ [The Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand] to hear their concerns and to apologise to them, both in person and publicly, and I hold to that apology.”

    The apology relates to a meeting he had with Jewish community leader Philippa Yasbek, from the anti-Zionist Jewish groups Alternative Jewish Voices and Dayenu, in February.

    Yasbek said Rainbow claimed during the meeting that the Security Intelligence Services (SIS) threat assessment found Muslims posed a greater threat to the Jewish community in New Zealand than white supremacists.

    In fact, the report states “white identity-motivated violent extremism [W-IMVE] remains the dominant identity-motivated violent extremism ideology in New Zealand”.

    Rainbow changed his position
    Rainbow told the committee he had since changed his position after receiving new information.

    He said was disappointed he had “allowed [his] words to create a perception there was a prejudice there” and he would do everything in his power to repair his relationship with the Muslim community.

    “Please be assured that I take this as a learning, and I will be far more measured with my comments in future.”

    But Rainbow disputed another of Yasbek’s assertions that he had also raised the supposed antisemitism of Afghan refugees in West Auckland.

    “It’s going to be really unhelpful if I get into a he-said-she-said, but I did not say the comments that were attributed to me about that. I do not believe that,” Rainbow said.

    “I emphatically deny that I said that.”

    ‘It definitely stuck in my mind’ – Jewish community leader
     Yasbek, who called for Rainbow’s resignation yesterday, was watching the select committee hearing from the back of the room.

    Speaking to reporters afterwards, Yasbek said she was certain Rainbow had made the comments about Afghan refugees.

    “It was particularly memorable because it was so specific and he said that he was concerned about the risk of anti-semitism in the community of Afghan refugees in West Auckland.

    “It’s very specific. It’s not a sort of detail that one is likely to make up, and it definitely stuck in my mind.”

    Yasbek said the race relations commissioner and two Human Rights Commission staff members were also in the room and should be interviewed to corroborate what happened.

    “There were multiple witnesses. I am concerned that he has impugned my integrity in that way which is why there should be an independent investigation of this matter.”

    Alternative Jewish Voices’ Philippa Yasbek . . . “there should be an independent investigation of this matter.” Image: RNZ

    Raised reported comments
    Speaking to RNZ later, FIANZ chairman Abdur Razzaq said he raised the commissioner’s reported comments about Afghan refugees when he met with Rainbow several weeks ago.

    “I raised it at the meeting with him and he did not correct me. At my meeting there were other members of the Human Rights Commission. He did not say he didn’t [say that].”

    Razzaq said it was up to the justice minister as to whether or not Rainbow was fit for the role.

    “When you hear statements like this, like ‘greatest threat’, he has forgotten it was precisely this kind of Islamophobic sentiment which gave rise to the terrorist of March 15, rise to the right-wing extremist terrorists to take action and they justify it with these kinds of statements.”

    “[The commissioner] calls himself an academic, a student of history. Where is his lessons learned on this aspect? To pick a Muslim community by name… he has to really genuinely look at himself as to what he is doing and what he is saying.”

    Minister backs Rainbow: ‘Doing his best’
     Speaking at Parliament following the hearing, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith said he backed Rainbow and believed the commissioner would learn from the experience.

    “The new commissioner is doing his best. By his own admission he didn’t express himself well. He has apologised and he will be learning from that experience, and it is my expectation that he will be very careful in the way that he communicates in the future.”

    Goldsmith said he stood by his appointment of Rainbow, despite the independent panel tasked with leading the process taking a different view.

    “There’s a range of opinions on that. The advice that I had originally from the group was a real focus on legal skills, and I thought actually equally important was the ability to communicate ideas effectively.”

    Speaking in Christchurch on Thursday afternoon, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said Rainbow had got it “totally wrong” and it was appropriate he had apologised.

    “He completely and quite wrongfully mischaracterised a New Zealand SIS report talking about threats to the Jewish community and he was wrong about that.

    “He has subsequently apologised about that but equally Minister Goldsmith has or is talking to him about those comments as well.”

    ‘Not elabiorating further’
    RNZ approached the Human Rights Commission on Thursday afternoon for a response to Yasbek doubling down on her recollection Rainbow had talked about the supposed antisemitism of Afghan refugees in West Auckland.

    “The Chief Commissioner will not be elaborating further about what was said in the meeting,” a spokesperson said.

    “He’s happy to discuss the matter privately with the people involved,” a spokesperson said.

    “Dr Rainbow acknowledges that what was said caused harm and offence and what matters most is the impact on communities. That is why he has apologised unreservedly and stands by his apology.”

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Luján, Warnock Lead Group Demanding Reversal of Mass Firings of Head Start, ­Office of Child Care Employees

    US Senate News:

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

    Padilla, Luján, Warnock Lead Group Demanding Reversal of Mass Firings of Head Start, ­Office of Child Care Employees

    Senators to Secretary Kennedy: “The termination of staff is alarming and will compound the challenges already facing these programs and services…with no clear planning nor considerations for how early childhood services will be impacted”
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) led 25 Senators in condemning the Trump Administration’s mass firings of federal employees at the Office of Head Start (OHS) and the Office of Child Care (OCC) and demanding Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. immediately reinstate these employees. The sweeping firings of staff from these critical HHS offices will severely restrict access to child care for working-class families and limit the federal government’s ability to administer and conduct oversight of nearly $25 billion in federal investments in early childhood programs.
    The cuts included the closure and termination of all staff at five of the 10 regional offices in San Francisco, Boston, New York, Chicago, and Seattle. The Senators emphasized that these indiscriminate firings did not factor in employee performance and failed to plan for inevitable disruptions to children, families, child care providers, and Head Start programs.
    “This attack on employees at a time when children, families, child care providers, and early educators are relying on critical early childhood programs undermines the Department’s role in administering and conducting oversight of early childhood programs, including Head Start programs and child care assistance for working-class families across the country,” wrote the Senators. “We are deeply concerned by reports of a high number of employees at OHS and OCC who have been fired across the country who provide critical support to Head Start programs and help make child care safer and more affordable. The termination of staff is alarming and will compound the challenges already facing these programs and services, including the lack of timely and transparent information, with no clear planning nor considerations for how early childhood services will be impacted.”
    The Head Start program currently serves nearly 800,000 children, providing comprehensive services to help children receive health care and insurance, while offering parents job training, education, housing support, and nutrition services. OCC administers the Child Care Development Fund, which includes the Child Care Development Block Grant that provides an average of over 1.3 million children from nearly 800,000 low-income families with child care subsidies each month. California’s Head Start program is the largest in the nation, serving over 82,300 California children in 2021 — accounting for 10 percent of all children served — and employing over 26,800 staff.
    The Senators stressed that these cuts are especially alarming as child care programs have become increasingly unaffordable and harder to access. According to a recent survey of more than 10,000 early childhood educators, 55 percent of programs were underenrolled compared to their preferred capacity, citing affordability and staffing challenges as the primary concerns as opposed to a lack of demand.
    “The Administration’s decision to reduce staff comes at a time when it is increasingly expensive to run child care and early learning programs, the cost of child care continues to be out of reach for many working-class families, and the demand for quality child care continues to far outpace the supply,” continued the Senators. “We are deeply concerned about the exacerbation of these issues for child care providers and children and families as a result of the Administration’s termination of a large portion of OHS and OCC staff, including the sudden closure of five of the ten Regional Offices and RIFs.”
    In addition to Senators Padilla, Luján, and Warnock, the letter was also signed by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).
    The letter was endorsed by the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), National Women’s Law Center, MomsRising, the Center for Law and Social Policy, Zero to Three, and Child Care For Every Family Network.
    Earlier this year, Senators Padilla, Luján, and Warnock joined Senator Kaine in expressing concerns about the threats to Head Start programs across the country as a result of the Office of Management and Budget’s (OMB) memo that imposed a government-wide funding freeze.
    Full text of the letter is available here and below:
    Dear Secretary Kennedy,
    We write to express our serious concern regarding the recent decision to fire federal employees at the Office of Head Start (OHS) and Office of Child Care (OCC) in the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and we ask that you immediately reinstate these employees to full work status. Between the firing of probationary employees and the recent RIFs, these offices have been gutted and the ability for the federal government to support children and families and carefully oversee nearly $25 billion in federal investments in early childhood programs will be extremely hampered. It appears these firings occurred without regard to employee performance, input from career civil servants, or planning against disruptions to understand the impact on children, families, child care providers, and Head Start programs.
    This attack on employees at a time when children, families, child care providers, and early educators are relying on critical early childhood programs undermines the Department’s role in administering and conducting oversight of early childhood programs, including Head Start programs and child care assistance for working-class families across the country. We are deeply concerned by reports of a high number of employees at OHS and OCC who have been fired across the country who provide critical support to Head Start programs and help make child care safer and more affordable. The termination of staff is alarming and will compound the challenges already facing these programs and services, including the lack of timely and transparent information, with no clear planning nor considerations for how early childhood services will be impacted.
    The federal Head Start program currently serves nearly 800,000 children across the nation with comprehensive services to ensure children receive age-appropriate health care, dental care, and health insurance, and they provide referrals to other critical services for parents, such as job training, adult education, nutrition services, and housing support. For the last several years, there has been broad, bipartisan support in Congress to recognize the longstanding program’s important work by providing increased appropriations. Head Start and Early Head Start grant recipients deliver services in every state and territory, farm worker camps, and over 155 Tribal communities. OHS provides Head Start programs with federal policy guidance, training, and technical assistance and administers grants in accordance to the Head Start Act. These federal employees play an important role to ensure that programs use their grant funds efficiently and effectively. Terminating OHS and Regional Office employees reduces the capacity to support and allow Head Start programs to use permissible flexibilities to effectively use their federal grant to best serve children in their communities.
    Further, OCC administers the Child Care Development Fund (CCDF), which includes the Child Care Development Block Grant (CCDBG) that provides an average of over 1.3 million children from nearly 800,000 families with low-income with child care subsidies monthly. The federal child care program is also central to states’ efforts to ensure the health, safety, and quality of nearly every child care program in the country. OCC staff across the country support states in ensuring federal funds are used effectively to improve affordability, quality, and supply of child care options for families. These drastic terminations will weaken the ability to support states and oversee federal law, transparent information for families, professional development, and the timeliness and consistency of payment for child care providers.
    The Administration’s decision to reduce staff comes at a time when it is increasingly expensive to run child care and early learning programs, the cost of child care continues to be out of reach for many working-class families, and the demand for quality child care continues to far outpace the supply. According to a recent survey of more than 10,000 early childhood educators by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, more than half of programs indicated they were unable to serve their preferred number of children relative to their preferred capacity, with affordability and staffing challenges cited as the top reasons, rather than a lack of demand. We are deeply concerned about the exacerbation of these issues for child care providers and children and families as a result of the Administration’s termination of a large portion of OHS and OCC staff, including the sudden closure of five of the ten Regional Offices and RIFs.
    We ask that you immediately reinstate these employees to full work status, and we request your responses to the following questions by April 11, 2025:
    To date, how many staff have been terminated within OHS and OCC, both in the Central office and in each Regional office? Please share the reasoning behind the closure of offices in regions 1, 2, 5, 9, and 10 (Boston, New York, Chicago, San Francisco, and Seattle), and what information and planning were used to decide which and how many of these offices would be closed?
    Who decided which probationary and non-probationary employees within OHS and OCC were to be terminated and under what cause?
    What assessment was done about the impact of the RIFs on children and families served by the programs? What are the steps being taken to minimize disruptions and continue the administration of Head Start programs and CCDF?
    Was a review conducted to determine the impact of terminating OHS and OCC staff on early childhood programs, the impact on health and safety in care settings, the stewardship of nearly $25 billion in taxpayer dollars, the ability to meet the purposes of the federal statutes, and the impact on children, families, and communities?
    Are there plans for additional staff terminations in the months ahead, and if so, how many and what offices? Regional office staff are the first point of contact for Head Start programs and State and Tribal child care agencies. Who are the new points of contact for programs? If this work has been reassigned to remaining regional offices, how will doubling their workloads create a system that is responsive to pressing program needs?
    What percent of the Office of Grants Management team responsible for Head Start and Child Care programs have been fired since January? Can you guarantee that once a grant is awarded that grant recipients can draw down their awards?
    Can the Secretary guarantee that funds will be awarded on time for Head Start grant recipients that are due to receive a new or continuing award on May 1st, and subsequent awards? If there are lapses in awarding grants, how long will they last and what communication will be done to support programs in the interim?
    Thank you for your attention to this critical issue, and we look forward to your response.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Christchurch Akaroa Road, Little River

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    One person has died following a single-vehicle crash near Little River this morning.

    Emergency services were called to Christchurch Akaroa Road at around 10.40am.

    Two people were transported to hospital in a serious condition, where sadly one person died a short time later.

    The second person is now in a critical condition in hospital.

    The Serious Crash Unit have conducted a scene examination and a crash investigation is underway.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Markey, Warren, Whitehouse Condemn Firings of Immigration Judges Across the Country

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Letter Text (PDF)

    Washington (April 2, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), along with Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), today sent a letter to the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) Attorney General Pamela Bondi and Executive Office for Immigration Review Acting Director Sirce E. Owen, condemning the unjust firings of more than 20 judges serving on immigration courts across the nation. The senators highlighted the enormous impact these terminations will have on the immigration system, including impairing critical due process protections.

    The Department of Justice (DOJ) has reportedly fired more than 20 judges serving on immigration courts across the nation, including the Chelmsford Immigration Court in Massachusetts. These firings, which heavily impact New England, have terminated high-level officials—including the Chief Immigration Judge (IJ) of the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR)—supervisory immigration judges and an entire class of 13 newly hired IJs.

    In the letter, the lawmakers write, “The Trump administration has arbitrarily dismissed these hard-working public servants, without compelling reason, in blatant disregard for the fairness and efficiency of the immigration courts. These indefensible firings appear intended to impair the immigration system and to strip vulnerable immigrants of critical due process protections. We urge the Administration to reinstate these fired IJs, halt any further terminations, and provide information regarding EOIR’s plan for the immigration court system.”

    The lawmakers continued, “Experts warn that the Administration could be poised to politicize the immigration court system by replacing terminated court officials with far-right loyalists. And we are alarmed by news that the Administration is seeking to bypass the IJs altogether by invoking the Alien Enemies Act and expanding the use of ‘expedited removal,’ a fast-track deportation process. Individuals deemed ‘alien enemies’ under the Alien Enemies Act have been deported without any court hearing or other form of due process. Meanwhile, individuals placed in expedited removal are not entitled to a hearing before an IJ or to judicial review, with narrow exceptions for those who express fear of persecution or intent to apply for asylum. The designation of some noncitizens as ‘alien enemies’ and the possible expansion of expedited removal—coupled with the firings of IJs—signifies a concerted effort to deprive noncitizens of critical protections and due process rights. This approach could result in the erroneous deportation of individuals with a valid claim of asylum or fear of persecution and even citizens, lawful permanent residents, and visa-holders. These actions are not only cruel and inhumane, they may also contravene U.S. law and international obligations.”

    The lawmakers request answers by April 11, 2025 to the following questions:

    • How is the Trump administration deciding which immigration judges to terminate nationwide, and, specifically, in the Chelmsford and Boston immigration courts?
    • Why did the Administration fire 13 newly hired IJs and 7 Assistant Chief IJs (ACIJs) on February 14, 2025? Why has the Administration fired other IJs and ACIJs since February 14?
    • Why has the Trump administration terminated immigration judges who have served in their roles for longer than two years?
    • Is the Trump administration considering firing additional immigration judges in the Boston or Chelmsford immigration courts?
    • Does the Trump administration plan to re-hire any of the terminated immigration judges? Does the Trump administration plan to replace any of the terminated immigration judges by hiring new immigration judges, including for the Boston or Chelmsford immigration courts?
    • How does the Trump administration intend to address the backlog of roughly 160,000 removal cases in the Boston and Chelmsford immigration courts?
    • Is the Trump administration planning on taking other actions that would obviate the need for more immigration judges?

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Counter Terrorism officers call on parents to be aware

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Counter Terrorism officers from the Met Police are urging parents across London to be aware of the signs that might indicate that their child could be vulnerable to radicalisation or being drawn into dangerous forms of violent extremism.

    The call comes after heightened public and media focus on how schoolchildren are increasingly being drawn into extreme and radical ideologies after a similar storyline was featured in current TV drama Adolescence where a young schoolboy was drawn into a violent form ‘incel’ ideology online.

    Detective Superintendent Jane Corrigan, who is the Met’s London Prevent Co-ordinator said: “The themes and storyline in Adolescence have sparked some incredibly important debate about dangerous rhetoric and ideologies that young schoolchildren can be exposed to through online and social media platforms.

    “While it’s a fictitious drama, the story is grounded in a reality that we are seeing more and more in our work within Counter Terrorism Policing. Young people are being referred into us, and in almost every instance, a big part of their vulnerability is coming from what they are doing, seeing and consuming online.

    “But it’s actually those who aren’t being referred to us who most concern us. That’s why it is so important that parents and carers are taking an active interest in what their child is doing online – to have those conversations and be aware of the potential warning signs. And if following that, they are still concerned or worried about their child, then it’s really important they reach out for more help as quickly as possible.

    “The Act Early website is an excellent starting place, with tips and guidance on how to have those conversations and some of the warning signs to look out for. And there is also a support line they can call to get advice direct from one of our specialist officers.”

    If you are worried about someone, then visit the ACT Early website – actearly.uk – or call the Act Early Support Line on 0800 011 3764, in confidence, to speak with specially trained officers.

    Although public attention has been particularly drawn to this issue as a result of the Adolescence drama, Counter Terrorism officers have been concerned for some time over the increasing numbers of young people being radicalised.

    These concerns have found to be proven by recently published figures for terrorism arrests and Prevent referrals.

    Both 2023 and 2024 were the highest two years on record in terms of the number of children aged 17 or under being arrested for terrorism related offences, with 43 and 39 such arrests respectively. In 2002, there were only three such arrests and even as recently as 2019, the equivalent figure was as low as 12.

    Prevent referral figures paint a similar picture, with almost six out of every ten Prevent referrals in 2023/24 now relating to those aged 17 and under, up from around five in every ten back in 2016/17.

    Detective Superintendent Corrigan added: “I appreciate that this might seem quite daunting or unsettling for some parents or carers. And while it is still only a very small proportion of young people who may actually be affected, parents must not be fooled into thinking that this is something that only happens to others. We’ve had referrals and provided support through Prevent to a whole range of children, relating to a whole mix of different ideologies.

    “So please, visit the ACT Early website, speak to your child and if you have any concerns at all then trust your instincts and get in touch with us so that we can help – before it might become too late.”

    Prevent is the government-led programme which aims to stop vulnerable people from being drawn into terrorism, with police working with other safeguarding agencies to provide the necessary support.

    The public can also take an active role in reporting any terrorist or extremist online content that they come across via gov.uk/ACT.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Trump’s trade war will hurt everyone – from Cambodian factories to US online shoppers

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lisa Toohey, Professor of Law, UNSW Sydney

    It had the hallmarks of a reality TV cliffhanger. Until recently, many people had never even heard of tariffs. Now, there’s been rolling live international coverage of so-called “Liberation Day”, as US President Donald Trump laid out tariffs to be imposed on countries around the world.

    Just hours ago, Trump announced imports to the United States from all countries will be subject to a new “baseline” 10% tariff. This is an additional tax charged by US Customs and Border Protection when products cross the border.

    The baseline tariff is expected to take effect from April 5, and the higher reciprocal tariffs on individual countries from April 9. That leaves no time for businesses to adjust their supply chains.

    What might the next “episode” hold for the rest of the world? We can expect many countries to retaliate, bringing in tariffs and trade penalties of their own. That comes with risks.

    Tariffs on the whole world

    No country has been spared from today’s baseline tariffs, including many of the US’s traditional allies.

    Vietnam will be among the hardest hit, with a 46% tariff. China, South Korea and Japan will also feel the brunt of the newest announcement – all subject to tariffs of between 24% and 34%. The European Union is subject to 20%.

    Many countries had already vowed to retaliate.

    In a recent speech, the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said “all instruments are on the table”. She also stressed that the single market is the “safe harbour” for EU members.

    Canada was apparently spared from the baseline 10% tariff. But it still has to contend with previously announced 25% tariffs on the automotive and other sectors.

    Canada’s new prime minister, Mark Carney, has said “nothing is off the table” in terms of retaliation.

    Major tariffs on Asia

    China’s 34% tariff is a further aggravation to already fractious relations between the world’s two largest economies.

    Vietnam is especially reliant on the US market, and has been trying to negotiate its way through tariff threats. This has included unprecedented agreements to accept deported Vietnamese citizens from the US.

    Until this point, Vietnam had benefited from tensions between the US and China. These new enormous tariffs will have large ripple effects through not only Vietnam, but also less economically developed Cambodia (49% tariff) and Myanmar (44% tariff).

    Is it worth fighting back?

    Vulnerable countries may not have the leverage to fight back. It is hard to imagine what leverage Cambodia or Myanmar could have against the US, given the disparity in resources.

    Other countries consider it is not worth the fight. For example, Australia is rightly questioning whether a tit-for-tat strategy is effective, or will just ramp up the problem further.

    One country that has flown under the radar is Russia. Two-way trade with Russia is small, and subject to sanctions. But US media have reported Trump would like to expand the trading relationship in the future.

    A nightmare for the US Postal Service

    One of the interesting side effects of Trump’s announcements relates to what trade experts call the “de minimis” rule: usually, if you make a small purchase online, you don’t pay import taxes when the item arrives in your country.

    Trump closed this loophole in February. Now, US tariffs apply to everything, even if below the “de minimis” amount of US$800.

    This won’t just be a nightmare for online shoppers. Some 100,000 small parcels arrive in the US every hour. Tariffs will now have to be calculated on each package and in coordination with US Customs and Border Protection.

    Boycotts and retaliation

    We can also expect consumer backlash to increase worldwide, too. Canada’s “elbows up” movement is one template.

    Consumers around the world are already choosing to redirect their spending away from US products, expressing their anger at the Trump administration’s stance on trade, diversity equity and inclusion (DEI) policies, environmental protection, gender rights and more.

    Consumers should be careful about jumping on the bandwagon without doing their homework, though. Boycotting a US fast food outlet might make you feel better (and frankly may be better for your health), but that’s also going to impact the local franchise owner.

    Hating Americans en masse is also not productive – many US citizens are themselves deeply upset at what is happening.

    Claiming victory while consumers pay more

    Watch out for the impending claim of victory – one of Trump’s mantras popularised in the recent movie, The Apprentice.

    The US trade deficit rocketed after Trump’s previous tariff announcements this year, as importers scrambled to stockpile supplies before price increases.

    This cannot happen this time, because the tariffs come into effect in just three days.

    In the short term, the monthly trade deficit will decline if imports return to normal, which will give Trump a chance to claim the policies are working – even if it’s just a rebound effect.

    But these tariffs will harm rather than help ordinary Americans. Everyday purchases like clothes (made in places like Vietnam, Cambodia and China) could soon cost a lot more than they used to – with a $20 t-shirt going up to nearly $30, not including US sales taxes.

    As this reality TV-style trade drama continues to unfold, the world should prepare for more episodes, more cliffhangers, and more uncertainty.

    Lisa Toohey receives public research funding from the Australian Government and is a past recipient of a Fulbright Fellowship.

    – ref. Trump’s trade war will hurt everyone – from Cambodian factories to US online shoppers – https://theconversation.com/trumps-trade-war-will-hurt-everyone-from-cambodian-factories-to-us-online-shoppers-253726

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: Miramar homicide and aggravated burglary

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attribute to Detective Inspector Nick Pritchard

    Police now believe a homicide and an aggravated burglary in Miramar last month are linked.

    About 2am on Monday 17 March, Police were called to a Darlington Road address after the occupants located an intruder inside their home. A 28-year-old man has been arrested and charged with aggravated burglary in relation to this incident.

    Then 20 minutes later, 63-year-old Abdul Nabizadah was located with serious head injuries at the intersection of Camperdown Road and Totara Road. Sadly, Mr Nabizadah died in hospital and a homicide investigation was launched. 

    A large Police team has working on parallel investigations into both incidents. Following a number of enquiries we are now treating the cases as being linked, and have confirmed why Mr Nabizadah was in the area. We also believe he was the victim of a robbery.

    With the investigation ongoing, we cannot provide further details at this time.

    There is still much work for us to do, but I would like to thank the members of the public who have come forward with information, which has allowed us to progress the investigations.

    We repeat our earlier appeals for information that may help us identify a pedestrian walking from Camperdown Road into Darlington Road at 12.28am. This person was wearing a light top and dark pants, and may have crucial information. 

    We also continue to seek the driver of a 2006 silver or grey Mazda 6 that was seen driving through the Darlington Road/Camperdown Road intersection several times between 11.50pm Sunday 16 March and 2.17am Monday 17 March.

    If you have any information that could help the investigation teams, please update us online now or call 105.

    Please use the reference number 250317/6324, or reference Operation Celtic.

    Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Man charged after police seize firearms during targeted Mowbray search

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Man charged after police seize firearms during targeted Mowbray search

    Thursday, 3 April 2025 – 3:42 pm.

    A man has been charged after police seized four firearms, a silencer, and quantities of illicit substances during a targeted search at Mowbray yesterday.
    Members of Northern Drug and Firearms Unit executed a search warrant at the private residence, seizing a 3D printed pistol, a shortened rifle, an unregistered rifle, and a 12-gauge shotgun.
    A 23-year-old Mowbray man presented to Launceston Police Station this morning, and was charged with multiple firearms-related offences including possess a prohibited firearm to which a firearms licence may not be issued, possess a shortened firearm, and possess a silencer.
    He was also charged with recklessly discharging a firearm in relation to an incident on 1 February and wounding over an incident on 19 January.
    He will appear in the Launceston Magistrates Court at a later date.
    Anyone with information about illegal firearms should contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Grand Jury Returns Indictment

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MADISON, WIS. – A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictment today. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and a person named as defendant in an indictment is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    Madison Man Charged With Distributing Methamphetamine

    Rumont Kirkpatrick, 47, Madison, Wisconsin, is charged with distributing methamphetamine. The indictment alleges that on January 9, 2024, Kirkpatrick distributed 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. 

    If convicted, Kirkpatrick faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years and a maximum penalty of life in prison.

    The charge against him is the result of an investigation conducted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, and the United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Chad Elgersma and Louis Glinzak are handling the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump’s trade war will hurt everyone – from Cambodian factories to US online shoppers

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Lisa Toohey, Professor of Law, UNSW Sydney

    It had the hallmarks of a reality TV cliffhanger. Until recently, many people had never even heard of tariffs. Now, there’s been rolling live international coverage of so-called “Liberation Day”, as US President Donald Trump laid out tariffs to be imposed on countries around the world.

    Just hours ago, Trump announced imports to the United States from all countries will be subject to a new “baseline” 10% tariff. This is an additional tax charged by US Customs and Border Protection when products cross the border.

    The baseline tariff is expected to take effect from April 5, and the higher reciprocal tariffs on individual countries from April 9. That leaves no time for businesses to adjust their supply chains.

    What might the next “episode” hold for the rest of the world? We can expect many countries to retaliate, bringing in tariffs and trade penalties of their own. That comes with risks.

    Tariffs on the whole world

    No country has been spared from today’s baseline tariffs, including many of the US’s traditional allies.

    Vietnam will be among the hardest hit, with a 46% tariff. China, South Korea and Japan will also feel the brunt of the newest announcement – all subject to tariffs of between 24% and 34%. The European Union is subject to 20%.

    Many countries had already vowed to retaliate.

    In a recent speech, the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said “all instruments are on the table”. She also stressed that the single market is the “safe harbour” for EU members.

    Canada was apparently spared from the baseline 10% tariff. But it still has to contend with previously announced 25% tariffs on the automotive and other sectors.

    Canada’s new prime minister, Mark Carney, has said “nothing is off the table” in terms of retaliation.

    Major tariffs on Asia

    China’s 34% tariff is a further aggravation to already fractious relations between the world’s two largest economies.

    Vietnam is especially reliant on the US market, and has been trying to negotiate its way through tariff threats. This has included unprecedented agreements to accept deported Vietnamese citizens from the US.

    Until this point, Vietnam had benefited from tensions between the US and China. These new enormous tariffs will have large ripple effects through not only Vietnam, but also less economically developed Cambodia (49% tariff) and Myanmar (44% tariff).

    Is it worth fighting back?

    Vulnerable countries may not have the leverage to fight back. It is hard to imagine what leverage Cambodia or Myanmar could have against the US, given the disparity in resources.

    Other countries consider it is not worth the fight. For example, Australia is rightly questioning whether a tit-for-tat strategy is effective, or will just ramp up the problem further.

    One country that has flown under the radar is Russia. Two-way trade with Russia is small, and subject to sanctions. But US media have reported Trump would like to expand the trading relationship in the future.

    A nightmare for the US Postal Service

    One of the interesting side effects of Trump’s announcements relates to what trade experts call the “de minimis” rule: usually, if you make a small purchase online, you don’t pay import taxes when the item arrives in your country.

    Trump closed this loophole in February. Now, US tariffs apply to everything, even if below the “de minimis” amount of US$800.

    This won’t just be a nightmare for online shoppers. Some 100,000 small parcels arrive in the US every hour. Tariffs will now have to be calculated on each package and in coordination with US Customs and Border Protection.

    Boycotts and retaliation

    We can also expect consumer backlash to increase worldwide, too. Canada’s “elbows up” movement is one template.

    Consumers around the world are already choosing to redirect their spending away from US products, expressing their anger at the Trump administration’s stance on trade, diversity equity and inclusion (DEI) policies, environmental protection, gender rights and more.

    Consumers should be careful about jumping on the bandwagon without doing their homework, though. Boycotting a US fast food outlet might make you feel better (and frankly may be better for your health), but that’s also going to impact the local franchise owner.

    Hating Americans en masse is also not productive – many US citizens are themselves deeply upset at what is happening.

    Claiming victory while consumers pay more

    Watch out for the impending claim of victory – one of Trump’s mantras popularised in the recent movie, The Apprentice.

    The US trade deficit rocketed after Trump’s previous tariff announcements this year, as importers scrambled to stockpile supplies before price increases.

    This cannot happen this time, because the tariffs come into effect in just three days.

    In the short term, the monthly trade deficit will decline if imports return to normal, which will give Trump a chance to claim the policies are working – even if it’s just a rebound effect.

    But these tariffs will harm rather than help ordinary Americans. Everyday purchases like clothes (made in places like Vietnam, Cambodia and China) could soon cost a lot more than they used to – with a $20 t-shirt going up to nearly $30, not including US sales taxes.

    As this reality TV-style trade drama continues to unfold, the world should prepare for more episodes, more cliffhangers, and more uncertainty.

    Lisa Toohey receives public research funding from the Australian Government and is a past recipient of a Fulbright Fellowship.

    – ref. Trump’s trade war will hurt everyone – from Cambodian factories to US online shoppers – https://theconversation.com/trumps-trade-war-will-hurt-everyone-from-cambodian-factories-to-us-online-shoppers-253726

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Miller, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Declaring April as Second Chance Month

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV) joined Representatives Bruce Westerman (R-AR), Lucy McBath (D-GA), Don Bacon (R-NE), Danny K. Davis (D-IL), Barry Moore (R-AL), and LaMonica McIver (D-NJ), as well as Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) in reintroducing the bicameral Second Chance Month Resolution.

    “In West Virginia, we know how important it is to provide everyone with opportunities to succeed. Recognizing April as Second Chance Month gives hope to those who are reentering the workforce after serving their time incarcerated. When we invest in our communities and put in place resources and support for people released from prisons and jails, we build stronger and safer communities,” said Congresswoman Miller. “This resolution will bring more visibility to Second Chance programs that are instrumental in helping people across the nation get back on the right path as they reenter their communities.”

    “Recognizing April as Second Chance Month is an excellent opportunity to raise awareness on the importance of creating pathways for the millions of Americans previously and currently incarcerated, who have paid their debt to society, and experience the innumerable barriers to re-entering their communities,” said Congressman Westerman. “Each of these Americans have an intrinsic value and are worthy of the dignity that comes with establishing hard-earned jobs and gaining sought-after respect. Everyone deserves a second chance, and Congress must work to break down the stigmas attached to incarceration and reducing recidivism rates. I’m honored to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle on this resolution to restore the dignity of these reformed individuals.” 

    “Since Prison Fellowship launched Second Chance Month in 2017, we are honored to lead this growing national movement that includes more than 1,000 partners committed to unlocking second chances for the 1 in 3 Americans with a criminal record who face nearly 44,000 barriers to building a productive future,” said Heather Rice-Minus, CEO and president of Prison Fellowship.

    “We encourage Congress to pass this Second Chance Month resolution quickly because supporting second chances recognizes the God-given dignity and potential of every person and reinforces our nation’s commitment to creating pathways for new beginnings, healthy communities, and increased public safety,” said Kate Trammell, Prison Fellowship senior vice president of advocacy and legal.

    Background:

    • Millions of American adults with a criminal record face enormous obstacles to successfully re-enter society upon release. When legal and social barriers prohibit a formerly incarcerated person from finding well-paying jobs, this not only negatively impacts them, but also has lasting negative effects for their families. Beyond that, securing gainful employment and being accepted in society has been proven to reduce the likelihood of these individuals returning to prison in the future, ultimately decreasing crime and improving public safety.
    • This resolution was endorsed by Prison Fellowship.
    • This resolution is also supported by Brennan Center for Justice, Right on Crime, CPAC, Niskanen Center, FAMM, and National District Attorneys Association.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal Introduces Legislation to Block Offensive Weapons Sales to Israel

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) and Rashida Tlaib (MI-12) are introducing Joint Resolutions of Disapproval (JRD) to block the sale of specific offensive weapons to Israel. U.S. weapons have been used to wage this war, which in addition to killing thousands and displacing millions, has razed entire communities, destroying hospitals, schools, and homes.

    “Continuing to provide the Israeli government with offensive weapons, even as they violate both international and U.S. laws, is unacceptable and makes us complicit in this violence and destruction,” said Jayapal. “We must return to a negotiated ceasefire that allows for humanitarian aid to enter Gaza, the release of the remaining hostages, and lasting security in the region.”

    These weapons sales are especially concerning given that the Trump Administration bypassed years of standing practice and immediately noticed the sales without oversight from the House Foreign Affairs Committee. 

    If passed, these four JRDs would prohibit the sale of:

    • 35,529 2,000-pound bombs (MK-84 or BLU-117) ($2.04 billion – Sale 1);
      • Due to the size of the blast radius of these bombs, their delivery of these bombs was paused by President Biden. The large radius makes them unsafe to use in densely populated areas, like Gaza, without inflicting mass civilian casualties.
    • Various bombs, Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) guidance kits, and fuses ($893 million – Sale 2);
    • 5,000 1-000-pound bombs (MK-83 or BLU-110A/B) and 5,000 JDAMs guidance kits ($675.7 million – Sale 3);
    • D9R and D9T Caterpillar bulldozers, including spare and repair parts, which have been used for demolitions of homes and other civilian infrastructure ($295 million – Sale 4).

    Jayapal and Tlaib have already introduced JRDs for the following sales:

    • H.J.Res. 68: 10,000 155mm High Explosive artillery shells ($312.5 million);
    • H.J.Res. 69: 2,166 Small Diameter Bombs (GBU-39), 2,800 500-pound bombs (MK-82) and tens of thousands of fuses and JDAM guidance kits for use on bombs (6.75 billion);
    • H.J.Res. 70: 15,500 additional JDAM guidance kits for use on bombs and an additional 615 Small Diameter Bombs (GBU-39) ($688 million); 
    • H.J.Res. 71: 3,000 Hellfire Air-to-Ground Missiles ($660 million). 

    Since the introduction of the first tranche of JRDs, the Israeli government has broken the negotiated ceasefire agreement in Gaza. Since the start of the war, at least 50,000 Palestinians have been killed and more than 113,000 have been injured. 

    These resolutions are sponsored by the following Members: 

    Sale 1: Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Greg Casar (TX-35), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Al Green (TX-09), Summer Lee (PA-12), James P. McGovern (MA-02), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Mark Pocan (WI-02),  Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12).

    Sale 2: Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Greg Casar (TX-35), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Al Green (TX-09), Summer Lee (PA-12), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Mark Pocan (WI-02),  Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12).

    Sale 3: Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Greg Casar (TX-35), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Al Green (TX-09), Summer Lee (PA-12), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Mark Pocan (WI-02),  Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12).

    Sale 4: Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Greg Casar (TX-35), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Al Green (TX-09), Summer Lee (PA-12), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Mark Pocan (WI-02),  Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12).

    They are also endorsed by A New Policy, About Face: Veterans Against the War, Action Center on Race & the Economy, American Friends Service Committee (AFSC), Americans for Justice in Palestine Action (AJP Action, Arms Control Association, Center for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC), Center for International Policy Advocacy, Center for Jewish Nonviolence, Community Alliance for Peace and Justice, Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), DAWN, Defense for Children International – Palestine, Demand Progress, Democratic Socialists of America, Friends Committee on National Legislation, Friends of Sabeel North America (FOSNA), Gen-Z for Change, Hindus for Human Rights, IMEU Policy Project, Institute for Policy Studies, New internationalism Project, Jewish Voice for Peace Action, MADRE, Maine Coalition for Palestine, Malaya Kansas, MARUF CT, McKean County Green Party, Migrant Roots Media, Minnesota Peace Project, MPower Change Action Fund, Muslim Public Affairs Council, National Priorities Project at the Institute for Policy Studies, North Carolina Peace Action, Pax Christi Metro DC-Baltimore, Pax Christi New York State, Pax Christi USA, Peace Action, Peace, Justice, Sustainability, NOW!, Popular Democracy, Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), Office of Public Witness, Progressive Democrats of America – Central New Mexico, Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, ReThinking Foreign Policy, Sunrise Movement, United We Dream, US Campaign for Palestinian Rights Action, UU College of Social Justice, Women for Weapons Trade Transparency, The Peace and Justice Coalition of Prince Georges County MD, and Center for Constitutional Rights.

    Issues: Foreign Affairs & National Security

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal, Carson, Schakowsky, Welch Reintroduce Bill to Restore UNRWA Funding

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) has re-introduced H.R. 2411, the UNRWA Funding Emergency Restoration Act, with Rep. André Carson (IN-07), Rep. Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), and Senator Peter Welch (VT). This bill will end the congressionally and administratively mandated pause on funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). 

    The United States has historically been one of the largest financial supporters of UNRWA, which serves nearly 6 million Palestinian refugees across the West Bank, East Jerusalem, Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon. In March of last year, the U.S. paused UNRWA funding after the Israeli government alleged that 12 agency employees had direct involvement in Hamas’ October 7 terrorist attack. 

    Following the United Nations’ investigation and proactive commitments made by UNRWA toward complete accountability and reform, all countries except the U.S. have resumed their UNRWA funding, including the European Union, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Finland, Germany, Japan, and Sweden.  

    Humanitarian aid and supplies have not entered the Gaza Strip since March 2, when the Israeli authorities imposed a siege. Reports show that supplies are depleting at alarming rates, which could cause deaths from malnutrition and starvation. Several bakeries have already shut down after running out of cooking gas, and the U.N. World Food Programme reports that its flour supplies can only support bread production for five more day. UNRWA has served as the primary humanitarian aid organization operating in Gaza, and without funding, hundreds of thousands of Gaza civilians are left vulnerable.

    “For decades, UNRWA has played a unique and integral role in supporting the welfare of Palestinian refugees,” said Congresswoman Jayapal. “The organization’s on-the-ground understanding is invaluable to ensuring that humanitarian aid makes it to the people who need it most — in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, and critically in this moment, in Gaza. Permanently revoking funding for UNRWA will unquestionably lead to more devastation and loss of life in Gaza and throughout the Middle East. We must restore U.S. funding to UNRWA to ensure that those acting in good faith to save civilian lives have the necessary resources to continue their irreplaceable work.”

    “The scale of this devastating, man-made crisis in Gaza cannot be overstated,” said Congressman Carson. “Providing humanitarian aid to a starving nation – with funding Congress has appropriated year after year – should not be controversial. We need to end this blockade and restore full humanitarian funding to UNRWA. I urge my colleagues who care about basic human rights, the rights of pregnant women, and the wellbeing of innocent children to join our bill. It’s past time we restore funding and save lives.”

    “For decades, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has been a lifeline for Palestinians throughout the Middle East, providing food, clean water, health care, shelter, education, and livelihoods. UNRWA has provided essential support to those in Gaza throughout the Israel-Hamas war and dire humanitarian crisis. UNRWA and the United Nations have taken swift and decisive actions to address the concerns raised by the U.S. government when it paused funding last year and our allies have long ago resumed funding for UNRWA. The U.S. must follow suit and finally resume funding for this critical humanitarian agency,” said Congresswoman Schakowsky. “I am proud to co-lead the UNRWA Funding Emergency Restoration Act to restore funding to UNRWA and help Gazans get the humanitarian assistance they need at a time of unprecedented crisis.”

    “Since day one of this conflict, UNRWA has proven to be the backbone of the humanitarian response in Gaza. It is unacceptable that the funding pause has gone on this long—the civilian populations of Gaza and the West Bank are paying the price. As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to intensify, support for humanitarian aid is more important than ever,” said Senator Welch. “Congress must pass this legislation to ensure UNRWA can safely deliver humanitarian assistance to starving women, children, and families desperate for food, medicine, and shelter.”

    Below is a list of all endorsing organizations:

    National Organizations: 99 Coalition, American Friends Service Committee, Amnesty International USA, Amnesty International USA, Carolina Peace Center , Historians for Peace and Democracy, Center for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC), Center for Constitutional Rights, Center for Constitutional Rights, Center for Gender & Refugee Studies, Center for International Policy Advocacy, Center for Jewish Nonviolence, Charity & Security Network, Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA), CODEPINK, Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd, U.S. Provinces, Demand Progress, Doctors Against Genocide, DSA, End Wars Working Group of Progressive Democrats of America , Episcopal Peace Fellowship Palestine Israel Network, Friends Committee on National Legislation, Friends Committee on National Legislation , Friends of Sabeel North America (FOSNA), George Devendorf, Global Ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and United Church of Christ, Health Advocacy International, Hindus for Human Rights, Human Rights Watch, IfNotNow Movement, International Civil Society Action Network (ICAN), International Refugee Assistance Project, J Street, Jahalin Solidarity, Jahalin Solidarity, Jewish Voice for Peace Action, Justice4palestinians, MADRE, Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns, Medglobal , Middle East Democracy Center (MEDC), Migrant Roots Media, MoveOn, MPower Change Action Fund, Muslim Advocates, Muslims United PAC, National Advocacy Center of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd, National Council of Churches, New Jewish Narrative, No Dem Left Behind , Nonviolent Peaceforce, NRC USA, Partners for Progressive Israel, Pax Christi USA, Peace Action, Poligon Education Fund, Presbyterian Church, (USA), Office of Public Witness, Quincy Institute, ReThinking Foreign Policy, ReThinking Foreign Policy, RootsAction.org, Sisters of Mercy of the Americas – Justice Team, Terre des hommes Lausanne, The Borgen Project, The Tahrir Institute for Middle East Policy (TIMEP), United Methodists for Kairos Response (UMKR), UNRWA USA National Committee, USCPR Action, Win Without War, Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom, US Section (WILPF US), Yemen Relief and Reconstruction Foundation 

    State and Local Organizations:  Al Otro Lado, Atlanta Multifaith Coalition for Palestine (AMCP), Barry University, Brooklyn For Peace, Carolyn Eisenberg, Ceasefire Now NJ, Christian Jewish Allies for a just peace for Israel Palestine, Church Women United in New York State, Delawareans for Palestinian Human Rights, Florida Peace & Justice Alliance, FOSNA Pittsburgh , Greater Dayton Peace Coalition, Houston for Palestine Coalition, Indiana Center for Middle East Peace, Jews for Racial and Economic Justice, MARUF CT (Muslim Advocacy for Rights, Unity, and Fairness), Massachusetts Peace Action, Minnesota Peace Project, Muslim Justice League, Nebraskans for Peace Palestinian Rights Task Force, NorCal Sabeel, Oasis Legal Services, Peace Action Maine, Peace Action WI, Peace Action WI, Peace, Justice, Sustainability NOW!, Peace, Justice, Sustainability, NOW!, Progressive Democrats of America – Central New Mexico, Progressive Democrats of America- Central New Mexico, Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom DC-Metro Action Group, The Palestine Justice Network of the Presbyterian Church USA, Bay Area, UPTE Members for Palestine, Valley View Presbyterian Church, Voices for Justice in Palestine, YUSRA

    Issues: Foreign Affairs & National Security

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Ben Cline Reintroduces One Agency Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06)

    On Tuesday, Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06) reintroduced the One Agency Act, a bill that proposes consolidating federal antitrust enforcement within the DOJ’s Antitrust Division. The Federal Trade Commission would remain an independent agency, focusing on its consumer protection mission. This consolidation aims to strengthen consumer protection law enforcement while streamlining antitrust oversight.

    “For far too long, our antitrust enforcement has been plagued by bureaucratic infighting and delays that hinder competition,” Rep. Cline said. “These inefficiencies have allowed sophisticated entities to manipulate the system to their advantage, escaping accountability for their anti-competitive actions. It’s time we address these issues head-on. We need to streamline and reinforce our antitrust enforcement within the Justice Department. The Department is more directly accountable to the American people and is structured to deliver the decisive enforcement necessary to protect consumers and ensure a fair marketplace.”

    Read the full bill text here. 

    BACKGROUND: Under current law, the Federal Trade Commission and the Department of Justice Antitrust Division share the responsibility for enforcing the antitrust laws.

    This shared jurisdiction results in turf battles between the two agencies and backroom deals to investigate certain companies or industries, ultimately causing delays in investigations and harming enforcement.

    In addition, today’s FTC also looks and acts very differently from what Congress originally envisioned, and the agency is facing constitutional challenges that might result in a weakened agency.

    Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Ben Cline Reintroduces Hearing Protection Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ben Cline (VA-06)

    Today, Congressman Ben Cline (R-VA) reintroduced the Hearing Protection Act (HPA). This legislation reduces the overly burdensome barriers required to purchase a firearm suppressor to ease access for law-abiding citizens simply trying to obtain the hearing protection they need. 

    “Americans who enjoy hunting and target shooting should be able to do so safely and legally without facing burdensome government regulations,” said Rep. Cline. “The Hearing Protection Act will reclassify suppressors, making it easier for law-abiding gun owners to protect their hearing while enjoying recreational activities. It’s time to ensure that our Second Amendment rights are upheld, allowing responsible citizens to enjoy their freedoms without unnecessary obstacles.”

    Congressman Cline was joined by Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX), Rep. Ron Estes (R-KS), Rep. Riley Moore (R-WV), Rep. Aaron Bean (R-FL), Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY), Rep. Randy Weber (R-TX), Rep. Barry Moore (R-AL), Rep. Troy Nehls (R-TX), Rep. Burgess Owens (R-UT), Rep. GT Thompson (R-PA), Rep. Rob Wittman (R-VA), Rep. Richard Hudson (R-NC), Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL), Rep. Kat Cammack (R-FL), Rep. Buddy Carter (R-GA), Rep. Scott Perry (R-PA), Rep. Michael Bost (R-IL), Rep. Jack Bergman (R-MI), Rep. Brad Finstad (R-MN), Rep. Mike Collins (R-GA), Rep. Sam Graves (R-MO), Rep. Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN), Rep. Fulcher (R-ID), Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Rep. John McGuire (R-VA), Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-AL), Rep. Addison McDowell (R-NC), Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD), Rep. Tim Burchett (R-TN), Rep. David Kustoff (R-TN), Rep. William Timmons (R-SC), Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-GA), Rep. Jeff Crank (R-CO), Rep. Morgan Griffith (R-VA), Rep. Kevin Hern (R-OK), Rep. Steve Womack (R-AR), Rep. Brian Babin (R-TX), Rep. Celeste Maloy (R-UT), and Rep. James Comer (R-KY) as original cosponsors.

    The Hearing Protection Act is supported by the American Suppressor Association (ASA), the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), the National Rifle Association (NRA), the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF), and the Academy of Doctors of Audiology (ADA). 


    “The Hearing Protection Act is the epitome of commonsense legislation. Law-abiding citizens should not have to pay a tax to protect their hearing when they exercise their Second Amendment rights. The American Suppressor Association applauds Rep. Cline for his leadership and willingness to fight for the rights of gunowners across the United States,”     said Knox Williams, ASA President and Executive Director. 

    “Congressman Cline’s Hearing Protection Act will have the federal government recognize firearm suppressors for what they are. These are accessories to a firearm that make recreational shooting and hunting a safer experience,” said Lawrence G. Keane, NSSF Senior Vice President and General Counsel. “These safety devices reduce the report of a firearm to a level that won’t cause instant and permanent hearing damage. Despite Hollywood’s depictions, they do not mask the sound of a firearm. The focus should be on removing barriers to safe and responsible use of firearms and dedicating resources to ensuring firearms are safeguarded from those who should never possess them. Strict regulatory control of firearm accessories, and the parts of those accessories that have no bearing on the function of a firearm, is unnecessary and not the wisest use of federal resources. NSSF thanks Congressman Cline for his leadership for ensuring safe and responsible use of firearms and dedicating necessary resources where they are most needed.”

    “Onerous and unnecessary government regulation shouldn’t prevent America’s hunters and recreational shooters from protecting their hearing while exercising their constitutionally protected freedoms,” said John Commerford, Executive Director of NRA-ILA. “Suppressors do not silence firearms, but they are proven to reduce the severity of hearing loss. On behalf of our millions of members, NRA thanks Representative Ben Cline for introducing the Hearing Protection Act.”

    “The Hearing Protection Act has been a longstanding priority for the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF), and we are excited to see this legislation reintroduced. Suppressors are one of the fastest growing and most popular accessories for sportsmen and women, unfortunately, current law makes acquiring suppressors an overly burdensome process, which would be addressed by this legislation. CSF thanks Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus Member Rep. Ben Cline for introducing this legislation, and we look forward to working with him in the 119th Congress to improve the suppressor purchasing process,” said CSF President and CEO Jeff Crane. 

    Read the full text of the bill here.

    Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hagerty Announces Staff Changes, Promotions, Trump Admin Appointments

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty

    WASHINGTON—United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) today announced 22 additions and changes to his staff over the last year, as well as 14 of his staff appointed to serve in the Trump Administration. 

    “I’m pleased to welcome several additions to my staff and announce well-deserved promotions for others,” said Senator Hagerty. “I’m confident that my exceptional team will soar to even greater heights with new expertise and experience. At the same time, I’m deeply proud of my close advisors and alumni who have been appointed to serve in the Trump Administration. I look forward to all we will accomplish in the coming years together.”

    Lucas Da Pieve is now serving as Legislative Director. Da Pieve has served as the Deputy Legislative Director and Projects Manager, handling all budgetary and appropriations matters for Senator Hagerty, since 2021. Previously, he was the Director of Digital Response in the Office of Presidential Correspondence during the first Trump Administration and as Deputy Legislative Director and Projects Manager for Senator Lamar Alexander (R-TN). He is a graduate of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Da Pieve is originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina, and his family has lived in Blount County since 2008.

    Nate Kinard will serve as General Counsel to Senator Hagerty, and advise the Senator regarding judicial nominations, constitutional matters, and artificial intelligence. Previously, Kinard was a shareholder at Chambliss, Bahner & Stophel, specializing in business litigation and appeals. Kinard received his law degree summa cum laude from William & Mary Law School. A native of Chattanooga, Kinard majored in Political Science and Piano Performance at Vanderbilt University.

    Sloan McDonagh is now serving as Policy Advisor and Senior Counsel in Senator Hagerty’s Washington, DC office. McDonagh previously served as Senior Counsel to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. He is a graduate of Hillsdale College and Emory University School of Law.  

    Christy Charbonnet is now serving as Scheduler for Senator Hagerty’s Washington, DC office. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the College of Charleston in Systems Engineering and has been with the Senator since the fall of 2023.

    Emma Morris will serve as Deputy Director of Operations and Scheduling for Hagerty. Morris previously served as the Senator’s Deputy Scheduler. She graduated from Auburn University with a B.A. in Political Science. She is originally from Chattanooga, Tennessee. 

    John DiGravio is now serving as Legislative Assistant to Senator Hagerty, advising him on the Banking Committee portfolio. He previously served as Legislative Aide to the Senator and as an aide to the Senate Banking Committee. DiGravio holds a B.A. from Williams College and was raised in Austin, Texas.

    Luke Harris has been named Legislative Assistant to Hagerty assisting in the Agriculture, Energy, and Transportation portfolio. Harris is a graduate of Middle Tennessee State University where he received both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

    JT Isaacs has been named Legislative Assistant to manage all general budget and appropriations matters for Hagerty. He also manages the Healthcare, Education, Labor, Pensions, and Veterans’ Affairs portfolio. He previously served as Legislative Aide for Hagerty. Isaacs received a Bachelor of Science in Economics degree from the University of Kentucky.

    Matthew Venoit will serve as Policy Advisor to Senator Hagerty. Prior to the Senate, Venoit worked at Goldman Sachs in both New York and Hong Kong. He holds a B.S. from Penn State University and graduate degrees from KU Leuven and Georgetown University.

    Jillian Cantrell is now serving as Legislative Aide to Hagerty assisting in the Healthcare, Education, Labor, Pensions, and Veterans’ Affairs portfolio. Cantrell previously served as Legislative Correspondent and Staff Assistant. She is a graduate of Washington and Lee University, where she received Bachelor of Arts degrees in both Biology and Politics. She is a native of Chattanooga, Tennessee.

    Cole Bornefeld is now serving as a Legislative Aide to Hagerty, assisting in the Judiciary, Homeland Security, and Rules portfolio. Bornefeld previously served as a Legislative Correspondent in Hagerty’s Office. He graduated from Western Kentucky University with a bachelor’s degree in political science and public relations. He is a native of Hendersonville, Tennessee.

    Melissa Stooksbury has been serving as Deputy State Director since February 2024 based in the Nashville, Tennessee office. Prior to this role, she served in the office of Congressman Tom Cole, most recently as Communications Director. Stooksbury was born and raised in Knoxville, Tennessee and graduated from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science.

    Ethan Finley now serves as a Legislative Correspondent to Senator Hagerty within the Banking Committee Portfolio. Finley previously worked as a field organizer for Tim Sheehy’s 2024 Senate Campaign. Before that, he worked as an Investment Banking Analyst at Evercore. Finley also has experience as an analyst in private equity and wealth management. He graduated from Columbia University with a bachelor’s degree in Financial Economics.

    Zach Brooks currently serves as the Southeast Tennessee Field Representative for Senator Hagerty, a role he has held since April 2024. Before his tenure with Senator Hagerty’s office, Brooks was the Investor Development Director at the Cleveland/Bradley County Chamber of Commerce, focusing on membership growth and community engagement. Born and raised in Cleveland, Tennessee, Brooks graduated from Cleveland High School in 2010. He pursued higher education at Lee University, earning a bachelor’s degree in 2014 and a Master of Business Administration in 2019.

    Gabby Gardner serves as the Nashville Field Representative for Senator Hagerty, where she works closely with community leaders, elected officials, and industry stakeholders across Middle Tennessee. Prior to this role, she served as a Clerk in the Tennessee House of Representatives. Gardner is a proud graduate of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science.

    Ford Hawkins is now serving as the Jackson, Tennessee Field Representative. He previously served with the Young Republicans before joining Olin/Winchester Ammunition, where he worked as a ballistician before joining Hagerty’s office. Hawkins is a West Tennessee native, and he attended the University of Mississippi, holding a bachelor’s degree in History.

    Jonathan White is now serving as the West Tennessee Field Representative. After graduating high school, White served four years active in the U.S. Navy before graduating with his bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Mississippi. He has also worked for the American Legion and interned for the Northern District of Mississippi U.S. Attorney’s Office.


    Jake Netterville     is now serving as Personal Aide to Senator Hagerty in the Washington, DC office. Netterville recently graduated with a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Louisiana State University and is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Prior to joining Senator Hagerty’s office, Netterville worked as a federal analyst at The Picard Group. 

    Cecilia Ann Hutton is now serving as a Staff Assistant in Senator Hagerty’s Washington, DC office. She recently graduated from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and History.

    Steven Behringer is now serving as a DoD fellow for Senator Hagerty. Behringer is an active-duty Marine who is fluent in both Mandarin and Korean, and has extensive experience evaluating military and cyber threats in the INDOPACOM region. He is a native of Baltimore, Maryland.

    Blake McMahon is now serving as a National Security Fellow for Senator Hagerty. McMahon has held a variety of Executive Branch roles related to aerospace, defense, and intelligence issues. He received a PhD from the University of California, San Diego and a bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma State.

    James Santos is serving as a National Security Fellow. Santos comes from the Office of Director of National Intelligence, where he worked on a range of national security issues, covering policy development and program management matters. He graduated from Michigan State University, and holds a Master’s degree in Accounting. He was born in Manila, Philippines and hails from Grand Rapids, Michigan.  

    Serving in the Trump Administration

    Adam Telle is nominated to lead the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works. Telle has served as Hagerty’s Chief of Staff over the last four years and will continue to serve Hagerty while his nomination is pending before the Senate. Telle served during the first Trump Administration as the White House’s Senate lead in its Office of Legislative Affairs.  Prior to that role, Telle served as the top staff member on the Senate Appropriations Committee’s Subcommittee on Homeland Security and as the top policy advisor to the late Senator Thad Cochran. Telle holds degrees in computer science and journalism from Mississippi State University.

    Luke Pettit is nominated to be Assistant Secretary of the Treasury for Financial Institutions. Pettit has served as Senator Hagerty’s Senior Policy Advisor and will continue to serve Hagerty while his nomination is pending before the Senate. Previously, he worked at the Senate Banking Committee, Bridgewater Associates, and the Federal Reserve. Luke holds a B.A from the University of Pennsylvania, and graduate degrees from the London School of Economics and Johns Hopkins University.

    Daniel Zimmerman has been nominated to be Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs. Zimmerman currently serves in a Congressional Executive Fellowship in the office of Senator Hagerty and will continue to serve Hagerty while his nomination is pending before the Senate. He previously has held many roles in the agency realm, and holds both a bachelor’s degree from Asbury University and a master’s degree from the University of Kentucky.

    Julia Hahn is serving as the Assistant Secretary of the Treasury Department for the Office of Public Affairs. Hahn joins the Department after serving as Deputy Chief of Staff for Communications for Senator Hagerty. Prior to the Senate, Hahn served in the first Trump White House over all four years, most recently as Deputy Assistant to the President and Deputy White House Communications Director. Before that, she served as Special Assistant to the President and Director of Rapid Response and Surrogate Operations. Hahn has also worked in media as the Executive Producer of The Laura Ingraham Show and a reporter at Breitbart News. She also worked on Capitol Hill as Press Secretary to former Congressman Dave Brat. Hahn graduated from the University of Chicago with a BA in Philosophy.

    Clark Milner is serving as Special Assistant to the President and Senior Advisor for Policy, focusing primarily on domestic policy. Milner formerly served as Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy and Chief Counsel to Senator Bill Hagerty. Milner previously served as Deputy Counsel to Governor Bill Lee.

    Natalie McIntyre currently serves a Special Assistant to the President for the Office of Legislative Affairs where she handles the Healthcare, Education, Labor, Banking, and Agriculture portfolio. Previously, she was Senator Hagerty’s Legislative Director overseeing the legislative team and managing the Health, Education, Labor, Pension, and Veterans portfolio. Prior to her role in Hagerty’s office, she was part of the legislative office at OMB where she managed the Senate offices. She also served as a Senior Policy Advisor and White House liaison at ONDCP.

    Nels Nordquist     is serving as Deputy Assistant to the President for International Economic Policy and DD of NEC.Nordquist was Senior Fellow for Economic Policy in the office of Senator Hagerty. From October 2022 through January 2025, he served as Staff Director for the National Security, Illicit Finance, and International Financial Institutions Subcommittee of the House Financial Services Committee. From 2018-2021, Nordquist worked in the National Security Council and National Economic Council, first as Director for Trade & Investment and later as Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for International Economic Policy. Nordquist graduated from Stanford and earned an MBA from the University of Virginia.

    Joel Rayburn is the Trump Administration’s nominee to be Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs. He is a historian, former diplomat, and retired military officer who previously served as special advisor for Middle East affairs in the office of Senator Hagerty. Rayburn is currently a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute. In the first Trump Administration, he served as a senior director on the National Security Council staff and, from July 2018 to January 2021, as the U.S. special envoy for Syria. Before joining the State Department, Rayburn served 26 years as a US Army officer and co-authored the Army’s official history of the Iraq War. He holds an MA in history from Texas A&M University and an MS in strategic studies from the National War College.

    Kevin Kim is the State Department’s China Coordinator and the Deputy Assistant Secretary for China, Japan, Korea, Mongolia, and Taiwan. Prior to the State Department, Kim worked as a national security fellow for Senator Hagerty. Kim was also the Senior Advisor to the Special Presidential Envoy for Arms Control Marshall Billingslea as part of the U.S. delegation to the 2020 U.S.-Russia arms control negotiations.  From 2018 to 2020, he served as the Chief of Staff to the Special Representative for North Korea and the Deputy Secretary of state Stephen Biegun and participated in various rounds of U.S.-DPRK nuclear negotiations. Kim received a BA from the Johns Hopkins University, MA from the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies, and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in International Relations from the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies.

    Walton Stivender Mears has taken on a new role as scheduler for Housing and Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner. Mears joined HUD last month after serving as Director of Scheduling for Senator Hagerty. She previously handled scheduling and assisted the chief of staff for Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS) and as a Staff Assistant for Senator Richard Shelby (R-AL). Mears is an Auburn University graduate from Birmingham, Alabama.

    J. Cal Mitchell is serving as the Special Assistant at the U.S. Department of Treasury. He joins the Treasury Department after serving as Personal Aide to Senator Hagerty. Mitchell is a native of Atlanta, Georgia and is a graduate of Hampden-Sydney College.

    Nick Checker, a national security fellow for Senator Hagerty in 2023, currently serves as Deputy Executive Secretary on the National Security Council. In that role, Checker provides senior-level review of NSC products for substance, policy relevance, and appropriateness for the President and senior White House officials. Checker has spent the last decade at the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) as a military analyst covering conflicts in the greater Middle East. Most recently, Checker worked in CIA’s office of Congressional Affairs, where he supported the confirmation process for Director John Ratcliffe. He holds a bachelor’s degree in history and political science from the University of Wisconsin and a master’s degree in Security Studies from Georgetown University.

    Nicholas Elliot is the Acting Director of the Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. Elliot serves as the chief advisor to the CFTC Chairman on matters before the U.S. Congress and as the Commission’s official liaison with Congressional members, federal agencies, and the Administration. Previously, Elliot spent nearly four years working for Senator Hagerty on the Senator’s financial services and banking portfolio, where he advanced the Senator’s work on the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. Elliot is a graduate of Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business where he received a BS in Business Administration with a major in Finance and a minor in Mandarin.

    Taylor Asher serves as Chief Policy Advisor of the SEC’s Crypto Task Force and is a Senior Policy Advisor to SEC Acting Chairman Mark Uyeda. From April 2023 to January 2025, Asher served as Policy Advisor and Confidential Assistant to Commissioner Uyeda. Prior to his time at the SEC, Asher was Personal Aide to Senator Hagerty. His tenure in public service began with Congresswoman Julia Letlow’s Office, where he served as Staff Assistant and Intern Manager. Asher is currently pursuing a Master of Economics at George Mason University. He holds a Master of Finance with an Energy Specialization as well as a Bachelor of Science in Management from Tulane University. He is originally from Nashville, Tennessee.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Appeal for information following burglary, Te Awamutu

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attributable to Detective Inspector Daryl Smith

    Police are seeking witnesses following a burglary at a service station in Te Awamutu on earlier this week.

    About 2.40am on 1 April, Police were called to Ohaupo Road, where a group of people had unlawfully gained entry to the premises.

    A number of items were taken from inside the service station before the alleged offenders fled the scene in two vehicles stolen from Hamilton earlier in the evening.

    One of the vehicles crashed down a bank into a stream off Mutu Street, which Police were alerted to by a member of the public several hours later.

    The vehicle has been removed to be forensically examined, and a number of items of stolen property were located inside. Police are still seeking the second vehicle.

    We would like to speak to anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the Te Awamutu area in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

    In particular, we would like to speak with anyone who has CCTV or dashcam footage of a blue Mazda Demio and a grey Nissan Tida between 2am and 3am on Ohaupo Road, between Cambridge Road and Mutu Street.

    Anyone with information is urged to contact Police on 105, either over the phone or online.

    Please reference the file number 250401/2703.

    Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Australians in Film and Screen Australia Announce 2025 Participants in Talent Gateway and Global Producers Program

    Source: NSW Government puts trust in NAB to transform banking and payments

    03 04 2025 – Media release

    Top (L-R): Global Producers Exchange recipients Ramu Productions (Devina McPherson, Jodie Bell) and Unless Pictures (Meg O’Connell).Bottom (L-R): Talent Gateway recipients Jean Tong, Timothy Lee and Kacie Anning. 
    Australians in Film (AiF) and Screen Australia are pleased to announce the 2025 participants in the internationally recognized Talent Gateway (TG) and Global Producers Exchange (GPE).
    These highly coveted programs are designed to elevate Australian screen creatives, enhancing their professional skills and expanding their global reach.
    Running online since 2021, Talent Gateway supports Australian writer/directors who have demonstrated recent success, providing them with the tools, industry access, and relationships necessary to succeed on the global stage.
    Global Producers Exchange aims to strengthen Australian producers’ international capabilities by facilitating global collaborations and offering key insights to develop Australian stories with a global outlook.
    Peter Ritchie, Executive Director of Australians in Film, said, “Screen Australia’s strategic investment in expanding the international reach of Australian talent and businesses is essential for the continued success of Australian screen stories. These stories not only captivate international audiences but also generate significant economic growth, cementing Australia’s reputation internationally as a breeding ground for exciting new talent. We look forward to working with the outstanding 2025 participants.”
    Screen Australia COO Grainne Brunsdon said, “We’re thrilled to support the 2025 Talent Gateway and Global Producers Exchange participants, whose talents highlight the strength of Australia’s screen industry. These programs offer invaluable opportunities to expand their international reach and create new pathways for collaboration. As global demand for Australian stories continues to grow, initiatives like these ensure our talent remains at the forefront of the international screen community, driving both creative innovation and economic growth.”
    Supporting Partners for these programs include Screen NSW, Screen Queensland, Screenwest and VicScreen. Industry Partners are Australian Directors’ Guild, Australian Writers’ Guild, Screen Producers Australia, Screen Canberra, Screen Tasmania, Screen Territory,  Screenworks and South Australian Film Corporation.
    Talent Gateway 2025 Participants:

    Clare Sladden (QLD): Clare is a Meanjin/Brisbane-based writer passionate about female-driven narratives. Her recent television credits include Good Cop/Bad Cop (Jungle Entertainment and Future Shack for Stan, Roku and The CW), NCIS: Sydney (Endemol Shine AU for Paramount+), and Sunny Nights (Jungle Entertainment & Echo Lake Entertainment for Stan, premiering in 2025). In the audio space, Clare wrote on the Wentworth spin-off podcast (Fremantle Media for Audible) and wrote and directed the narrative podcast Winding Road, starring Dacre Montgomery and Yael Stone. Clare has also received Screen Australia development funding for her debut feature, Sophie Next Door.
    Hannah Barlow and Kane Senes (NSW): This writing/directing duo from Sydney is known for their breakout work on Sissy, which was selected for SXSW and Sydney Film Festival, winning multiple audience awards globally. Their debut feature, For Now, garnered international festival nominations for Best Film. Recently, they received Premium Development Funding from Screen Australia for their next project, Cooch, and were named Inside Film’s Rising Stars. Their work continues to captivate global audiences with fresh and innovative storytelling.
    Jean Tong (VIC): Jean is a multi-talented writer and director for stage and screen. Their television credits include episodes of Heartbreak High (Netflix), Safe Home (SBS), and Erotic Stories (SBS). Jean’s stage work includes critically acclaimed plays like Hungry Ghosts (Melbourne Theatre Company) and Romeo is Not the Only Fruit (Malthouse Theatre). They were also the inaugural Melbourne Theatre Company Playwriting Fellow in 2023. Jean is currently directing the world premiere of Benjamin Law’s adaptation of Dying: A Memoir for Melbourne Theatre Company.
    Kacie Anning (NSW): Kacie is the creator, writer, director, and executive producer of Class of ’07 (Amazon Prime). She has directed and written for several high-profile series, including The Other Guy (Stan), Diary of a Future President (Disney+), Upload (Prime Video), and Hardball (ABC Me). She has won two Australian Directors’ Guild Awards. Her work as set-up director and EP on Madam (Channel 9), starring Rachel Griffiths, won Best Comedy Series at the Berlin Series Festival and Monte Carlo Television Festival.
    Thomas Wilson White (NSW): Thomas is an award-winning writer and director, best known for his work on the International Emmy Award-winning Heartbreak High (Netflix). His debut feature The Greenhouse (2021) won the Australian Directors Guild Award for Best Direction in a Feature Film under $1M. Thomas is currently developing a slate of original TV shows and a second feature film while adapting a best-selling novel for Warner Brothers.
    Timothy Lee (NSW): Timothy is the co-creator and writer of the Australian neo-Western Territory (Netflix), which topped the charts in 11 countries and reached #2 globally on Netflix. He also wrote on Mystery Road (ABC) and Mystery Road: Origin, earning AACTA nominations for Best Screenplay in Television. His writing credits include Bump (Stan/Netflix), Doctor Doctor (Nine), and The Unlisted (Netflix).

    Global Producers Exchange 2025 Participants:

    Carver Films – Sarah Shaw and Anna McLeish (VIC): Carver Films is led by award-winning producers Sarah Shaw and Anna McLeish. Their 2023 feature Run Rabbit Run, starring Sarah Snook and directed by Daina Reid, premiered at Sundance and became the top-streamed English-language film on Netflix in Australia and the USA. Their previous credits include Relic (2020), Sunshine (2018), and Snowtown (2011), which debuted at Cannes Critics Week. Carver is currently in postproduction on Saccharine with director Natalie Erika James.
    Future Pictures – Matt Govoni and Adam White (VIC): Founded by Matt Govoni and Adam White, Future Pictures is known for producing world-class content. Their recent projects include Late Night with the Devil (2023), which premiered at SXSW and won Best Screenplay at Sitges, and Lone Wolf (2021), which premiered at the Rotterdam International Film Festival. Future Pictures continues to break box office records and achieve critical success in the global marketplace.
    Martin Brown Films – Martin Brown and John Collee (NSW): Martin Brown Films is a Sydney-based screen production company founded by Martin Brown and John Collee. Martin Produced Moulin Rouge and Co-produced Romeo+Juliet. John recently adapted the TV series Boy Swallows Universe, which was Netflix’s most successful Australian-made show to date. Martin and John are recognized individually for their expertise in content development and international co-productions. Their company has a number of exciting projects in development.
    Ramu Productions – Jodie Bell and Devina McPherson (WA): Based in Broome, Western Australia, Ramu Productions specializes in First Nations storytelling. CEO Jodie Bell, a Butchella and Jagera woman, has produced numerous award-winning short films and documentaries, including Putuparri and the Rainmakers. Devina McPherson, a Widi Yamatji and Noongar woman, is an experienced development and associate producer. Together, they focus on creating authentic First Nations content with a strong cultural lens.
    Thirdborn – Nicole O’Donohue (NSW): Thirdborn, founded by filmmakers Shaun Grant, Justin Kurzel and Nicole O’Donohue, is committed to developing bold films and premium television series. Their debut series, Exposure (2024), was nominated for seven AACTA Awards. With a focus on distinctive storytelling, Thirdborn partners with extraordinary cast, crew, and producers with a shared creative ambition and passion for original storytelling to deliver impactful narratives for global audiences. 
    Unless Pictures – Meg O’Connell (NSW): International Emmy-winning producer Meg O’Connell founded Unless Pictures, a creative production company known for innovative storytelling. Meg’s credits include the AACTA-winning Robbie Hood (SBS/NITV), the Rose d’Or-winning Content (ABC), and the international hit Bluey (ABC/BBC/Disney+). Her most recent project is the feature film Windcatcher (Stan/ACTF).

    AiF Media Enquiries:
    Jane Lunn 
    [email protected]  | +61 402 248 811 
    Media enquiries
    Maddie Walsh | Publicist
    + 61 2 8113 5915  | [email protected]
    Jessica Parry | Senior Publicist (Mon, Tue, Thu)
    + 61 428 767 836  | [email protected]
    All other general/non-media enquiries
    Sydney + 61 2 8113 5800  |  Melbourne + 61 3 8682 1900 | [email protected]

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Cohen says President Trump’s Executive Orders Show he neither Understands nor Respects the Constitution

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09)

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), a senior member of the Judiciary Committee and its Subcommittee on the Constitution and Limited Government, today discussed President Trump’s efforts to upend the judicial system at a hearing entitled “Judicial Overreach and Constitutional Limits on the Federal Courts.” Trump’s efforts include extorting law firms, damaging independent agencies, and proposing to end national injunctive relief, and impeaching judges who make rulings with which he disagrees.

    Congressman Cohen made the following statement:

    “The judicial branch in our country plays a critical role in checks and balances, which the Constitution mandates. Our president doesn’t understand that or respect it. In my opinion he is, accordingly, the one doing the ‘overreach,’ not the judiciary…He can’t with an executive order – a press release on nice stationery – overrule the Constitution. Nor can he declare a third term for himself, which he’ll probably do eventually…

    “He’s also gone after lawyers and law firms and it’s no mystery why he did it…If lawyers are afraid to bring actions against the administration or the president, then the courts won’t be able to do anything…I’m a member of the bar. I respect the bar and I understand its importance to the American jurisprudence system…”

    See his entire statement and questions to hearing witnesses here.

    Witnesses at today’s hearing were:

    • Kate Shaw, Professor of Law, University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School;
    • Newt Gingrich, former Georgia Congressman (1979-1999) and former Speaker of the House (1995-1999);
    • Paul J. Larkin, Senior Legal Research Fellow, The Heritage Foundation; and
    • Cindy Romero, former resident of Aurora, Colorado

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Cohen Introduces the ‘‘Making Any Reimbursement Against the Law for Guarding Overnight Act’’ or the ‘‘MARALAGO Act’’

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09)

    Prohibits Secret Service from spending federal dollars for lodging or meals at a facility owned or controlled by a president

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today introduced the ‘‘Making Any Reimbursement Against the Law for Guarding Overnight Act’’ or the ‘‘MARALAGO Act’’ of 2025. The legislation prohibits the Secret Service from spending federal dollars to pay a President or former President (or an entity that he or she owns or controls) for lodging, meals, and other incidental expenses while the Secret Service is protecting the President or former President at his or her residence.

    Congressman Cohen made the following statement:

    “Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach isn’t just Donald Trump’s home; it is a hotel and restaurant.  When the Secret Service travels to Mar-a-Lago to protect the President, Donald Trump turns around and sends the hotel bill to taxpayers.  

    “In his previous term, Donald Trump charged the Secret Service more than $800 per night at least 11 times to stay at his properties, including Mar-a-Lago.  It also paid $17,000 per month to rent a cottage at his Bedminster, New Jersey, golf club. This continued into his post-presidency, when Trump continued to bill the Secret Service $396.15 per night to stay at his Florida resort.  Between January 20, 2021 and April 30, 2021, spending records show the Secret Service paid more than $40,000 for hotel rooms at Mar-a-Lago.  

    “Secret Service protection should not be a financial conflict for a president. If he believes he needs protection at his property, the agents should deliver as they would with any president who has a home residence by protecting the home, but should sleep elsewhere. When they protected Biden in Delaware, they didn’t stay at Biden’s home.”

    # # # 

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PASSED: Kustoff Bill to Replace Checks Stolen in the Mail Passed by the House of Representatives

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative David Kustoff (TN-08)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The House of Representatives unanimously passed, H.R. 1155, the Recovery of Stolen Checks Act, introduced by Reps. David Kustoff (R-TN), Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY), and Terri Sewell (D-AL). This bipartisan legislation would give victims of mail theft the option to receive their payment from the Department of Treasury electronically.
     
    Click here to watch Congressman Kustoff remarks during debate or read them as prepared below:
    Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 
     
    And I do want to thank Chairman Jason Smith (R-MO) for his leadership on this issue and this important piece of legislation, as well as the leadership of Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY) and Terri Sewell (D-AL). 
     
    Over the last several years, the number of government checks stolen from the mail has increased dramatically. 
     
    If I could, I would like to share a few statistics: 

    • Between 2019 and 2022 there was an 87% increase in theft from mailboxes, according to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
    • According to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), reports of check fraud doubled from 2021 to 2022.
    • FinCen’s most recent report on check fraud (published September 2024) found that between February to August 2023, the bureau received 15,417 individual reports about mail theft-related check fraud.

    This has been an ongoing problem in my district in West Tennessee, as it has been throughout the country. It is well past time that we get mail theft in the United States under control.
     
    That starts with giving federal law enforcement officers the tools and resources they need to detect, investigate, and prosecute the criminals behind these thefts.
     
    We also have to ensure that victims of mail theft are taken care of, and that they can access timely relief.

    That’s why this bill H.R. 1155, the Recovery of Stolen Checks Act, is so important.
     
    Right now, it can take up to four months for the IRS to issue a replacement for a stolen check. That’s a long time. 
     
    And due to the sheer frequency of mail theft that is happening right now, many taxpayers are having their replacement checks get stolen as well. 
     
    This is truly unacceptable – and outdated IRS regulations are partially to blame.
     
    Frankly, the IRS’s current process makes no sense.
     
    It exacerbates check fraud, it creates more bureaucratic hurdles for U.S. taxpayers, and it ultimately makes it more difficult for Americans to access their hard-earned dollars.
     
    For many American families, a delay in getting their tax refund has the potential to cause serious financial strain. 
     
    The Recovery of Stolen Checks Act will give victims of mail theft the option to receive their replacement payment through direct deposit, instead of having to risk mailing another check.
     
    This is a simple fix that will help expedite relief to affected taxpayers, keep government checks out of the hands of criminals, and ultimately make our government more efficient.
     
    I urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan, commonsense piece of legislation which passed out of the Ways and Means Committee unanimously by a vote of 41 to 0.
     
     
    The Recovery of Stolen Checks Act passed unanimously out of the House Committee on Ways and Means on February 12, 2025. Click here for the full text of the bill. 
     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Maritime NZ response to TAIC i-Catcher report

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    The capsizing of the i-Catcher in September 2022 was a devastating incident resulting in loss of five peoples’ lives.
    “We want to extend our sincere condolences to everyone impacted by this tragic incident,” Maritime NZ Director, Kirstie Hewlett says.
    “We recognise the work of TAIC in providing a comprehensive report and set of actions relating to a number of agencies and bodies.
    “As regards to the TAIC recommendations relating to Maritime NZ, we have either already actioned these, have actions in progress, or have partially accepted recommendations, but may be delivering these in ways that achieve the outcome, but through different means,” Ms Hewlett says.
    Where the actions relate to how we work with New Zealand Police or other coordinating authorities in the search and rescue sector. Maritime NZ supports the recommendations.
    These recommendations align with the work our Rescue Coordination Centre has already been doing with its partners, particularly with New Zealand Police in strengthening the way in which we work in relation to collaborating on search and rescue operations. We will also work with the NZSAR Council to support the consideration of whether all aviation taskings should be conducted by our Rescue Coordination Centre.
    “Maritime NZ wants to again offer its condolences to everyone impacted by this incident.
    “We fully understand days like this, two-and-a-half years after the incident occurred will be tough for the survivors, as well as friends and family members of the victims,” Ms Hewlett says.
    For information about which agency undertakes SAR in New Zealand please head to –

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –