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Category: Law

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Govt recruitment talks attract 1.8k

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    A series of recruitment talks organised by the Civil Service Bureau in Beijing and Shanghai wrapped up today, attracting over 1,800 Hong Kong people who are interested in applying for civil service posts in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government.

    Five recruitment talks on the administrative officer (AO) and executive officer (EO) grades were held at the Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office in Shanghai (SHETO), East China University of Political Science & Law, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Renmin University of China, and China University of Political Science & Law respectively.

    The participants, mostly university students, joined the talks online or in person.

    At the seminars, participants were introduced to the entry requirements, training programmes, examination and interview arrangements, as well as tips on preparing for AO and EO grade exams.

    In addition, the bureau had specifically arranged for serving AO and EO colleagues who had studied or lived on the Mainland to share their work and personal experiences.

    The bureau’s representatives also attended a SHETO event to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, taking the occasion to introduce the AO and EO grades to the young participants, with a view to encouraging them to apply for civil service posts in the Hong Kong SAR Government.

    A joint recruitment exercise is being held for the civil service grades of AO, EO II, assistant trade officer II and transport officer II. The application deadline is October 4.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Investment-Group: BaFin warns consumers about the website trade-mgrp.pro

    Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English

    The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) warns consumers about the company Investment-Group and the services it is offering. BaFin suspects the operators of the website trade-mgrp.pro of offering consumers financial and investment services without the required authorisation. The operators claim to be supervised by the European Financial Supervisory Authority. There is no such authority; BaFin has already issued a warning to this effect. On 1 July 2024, BaFin also published a warning regarding an identical offer on the website investmgrp.com.

    Anyone wishing to conduct banking business or provide financial or investment services in Germany may do so only with authorisation from BaFin. However, some companies offer these services without the necessary authorisation. Information on whether a particular company has been granted authorisation by BaFin can be found in BaFin’s database of companies.

    The information provided by BaFin is based on section 37 (4) of the German Banking Act (Kreditwesengesetz – KWG).

    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 –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI USA News: FACT SHEET: Biden-⁠ Harris Administration Accomplishments at the United  Nations

    Source: The White House

    Since his first day in office, President Biden has been committed to restoring American leadership at the United Nations. Our world today faces many challenges that no one country can or should confront alone. But when the United States shows up and leads at the UN, we can rally global action to tackle problems that affect us all. That is why the Biden-Harris Administration has worked tirelessly at the UN to advance American values, safeguard human rights for all, and address conflict and instability. Alongside our allies and partners from around the world, we have worked with UN agencies to tackle the climate crisis, shape our digital future, and fight poverty and disease.

    At a time of increasing geopolitical challenges and growing global needs, strong and effective American leadership at the UN is more critical than ever. The Biden-Harris Administration has worked to strengthen American leverage at the United Nations, uphold the UN Charter, and keep human rights at the core of the organization. Without robust American engagement, our competitor nations would gain leverage to advance their interests and values at our expense.

    The Biden-Harris Administration has also been committed to reforming and adapting the UN to the needs of the 21st century. For example, President Biden announced a new U.S. openness to expanding the membership of the UN Security Council, including permanent seats for Africa and Latin America. The UN is not a perfect organization, but given the scale of today’s challenges, the world needs global institutions that are more inclusive and effective.

    Over nearly four years, the Biden-Harris Administration’s leadership at the UN has delivered results for the American people. At the UN, we have:

    Responded to Threats to International Peace and Security

    • After Russia’s 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine, we worked at the UN to build support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and hold Russia to account. We rallied 141 countries in the UN General Assembly to condemn Russia’s violations of international law. We used UN Security Council debates to shine a spotlight on Russia’s illegal war and atrocities. We pressed the UN General Assembly to kick Russia off the UN Human Rights Council. We isolated Russia by denying it senior UN appointments and preventing its election to UN bodies.
    • Responding to the security situation in Haiti, we partnered with Ecuador to obtain UN Security Council authorization of a new Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support mission.
    • Working with African partners, we secured a UN Security Council decision to create in December 2023 a new mechanism to largely fund future African Union-led Peace Support Operations from the UN-assessed budget.
    • Following the horrific October 7 Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel, we defended at the UN Security Council Israel’s right to defend itself and demanded the release of hostages. Also in the Security Council, we called for increased humanitarian assistance to Gaza and established a new UN mechanism to improve aid coordination. In July 2024, we secured Security Council endorsement of President Biden’s plan for a ceasefire and hostage release deal.
    • As the Sudan conflict worsened, we mobilized action in the UN Security Council, including the adoption of a resolution in June 2024 demanding an end to the siege of El Fasher.
    • Responding to concerns that Russia intended to deploy nuclear weapons in space, we and Japan proposed a UN Security Council resolution calling on countries not to develop such weapons.
    • In 2022, we partnered with Ireland at the UN Security Council to reform, expand and strengthen humanitarian exemptions for UN sanctions.
    • Working with the United Kingdom, we secured adoption of the first-ever UN Security Council resolution condemning the February 2021 military coup in Burma.

    Protected and Upheld Universal Human Rights

    • We rejoined the UN Human Rights Council in 2021, enabling the United States to once again lead multilateral efforts to hold accountable human rights violators worldwide.
    • We issued a standing invitation to all UN thematic human rights monitors to visit the United States and assess our human rights record at home. In contrast to authoritarian governments, this invitation showed that a confident democracy is willing to have its record scrutinized and receive advice on strengthening rights protections for its citizens.
    • We pressed for the release of a landmark report from the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights on human rights violations against Uighurs in China.
    • We worked in the UN Human Rights Council to establish a new Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Russia to examine Moscow’s crackdown on dissent at home and a Commission of Inquiry on violations and abuses in Russia’s war against Ukraine.
    • We restored American leadership at the UN in defending the human rights of LGBTQI+ individuals around the world. This included participating in high-level meetings of the Core Group of countries advocating for LGBTQI+ rights, including a September 23 meeting where the First Lady represented the United States. We also secured the renewal of the mandate of the UN’s Independent Expert on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity and urged the UN to release its first-ever organization-wide strategy on LGBTQI+ rights, co-sponsoring the first-ever Human Rights Council resolution on the rights of intersex persons, and convening the second-ever informal UN Security Council meeting on the rights of LGBTQI+ individuals.
    • We spotlighted egregious human rights violations by North Korea, including by organizing the first briefing of the UN Security Council on North Korea human rights since 2017.
    • We helped establish mechanisms through the UN Human Rights Council to investigate human rights violations and abuses in Ethiopia, Sudan, and Nicaragua.
    • We worked at the UN to advance the global fight against antisemitism, including to ensure 36 countries and four multilateral organizations joined the U.S.-led Global Guidelines for Countering Antisemitism. In 2023, we convened a UN meeting on antisemitism with Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff and, in 2022, a roundtable at UNESCO.  
    • We advanced the UN’s work to promote racial equality, including by championing the inaugural session of the Permanent Forum on People of African Descent. We co-sponsored a UN General Assembly resolution designating July 25 as International Day of Women and Girls of African Descent.
    • We engaged seriously with the human rights treaty body process, including through periodic reports about our domestic human rights record to the Human Rights Committee and the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
    • Reaffirming support for the UN Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, we pressed for enhanced participation of Indigenous Peoples throughout the UN system. In 2022, Ambassador (ret.) Keith Harper, the first-ever Senate confirmed U.S. ambassador from a federally-recognized tribe, was elected to the UN’s Permanent Forum on Indigenous issues.  
    • We supported efforts in the UN General Assembly to advance discussion of a proposed convention on the prevention and punishment of crimes against humanity.  
    • After assuming the presidency of the UN Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), we hosted the UNCAC conference in Atlanta, Georgia in 2023, with approximately 2,600 delegates, including an unprecedented 1,000 from civil society.

    Advanced Gender Equity and Equality

    • We restored American leadership in pressing at the UN for the rights of women and girls, advancing their inclusion in societies, and supporting strong language in UN resolutions and at the Commission on the Status of Women on sexual and reproductive rights.
    • The January 2021 Presidential Memorandum on Protecting Women’s Health at Home and Abroad restored life-saving funding to the UN Population Fund (UNFPA).
    • We announced that the United States will contribute for the first time to the UNICEF–UNFPA Global Program to End Child Marriage.
    • Following the Iranian regime’s killing of Mahsa Amini and crackdown on protestors, we helped establish a new UN Fact-Finding Mission to investigate human rights abuses. We spearheaded efforts to remove Iran from the Commission on the Status of Women.
    • In 2024, we reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development Program of Action.
    • We launched the Global Partnership for Action on Gender-Based Online Harassment and Abuse, which included actions at the UN to address online safety for women and girls.

    Shaped Our Digital Future, Promoted Labor Rights, and Tackled Synthetic Drugs

    • We sponsored the first-ever UN General Assembly resolution outlining principles for the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI). This landmark resolution helped define a global consensus on safe, secure and trustworthy AI systems for advancing sustainable development.
    • We hosted events at the UN on misuses of new technologies, such as countries using commercial spyware to surveil dissidents and journalists.
    • We worked at the International Labor Organization (ILO) to empower workers worldwide and joined the ILO’s Equal Pay International Coalition to share best practices to close the gender wage gap.
    • At the first Summit for Democracy in 2021, we announced the Multilateral Partnership for Organizing, Worker Empowerment and Rights (M-POWER), an initiative working with governments, trade unions, labor support, civil society organizations, and philanthropy to uphold and promote workers’ trade union rights around the world.
    • In coordination with the UN Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC), we launched and hosted at the UN high-level meetings of the Global Coalition to Address Synthetic Drug Threats and secured adoption of a UN General Assembly resolution to enhance international action to fight such drugs.

    Strengthened Global Health Cooperation, Advanced Sustainable Development, and Bolstered Climate Action

    • We redoubled efforts to support implementation of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, launching a U.S. Strategy on Global Development to accelerate progress and mobilizing $150 billion of U.S. funding and billions more from the private sector, philanthropic, and other donor resources.
    • In 2021, we reversed the previous administration’s decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), enabling the United States to shape the WHO’s work on global health and reform. With the WHO, we led the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic by launching the COVID-19 Global Action Plan and donating nearly 700 million vaccine doses to 117 countries.
    • We hosted the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria’s 7th Replenishment in 2022, resulting in more than 75 governments, foundations, and corporations delivering pledges totaling a record $15.67 billion.
    • We worked at the UN to advance universal health coverage, continue the fight against tuberculosis and mpox, and combat global antimicrobial resistance (AMR), including to push countries for commitments on AMR that are bold, aspirational, and implementable.
    • We focused attention at the UN on addressing global food insecurity, repeatedly using the U.S. presidency of the UN Security Council to focus on the nexus between food security and conflict. We hosted at the UN ministerial-level meetings to generate new commitments to expand agricultural capacity and respond to famine with over 100 partner countries.
    • U.S. Representative to the UN Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield and Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland co-led the U.S. delegation to the 2023 UN Water Conference, where they announced more than $49 billion towards water security both at home and abroad.
    • In 2024, Secretary Haaland co-led the U.S. delegation to the Fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS4), where we announced new efforts to enhance our partnerships with SIDS.
    • After rejoining the Paris Agreement, we galvanized efforts at the UN to combat climate change, raising global climate ambition through countries’ enhanced national contributions, accelerated action to reduce pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, forward-leaning decisions at annual UN Climate Change Conferences, and major initiatives for ocean-climate action catalyzed by the annual Our Ocean Conference.
    • Former Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry and Senior Advisor for International Climate Policy John Podesta have helped lead an all-out effort, including critical agreements at the UN Climate Change Conference COPs 26 and 28 to partner with countries to accelerate climate efforts worldwide and reduce global emissions sufficiently to limit warming to 1.5° Celsius. 
    • We advanced efforts within the International Civil Aviation Organization, the International Maritime Organization, and other multilateral organizations to reduce greenhouse gas pollution from the aviation, shipping, and other sectors.

    Strengthened American Presence at the United Nations

    • After a five-year absence, we rejoined the UN Education, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). This allowed us to partner with UNESCO to combat the scourge of antisemitism, support global Holocaust education, promote journalist safety, safeguard Ukrainian cultural heritage, bolster ethical uses of AI, and advance science education for girls in Africa.
    • We led robust campaigns resulting in the election of U.S. citizens to key UN positions, including Doreen Bogdan-Martin as Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Amy Pope as Director-General of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and Sarah Cleveland as Judge on the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
    • We supported the appointments of highly qualified Americans to lead UN agencies, such as Ambassador Cathy Russell as Executive Director of UNICEF, Ambassador Cindy McCain as Executive Director of the World Food Program, and Ian Saunders as Secretary-General of the World Customs Organization.
    • Co-chairing the UN Accessibility Steering Committee, we worked to make UN headquarters in New York more accessible for all delegates, including construction of a 24/7 entrance for wheelchair users and the installation of a lift so everyone can address the General Assembly from behind the official rostrum.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Global: Parents with disabilities have faced discrimination for years in the US, but new rules will help ensure that child welfare systems treat them more fairly

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Elizabeth Lightfoot, Distinguished Professor of Social Policy, School of Social Work, Arizona State University

    Parents with disabilities have new legal protections. Westend61/Getty Images

    Parents with any kind of disability are much more likely to have some type of interaction with the child welfare system than other parents. This means they are more likely than other parents to be reported for child abuse and neglect and more likely to have abuse or neglect substantiated by child welfare workers. They are also more likely to have their children placed in foster care and more likely to permanently lose their parental rights.

    More than one-third of mothers with intellectual and developmental disabilities have an interaction with the child welfare system within four years of their child’s birth, and about one-fifth of all children in foster care have a parent with some type of disability.

    However, there is little evidence that parents with disabilities abuse or neglect their children at higher rates than anyone else. Instead, there’s evidence that many young adults raised by a parent with a disability have very positive childhood experiences.

    New rules that went into effect in July 2024 provide the first federal protections specifically for parents with disabilities. These new rules ban discrimination against parents and caregivers with disabilities throughout the child welfare system.

    Government is changing these rules

    I’m a social work policy researcher who has studied policies affecting parents with disabilities since 2007.

    In 2010, I found that three-quarters of states had laws which said that a parent’s disability could be used as the grounds for terminating their parental rights. Most of these state laws focused on parents with intellectual and developmental disabilities or mental health disabilities, though some listed physical disabilities and other types as well.

    Many of these laws were vague and used outdated language such as “mental deficiency.”

    Parental disability is the only grounds for termination of parental rights that focuses on a condition of the parent. The rest focus on behaviors. For example, parental poverty is not listed as grounds for termination of parental rights in any state, but neglect – a behavior – is.

    State laws were only one of the issues parents with disabilities encountered related to child protection. For years, there had been confusion as to how the Americans with Disabilities Act, the federal law banning disability discrimination, applied to parents in the child welfare system. Until 2015, most state courts denied ADA claims by parents with disabilities who believed they were discriminated against.

    In addition, most child welfare workers do not receive formal training on working with parents with disabilities. They are not trained in how to assess parenting skills or how to make accommodations to services that they typically provide, such as providing in-home parent training or conveying information in plain language. They might not know about the overwhelming evidence that parents with intellectual disabilities can learn parenting skills.

    This has historically led many child welfare workers to make decisions based on stereotypes or speculation.

    One of the main biases that parents with disabilities face is the “presumption of unfitness bias.” This is a widespread bias that parents are unable to parent solely because of their disability.

    This bias can lead child welfare workers to not consider that parents with disabilities can rely on “parental supports” to assist them in parenting, ranging from adaptive cribs and baby monitors to in-home helpers. It also can result in parents with disabilities being held to a higher standard than others.

    State laws specifically naming parental disability as a for termination of parental rights, the lack of federal protection, and widespread biases left parents with disabilities vulnerable in encounters with the child welfare system.

    Gaining national attention

    Two federal actions in the early 2010s brought national attention to parents with disabilities.

    First, the National Council on Disability, the independent federal agency that advises the federal government on disability issues, released a report in 2012 called Rocking the Cradle. That report focused on the widespread discrimination faced by parents with disabilities; highlighted and called for changing the state child protection laws; and called for the application of ADA protections in child welfare cases involving parents with disabilities.

    This report received a lot of media attention and led to more awareness of the plight of these parents.

    Then, in 2015, Justice Department and the Department of Health and Human Services released guidance directing child welfare agencies to protect parents with disabilities from discrimination. This was the first federal action indicating that the ADA and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act applied to child protection services.

    This guidance followed the departments’ investigation of the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families’ removal of a newborn baby from Sara Gordon, a new mother with a developmental disability, in 2012. The Department of Justice and the Department of Health and Human Services found that the state agency had made assumptions that Gordon was unable to take care of her child and unable to learn parenting skills. The state agency had also failed to take into account that Gordon had support systems in place. She lived with her parents, and her mother had quit her job to assist with parenting.

    Making progress for parents with disabilities

    The momentum for protecting parental rights has led to some positive changes.

    A few states changed their own child protection laws to address some of these problems before the federal government took action by providing new protections for parents with disabilities. In addition, the Department of Justice and Department of Health and Human Services have reached agreements with state agencies in Oregon, Georgia and Massachusetts related to discrimination against parents with disabilities.

    Despite this progress, parents with disabilities are still discriminated against by the child welfare system in many parts of the country.

    At the same time, I have no doubt that the federal government’s revision of the rules of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act is a major step forward for parents with disabilities.

    In particular, it is promising that Section  84.60 of the rule clarifies that disability discrimination is not allowed in any part of the child welfare process. Child welfare agencies throughout the United States now must ensure that they are not making decisions based on speculation, stereotypes or generalizations.

    Thanks to changes in the federal rule, when a child welfare agency evaluates how a child is being parented, the tools it uses must be backed by research. The evaluations must be conducted by a qualified professional and tailored to the needs of the individual parent. Agencies must ensure that parents with disabilities can participate in any services they provide. These services include parent-child visitation, parenting skills programs, family reunification services and child placements in foster care settings or in the care of another relative.

    Disability advocacy groups applauded this new rule when it went into effect in the summer of 2024.

    I believe these new rules will protect parents with disabilities when interacting with child protection authorities. They will also make it easier for child welfare agencies and state courts to recognize disability discrimination when it appears in their caseloads or on their dockets.

    Elizabeth Lightfoot receives funding from the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research and the Arizona Developmental Disabilities Planning Council.

    – ref. Parents with disabilities have faced discrimination for years in the US, but new rules will help ensure that child welfare systems treat them more fairly – https://theconversation.com/parents-with-disabilities-have-faced-discrimination-for-years-in-the-us-but-new-rules-will-help-ensure-that-child-welfare-systems-treat-them-more-fairly-238185

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI China: Xinjiang’s Khunjerab Pass offers full-year service

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

    Xinjiang’s Khunjerab Pass offers full-year service

    Updated: September 24, 2024 20:37 Xinhua
    A police officer of Khunjerab border inspection station is pictured on duty at the Khunjerab Pass in Kashgar, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 20, 2024. Khunjerab Pass is a land port on the China-Pakistan border and an important gateway to South Asia and Europe. The pass used to offer seasonal access service that started on April 1 and ended on Nov. 30, but it has shifted to full-year service as of Sept. 20 this year. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Police officers of Khunjerab border inspection station check a vehicle at the Khunjerab Pass in Kashgar, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 20, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A truck passes through the Khunjerab Pass in Kashgar, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 20, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    This photo shows the Khunjerab Pass in Kashgar, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 20, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    Customs staff check electronic products at the Khunjerab Pass in Kashgar, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 20, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
    A police officer of Khunjerab border inspection station (R, front) helps a Swiss tourist at the Khunjerab Pass in Kashgar, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 20, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    MIL OSI China News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by FS at business luncheon Hong Kong-Spain: Partnering for Success (English only) (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, at business luncheon Hong Kong-Spain: Partnering for Success in Madrid, Spain, today (September 24, Madrid time): Dr Peter Lam (Chairman of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council), Ms Jarillo (Deputy Director General for Asia, Europe and Oceania, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Enterprise of Spain, Ms Laura Jarillo), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,      Good afternoon. I’m delighted to be here, in Madrid, the dynamic capital and financial heart of Spain, a city renowned for its world-class museums and fine dining and wine, not to mention the best football club in Europe, if not the world. What more can a visitor ask for?     Well, I can tell you that this speaker, and the young and energetic innovation and technology delegation here with me, are pleased to be here, with you, to talk about how Spanish and Hong Kong business can partner for success long-term, mutually rewarding success.Hong Kong, connecting Spain and Asia     Ladies and gentlemen, like Spain, Hong Kong is back in business after the challenges of the COVID pandemic, back creating opportunity for a world of business. Spain, included of course.     Hong Kong has long been recognised as one of the best connected cities in the world. Half the global population is no more than a five-hour flight away from us.     Before the pandemic, Hong Kong International Airport operated 1 100 flights a day, covering 220 destinations. Today, passenger throughput is rebounding, reaching over 80 per cent of pre-pandemic levels on peak days, with full resumption expected by year’s end.     As for cargo, our airport has been the busiest in the world for 13 of the last 14 years.     This strategic connectivity is enhanced by Hong Kong’s institutional advantages, reinforcing our role as a “super connector” in Asia.     The unique “one country, two systems” arrangement makes this possible.     As part of China, Hong Kong enjoys convenient and sometimes priority access to the vast Mainland market, particularly the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, a city cluster comprising Hong Kong, Macao and nine Mainland cities in Guangdong province.      The Greater Bay Area’s collective population counts more than 87 million, with a GDP exceeding 1.8 trillion euros, surpassing that of Australia and the Republic of Korea.     And, on a purchasing power parity basis, the per capita GDP of the Greater Bay Area is US$40,000, 75 per cent of Spain’s. (Note: HK’s is US$71,500)     Hong Kong, let me add, is the most international city in China, thanks to the “two systems” that distinguish us.     We are the only jurisdiction in China practising the common law system, our judiciary exercising its powers independently. Information, capital, goods and people flow freely in and out of our city. Our taxes are low and simple, with a currency pegged to the US dollar. Our regulatory systems and professional services align with the best international standards.     Our commitment to the rule of law is exemplified by the Rule of Law Index, produced by the World Justice Project. In the latest Index, Hong Kong ranked 23rd and Spain 24th, both ahead of the United States.     Hong Kong’s enduring strengths will continue to thrive, as our country is committed to the “one country, two systems” principle for the long term. This commitment has been reiterated by President Xi Jinping on multiple occasions, and reaffirmed at various high-level state and party meetings in Beijing.     Last year, China and Spain celebrated the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties. And those ties continue to grow. Earlier this month, Prime Minister Sanchez was in Beijing, his second trip to the Chinese capital in two years.     As political and economic ties between our two countries strengthen, Hong Kong is proud to play a pivotal role in fostering more two-way investments, and more economic, innovation and cultural exchanges.Financial Services     One obvious area where we can contribute is financial services.      Hong Kong, after all, is an international financial centre – number three worldwide, behind only New York and London, according to the latest Global Financial Centres Index, released today.     We have a robust fund-raising market. Our stock market’s total capitalisation stands at 3.7 trillion euros, while assets managed by private equity and venture capital exceed 200 billion euros. Hong Kong is the leading biotech fund-raising hub in Asia, too.     A defining feature of our capital market are the “Connect Schemes” with the Mainland. Under the schemes, Mainland investors can buy stock, bonds, ETFs and derivatives directly from Hong Kong, while foreign investors can buy similar financial products on the Mainland through Hong Kong. In short, Spanish companies looking to list or issue bonds in Hong Kong can tap the capital from both the Mainland and international markets.     Hong Kong is also the world’s offshore renminbi hub. As the use of renminbi as a trade and reserve currency increases, businesses will naturally look for renminbi-denominated investment and risk-management tools. Hong Kong handles approximately 80 per cent of global offshore renminbi transactions, offering a wide range of investment and risk-management products.     Then there’s green and sustainable finance. We have long been Asia’s leader in green finance, issuing, on average, more than 55 billion euros in green and sustainable debt a year over the past three years.     Our green standards align with the best international practices. To take an example, the Hong Kong Taxonomy for Sustainable Finance, released in May, is highly compatible with the European Union’s Taxonomy for Sustainable Activities.     For green projects looking for funding, Hong Kong is simply Asia’s premier destination.Innovation and Technology     No less important is our commitment to rise as a global innovation and technology hub, together with the Greater Bay Area.     We have what it takes to realise that ambition. Hong Kong is home to five global top 100 universities, and our two medical schools are among the world’s top 40.     We also support 29 labs and research and development centres in collaboration with prestigious universities around the world.      Our start-up system is thriving, offering a variety of innovative products in fintech, green tech, biotech, supply-chain management, big-data analytics and more. And 20 per cent of our 4 200 start-ups were founded by overseas entrepreneurs.     Many of them are based in our two main innovation flagships: Science and Technology Park and Cyberport. And you will soon hear more from senior executives from these institutions, Albert and Eric. Let me add that our delegation members, many of them founders and CEOs of start-ups, are eager to talk to you, to explore business opportunities together.     Hong Kong boasts a full-spectrum financing market, including banks, private equity funds, venture-capital funds and a well-developed stock and bond market. These provide abundant financial support for tech companies local and global, at different stages of growth.     Greater Bay Area cities, let me add, each offers distinct strengths in innovation and technology; from basic research to technological application, commercialisation, and advanced manufacturing.      This year, the World Intellectual Property Organization’s Global Innovation Index ranked the Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou cluster second, globally, for the fifth consecutive year.     Now, allow me now to highlight a few I&T areas where Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area offer singular advantages, starting with artificial intelligence.      Crucial to AI are algorithms, supercomputing power, data and application scenarios, all of which Hong Kong is blessed with. We serve as a convergence point for Mainland and international data. We are also investing in the necessary i
    nfrastructure, including a supercomputer centre. Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area provide many different application scenarios for AI. Many AI companies, let me add, are choosing Hong Kong to develop their large language models and to go global.     Biotechnology is also a priority. And we are planning to conduct clinical trials for the Greater Bay Area. We are also working on a “primary evaluation system” that will allow medicine and medical devices approved in Hong Kong to be widely used in the Greater Bay Area, the Asian region and around the world.     Then there’s the Northern Metropolis, a 300-square kilometre area in Hong Kong bordering Shenzhen. The Northern Metropolis is destined to rise as an innovation and technology hub, a vast bridgehead for Hong Kong’s co-operation with other Greater Bay Area cities.     Ladies and gentlemen, that just touches on the opportunities Hong Kong is actively pursuing. But let me say that we’re particularly focused on four areas: AI, biotech, fintech and new energy and new materials. We are bringing in strategic companies to help us develop those sectors. Since the end of 2022, we have attracted over 100 tech companies to Hong Kong. Together, they will invest about 6 billion euros and create more than 15 000 jobs in our city.      We are equally keen on attracting talent. Since the launch of the new talent admission schemes and updating existing ones, to date, we’ve received some 360 000 applications under our various talent admission schemes. About 226 000 applications have been approved, and 150 000 professionals have already arrived in Hong Kong, I’m pleased to say.Concluding remarks     Ladies and gentlemen, Hong Kong offers boundless opportunities for Spanish companies – as a gateway to the Chinese Mainland and throughout Asia, and as a hub for financial services and I&T.     My thanks to the Hong Kong Trade Development Council for hosting today’s luncheon, and to our Spanish partners, including CEOC, ICEX and the Spanish Chamber of Commerce, for make this welcome gathering possible.     I am happy now to take your questions, to hear your thoughts and ideas on how our two economies and peoples can deepen our co-operation, creating far-reaching opportunities that benefit us all.     Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI USA: Friends With Paws celebrates therapy dog at Calhoun County Middle High School

    Source: US State of West Virginia

    CategoriesEnglish, MIL OSI, US State Governments, US State of West Virginia

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    MOUNT ZION, WV –  First Lady Cathy Justice announced today that one of the state’s newest therapy dogs through the Friends With Paws program is thriving and doing incredible work at Calhoun County Middle High School.

    Coco is a male Chocolate Labrador Retriever and was celebrated during a Pup Rally held at the school. Representatives from the First Lady’s Office, along with students, faculty, staff, and several other local leaders, were in attendance. 

    While Coco is the 29th dog placed through the program, a total of 38 Friends With Paws therapy dogs have been placed throughout the state.

    “We are thrilled to celebrate Coco at Calhoun County Middle High School,” First Lady Cathy Justice said. “Therapy dogs like Coco offer so much more than just a friendly face—they provide comfort, reduce stress, and create a calming environment for our students. These dogs are making a real difference, offering support when it’s needed most, helping children feel safe, and encouraging emotional well-being. Coco will be a cherished companion and an important part of this school’s journey toward a brighter, healthier future.”
    The Friends With Paws program places certified therapy dogs in several schools across the state, providing companionship and comfort for students in need of a boost. 

    Therapy dogs are specially trained to provide comfort and support to people in various tense environments. They can help people feel at ease, improve their mood, relieve anxiety, and remove social barriers. Therapy dogs are highly trained and certified to show their ability to work in stressful environments, ignore distractions, and provide therapy to people with diverse backgrounds and circumstances.

    “Coco fosters meaningful relationships and provides comfort to both students and staff, showing us that compassion and connection can profoundly enhance our school community,” Michael Fitzwater, Superintendent of Calhoun County Schools, said.
    Following today’s assembly, students and staff had the chance to spend extra time with Coco.
    “Calhoun Middle High School believes that every child deserves a safe and nurturing environment to thrive,” Michelle Paxton, Principal at Calhoun Middle High School said. “Therapy dogs, such as Coco, provide unique emotional support, and we are excited to see how this initiative can positively impact our students at Calhoun Middle High School.”

    The Friends With Paws program is a partnership between the Governor’s Office, West Virginia Communities In Schools (CIS) Nonprofit, and the West Virginia Department of Education. Therapy dogs are placed in schools within CIS counties where students are disproportionately affected by poverty, substance misuse, or other at-risk situations, and are in the greatest need of a support animal. The dogs serve as a healthy and friendly outlet for these students to address trauma and other social-emotional issues.

    “Coco has made an incredible impact at Calhoun Middle High School,” Assistant Superintendent of Calhoun County Schools Jeannie Bennett-Yoak said. “His presence brings joy, comfort, and a sense of calm to our students and staff alike. We are immensely grateful to First Lady Justice, her dedicated staff, Ultimate Canine, and Communities in Schools for providing such a valuable resource. The bond Coco has formed with our school community is truly uplifting and has significantly enhanced the emotional well-being of everyone here.”
    More information about Friends With Paws can be found in Communities In Schools: Friends With Paws, a documentary produced by West Virginia Public Broadcasting. Click HERE to view the documentary.
     
    A 2019 study published by the National Institute of Health found that a dog’s presence in the classroom promotes a positive mood and provides significant anti-stress effects on the body.

    In addition, research shows that the simple act of petting animals releases an automatic relaxation response. Therapy animals’ lower anxiety and help people relax, provide comfort, reduce loneliness, and increase mental stimulation. They are also shown to lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health, reduce the number of medications some people need, help control breathing in those with anxiety, and diminish overall physical pain, among other profound benefits.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims 16th Judicial Conference

    Source: US Department of Veterans Affairs

    Thanks so much to everybody. Good morning to you. Thank you for inviting me to join you for your 16th Judicial Conference.

    You had me a couple of years ago. The fact that you welcomed me back notwithstanding the intervening time as Secretary I take as a mildly positive sign. We’ll see how the reviews are on that at the end of the speech.

    Chief Judge [Michael] Allen, thank you so much for the introduction. It’s fitting that you’ve stepped up to Chief Judge during this conference because, as I gather, your introduction to Veterans law for the first time was when you accepted an invitation to speak to this very conference in 2006. And at that conference, you recognized the importance of Veterans law, and so here we are.

    Thanks for all you have done for Veterans, even before you joined this Court. You became one of the first professors with expertise in Veterans law, and you founded one of the law school clinics providing pro bono legal access for our nation’s heroes. I appreciate that one of your very first actions as Chief Judge was to introduce me just now. And so, I take that very seriously. So, thanks for that. I hope the rest of your tenure is as auspicious.

    Judge [Margaret] Bartley, also known as Chief Judge Bartley for the last five years, congratulations. And thank you for your 30 years of service to Veterans. You’ve worked to ensure that Veterans receive all the benefits and services they’ve deserved and they have so richly earned, provided them with pro bono representation yourself, clerked for this Court, been appointed as a judge on this Court, and elevated then to Chief Judge. Your service to Veterans, to the national interest, to the country, has been remarkable.

    And thanks also to all of you here at this Court, including this Court’s other distinguished judges, VA employees from the Board of Veterans Appeals and Office of General Counsel, attorneys representing Veterans before the CAVC [Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims], law professors, law students, and of course Veterans. No matter your role, you all care deeply about our nation’s heroes.

    One of the benefits of this biannual event is that it brings us all together. It might be on different sides of the table, but each one of us supports Veterans all the time.

    Let me begin where this Court began.

    During legislative hearings leading to passage of the Veterans’ Judicial Review Act in 1988, Sonny Montgomery—then-Chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee—said, “Accurate, informal, efficient, and fair. These are the goals which have guided the committee in … expanding judicial review of VA decision-making …. [It is] not intended to express displeasure with the BVA [Board of Veterans’ Appeals] method of reviewing claims or imply that the existing review process is unfair.”

    “To the contrary,” he said, “the committee believes that Veterans presently receive every possible consideration where the BVA reviews a case, and the committee expects that the new court will be similarly inclined.”

    That’s quite a statement from the chairman of a Congressional committee. And given that statement, and Chairman Montgomery’s observation about “Veterans [receiving] every possible consideration,” I’ve been wondering what he would think of the last few years, years which have seen significant improvements and significant developments in Veterans law.

    Two changes in particular have impacted the Veterans law landscape.

    First, the Appeals Modernization Act [AMA], implemented in 2019, has improved the appeals process—so far. The AMA has made appeals faster, it’s provided Veterans different options for addressing denied claims. But we are still operating in two separate legal systems, with different options for Veterans filing appeals, and thousands of Legacy claims being adjudicated.

    Second, President Biden’s PACT Act in 2022 greatly expanded VA health care eligibility for toxic-exposed Veterans and extended enhanced eligibility for Vietnam era, Gulf War era, and Post-9/11 combat Vets. We’re seeing Veterans file more benefits claims than ever before.

    In 2023, VA processed nearly 2 million benefits claims—a record high. So far this year, we’ve exceeded that by processing more than 2.4 million, with another 10 days left, yet, in the fiscal year, on pace to surpass last year’s record by more than 27%. The VBA grant rate for these claims is 64.2%—and as high as 75% for PACT Act claims. In 2024, the average overall disability rating granted to Veterans is 70%, with over $20,000 per year in disability compensation.

    Now, I know I’ve just listed a bunch of stats. Nearly every one of them represents all-time VA highs. But let’s remember that behind every one of them is a Veteran and their family receiving life-changing benefits and care.

    Now, breaking records is good. But it’s not good enough. Because here’s the bottom line: we have a lot of work left to do, a lot of improvement. In fact, we need to improve. We must keep Veterans at the heart of everything we do. Part of that involves the appeals process. So, let’s talk about what that looks like.

    When Veterans aren’t satisfied with decisions they’ve received, they have several recourses under the AMA, as you well know. Over the last three years, the Board of Veterans Appeals has hired more than 50 Veterans Law Judges, hired more than 350 attorneys, and has issued more decisions than ever before.

    In 2023, the Board issued 103,245 appeals decisions, again a record. And in 2024, the Board has already issued more than 111,000 decisions—another record again, with 10 days left in the fiscal year—so I don’t want any of the BVA personnel or the Board of Appeals team in the room there thinking that you can take the next 10 days off.

    The appeal rate to this Court has dipped over the last several years also. And last year, it was 7.4% of cases. However, this year there will still be about 9,000 BVA decisions appealed to this Court. Nine thousand of our nation’s heroes who have not received all the benefits they believe they’re entitled to, and in fact they believe VA has wrongfully denied them access to.

    Nine thousand.

    It’s long and complicated, and many of appeals don’t result in the outcome they desire. But it’s not simply the denial of benefits that makes Veterans unhappy. It’s the process, which can involve remand after remand and years and years of waiting.

    Each week, hundreds of Veterans send me letters. I’d estimate that a third of those express frustration—and let’s just say I’m being diplomatic here—frustration with the benefits claims and appeals process. Let me share selections from a few of them.

    In June, Travis in North Carolina wrote me: “Dear Secretary McDonough, I am a military Veteran writing to express my deep frustration with the unacceptably long wait times for decisions on VA disability claims. After sacrificing for my country, I now find myself struggling with service-connected disabilities and trapped in a seemingly endless bureaucratic process. This unresolved claim has caused tremendous stress and hardship for myself and my family. We rely on disability compensation not only for income, but for access to VA health care critical for treating my service-connected disability.”

    Later in June, I received a letter from Chris in California—U.S. Marine, Vietnam, now in his 70s. He described multiple remands from Board judges ordering tests from an orthopedic specialist and x-rays to determine service connection for arthritis. But, Chris wrote, a VA contractor sent him to urgent care, not a specialist, and sent him to an imaging center incapable of conducting x-rays. He’s still waiting to see a specialist. He’s still waiting for x-rays. Chris ended with, “I am dismayed, disappointed, even appalled that our government and country I was so excited and happy to serve at 17 years of age would treat me this way. Shame on you and on your team.”

    Shame.

    And in August, Deborah in Tennessee, emailed me. Her husband, Army Vet, had a disability compensation rating of 100%. “Since his death in 2022,” she wrote, “I’ve been trying to get widows benefits. I’ve filed, been rejected, appealed, got a Veterans assistance firm to help, but every time the VA comes up with some sort of excuse, in the hopes I’ll give up. I have to borrow money from family members just to pay utilities bills. I fear I’ll lose my home. I need help to get through the process. Please help me.”

    Now, there’s countless other Veteran letters I receive that express similar disappointment, heartache, anger, betrayal. So how can we address—alleviate—that frustration that Veterans so clearly express with our appeals process?

    Well, we do it by getting to the root of these issues.

    The Board of Veterans Appeals grants Veterans relief about one third of the time. One third.

    Yes, we have to follow the law, we want to follow the law, we do follow the law. There’s no way to wave a wand and grant every single appeal. But too many Veterans—caught in the endless churn of remand after remand, claims examination after examination, hearing after hearing—don’t trust the process. We need Veterans to trust us, to trust the appeals process, and to understand why we reach the decisions, even if, in fact particularly when, they walk away disappointed. We—the Board, this Court, private counsel—can gain trust through final decisions, and final decisions that are faster than Veterans get today.

    Look, the AMA has enabled us to make the process better, although there is still more to be done. Over the last few years, the Board’s AMA decisions result in 20% fewer remands and 10% higher grant rates. On average, final resolution of all issues in AMA cases takes between two to three years, faster than the seven to 10-year average before the passage of the AMA. But still, two to three years is too long.

    Here’s the reality. Today, Legacy appeals take about six years. That’s faster than before, but that’s still six years. None of us thinks six years is fast enough. That duration is going to tick up and up, and appeals are going to take longer and longer, because there’s 40,000 Legacy cases still at VA.

    Each year this Court remands thousands of additional Legacy cases to the Board. At any given time, 54% of the Legacy cases the Board is adjudicating have already been seen by a Board judge at least twice, nearly 30% at least three times, and almost 10% have already been adjudicated five times or more. 

    Even after the Board resolves all issues, for many Veterans the journey’s not over. It can take years to get a decision from this Court or the Federal Circuit. Typically, that decision just returns the case to the Board for further adjudication.

    I think we can do better for Veterans. I know some of you are talking about these issues in various settings, including sessions with the Bar Association. And that’s encouraging. Yes, it’s important to capture ideas and suggestions for change down the road, but let’s think about how we can help more Veterans now—improvements that VA, this Court, the private bar can implement sooner rather than later to benefit Vets. Now, none of us is immune here. We can all do better, no matter where we work.

    First, the claims examination process. Contractors speeding through compensation and pension exams, or not carrying out clear instructions on what to focus on, or conducting exams rife with inaccuracies. VA can—in fact, must—ensure that these exams are more accurate, with higher quality, leading to more resolved claims. Under Secretary [of Benefits, Josh] Jacobs and his team are working hard to implement quality measures on C&P exams—reducing unnecessary exams where we can so as to get to a decision sooner.

    Second, the Board of Veterans Appeals. I’ve challenged the Board to increase efficiencies. I’ve asked them to increase capacity, increase output. I’ve asked them to find ways to fill hearing slots that open up due to cancellations and increase appeal resolution rates so that we can reduce wait times for Veterans. I’ve also asked the Board to explore how we better inform Veterans of the expected wait times before their appeal will be issued. I know they are discussing these issues, and they’re figuring out how to do it. It’s not easy. The hiring process, which we’ve had our foot on the gas on over these last several years—also too slow.

    Remands going back and forth between the Board and this Court often aren’t productive, in my view. We’ve heard concerns that sending remanded cases back to the same Board judge may not always be the best way to get finality.

    Third, this Court. I ask you to ask yourselves, if we’re remanding 75% of appeals back to the Board, are we doing everything we can for Vets? Are we moving with efficiency and urgency? Vets don’t want to wait year after year, not knowing whether they’ll receive benefits or not. Veterans need timely, fair, final decisions on their claims, decisions that either grant their benefits, or fairly deny those benefits only after proper hearing, proper development, a full consideration of all the evidence developed, and a correct application of law. They don’t want to be stuck in legal limbo. 

    Fourth, private counsel. One of the AMA’s improvements is that it gives Veterans options besides filing an appeal with this Court. Consider whether you’re always choosing the best option for your client, especially when the Veteran, or their surviving family member, or their living family member, wants a final decision on the claim—and quickly. Is an appeal to this Court the best option for your client when you know there’s a strong likelihood of a remand, or even multiple remands, and no resolution for years and years? Or would it be better for the Veteran to file a supplemental claim that can be processed much faster than a remanded appeal?

    To everyone, please think about what happens if the system stays the same. Thousands and thousands of Veterans will continue to wait, burdened by what to them is a broken bureaucracy. They will continue to view appeals with disappointment and anger.

    What are Veterans doing to make the system work for them? They are turning to unaccredited representatives who call themselves “coaches” or “consultants,” charging Vets high amounts or outrageous percentages of future benefits. Veterans turn to these claim sharks because they promise the Veteran they’ll get a quicker resolution. And as payment, the Veteran signs over a portion of the benefits that Veteran earned serving our nation. This surely is not what we want.

    We have to do better.

    We need finality, and we need that finality more quickly. Finality in the appeals process isn’t dictated by just one factor or one specific actor. Getting to final decisions—and how we get there—depends on actions and decisions of VA, claimants, their lawyers, and judges. If we want Vets to receive benefits they are entitled to, and for their claims decided fairly and justly—which everyone in this room surely wants—we must focus on finality and achieving finality with urgency.

    Let’s consider how we make the system better for Vets. Talk about this with each other during your time here and after you leave. Because what everyone wants, I know, is for Veterans to receive all the benefits they have earned, accurately, quickly, fairly—the goals Chairman Montgomery hoped this Court would achieve.

    The President often says that our nation’s only sacred obligation is to prepare and equip the troops we send into harm’s way, and to care for them and their families when they come home. The second part of that solemn duty is VA’s to fulfill, each and every day. And in this instance, it’s not on VA alone. It’s on each of us here. Each decision at VBA, the Board, this Court, and counsel appearing before this Court has an impact on the Veteran. And often, the impact on a Veteran, their families, and survivors is, in fact, life changing.

    Remember, justice delayed is justice denied. Veterans did not hesitate to raise their hands and put their lives on the line for all of us. They didn’t say wait. So, let’s not make them wait one second longer than they have to for their hard-earned benefits.

    It’s on all of us to make that happen.

    Thanks for letting me be here today with you, and now let’s hear from you on your questions.

    Really appreciate you.

    Chief Judge, back to you.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI: Onfolio Holdings Inc. Signs Agreement To Acquire Eastern Standard Business

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WILMINGTON, Del., Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Onfolio Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq: ONFO, ONFOW) (the “Company” or “Onfolio”), a company that acquires and manages a diversified portfolio of online businesses, today announced that it has entered into an asset purchase agreement to acquire the majority interest in the assets of Eastern Standard LLC. The Company expects the acquisition to close October 1, 2024. The asset purchase agreement includes customary representations, warranties and covenants by the parties and the closing of the asset purchase agreement is subject to customary closing conditions. 

    As with the previous DDS Rank acquisition, this acquisition will occur with the assistance of Onfolio’s Special Purpose Vehicle “Onfolio Agency SPV LLC,” and an additional SPV “Onfolio Agency SPV 2 LLC” which will acquire a minority interest in the business.

    Eastern Standard provides clients with digital marketing services including integrated branding, and digital customer experiences. Their past client roster includes Neil de Grass Tyson, and Cornell Law, among others. For the fiscal year ended 12/31/2023, Eastern Standard generated approximately $4,000,000 in revenue and $630,000 in unaudited adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”).

    “Eastern Standard is an excellent business, with a strong leadership team and another exciting acquisition for us. Similar to Revenuezen, Eastern Standard is not alone a standalone business, but a platform for us to use for further acquisitions targeting organic and inorganic growth,” commented Onfolio CEO Dominic Wells. “As we build out the agency side of our portfolio, we continue to both level up the quality of business we own, and increase our capabilities to serve clients and cross-promote services.”

    On the deal structure, Wells added, “As with DDS Rank, we will complete this acquisition without Onfolio Holdings paying any upfront cash or issuing any common shares.”

    “The purchase price is $2,160,000 for 90% ownership. Our special purpose vehicle funding program, which continues to raise capital that is not dilutive to Onfolio shareholders, is investing $500,000 in exchange for 20% of Eastern Standard. Onfolio will own 70% of Eastern Standard in exchange for $410,000 of Series A Preferred Shares and through two secured promissory notes totalling $1,250,000 in the aggregate.”

    The Series A Preferred Shares and secured promissory notes to be issued by Onfolio will pay dividends and interest and are not convertible into Onfolio common shares.

    “We have mentioned previously that we have several acquisitions with structures similar to the DDS Rank and Eastern Standard transactions and should have enough capital to close because of our special purpose vehicle program’s non-dilutive funding,” said Dom Wells. “This acquisition should help us in our efforts to achieve profitability,” concluded Wells.

    About Eastern Standard

    Eastern Standard, a Philadelphia-based combined web and branding agency since 2014, was created to help clients navigate the creation of integrated branding and digital customer experiences. Using a data-first approach, Eastern Standard blends strategy, creativity, and technology to drive end-to-end brand and digital transformation.

    About Onfolio Holdings

    Onfolio acquires and manages a diversified portfolio of online businesses. Onfolio acquires business that meet its investment criteria, being that such businesses operate in sectors with long-term growth opportunities, have positive and stable cash flows, face minimal threats of technological or competitive obsolescence and can be managed by our existing team or have strong management teams largely in place. The Company excels at finding acquisition opportunities where the seller has not fully optimized their business, and Onfolio’s experience and skillset allows it to add increased value to these existing businesses. Visit www.onfolio.com for more information.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    The information posted in this release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You can identify these statements by use of the words “may,” “will,” “should,” “plans,” “explores,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “continues,” “estimates,” “projects,” “intends,” and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected or anticipated. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, general economic and business conditions, effects of continued geopolitical unrest and regional conflicts, competition, changes in technology and methods of marketing, delays in completing new customer offerings, changes in customer order patterns, changes in customer offering mix, continued success in technological advances and delivering technological innovations, delays due to issues with outsourced service providers, those events and factors described by us under the caption “Risk Factors” included in our SEC filings and other risks to which our Company is subject, and various other factors beyond the Company’s control.

    Investor Contact

    investors@onfolio.com

    The MIL Network –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Biographical notes

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Karen Mollica (BA Hons [Political Science], McMaster University, 2000; MA [International Affairs], Carleton University, 2003) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2003 following internships in Guyana and Costa Rica.

    Karen Mollica (BA Hons [Political Science], McMaster University, 2000; MA [International Affairs], Carleton University, 2003) joined the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in 2003 following internships in Guyana and Costa Rica. Her early assignments included coordinator in the Anti-personnel Mine Action Team and desk officer for several countries in West and Central Africa. She subsequently moved to the Canadian International Development Agency and served as first secretary at the High Commission in South Africa and as counsellor and head of cooperation at the Embassy to Jordan. Upon her return to Headquarters in 2019, she became director of policy, planning and operations for Latin America and the Caribbean, a position she held until 2022. Most recently, she served as director and senior departmental adviser in the Office of the Minister of International Development and as chargé d’affaires at the Embassy to the Holy See.

    Ajit Singh (BA [Communications], University of Winnipeg, 2003; BA Hons [Political Science], University of Winnipeg, 2004; MA [International Law], United Nations University for Peace, 2006; JD, Osgoode Hall Law School, 2012) has lived, studied and worked in multiple languages in 6 countries on 4 continents. He joined the Government of Canada in 2008 after working in media, academia, the United Nations and civil society organizations. He later worked in private law in Toronto and was called to the Bar of Ontario as a barrister and solicitor. In 2013, he joined the Privy Council Office in the Intergovernmental Affairs Secretariat. He then worked in its Foreign and Defence Policy Secretariat, where he led on relations with Europe, the Caucasus and Central Asia regions and Latin America and on legal files. In 2017, he joined Global Affairs Canada as a deputy director in the Foreign Policy Planning Division to lead the team responsible for the foreign ministers’ track during Canada’s 2018 G7 presidency. After this, he worked in the Conflict Prevention, Stabilization and Peacebuilding Division. In 2021, he joined the Department of National Defence as a director of operations. In 2022, he rejoined the Privy Council Office, this time as the first person to hold the position of director of international crisis response.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Security: Grand Falls-Windsor — Man arrested by Grand Falls-Windsor RCMP in relation to weekend home invasion

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Following a weekend home invasion that occurred at a residence on Irving Street in Grand Falls-Windsor, 28-year-old Michael Cook was arrested by Grand Falls-Windsor RCMP.

    Shortly before 7:30 a.m. on Sunday, September 22, 2024, police received the report. Two males forced entry into the home, confronted an occupant inside and demanded money. With money unavailable, the suspects stole other items and departed the residence.

    Michael Cook was arrested at a traffic stop a short time later. He appeared in court yesterday, charged with robbery and break and enter. He was released on conditions and is set to appear in court again at a later date.

    The second suspect has been identified with efforts underway to effect his arrest.

    The investigation is continuing. Residents are advised that this crime was not random in nature. The victim and suspects are known to one another.

    Those having information about this crime are asked to contact Grand Falls-Windsor RCMP at 709-489-2121. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Security: Blackville — Missing 46-year-old man

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Blackville RCMP is asking for the public’s help locating a missing 46-year-old man from Blackville, N.B.

    Marcus James Curtis was last seen on September 22, 2024, at approximately 2:30 p.m., in a parking lot on Highway 8 in Blackville. He was reported missing to police on September 24, 2024. Police have followed up on several leads to try and locate him, but have so far been unsuccessful. Police are concerned for his wellbeing.

    Marcus James Curtis is described as being approximately 5 feet, 7 inches (170 centimetres) tall, and weighing approximately 155 pounds (70 kilograms). He has green eyes, brown hair, and wears glasses. He was last seen wearing a plaid jacket with a grey hoodie and green pants. He could be travelling in a black 2014 and yellow Kawasaki Brute Force ATV, with New Brunswick licence plate XY 1713.

    Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Blackville RCMP at 506-843-9400.

    MIL Security OSI –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Security: Saskatchewan —  Saskatchewan RCMP WEST asks members of the public to report sightings of Joey Desjarlais

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Saskatchewan RCMP WEST is asking members of the public to report all sightings and information on the whereabouts of 34-year-old Joseph “Joey” Desjarlais.

    Desjarlais is wanted in relation to a September 8 robbery in Wadena, a September 16 robbery in Melfort, and is now charged in relation to a robbery in Yorkton.

    On September 22, 2024 at approximately 2:05 a.m., Yorkton RCMP received a report of a robbery at a business on Smith Street.

    Investigation determined an adult male entered the business, threatened an employee with a firearm, then stole cash, cigarettes and the keys to the employee’s vehicle. He then fled in that vehicle.

    No physcal injuries were reported as a result of the robbery.

    As a result of investigation, Desjarlais has been charged with:

    • one count, robbery with firearm, Section 344, Criminal Code;
    • one count, theft of motor vehicle, Section 333.1(1), Criminal Code;
    • one count, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, Section 88(1), Criminal Code; and
    • three counts, possession of weapon contrary to order, Section 117.01(1), Criminal Code.

    Saskatchewan RCMP, including the Warrant Enforcement and Suppression Team (WEST), is actively working to locate and arrest Desjarlais on his multiple outstanding warrants. Residents in the area may notice an increased police presence as a result of the efforts to arrest him.

    If you see Desjarlais, do not approach him. Report all sightings of him or information on his whereabouts to police immediately.

    Desjarlais is described as approximately 5’7″ tall and 130 lbs. He has brown eyes, short brown hair, and a short beard. He has tattoos of the words ‘public’ and ‘enemy’ with flames on his hands, and ‘Bonnie and Clyde’ tattooed on the right side of his neck.

    Report information to 310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

    MIL Security OSI –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement from Minister Tracy-Anne McPhee on the Supreme Court decision regarding the SCAN Act

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Minister of Justice Tracy-Anne McPhee has issued the following statement:

    “On September 5, 2024, the Yukon Supreme Court found that Section 3(2) of the Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Act was unconstitutional making it no longer in force. That section allowed a landlord of a property that is subject to a substantiated complaint to terminate a tenancy or lease agreement with five days notice with the support of the SCAN unit.

    • Read more about Statement from Minister Tracy-Anne McPhee on the Supreme Court decision regarding the SCAN Act
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    MIL OSI Canada News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI USA: All Ages, All Stages NC — A Roadmap for Aging and Living Well Plan Kickoff Event

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: All Ages, All Stages NC — A Roadmap for Aging and Living Well Plan Kickoff Event

    All Ages, All Stages NC — A Roadmap for Aging and Living Well Plan Kickoff Event
    rmbeck
    Mon, 09/23/2024 – 15:27

    Credentialed media are invited to attend the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Service’s kick off event to announce the unveiling of the All Ages, All Stages NC – A Roadmap for Aging and Living Well Plan. This multisector plan for aging is designed to help enhance the quality of life for all North Carolinians as we get older. The plan comes at a time when the number of older North Carolinians is growing rapidly. Today, nearly two million North Carolina residents are age 65 or older — that number is expected to rise to three million by 2050. 

    The plan is the result of a collaborative effort across sectors including consumers, providers, government entities, and aging and disability advocates in North Carolina. 

    Join NC Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley to learn more about this work to help North Carolina transform its infrastructure and coordinate services to better serve people across the state.

    What: All Ages, All Stages NC – North Carolina’s Multisector Plan for Aging Kickoff Event 

    Who: Kody Kinsley, Secretary, NCDHHS
                Constantinos Miskis, Regional Administrator, Administration for Community Living, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
                Joyce Massey-Smith, Director, NCDHHS Division of Aging; Co-Chair All Ages, All Stages NC Steering Committee
                Jill Simmerman Lawrence, Deputy Director, NCDHHS Division of Aging
                Mary Bethel, Chair of the NC Coalition on Aging’s Board of Directors; Co-Chair All Ages, All Stages NC Steering Committee

    When: Friday, Sept. 27, 2024
                  10-11 a.m.

    Where: Adams Building, Dorthea Dix Park Campus
                    101 Blair Drive
                    Raleigh, NC 27603 

    Media: Please RSVP news@dhhs.nc.gov to confirm attendance.  

    Sep 24, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI USA: Testimony of the Securities and Exchange Commission Before the United States House of Representatives Committee on Financial Services

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    Good morning, Chairman McHenry, Ranking Member Waters, and members of Committee. Thank you for the opportunity to testify before you today about the work of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

    The SEC at 90 Years

    At the SEC, we celebrated our 90th birthday earlier this year.

    In the aftermath of the 1929 market crash and the frauds, scams, and other observed problems in the securities markets, President Franklin Roosevelt came together with Congress to enact a series of securities laws in the 1930s and set up the SEC. Congress and Roosevelt understood how vital capital markets are to investors, issuers, and a dynamic and growing economy.

    Today, the SEC oversees the capital markets and works to deter and prevent fraud and manipulation, as well as helps ensure that investment advisers carry out their duties to their clients, and that companies and entrepreneurs can access the capital they need to succeed. The SEC is also the cop on the beat watching out for the investing public and issuers.

    The SEC is a remarkable agency. We serve investors building for a better future and issuers raising money to fund innovation, while overseeing the capital markets where they meet. The essence of this is captured in our three-part mission to protect investors; maintain fair, orderly, and efficient markets; and facilitate capital formation.

    Growth and Change in the Markets

    Today, the more than $100 trillion U.S. capital markets[1] are the deepest, most liquid in the world. To put these figures in context, the assets of the entire U.S. banking system add up to about $23 trillion.[2]

    Comprising approximately 40 percent of the world’s capital markets,[3]  U.S. capital markets outpace our roughly 24 percent of the world’s economy.[4] The U.S. capital markets also play an integral role in the dollar’s dominance.

    Everyday investors benefit from the U.S. capital markets. Their investment portfolios fund home purchases, college educations, and retirements. About 58 percent of U.S. households own stocks either directly or indirectly.[5] More than half of American households, representing nearly 121 million individual investors, own registered funds.[6]

    Today, registered investment advisers advise 57 million clients.[7] This includes advising on more than $37 trillion in registered funds,[8] $27 trillion in private funds,[9] and $49 trillion in separately managed accounts.[10]

    We oversee approximately 40,000 entities—including approximately 13,000 registered funds, approximately 15,400 investment advisers, about 3,400 broker-dealers, 25 national securities exchanges, 108 alternative trading systems, 10 credit rating agencies, and six active registered clearing agencies, among other external entities. The SEC oversees the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board (MSRB), and the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC). In addition, the Commission provides oversight over standard-setting and rulemaking by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) and the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB).

    SEC Organization and Staff

    To fulfill its mission, the SEC is organized around six divisions and 24 offices located in 11 regional locations[11] as well as our Washington, D.C., headquarters. We currently have 4,893 staff on board,[12] representing only a 5 percent increase from 2016 when we had 4,650 staff.

    The SEC staff in 2023 rated us among the best places to work in the federal government; we ranked third among midsized agencies for the second year in a row.[13] Our attrition this fiscal year is at historically low levels, so far averaging around 3 percent at an annualized rate.

    The SEC’s funding is deficit neutral. While the congressional appropriations process determines the SEC’s budget, the SEC collects fees on stock and other securities transactions to offset the appropriations.[14]

    For FY 2024 the SEC budget is $2.15 billion, remaining the same as it was in FY 2023. At the start of FY 2024, we paused nearly all job postings and backfilling for departing staff.

    In fiscal years 2021 through 2024, we will have shed 299,000 usable square feet from the SEC’s real estate footprint. As a result of these reductions over the last three years, we expect to save approximately $20 million in FY 2025. We will continue looking for opportunities to achieve cost savings across our leasing footprint and in other ways in the years to come.

    The rest of this testimony will describe the work of the six divisions. For the programmatic divisions, we will review certain rules that were implemented, adopted, or proposed in the last year.[15]

    Corporation Finance

    The Division of Corporation Finance seeks to ensure that investors have access to the information they need to make informed investment and voting decisions when a company offers its securities to the public, and on an ongoing basis as companies continue to provide information to the marketplace. The Division also provides interpretive assistance to companies with respect to compliance with SEC rules and forms and makes recommendations to the Commission regarding new rules and revisions to existing rules.

    The Division reviews the disclosures and financial statements of reporting companies to monitor and enhance compliance with disclosure and accounting requirements under the federal securities laws and Commission rules.

    In FY 2023, there were approximately 7,400 actively reporting issuers subject to oversight by the Division’s Disclosure Review Program, of which more than 4,000 were listed on U.S. exchanges.[16] Further, in FY 2023, the Division reviewed the filings of more than 3,700 reporting companies and new issuers.[17]  

    The Division has worked on a number of proposed and final rules in the last year.[18]

    In December 2023, rules began to be implemented requiring registrants to disclose material cybersecurity incidents they experience as well as to disclose on an annual basis material information regarding their cybersecurity risk management, strategy, and governance.[19]

    In November 2023, as mandated by Congress in the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Dodd-Frank Act), the Commission adopted rules regarding conflicts of interest in the securitization market.[20] Compliance with these rules is required starting in June 2025.

    In July 2024, rules were implemented regarding disclosures by special purpose acquisition companies (SPACs), both when going public as well as when engaging in a business combination transaction with a target company (de-SPAC transactions).[21]

    In March 2024, the Commission adopted rules to standardize climate-related risk disclosures by public companies and in public offerings.[22] The Commission stayed these rules pending the completion of judicial review.[23]

    The Commission also has adopted rules related to corporate governance. As mandated by Congress in the Dodd-Frank Act, exchange listing rules on clawbacks of executive compensation were implemented in 2023, with corresponding issuer disclosure requirements beginning in 2024.[24] Updated rules regarding how corporate insiders trade their own company’s stock have been phased in starting in April 2023.[25] In October 2023, the Commission adopted rules shortening the deadlines by which beneficial owners must inform the public of their position, with compliance beginning in February 2024.[26] Lastly, in August 2024, consistent with Congress’s mandate in the Financial Data Transparency Act of 2022, the SEC, together with eight other federal financial regulators, proposed joint data standards for data submitted to the nine financial regulators to promote the interoperability of financial regulatory data.[27]

    Investment Management

    The Division of Investment Management has primary responsibility for administering the Investment Company Act of 1940 and Investment Advisers Act of 1940. In administering the Investment Company Act, the Division develops regulatory policy for investment companies, which include mutual funds, money market funds, closed-end funds, business development companies, unit investment trusts, variable insurance products, and exchange-traded funds.

    The Division also develops regulatory policy as applicable to investment advisers, including advisers to registered investment companies, separately managed accounts, and, in certain cases, to private funds.

    In FY 2023, Division staff reviewed more than 1,900 filings related to more than 4,400 funds and insurance products. Staff also reviewed annual reports—including financial statements—from more than 4,200 funds.[28]

    The Division worked on a number of rulemakings in the last year.[29]

    The Commission adopted amendments to Form PF, the confidential reporting form for certain SEC-registered investment advisers to private funds.[30] Rules requiring that large hedge fund and private equity fund advisers make current reports on certain events to the Commission were implemented in June 2024. A joint rule with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) to enhance the amount of information the agencies receive from all Form PF filers was adopted in February 2024 and will be implemented in March 2025.[31]

    In August 2024, the Commission adopted amendments to reporting requirements on Form N-PORT.[32] Funds generally will be required to comply with the amendments for reports filed on or after November 17, 2025, except fund groups with net assets of less than $1 billion have until May 18, 2026.

    In May 2024, the Commission finalized amendments to Regulation S-P that will require covered firms to notify their customers of data breaches that might put their personal information at risk.[33] Such covered firms include broker-dealers (including funding portals), investment companies, registered investment advisers, and transfer agents. Larger entities will have to comply in December 2025 and smaller entities in June 2026. The Division of Trading and Markets also worked on these rules.

    In July 2023, the Commission adopted amendments to update the regulations for governing money market funds.[34] There is a staggered transition period for funds to come into compliance, with full implementation to be complete in October 2024.

    In September 2023, the Commission adopted amendments to the Investment Company Act “Names Rule” to address fund names that could mislead investors about a fund’s investments and risks.[35] Compliance will be phased in based on fund size, with larger funds required to comply in December 2025 and smaller funds in June 2026.

    In July 2024, the Commission implemented a Congressional mandate to provide a tailored form to register the offerings of registered index-linked annuities.[36] Filers will have until May 1, 2026, to comply with most of the final amendments, and insurance companies will be able to use the tailored form in September 2024.

    Rules regarding the updating of funds’ shareholder reports were implemented in July 2024.[37]

    Rules to govern proxy voting information reported on Form N-PX were implemented in August 2024.[38]

    The Divisions of Investment Management and Trading and Markets are considering recommending that the Commission re-propose rules regarding conflicts of interest in the use of predictive analytics by brokers and advisers.[39] Further, the Division of Investment Management is considering recommending that the Commission repropose rules regarding the custody of funds or investments of clients as well as changes to regulatory requirements relating to open-end funds’ liquidity and dilution management.

    In May 2024, the Commission and U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network jointly proposed rules requiring customer identification programs for Commission-registered investment advisers and exempt reporting advisers.[40]

    In addition to these rules, the Division also is implementing an initiative to add to the aggregate public data published by the SEC. First, earlier this year, it began publishing the Registered Fund Statistics report, which aggregates data about the registered fund industry.[41] Second, in May, the Division began publishing a new report based on aggregated data filed by investment advisers on Form ADV, providing statistics on the investment advisory industry and showing trends over time.[42] Third, in July, it updated and enhanced public reporting of data regarding hedge funds, private equity funds, and other private funds from Form PF. The report provides the public with information about the leverage, borrowing, and other activities of this rapidly growing sector.

    Trading and Markets

    The Division of Trading and Markets works to maintain fair, orderly, and efficient markets. Market monitoring and supervision are essential parts of the Division’s activity—especially during times of market stress. Transaction volume in listed equities has doubled in the last five years and tripled in the last 17 years.[43]

    The Division oversees 25 national securities exchanges, 108 alternative trading systems, about 3,400 broker-dealers, 53 security-based swap dealers, six active registered clearing agencies, and more than 300 transfer agents, among other entities.

    In FY 2023, the Division responded to more than 16,000 public inquiries. In FY 2023, the Division also reviewed more than 660 filings from broker-dealers as well as more than 1,700 self-regulatory organization proposed rule changes and advance notices.[44]

    In the last year, with respect to rulemaking, the Division was primarily focused on market structure for the equity and Treasury markets as well as implementing rules mandated by Congress through the Dodd-Frank Act. 

    In terms of equity market structure, last week the Commission adopted amendments to certain rules under Regulation NMS to adopt an additional minimum pricing increment, or “tick size,” for the quoting of certain NMS stocks, reduce the access fee caps for protected quotations of trading centers, increase the transparency of exchange fees and rebates, and accelerate the implementation of rules that will make information about the market’s best priced, smaller-sized orders publicly available.[45]

    On May 28, 2024, much of the U.S. markets (equities, corporate bonds, municipals, etc.) successfully aligned its settlement cycle with the Treasury markets at T+1.[46] In March 2024, the Commission adopted amendments to Rule 605 that enhance disclosure requirements for order execution quality.[47] Large broker-dealers—those with more than 100,000 customers—will have to disclose execution quality to the public. Compliance with these amendments to Rule 605 will begin in December 2025. The Commission also is continuing to review comments on other rule proposals related to the equities markets.[48]

    As for Treasury markets, in December 2023 the Commission adopted rules to facilitate additional central clearing for the $27 trillion U.S. Treasury markets.[49] By March 2025, Treasury clearinghouses must separate proprietary margin from customer margin and further facilitate access to central clearing. Starting at the end of 2025, certain cash transactions will have to be cleared. Starting in June 2026, certain repo and reverse repo transactions must be cleared. In February 2024, the Commission adopted final rules further defining a dealer and government securities dealer.[50] Further, rules are being implemented this month that will update and narrow the circumstances in which broker-dealers are exempt from registering with a national securities association.[51]

    The Commission also worked to finalize Congressionally mandated Dodd-Frank rules. Entities subject to rules creating a regime for the registration and regulation of security-based swap execution facilities (SBSEFs) were required to begin complying in August 2024.[52] Further, antifraud rules related to security-based swap transactions were implemented in August of 2023.[53] In October 2023, the Commission adopted rules regarding the reporting of short sale [54] and securities lending related data.[55]

    The Commission also adopted rules in November 2023 relating to the governance and use of outside service providers by clearinghouses, and compliance will be phased in during December 2024 and December 2025.[56]

    Finally, rules related to the electronic recordkeeping of broker-dealers were phased in beginning in May 2023, to be completed in November 2024.[57]

    Economic and Risk Analysis

    The Division of Economic and Risk Analysis (DERA) includes economists, statisticians, data scientists and engineers, attorneys, accountants, and other staff. These experts provide support to every aspect of the Commission’s mission from rulemaking to enforcement.

     DERA provides economic analyses that consider the costs and benefits of our rules as well as their effects on efficiency, competition, and capital formation. In conducting the economic analysis, DERA staff work closely with staff from the divisions, from the earliest stages of policy development through the finalization of a particular rule.

    The Commission receives feedback from the public on these economic analyses, which benefits our rulemaking.

    DERA also supports the Commission’s examination and enforcement functions by helping to identify securities law violations, quantify harm to investors, calculate ill-gotten gains, and assist enforcement with returning funds to harmed investors.

    Finally, DERA assists the Commission in its efforts to identify, analyze, and respond to economic and market issues, including those related to new financial products, investment and trading strategies, systemic risk, and fraud.

    Examinations

    The Division of Examinations serves a critical role in helping firms to comply with the law.

    In FY 2023, Division staff conducted more than 3,100 examinations across our tens of thousands of registrants. From investment advisers to broker-dealers to exchanges, the Division helps ensure that registrants are following their legal obligations to customers and clients, including seniors and other vulnerable investors.

    Importantly, the Division is the first line of defense for the investing public relying on investment advisers. It is responsible for examining and overseeing a growing registrant population, including more than 15,400 investment advisers and approximately 800 investment company complexes.

    The Division issues risk alerts that summarize examination observations and preview potential examination scope areas focusing on compliance with new rules. The Division also promotes compliance by regularly engaging with the industry and investors through its national and regional outreach events.

    Further, the Division works in parallel with SROs to examine the more than 3,300 broker-dealers with roughly 150,000 branch offices.

    Enforcement

    The work of the Division of Enforcement is central to the SEC’s investor protection role. The Division conducts investigations into possible violations of the federal securities laws and litigates enforcement actions in the federal courts and in administrative proceedings. In addition to monetary remedies designed to remove wrongdoers’ ill-gotten gains and deter future violations, the Commission’s enforcement actions protect investors by obtaining remedial injunctions in district court and, similarly, remedial suspensions and bars in administrative proceedings.

    In FY 2023, the Division brought 784 enforcement actions that resulted in orders for $4.9 billion in penalties and disgorgement. When feasible, the civil penalties and disgorgement obtained in the Commission’s civil enforcement actions are returned to harmed investors, and the SEC distributed $930 million to harmed investors in FY 2023.[58] Further, in FY 2023, the SEC received more than 40,000 separate tips, complaints, and referrals from whistleblowers and others, up from about 16,700 in 2019.

    Other Offices

    The SEC has an Office of the General Counsel, which provides legal analysis and advice to the Commission and its divisions and offices on all aspects of the Commission’s activities. The other offices include: Office of the Chief Accountant, Office of Investor Education and Advocacy, Office of International Affairs, Office of the Investor Advocate, Office of Credit Ratings, Office of Municipal Securities, Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, and Strategic Hub for Innovation and Financial Technology.

    Conclusion

    Thank you for the opportunity to testify today and for the Committee’s support of the SEC, its mission, and its people.  

    [11] When the Salt Lake City office closes in FY 2025, there will be 10 regional offices.

    [12] Staff onboard as of Sept. 6, 2024.

    [15] In addition to the rules detailed within the Divisions, rules to revise the Commission’s regulations under the Privacy Act were implemented in October 2023. See Securities and Exchange Commission, “SEC Approves Revised Privacy Act Rule” (Sept. 20, 2023), available at https://www.sec.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2023-189. Rules strengthening and modernizing the Commission’s ethics compliance program were implemented in March 2024. See Securities and Exchange Commission, “SEC Updates Ethics Rules Governing Securities Trading by Agency Personnel” (Feb. 22, 2024), available at https://www.sec.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2024-25.

    [16] Approximately 52 percent of those 7,400 issuers self-identified as smaller reporting companies, emerging growth companies, or both. See 17 CFR 240.12b-2 (defining the terms “smaller reporting company” and “emerging growth company”).

    [18]In May 2023, the SEC adopted a rule related to stock buybacks. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit subsequently vacated the rule in December 2023. In addition, in July 2022, the SEC rescinded certain rules applicable to proxy voting advice that the Commission had previously adopted in 2020. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit vacated portions of the SEC’s 2022 rescission in June 2024, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit upheld the SEC’s 2022 rescission in September 2024.

    [29] In addition to the rules detailed, the Commission adopted in March 2024 rules relating to internet advisers, which will be implemented in March 2025. See Securities and Exchange Commission, “SEC Adopts Reforms Relating to Investment Advisers Operating Exclusively Through the Internet” (March 27, 2024), available at https://www.sec.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2024-42. Further, rule amendments requiring the electronic filing of certain documents previously submitted on paper by investment advisers and others were implemented in February and June of 2023. https://www.sec.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2022-113. In August 2023, the SEC adopted rules regarding private fund advisers. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit subsequently vacated the rule in June 2024.

    [32] See Securities and Exchange Commission, “SEC Adopts Reporting Enhancements for Registered Investment Companies and Provides Guidance on Open-End Fund Liquidity Risk Management Programs” (Aug, 28, 2024), available at  https://www.sec.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2024-110.

    [38] See Securities and Exchange Commission, “SEC Adopts Rules to Enhance Proxy Voting Disclosure by Registered Investment Funds and Require Disclosure of “Say-on-Pay” Votes for Institutional Investment Managers” (Nov. 2, 2022), available at https://www.sec.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2022-198.

    [48] See Securities and Exchange Commission, “SEC Proposes Rule to Address Volume-Based Exchange Transaction Pricing for NMS Stocks” (Oct. 18, 2023), available at  https://www.sec.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2023-225. See also Securities and Exchange Commission, “SEC Proposes Rules to Amend Minimum Pricing Increments and Access Fee Caps and to Enhance the Transparency of Better Priced Orders” (Dec. 14, 2022), available at https://www.sec.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2022-224. See also Securities and Exchange Commission, “SEC Proposes Regulation Best Execution” (Dec. 14, 2022), available at https://www.sec.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2022-226. See also Securities and Exchange Commission, “SEC Proposes Rule to Enhance Competition for Individual Investor Order Execution” (Dec. 14, 2022), available at  https://www.sec.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2022-225.  

    [57] See Securities and Exchange Commission, “SEC Adopts Rule Amendments to Modernize How Broker-Dealers Preserve Electronic Records and Enhance the Electronic Recordkeeping Requirements for Security-Based Swap Entities” (Oct. 12, 2022), available at https://www.sec.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2022-187.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Security: James B. Nutter & Company to Pay $2.4M for Allegedly Causing False Claims for Federal Mortgage Insurance

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    James B. Nutter & Company, a former mortgage lender located in Kansas City, Missouri, has agreed to pay $2.4 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act and the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act of 1989 by knowingly underwriting Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (HECM) insured by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)’s Federal Housing Administration (FHA) that did not meet program eligibility requirements.

    “The HECM program helps support our nation’s senior citizens by providing an additional source of funds to supplement their income,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “Together with our partners at HUD, we are committed to protecting the financial integrity of this critical program and to pursuing those who seek to abuse it.”

    The FHA offers numerous mortgage insurance programs intended to help build and sustain strong communities across America. The HECM program is a reverse mortgage program specifically for senior homeowners aged 62 and older. The program allows seniors to access the equity in their residences, and thereby age in place in their family home, through a mortgage agreement with a lender that is insured against loss by the FHA.

    Lenders who participate in the FHA’s HECM program are authorized to underwrite mortgages without first having the government review the loans for compliance with the agency’s underwriting and origination requirements. If an FHA-insured loan defaults, the holder of the loan can then recover from the United States for certain losses. Lenders commit to following FHA rules to ensure that only eligible mortgages are insured by the government.

    The settlement announced today resolves the United States’ allegations in a lawsuit filed in 2020 that James B. Nutter & Company knowingly violated FHA underwriting requirements when it allowed inexperienced temporary staff to underwrite FHA-insured loans, and submitted loans for FHA insurance with underwriter signatures that were falsified and/or affixed before all the documentation the underwriter should have reviewed was complete.

    “This case sought to redress serious violations of FHA requirements that posed a risk to the HECM program,” said HUD General Counsel Damon Smith. “HUD will continue to protect the integrity of this important mortgage program that serves the interests of our nation’s senior citizens.”

    “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is dedicated to seeking recovery from mortgage lenders who take advantage of FHA programs and ignore essential program requirements,” said U.S. Attorney Teresa A. Moore for the Western District of Missouri. “The integrity and resources of those important programs must not be put at risk by mortgage lenders who put their own financial interests first.”

    “Our office continues its diligent pursuit of mortgage originators that do not play by the rules,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew Graves for the District of Columbia. “If a lender is asking the government to insure its loans, the government expects that lender to employ qualified underwriters to ensure the loans present acceptable credit risks and are supported by sound appraisals of the homes used to secure them.”

    “This case and the resulting $2.4 million settlement demonstrate the HUD Office of Inspector General’s commitment to holding lenders accountable when they commit fraud against FHA mortgage programs designed to provide financial assistance to senior homeowners,” said Inspector General Rae Oliver Davis of HUD. “No one is above the law. Our office will continue to work with our partners at the Justice Department to investigate mortgage lenders who jeopardize the integrity of FHA mortgage programs.”

    The investigation, litigation and settlement were the result of a coordinated effort among the Commercial Litigation Branch of the Justice Department’s Civil Division, the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the Western District of Missouri and the District of Columbia, HUD and HUD’s Office of Inspector General.

    Trial Attorneys Christopher Reimer, Kelly Phipps, Yifan Wang and Wilma Metcalf of the Commercial Litigation Branch and Assistant U.S. Attorney Cindi Woolery for the Western District of Missouri and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brian Hudak and Benton Peterson for the District of Columbia handled the matter. The litigation resolved by the settlement was captioned United States v. James B. Nutter & Co., Case No. 4:20-cv-874-RK (WDMO).

    The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only. There has been no determination of liability.

    Settlement

    MIL Security OSI –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI USA: Biden-Harris Administration Announces Nearly $715 Million to Help Communities Across the Nation Build Resilience to Flooding Disasters Through Investing in America Agenda

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Biden-Harris Administration Announces Nearly $715 Million to Help Communities Across the Nation Build Resilience to Flooding Disasters Through Investing in America Agenda

    Biden-Harris Administration Announces Nearly $715 Million to Help Communities Across the Nation Build Resilience to Flooding Disasters Through Investing in America Agenda

    WASHINGTON — Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and more severe due to climate change leading to increased response and recovery missions across the nation. Today, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell said during Climate Week NYC that the agency will announce approximately $715 million in new project selections to eliminate or reduce flood damage supported by historic funding from the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America Agenda. The funding, which comes through FEMA’s Flood Mitigation Assistance program will help communities across the nation enhance resilience to extreme weather events. 

    The Biden-Harris Administration has provided record funding to this program thanks to Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding for the Flood Mitigation Assistance program. Total funding for project selections increased nearly five times from the amount available—$160 million—for the FY21grant cycle before the law. In total, funding from this legislation over five years for the Flood Mitigation Assistance program is $3.5 billion.

    “Flooding is already the nation’s most costly and frequent disaster and climate change is only making it worse,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Additional funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is providing communities more critical resources to withstand increasing flood threats. Whether it’s elevating or acquiring flood-prone properties, these dollars are going to make communities more prepared and reduce disaster suffering for future generations.” 

    “As flooding occurs more frequently and with greater severity, flood mitigation is more important than ever,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “For 30 years, FEMA’s Flood Mitigation Assistance grant program has provided communities with access to federal support to protect against flood risk. Through the funding announced today, FEMA will continue to help states, local communities, Tribal Nations and territories analyze their risk of flooding and take forward-looking steps to protect their communities before a disaster strikes.”

    Through this program, FEMA provides funding to states, local communities, Tribal Nations and territories to reduce or eliminate the risk of repetitive flood damage to buildings insured under the National Flood Insurance Program. There are three categories of funding which include: 

    • Capability and Capacity Building Activities, such as project scoping to develop project plans and design.
    • Localized Flood Risk Reduction Projects, which help build resilience to flooding at the community level, including floodplain management, wetland, marsh, riverine and coastal restoration and protection.
    • Individual Flood Mitigation Projects, which protect individual homes and buildings from flooding, including by buying out or elevating properties above flood levels.

    Today’s selections further underscore the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to environmental justice by assisting the most disadvantaged communities in building resilience to climate change and extreme weather events. Aligning with the President’s Justice40 Initiative, these efforts will advance the goal that 40% of the overall benefits of certain covered federal investments go to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution.  For this cycle, FEMA almost tripled the amount of funding for disadvantaged communities from 16% in FY21 to more than 50% for a total of $367 million. 

    The announcement also aligns with FEMA’s 2024 Year of Resilience campaign, as well as the goals of the National Climate Resilience Framework and will help build capacity to withstand tomorrow’s hazards. As part of FEMA’s strategic goal to promote and sustain a ready nation, FEMA enhanced geographic distributions with more than 60 new selections.

    This is the 30th anniversary of the Flood Mitigation Assistance program, created in 1994. Approximately $2 billion has been obligated by FEMA to address the nation’s costliest annual disaster.

    The selections complement a July announcement of $1 billion through FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program and a recent $300 million in funding through Flood Mitigation Assistance’s Swift Current opportunity—another important part of the President’s Investing in America Agenda—to make the nation more resilient to natural hazards. Both programs provide climate resilience funding to help address increased demand for federal funds to address the climate crisis. 

    Flood Mitigation Assistance

    More than 775 buildings will be protected to prevent future strain on homeowners and reduce future claims payments from the National Flood Insurance Program.

    The number of projects selected by state with approximate totals:

    State or Territory Number of Projects Selected Total Funding for Projects Selected (rounded)
    Alabama 5 $19.1 million
    Arizona 5 $5.9 million
    California 3 $51.8 million
    Connecticut 8 $2.6 million
    Florida 33 $20.7 million
    Illinois 2 $27.2 million
    Iowa 3 $14.1 million
    Kansas 1 $254,000
    Kentucky 4 $1.6 million
    Louisiana 31 $206 million
    Maryland 2 $851,000
    Massachusetts 1 $646,000
    Missouri 1 $2 million
    New Jersey 12 $41.6 million
    New York 9 $5.8 million
    North Carolina 11 $23.4 million
    Ohio 5 $24.7 million
    Oregon 3 $20 million
    Pennsylvania 4 $832,000
    South Carolina 4 $1.9 million
    South Dakota 1 $5.3 million
    Texas 43 $236 million
    Utah 2 $599,000
    Washington 3 $1.4 million
    West Virginia 1 $202,000

    All 197 projects are in National Flood Insurance Program-participating communities in 25 states. In addition to flood control activities, the selections will reduce risk to individual properties through actions like elevations, acquisitions and mitigation reconstruction of buildings insured by NFIP. 

    Examples of project selections that address community flood risk for the purpose of reducing NFIP flood claim payments include:

    • The Pacific Avenue storm mitigation project in Wildwood, New Jersey, aims to address street flooding. The flood-prone area will benefit from a redesigned stormwater management system. A new pump station will manage stormwater runoff to ensure efficient drainage. 
    • St. John the Baptist Parish in Louisiana plans to elevate 132 flood-prone homes to reduce future damage and minimize flood insurance claims. The parish will elevate structures to at least 2 feet above Base Flood Elevation. 
    • The city of Moab, Utah, will mitigate flood risks by improving two detention basins, White Canyon and Johnson Canyon, both of which pose significant flood risks. The project includes building improved spillways to protect downstream properties.
    • The Arizona Department of Game and Fish will develop alternative designs to address safety risk to the Black Canyon Dam. The solution will improve the safety for nearly 200 downstream structures. 

    Approximately 51% of this cycle’s Flood Mitigation Assistance project selections will go to disadvantaged communities, an increase of 18% from last year’s cycle. Examples of these community-wide projects funded areas include:

    • Belhaven, North Carolina will reduce flooding in communities vulnerable to wind-driven tides and severe weather by installing pumps and an automated tidal gate along Wynne’s Gut.  The system aims to mitigate the number of repetitive property losses. The tidal gate will prevent tidal water from entering, while the pump station will discharge rainfall runoff, ensuring a quicker recovery for essential community lifelines.
    • Jefferson County, Texas will address severe flooding in three vulnerable areas serviced by storm sewers, ditches, channels and detention basins. The solution includes enhancing drainage to the Neches River.
    • In Kansas, the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City will advance its floodplain management program to prevent or reduce the risk of flooding. One goal is to improve the unified government’s Community Rating System class, a voluntary incentive program that recognizes and encourages community floodplain management practices that exceed the minimum requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program. An enhanced floodplain management program will not only help to reduce disaster suffering but also provide discounts to flood insurance policyholder premiums through the improved Community Rating System class.

    For more information, visit FEMA.gov.

    amy.ashbridge
    Mon, 09/23/2024 – 22:06

    MIL OSI USA News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI USA: Florida Man Convicted of Sex Trafficking Nearly a Dozen Women and Girls

    Source: US State of California

    Following a nine-day trial, a federal jury in the Southern District of Florida convicted Shannima Yuantrell Session, also known as Shalamar, 47, of Lake Placid, Florida, on 13 charges for sex trafficking nearly a dozen women and girls. Session compelled some of his victims to commit commercial sex acts between July 2011 and July 2013, and he compelled other victims to commit commercial sex acts between February 2016 and February 2019.

    “The defendant used despicable and horrific means to terrify and coerce nearly a dozen women and girls to engage in commercial sex,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department is committed to protecting vulnerable victims from such cruel exploitation. This prosecution reflects that commitment. It is a testament to the courageous young women who cooperated with law enforcement to expose, prosecute and hold accountable this defendant for the years of misery he inflicted on scores of women.”

    “Vindicating the rights of human trafficking victims and other vulnerable persons ranks among the highest priorities of our office,” said U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida. “Human trafficking is a crime of exploitation. We will not allow human traffickers to prey upon others for profit, as humans are not commodities but rather demand our united protection. Our office’s dedicated prosecutors, victim witness coordinators, and support personnel will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to combat human trafficking and bring offenders to justice.” 

    “Today’s verdict is a step towards justice for the nearly dozen victims who were forced by Shannima Yuantrell Session into sex trafficking and endured his reign of horrendous and abusive control,” said Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI Miami Field Office. “This verdict is a testament to the cooperation and commitment of several law enforcement agencies including the Highlands County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida and the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. We will continue working with these and other partners to dismantle human trafficking networks that operate in the shadows and brutalize their victims.”

    Evidence presented during the trial established that Session made promises of legitimate work and housing assistance to women and girls struggling with unstable living accommodations, substance abuse and neglect or who otherwise led unstable lives. Session’s promises were often false and empty, designed to provide him the opportunity to learn about a victim’s vulnerabilities while misrepresenting himself as caring and empathetic. Session then exploited the victims’ vulnerabilities to compel their commercial sex acts in squalid trailers housing migrant workers or in local orange groves.

    At times, Session used food and housing to control and coerce the victims. For example, he would not permit one of his victims to eat if the victim did not follow his instructions. Often, Session required his victims to engage in sexual activity with him after they had spent a night having compelled sexual intercourse with up to 18 men.

    Further, the evidence presented during the trial demonstrated that Session resorted to extreme physical violence to compel and intimidate certain victims. He violently punched some of the victims in the back of their heads in order not to leave marks on their bodies. Once, Session dragged a victim to a shower and beat her in the back of her head with a metal nutcracker until she fell limp to the floor. Session also choked another victim to the point that she lost consciousness, beat another victim with a baseball bat and brutalized yet another so badly that her nose ring fell out due to the force of the assault. In addition, Session took multiple victims to a nearby lake, where he held their heads underwater and threatened to drown them if they did not do as he ordered.

    The evidence also showed that Session used a firearm to intimidate and control his victims. He consistently kept a firearm in his possession, and frequently displayed it to victims or referred to it when talking with them. Once, Session pointed a firearm at a victim while he was driving and threatened to “kill” her after she asked him how he would feel if someone treated his daughter the way he treated her. Fearing for her life when Session stopped the car and began walking to the passenger side door, the victim jumped out of the car and ran towards nearby woods. In response, Session fired a shot into the air while he called out the victim’s name.

    Finally, the evidence indicated that Session manipulated and took advantage of some victims’ substance abuse problems to compel their commercial sex services. For example, Session provided victims with cocaine and methamphetamine to give them sufficient energy to engage in commercial sex acts with multiple migrant men at nearby trailers.

    A sentencing hearing is scheduled for Dec. 19. Session faces a minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison as well as mandatory restitution. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The FBI Miami Field Office, Ft. Pierce Resident Agency, investigated the case, with assistance from the Highlands County, Florida, Sheriff’s Office.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Hoover for the Southern District of Florida and Trial Attorneys Leah Branch and Matthew Thiman of the Civil Rights Division’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit are prosecuting the case.

    Anyone who has information about human trafficking should report that information to the National Human Trafficking Hotline toll-free at 1-888-373-7888, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information about human trafficking, please visit www.humantraffickinghotline.org. Information on the Justice Department’s efforts to combat human trafficking can be found at www.justice.gov/humantrafficking.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Security: Florida Man Convicted of Sex Trafficking Nearly a Dozen Women and Girls

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Following a nine-day trial, a federal jury in the Southern District of Florida convicted Shannima Yuantrell Session, also known as Shalamar, 47, of Lake Placid, Florida, on 13 charges for sex trafficking nearly a dozen women and girls. Session compelled some of his victims to commit commercial sex acts between July 2011 and July 2013, and he compelled other victims to commit commercial sex acts between February 2016 and February 2019.

    “The defendant used despicable and horrific means to terrify and coerce nearly a dozen women and girls to engage in commercial sex,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department is committed to protecting vulnerable victims from such cruel exploitation. This prosecution reflects that commitment. It is a testament to the courageous young women who cooperated with law enforcement to expose, prosecute and hold accountable this defendant for the years of misery he inflicted on scores of women.”

    “Vindicating the rights of human trafficking victims and other vulnerable persons ranks among the highest priorities of our office,” said U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida. “Human trafficking is a crime of exploitation. We will not allow human traffickers to prey upon others for profit, as humans are not commodities but rather demand our united protection. Our office’s dedicated prosecutors, victim witness coordinators, and support personnel will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to combat human trafficking and bring offenders to justice.” 

    “Today’s verdict is a step towards justice for the nearly dozen victims who were forced by Shannima Yuantrell Session into sex trafficking and endured his reign of horrendous and abusive control,” said Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI Miami Field Office. “This verdict is a testament to the cooperation and commitment of several law enforcement agencies including the Highlands County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida and the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. We will continue working with these and other partners to dismantle human trafficking networks that operate in the shadows and brutalize their victims.”

    Evidence presented during the trial established that Session made promises of legitimate work and housing assistance to women and girls struggling with unstable living accommodations, substance abuse and neglect or who otherwise led unstable lives. Session’s promises were often false and empty, designed to provide him the opportunity to learn about a victim’s vulnerabilities while misrepresenting himself as caring and empathetic. Session then exploited the victims’ vulnerabilities to compel their commercial sex acts in squalid trailers housing migrant workers or in local orange groves.

    At times, Session used food and housing to control and coerce the victims. For example, he would not permit one of his victims to eat if the victim did not follow his instructions. Often, Session required his victims to engage in sexual activity with him after they had spent a night having compelled sexual intercourse with up to 18 men.

    Further, the evidence presented during the trial demonstrated that Session resorted to extreme physical violence to compel and intimidate certain victims. He violently punched some of the victims in the back of their heads in order not to leave marks on their bodies. Once, Session dragged a victim to a shower and beat her in the back of her head with a metal nutcracker until she fell limp to the floor. Session also choked another victim to the point that she lost consciousness, beat another victim with a baseball bat and brutalized yet another so badly that her nose ring fell out due to the force of the assault. In addition, Session took multiple victims to a nearby lake, where he held their heads underwater and threatened to drown them if they did not do as he ordered.

    The evidence also showed that Session used a firearm to intimidate and control his victims. He consistently kept a firearm in his possession, and frequently displayed it to victims or referred to it when talking with them. Once, Session pointed a firearm at a victim while he was driving and threatened to “kill” her after she asked him how he would feel if someone treated his daughter the way he treated her. Fearing for her life when Session stopped the car and began walking to the passenger side door, the victim jumped out of the car and ran towards nearby woods. In response, Session fired a shot into the air while he called out the victim’s name.

    Finally, the evidence indicated that Session manipulated and took advantage of some victims’ substance abuse problems to compel their commercial sex services. For example, Session provided victims with cocaine and methamphetamine to give them sufficient energy to engage in commercial sex acts with multiple migrant men at nearby trailers.

    A sentencing hearing is scheduled for Dec. 19. Session faces a minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison as well as mandatory restitution. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The FBI Miami Field Office, Ft. Pierce Resident Agency, investigated the case, with assistance from the Highlands County, Florida, Sheriff’s Office.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Hoover for the Southern District of Florida and Trial Attorneys Leah Branch and Matthew Thiman of the Civil Rights Division’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit are prosecuting the case.

    Anyone who has information about human trafficking should report that information to the National Human Trafficking Hotline toll-free at 1-888-373-7888, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information about human trafficking, please visit www.humantraffickinghotline.org. Information on the Justice Department’s efforts to combat human trafficking can be found at www.justice.gov/humantrafficking.

    MIL Security OSI –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Security: James B. Nutter & Company to Pay $2.4M for Allegedly Causing False Claims for Federal Mortgage Insurance

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    James B. Nutter & Company, a former mortgage lender located in Kansas City, Missouri, has agreed to pay $2.4 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act and the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act of 1989 by knowingly underwriting Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (HECM) insured by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)’s Federal Housing Administration (FHA) that did not meet program eligibility requirements.

    “The HECM program helps support our nation’s senior citizens by providing an additional source of funds to supplement their income,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “Together with our partners at HUD, we are committed to protecting the financial integrity of this critical program and to pursuing those who seek to abuse it.”

    The FHA offers numerous mortgage insurance programs intended to help build and sustain strong communities across America. The HECM program is a reverse mortgage program specifically for senior homeowners aged 62 and older. The program allows seniors to access the equity in their residences, and thereby age in place in their family home, through a mortgage agreement with a lender that is insured against loss by the FHA.

    Lenders who participate in the FHA’s HECM program are authorized to underwrite mortgages without first having the government review the loans for compliance with the agency’s underwriting and origination requirements. If an FHA-insured loan defaults, the holder of the loan can then recover from the United States for certain losses. Lenders commit to following FHA rules to ensure that only eligible mortgages are insured by the government.

    The settlement announced today resolves the United States’ allegations in a lawsuit filed in 2020 that James B. Nutter & Company knowingly violated FHA underwriting requirements when it allowed inexperienced temporary staff to underwrite FHA-insured loans, and submitted loans for FHA insurance with underwriter signatures that were falsified and/or affixed before all the documentation the underwriter should have reviewed was complete.

    “This case sought to redress serious violations of FHA requirements that posed a risk to the HECM program,” said HUD General Counsel Damon Smith. “HUD will continue to protect the integrity of this important mortgage program that serves the interests of our nation’s senior citizens.”

    “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is dedicated to seeking recovery from mortgage lenders who take advantage of FHA programs and ignore essential program requirements,” said U.S. Attorney Teresa A. Moore for the Western District of Missouri. “The integrity and resources of those important programs must not be put at risk by mortgage lenders who put their own financial interests first.”

    “Our office continues its diligent pursuit of mortgage originators that do not play by the rules,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew Graves for the District of Columbia. “If a lender is asking the government to insure its loans, the government expects that lender to employ qualified underwriters to ensure the loans present acceptable credit risks and are supported by sound appraisals of the homes used to secure them.”

    “This case and the resulting $2.4 million settlement demonstrate the HUD Office of Inspector General’s commitment to holding lenders accountable when they commit fraud against FHA mortgage programs designed to provide financial assistance to senior homeowners,” said Inspector General Rae Oliver Davis of HUD. “No one is above the law. Our office will continue to work with our partners at the Justice Department to investigate mortgage lenders who jeopardize the integrity of FHA mortgage programs.”

    The investigation, litigation and settlement were the result of a coordinated effort among the Commercial Litigation Branch of the Justice Department’s Civil Division, the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the Western District of Missouri and the District of Columbia, HUD and HUD’s Office of Inspector General.

    Trial Attorneys Christopher Reimer, Kelly Phipps, Yifan Wang and Wilma Metcalf of the Commercial Litigation Branch and Assistant U.S. Attorney Cindi Woolery for the Western District of Missouri and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brian Hudak and Benton Peterson for the District of Columbia handled the matter. The litigation resolved by the settlement was captioned United States v. James B. Nutter & Co., Case No. 4:20-cv-874-RK (WDMO).

    The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only. There has been no determination of liability.

    Settlement

    MIL Security OSI –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: A reformed multilateral system is the path to peace and prosperity on a livable planet: Foreign Secretary speech at the UN Summit of the Future

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    UK national statement by Foreign Secretary David Lammy at the UN Summit of the Future.

    Location:
    United Nations, New York
    Delivered on:
    23 September 2024 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

    Mr President, I stand here as a man of multiple identities.

    A Londoner.  A patriotic Brit.  A lawyer. 

    Proud of my African, Guyanese, Caribbean and Indian heritage. 

    A committed multilateralist, who believes in the importance of the United Nations.

    I agree with my great predecessor, Ernie Bevin, when he said in 1945:

    “Our eyes should be fixed upon the United Nations… All nations of the world should be united to look that way.”

    The purposes and principles of the UN remain as indispensable today as in Bevin’s time.

    Our task is to recapture that founding spirit so that when we reach the UN’s centenary, their legacy endures.

    But we cannot ignore the challenges we face. More conflicts than at any time since 1945, costing the global economy over 900 billion dollars, and creating the most refugees and displaced people on record.

    Geopolitical tensions arising. Progress against the Sustainable Development Goals stalling. Trust in multilateralism faltering.

    The Pact for the Future and this Summit offer a chance for Member States to show responsible global leadership, to engage with the rapid changes of our age, and go further in meeting the needs of everyone – especially the most vulnerable.

    As I know all too well, countries of the Global South suffered great injustices in the past. And I have heard repeatedly how frustrated partners are by the unfairness of the global system.

    We cannot ignore these frustrations. We must act.

    First, as the Secretary-General has said, we need greater collective efforts to prevent and end conflict. For Britain, that means upholding Ukraine’s sovereignty, urging an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon, and supporting an end to the fighting in Sudan.

    It means robustly challenging Member States who violate the Charter, rejecting a world in which might makes right.

    It means a more representative Security Council.

    It means supporting the international rule of law, and applying it equally and fairly which is why Britain has proposed the outstanding Professor Dapo Akande for election as a judge at the International Court of Justice.

    Second, we need urgent action on the climate and nature crisis.

    With this new Government, Britain is renewing our ambitions at home, aiming to deliver clean power by 2030.

    And I am determined that we also reconnect abroad, building a Global Clean Power Alliance, championing creativity and reforms to unlock international climate and nature finance, particularly from the private sector, and bolstering efforts to protect at least thirty per cent of the planet’s land and ocean by 2030.

    Third, countries like Britain must modernise our approach to development.

    This Government believes partnership, not paternalism, is the way to deliver the Sustainable Development Goals.

    Making best use of technology and innovation. Putting indigenous people and local communities, including women and girls, at the centre of decision-making on development programmes.

    Driving faster reform of the global financial system to strengthen the voice of the most vulnerable and tackle unsustainable debt.

    Friends, action on conflict, climate and poverty. Delivered by a reformed multilateral system. This is the path to peace and prosperity on a liveable planet.

    All over the world, in every war zone, every refugee camp, the UN is there. A beacon of hope and humanity to which, as Bevin said, the gaze of all nations should turn.

    This Summit must direct the world’s eyes towards that beacon once again. And Britain is proud to support it.

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI USA: September 23rd, 2024 Heinrich, Casey Introduce Legislation to Stop Fentanyl from Entering Prisons, Protect Officers from Dangerous Exposure

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    The Interdiction of Fentanyl at Federal Prisons Act will help eliminatefentanyl and other illicit narcotics from entering prisons by mail

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Bob Casey (D-Pa.) introduced legislation to protect prison officers, staff, and inmates from fentanyl and other illicit substances entering the Federal Prison System through inmate mail. By directing the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) to develop a strategy that guarantees all mail is screened for illicit contraband, the Interdiction of Fentanyl at Federal Prisons Act would reduce the risk of intentional poisoning or lethal exposure from illicit substances in federal prisons and support the 38,000 BOP corrections officers and staff that are dedicated to keeping prisons safe.

    “We need to deploy every available tool we can to tackle the opioid epidemic and support law enforcement in cracking down on the deadly flow of fentanyl,” said Heinrich. “By screening all mail at federal prisons, we can protect officers, staff, and inmates from harmful exposure to illicit substances and prevent life-endangering overdoses. I won’t stop fighting until we deliver the resources our law enforcement officers, first responders, medical providers, and New Mexicans on the front lines need to address this deadly epidemic.” 

    “As we fight back against the fentanyl crisis, we must protect those who face an elevated risk of dangerous exposure. I have long pushed for digital mail screening as an effective way to stop fentanyl from entering our prisons to protect officers, staff, and inmates,”said Casey. “This legislation is a critical step to keep Pennsylvanians safe and I will continue fighting like hell to stop the fentanyl crisis.” 

    As New Mexico and the nation continue to grapple with the opioid crisis, the Interdiction of Fentanyl at Federal Prisons Act would protect officers, staff, and inmates by requiring BOP to develop a strategy to intercept and interdict illicit substances, including fentanyl, mailed to federal correctional facilities. After one BOP official lost his life and numerous reports of officers being hospitalized after being exposed to mail saturated in fentanyl and other unknown substances, this legislation would help keep them safe on the job. 

    Specifically, this bill would enable BOP to acquire and deploy equipment to scan 100 percent of legal and postal mail arriving at federal correctional facilities. This legislation would enhance mail screening and ensure that all incarcerated people receive digital copies of mail addressed to them, while remaining consistent with the law and BOP procedures governing attorney-client privilege. This bill would also guarantee that all contraband-free mail be delivered once it has been screened. 

    The Interdiction of Fentanyl at Federal Prisons Act is endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), R Street Institute, National Association of Police Organizations, National District Attorneys Associations, Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America, and Voices of JOE.

    Read more about the Interdiction of Fentanyl at Federal Prisons Act here.

    Senator Heinrich is leading comprehensive efforts to tackle the opioid epidemic and protect New Mexico communities from fentanyl, most recently securing more than $1 million for local law enforcement to detect illicit fentanyl, helping to pass the historic FEND Off Fentanyl Act into law, and authoring legislation to require the DEA to establish a nationwide fentanyl tracking system.

    Find an extensive list of Heinrich’s actions to tackle the fentanyl crisis here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI USA: September 23rd, 2024 Heinrich, Leger Fernández Lead Bill to Approve Water Rights Settlement for the Navajo Nation in the Rio San José Watershed

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) introduced legislation to approve the water rights settlement for the Navajo Nation as well as participating non-Tribal parties in the Rio San José watershed. U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.) and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) cosponsored the bill.

    Heinrich and Leger Fernández previously introduced the Rio San José and Rio Jemez Water Settlements Act, which would implement the water settlements agreed to by the Pueblos of Acoma and Laguna, the United States, the State of New Mexico, and non-Tribal parties, in the Rio San José watershed. That bill received a hearing and was reported out of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee in December. The House version of this bill received a legislative hearing in the House Water, Wildlife and Fisheries Subcommittee in July. The bill introduced this month would further resolve Tribal water claims in the Rio San José basin by settling the Navajo Nation’s claims. 

    “Our legislation will provide critically needed funding to get much-needed water to Navajo communities in the Rio San José watershed,” said Heinrich. “By passing this and our other pending Tribal water settlement bills this Congress, we can better follow through on the federal government’s promise to help Tribes access and use the water that has always been rightfully theirs.”

    “In New Mexico we know water is life. Navajo Nation, the surrounding communities, and the state of New Mexico worked together to reach an agreement that would make sure the life-giving waters of the Rio San Jose would flow for everyone,” said Leger Fernández.“Senator Heinrich’s and my bill would provide funding for much needed water infrastructure for Navajo Nation as well as nearby acequias. The powerful stories of collaboration around this precious resource we heard in committee prove that settlement is the best road for resolving these water claims.” 
     
    “As a member of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee, I am proud to join my New Mexico colleagues in introducing legislation to approve the water rights settlement for the Navajo Nation in the Rio San José Watershed,” said Luján. “This legislation has strong backing from stakeholders across New Mexico and will provide a comprehensive resolution for the Navajo Nation’s water rights claims in the Rio San José Stream System. It will ensure the protection of Tribal water rights while effectively addressing the water needs of the community.” 
     
    “In New Mexico, we know water is life,” said Stansbury. “As stewards of the land, water, and air since time immemorial, it is so important that our Tribal communities have a stake in how water is used in this state. This bill, as well as many others, will uphold our commitment to our Tribes and Pueblos granting them the right to use water for their needs. This is what environmental justice looks like.”

    “Protecting a critical resource and honoring Tribal sovereignty are some of our core responsibilities in Congress, and I’m proud to work with the New Mexico Delegation to fulfill our trust responsibility and provide essential resources to support the New Mexico’s water infrastructure,” said Vasquez. “This settlement ensures the Navajo Nation and our non-Tribal users of the Rio San José watershed will have the water resources needed to thrive for generations to come.”

    “On behalf of the Navajo Nation, I want to express my deepest appreciation to Senator Heinrich, Senator Lujan, and Representative Leger Fernandez for introducing this important legislation. Implementation of this settlement will make a real difference for Eastern Navajo communities where lack of water has constrained development. A collaborative negotiation process produced a comprehensive settlement that provides a path forward towards a better future for the people of the Rio San Jose and Rio Puerco Basins,” said Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren. 

    Additional Background on Tribal Water Settlements Legislation:

    The introduction of this bill follows Heinrich and Vasquez’s introduction of the Zuni Indian Tribe Water Rights Settlement Act in July, with Luján, Stansbury, and Leger Fernández all joining as original cosponsors. That bill would unlock federal funding to support a trust for sustainable water management and infrastructure development that upholds the federal government’s trust responsibility while protecting the sacred Zuni Salt Lake. The bill ratifies the settlement between the federal government, State of New Mexico and Zuni Tribe that affirms their water rights for irrigation, livestock, storage, and domestic and other uses.

    In June, Heinrich and Leger Fernández introduced the Ohkay Owingeh Rio Chama Water Rights Settlement Act, legislation to approve the water rights settlement of Ohkay Owingeh and participating non-Tribal parties for water in the Rio Chama Basin. Luján and Stansbury are original cosponsors of this bill.

    Last December, Luján and Leger Fernández introduced the Technical Corrections to the Northwestern New Mexico Rural Water Projects Act, Taos Pueblo Indian Water Rights Settlement Act, and Aamodt Litigation Settlement Act, which authorizes the appropriation of $6.3 million for the Navajo Nation Water Resources Development Fund; $7.8 million for the Taos Pueblo Water Development Fund; and $4.3 million for  the Aamodt Settlement Pueblos’ Fund, which covers Nambé, Pojoaque, San Ildefonso, and Tesuque Pueblos. It will support water resources development projects for the Tribes. Heinrich and Stansbury are original cosponsors of this bill. 

    Last June, Luján and Leger Fernández introduced legislation that amends the Navajo Gallup Water Supply Project to ensure it has the resources and time needed to deliver drinking water to northwestern New Mexico communities in the San Juan basin, including roughly 43 Chapters on the Eastern Navajo Nation, the southwestern portion of the Jicarilla Apache Nation, and the City of Gallup, which currently rely on a rapidly depleting groundwater supply of poor quality. Heinrich and Stansbury are original cosponsors of this bill.

    Additionally, last year, the entire New Mexico Congressional Delegation announced a $235.1 million allocation to continue fulfilling settlements of Indian water rights claims using funding from the Infrastructure Law and the Reclamation Water Settlements Fund. As part of that overall allocation, the Navajo-Gallup Water Project received $164 million from the Infrastructure Law and the Reclamation Water Settlements Fund. Another $2 million was directed to Navajo-Gallup Water supply operations, maintenance and replacement efforts. The Aamodt Water Rights Settlement, which includes the Pueblos of Nambé, Pojoaque, San Ildefonso, and Tesuque, received $69.1 million in federal funding from the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Deputy Secretary-General’s remarks at the Leader Level meeting of the ECOSOC Ad Hoc Advisory Group on Haiti (ECOSOC AHAGH) [as prepared for delivery]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    The Right Honourable Mr. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, Your Excellency Dr. Garry Conille, Prime Minister of the Republic of Haiti, Distinguished Heads of State and Government,

    On behalf of the United Nations Secretary-General, I have the honour to join you for this high-level event – and stand together in solidarity with Haiti, during these critical times.

    I would like to thank Canada, the Chair of the ECOSOC Ad Hoc Advisory Group on Haiti, for their active efforts to support a coordinated and coherent approach to Haiti’s stabilization and sustainable development.

    Excellencies,

    The security situation in Haiti remains extremely preoccupying – and poses major threats not only to the people of Haiti but also to peace and security in the region.

    Gang violence continues to ravage the country.

    Heavily armed gangs attack police stations, loot hospitals, occupy courthouses, and destroy other critical installations.

    These are deliberate efforts to erode state authority, sow chaos and make it easier to prey on vulnerable communities.

    Between January and end-August alone, the United Nations has documented more than 3,400 people killed and 1,600 others injured in gang violence – with over a 1,000 people kidnapped by these groups.

    Other shocking human rights abuses have been amply documented, including rape, forced recruitment, and exploitation.

    More than 578,000 people are internally displaced, over half of them children.

    Nearly half of the population are food insecure and lack access to clean drinking water.

    The proliferation of armed gangs in the capital has led to an alarming rise in sexual and gender-based violence mainly against women and girls.

    In some areas, health service providers have reported receiving 40 rape victims a day.

    The perpetrators of these heinous crimes must face justice.

    Many children are victims of crossfire, exploitation and trafficking, forced to join gangs and increasingly used to carry out attacks.

    [UNICEF estimates that 30 to 50 per cent of gang members are children.]

    Haiti’s situation exemplifies a vicious cycle where decades of development deficits are deepened by ongoing insecurity and political instability.

    This cycle has severely hampered any progress towards sustainable development, deeply affecting the socio-economic fabric of the nation.

    Haiti also has one of the highest infant and maternal mortality rates in the Western Hemisphere.

    Excellencies,

    These daily horrors must stop.

    The Haitian National Police face significant shortages of human, material and financial resources.

    They need sustained and generous international support to equip and empower them to tackle the escalating gang violence and to protect Haitians from violence.

    The deployment of the Multinational Security Support mission in June is a welcome development.

    I salute the commitment of Kenya, Belize and Jamaica, who have currently deployed personnel to the MSS.

    The UN Trust Fund for the MSS has received $67 million in voluntary contributions from Member States, out of a total of $84 million pledged.

    Still, much more is needed to ensure the MSS can fulfil its mandate.

    This is why the Secretary-General has consistently urged Member States to contribute to the MSS.

    However, addressing security concerns alone is insufficient.

    Enhancing educational opportunities, healthcare access, social protection and economic development is crucial to breaking the cycle of poverty and instability and foster a resilient society.

    Distinguished delegates,

    Breaking the cycle of violence requires both political solutions and security measures – in parallel.

    Progress on the establishment of transitional bodies is urgently to ensure that the elections timeline agreed by Haitian stakeholders and the restoration of democratic institutions by February 2026 does not slip.

    I call on all political stakeholders in Haiti to reaffirm their commitment to the political accord and roadmap to re-establishing democratic institutions.

    Finally, continued international support and collaboration are essential to ensure these political milestones are complemented by strong development policies.

    Today, nearly half of the population needs humanitarian assistance.

    Despite this dire situation, only one third [36%] of the 2024 Humanitarian Response Plan remains funded.

    I urge donors to step up, contribute to addressing these urgent needs while pledging long term development aid that addresses the root causes of instability.

    Dear friends,

    The Secretary-General and the entire United Nations remain steadfast in our commitment to the people of Haiti.

    Together, let us continue to do everything we can to bring peace, stability, and sustainable development – for all Haitians.

    Thank you.
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Capture West Tennessee Rape Fugitive in Michigan

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Trenton, TN – The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) in the Western District of Tennessee and the Eastern District of Michigan coordinated to capture a fugitive, Cedric Joseph Howell, who was wanted for sex crimes in Tennessee.

    Following an investigation by the Trenton (TN) Police Department and the TN Department of Children’s Services, arrest warrants were issued on September 12, 2024, charging Cedric Howell, 39, of Trenton, with rape and incest. Trenton police requested assistance from the USMS Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force (TRVFTF) in Jackson, Tennessee, to locate and apprehend Howell.

    The TRVFTF developed information that Howell had fled to the Detroit, Michigan area and provided investigative leads to the USMS. On September 20, deputy marshals from the fugitive task force tracked Howell to a store in Pontiac, Michigan. He was taken into custody on the parking lot and will be held at a detention facility pending extradition back to Tennessee.

    The U.S. Marshals Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force is a multi-agency task force within Western Tennessee. The TRVFTF has offices in Memphis and Jackson, and its membership is composed of Deputy U.S. Marshals, Shelby, Fayette, and Tipton County Sheriff’s Deputies, Memphis and Jackson Police Officers, Tennessee Department of Correction Special Agents, and the Tennessee Highway Patrol. Since 2021, the TRVFTF has captured over 2,600 violent fugitives and sexual predators.

    MIL Security OSI –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Child-care centre guidance on Police vetting for workers

    Source: Worksafe New Zealand

    24 September 2024

    We have updated our guidance on the requirements for vetting workers at limited-attendance child-care centres.

    The new Regulatory Systems (Education) Amendment Act 2024 means updates have been made to the Health and Safety at Work (General Risk and Workplace Management) Regulations 2016 (Regulation 51).

    A key point is that Police vetting must be completed for non-teaching and unregistered employees at unlicensed child-care centres before the person begins work. This vetting must be used to assess any risks to the safety of children. 

    What are limited-attendance child-care centres?

    These are any premises that are:

    • used regularly for the care of three or more children under six years old (not including the children of the persons providing the care) and
    • where the children do not stay for more than two hours per day and
    • where the children’s parents or caregivers are in close proximity to the children, and are able to be contacted and resume responsibility for the children at short notice. 

    For example, a crèche at a gym or shopping mall.

    It does not include being provided with care before or after school.

    Read more information in the fact sheet: What to know when employing or engaging limited-attendance child-care centre workers

    Related information:

    Governance of education sector boosted | Beehive.govt.nz (external link)

    Regulatory Systems (Education) Amendment Act 2024 – Education in New Zealand | Education.govt.nz (external link)

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Safe Access Zones

    Source: Scottish Government

    Protected zones around abortion services now in place.

    Protected zones of 200 meters around all abortion services in Scotland are now in place.

    Within these zones, it is now a criminal offence to intentionally or recklessly behave in ways that could influence the decisions of women and staff to access services; impede their access; or otherwise cause alarm, harassment or distress.

    Police Scotland are responsible for enforcing the legislation. People who break the law can be fined up to £10,000, or be given an unlimited fine, depending on the court procedure.

    Determining whether an offence has been committed will be a matter for Police Scotland, the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service and the Courts. Depending on the facts and circumstances of each case, some examples of criminal behaviour may include: approaching someone to try and persuade them not to access abortion services, surrounding people as they try to go in or out of the clinic or hospital, handing out leaflets, religious preaching and silent vigils.

    Minister for Public Health and Women’s Health Jenni Minto said:

    “The introduction of Safe Access Zones is a crucial milestone in protecting women’s abortion rights – no one has the right to interfere in women’s personal medical decisions and the law now makes that abundantly clear.

    “I thank Gillian Mackay and all those involved for their work to progress this legislation. I would like especially recognise the women who showed incredible courage in speaking up and sharing their experiences during the Bill process.

    “The new zones of 200 meters around all abortion services will help ensure women have safe access to healthcare – free from intimidation. This law is about protection for women at a time when many will feel incredibly vulnerable around taking a deeply personal and difficult decision.”

    Background

    Full details of the penalties that apply for committing an offence.

    Full list of the locations of zones:

    University Hospital Crosshouse – Kilmarnock

    Borders General Hospital – Melrose

    Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary

    Galashiels Health Centre

    Oak Tree Family Health Centre – Stranraer

    Queen Margaret Hospital – Dunfermline

    Victoria Hospital – Kirkcaldy

    Forth Valley Royal Hospital – Larbert

    Aberdeen Royal Infirmary

    Aberdeen Community Hospital

    Aberdeen Maternity Hospital

    Dr Gray’s Hospital – Elgin

    Inverclyde Hospital – Greenock

    Royal Alexandra Hospital – Paisley

    Sandyford Sexual Health Clinic – Glasgow

    Princess Royal Maternity Hospital – Glasgow

    Ross Hall – Glasgow

    New Victoria Hospital – Glasgow

    Queen Elizabeth University Hospital – Glasgow

    Stobhill Hospital – Glasgow

    Vale of Leven Hospital – West Dunbartonshire

    Raigmore Hospital – Inverness

    University Hospital Wishaw

    Royal Infirmary Edinburgh

    Chalmers Sexual Health Centre – Edinburgh

    St John’s Hospital – Livingston

    The Balfour – Livingston

    Gilbert Bain Hospital – Lerwick

    Ninewells Hospital – Dundee

    Western Isles Hospital – Stornoway

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Demands Action to Stop Iranian Crime on U.S. Soil

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)

    WASHINGTON – Following reports indicating Iran is paying criminal organizations to carry out violent plots—including assassinations—against their critics within the United States, Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) joined a bipartisan group of her colleagues in demanding the Department of Justice (DOJ) stop this criminal activity.  
    “We write to request information regarding how the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is prosecuting criminals who commit or attempt to commit acts of violence in the United States on behalf of foreign adversaries, and what statutory changes to the criminal code would help DOJ to robustly prosecute these crimes,” wrote the senators.
    “An…example includes a plot, allegedly ordered by individuals in Iran, to use members of an Eastern European criminal organization who refer to themselves as ‘Thieves-In-Law’ in an attempt to murder a prominent critic of Iran—who is a United States citizen—within the United States,” continued the senators. “The attempted assassination followed a prior plot by Iranian intelligence officials to abduct the same critic from within the United States for rendition to Iran.”
    The senators requested DOJ share efforts that foreign governments have undertaken to enlist criminal actors to commit crimes in the United States, identify if there has been any increase in these activities, explain their strategy in thwarting foreign government activity, and answer whether there would be changes to the criminal code to deter these illicit actors.
    Read the full letter here.
    Background:
    Ernst introduced the PUNISH Act to enforce “maximum pressure” sanctions on Iran until the State Department can certify that Iran has not supported any attempt in the last five years to kill a U.S. citizen or a former or current U.S. official. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    September 29, 2024

  • MIL-OSI USA: Markey, Warren, Healey, Wu, Massachusetts Leaders Secure $472 Million in Federal Funding to Replace Draw One Bridge, Renovate North Station T Stop

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
    Largest federal award MBTA has won to date
    Funding will increase ridership, streamline operations, and improve resiliency along Amtrak’s Downeaster route and regional rail lines
    Washington, D.C. – Today, Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), along with Representatives Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Katherine Clark (MA-05), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, and MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng announced a grant of $472 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) to fully replace the North Station Draw One Bridge and renovate Platform F at North Station. The grant is the largest federal award the MBTA has won to date.
    The nearly half a billion dollar grant will provide critical support for one of MBTA’s top priority projects and a vital transportation asset to MBTA’s north-side operations. It will also support more than 14,500 jobs, make the bridge more climate resilient by bringing it above projected sea-level rise, and lower emissions. 
    Specifically, the new funding for MBTA’s North Station Renovation and the Draw One Bridge Replacement Project will support the full replacement of the existing drawbridge, the extension and activation of a platform with two tracks at North Station, and the replacement of track, signals, and switches to modernize and improve station infrastructure.
    “With $472 million to replace the North Station drawbridge, we’re drawing up a new future for rail transit north of Boston. I’m grateful to the Biden-Harris administration, Governor Healey, General Manager Eng, Senator Warren, and our whole federal delegation for securing this funding. Together, we are delivering critical federal dollars to the T and building a modern, safe, and reliable public transit system for all,” said Senator Markey.
    “This $472 million investment is a game-changer for the thousands of passengers who pass through North Station every day — and will build a safer, more reliable public transit system for the Commonwealth. Massachusetts leaders worked together to secure the largest ever federal award for the T, and I won’t stop fighting to bring home even more investment to improve transit across the Commonwealth,” said Senator Warren.
    “We know that improving our transportation infrastructure is critical for improving quality of life and making sure Massachusetts remains the best place to live, work, raise a family and build a future,” said Governor Maura Healey. “That’s why our administration is competing so aggressively to win federal funding that can be put toward our roads, bridges and public transportation. Congratulations to General Manager Eng and the MBTA team for this award that will improve train service for millions of riders. We’re grateful to the Biden-Harris Administration and U.S. Department of Transportation for their continued investment in Massachusetts’ transportation infrastructure.” 
    The Draw One railbridge carries the MBTA Commuter Rail and Amtrak trains, serving approximately 11,250,000 passengers per year. It is particularly critical for Amtrak’s Downeaster, an intercity passenger rail service that travels from Maine and New Hampshire into Boston, which is projected to have some of the highest ridership in New England. Draw One is also a vital connection for all of MBTA’s north-side regional rail lines, including Fitchburg, Lowell, Haverhill, and Newburyport/Rockport. The new federal investment will improve service reliability and operations, reduce congestion along a known bottleneck, and increase capacity across the bridge. Additionally, the funding will allow for upgraded signaling and expanded track capabilities, further improving traffic flow.
    “I am pleased to join my colleagues in government to announce the State of Massachusetts was awarded over $472 million in federal funding that will help improve MBTA and Amtrak services,” said Rep. Lynch. “This funding is the result of our hard work and partnership with the Biden-Harris administration to ensure we invest into our nation’s transportation and infrastructure. People all over the Commonwealth rely on public transportation every day, and this DOT grant is critical to make the necessary repairs and replacements that will make train service more safe and reliable.”
    “This bridge is a critical connection point for the communities north of Boston. This federal investment will improve the quality of life for commuters, reduce traffic for everyone, and bring opportunity to the Commonwealth. We will have a faster, more modern, and more user-friendly public transportation system, and that’s exactly the direction we need to move in,” said Democratic Whip Katherine Clark.
    “Transit justice is a racial and economic justice issue, and a matter of public safety – and this massive federal investment helps make the Commonwealth more connected and our transportation system safer and more reliable for commuters,” said Congresswoman Pressley. “I’m glad that families in the Massachusetts 7th who depend on the commuter rail will be better able to access jobs, healthcare, education, and essential services in other parts of the state, and we won’t stop fighting to build the more just, equitable, and accessible transit system our communities deserve. I thank my delegation colleagues and the Healey-Driscoll Administration for their partnership, and the Biden-Harris Administration for continuing to invest in Massachusetts.”
    “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to deliver unprecedented federal investments to make our transit systems safer and more efficient,” said Congresswoman Trahan. “This massive award is proof that, thanks to the strong partnership between our federal delegation and the Healey-Driscoll administration, Massachusetts continues to punch above our weight when competing for federal funding.”
    “North Station Draw One is a connection point between Boston and Cambridge, and the many cities and towns north who rely on this train bridge to visit and work in our city. Thanks to the leadership of the MA federal delegation and the Healey-Driscoll administration in securing this funding, the Greater Boston area will see benefits from updated infrastructure and more reliable transportation. This funding for a bridge replacement represents our region’s commitment to our local economy and green transit,” said Mayor Michelle Wu.
    “I’m proud of the MBTA team that worked diligently to put this project in a strong position to win this highly competitive federal award. I thank the USDOT Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, Deputy Secretary of Transportation Polly Trottenberg, and our partners at the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), Acting Administrator Veronica Vanterpool, FTA Region 1 Administrator Pete Butler, and their entire team, for this incredible award allowing us to deliver the North Station Draw 1 project, freeing up state capital dollars for other essential needs,” said MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng. “This award continues to demonstrate our aggressive approach to pursuing all funding opportunities under the lead of the Healey-Driscoll Administration as we pursue every available federal grant. Our Grants and North Station Drawbridge teams deserve all the credit for their exceptional work to secure this funding which allows us to ensure the efficient and reliable movement of all North Station train lines while greatly improving our ability to provide more frequent, regional rail-style service across the entire northside corridor to serve future generations to come.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    September 29, 2024
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