NewzIntel.com

Category: United States of America

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Lawler, Strickland Tackle Extreme Heat and Modernize Transit Corridors

    Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Washington, D.C. – 7/15/25… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) and Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) introduced the Cool Corridors Act of 2025. The bipartisan legislation focuses on mitigating extreme heat in urban areas by investing in tree canopies and shade infrastructure along transit corridors, sidewalks, bus stops, school zones, and underserved neighborhoods. 

    “In the Lower Hudson Valley, extreme heat causes serious damage to our roads, sidewalks, and public spaces, impacting families’ daily routines and expenses during the hottest months of the year. This bill will cool down our streets and transit corridors, helping protect our infrastructure and create safer, more comfortable neighborhoods for everyone. By investing in public works projects now, we will save taxpayers’ money in the long run and improve the quality of life for our communities,” said Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), Co-Chair of the Extreme Heat Caucus. 

    “As temperatures climb and heatwaves become more severe, we must ensure our communities are equipped to stay cool, safe, and livable,” said Congresswoman Strickland. “My bill promotes smart investments to improve public health, improve our infrastructure, make our communities more walkable and resilient.” 

    “At Trust for Public Land, we know that access to nature isn’t a luxury — it’s a lifeline. That’s why we support this effort to reauthorize the Healthy Streets Program,” said Dr. Carrie Besnette Hauser, President and CEO of Trust for Public Land. “Through our work with communities across the country, we’ve witnessed the transformative power of trees, and how planting them in urban and rural neighborhoods alike results in added shade along with cleaner air, improved health outcomes, more local jobs, and documented protection from extreme temperatures and climate events.” 

    “Extreme heat is now the deadliest weather-related hazard in the U.S., and it’s only getting worse. Trees are one of our most effective defenses—especially in the places where people are most exposed, like sidewalks, transit corridors, and bus stops. The Cool Corridors Act delivers smart, science-based investments in shade where people need it most. It’s a practical, proven way to protect public health and create safer, more connected neighborhoods. Led by Representatives Strickland and Rep. Lawler, this is bipartisan leadership turning down the temperature on extreme heat. We thank them for the coolest legislation of the summer and for championing life-saving, locally driven solutions that communities urgently need,” said Joel Pannell, Vice President of Urban Policy, American Forests. 

    The Cool Corridors Act aims to improve public health outcomes by addressing urban heat islands, reducing air and noise pollution, and decreasing stormwater runoff. Additionally, it promotes local workforce development through urban forestry job training, preserves existing roadside vegetation, and strengthens long-term maintenance and climate resilience strategies.  

    The bill also calls for interagency coordination across the Departments of Transportation, Energy, Agriculture, Housing and Urban Development, and the Environmental Protection Agency. It ensures accountability through community engagement and robust data reporting on environmental and public health outcomes. 

    House Cosponsors include: Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Rep. Alma Adams (NC-12), Rep. Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Rep. Dina Titus (NV-01), Rep. Doris Matsui (CA-07), Rep. Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Rep. Steven Cohen (TN-09), Rep. Greg Stanton (AZ-04), Rep. Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Rep. Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Rep. Raul Ruiz (CA-25), Rep. Timothy Kennedy (NY-26), Josh Harder (CA-09). 

    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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    Full text of the bill can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Harshbarger Co-Leads Bipartisan PBM Reform Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Diana Harshbarger (R-TN)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Last week, Representative Harshbarger (R-TN) joined her fellow pharmacist in Congress Representative Buddy Carter (R-GA) in introducing his bipartisan PBM Reform Act which would protect patients and pharmacies from the harmful and anticompetitive business practices of pharmacy benefit managers (PBM). 

    “It’s time to put an end to the shady and manipulative practices of pharmacy benefit managers. For too long, PBMs have driven up drug prices and padded their pockets while independent community pharmacies are being pushed to the financial brink. My colleagues and I are committed to changing that. This legislation delivers long-overdue accountability, increases transparency, lowers out-of-pocket costs for families, and saves taxpayer dollars. Local pharmacies and the patients they serve are at a breaking point, and they deserve relief. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bill and look forward to passing real PBM reform that will deliver for both patients and providers,” said Rep. Diana Harshbarger. 

    The PBM Reform Act would: 

    • Ban “spread pricing” in Medicaid and move to a transparent system that ensures pharmacies are fairly and adequately reimbursed for serving Medicaid beneficiaries.
    • Establish new requirements for PBMs under Medicare Part D, including a policy to delink PBM compensation from the cost of medications and increase transparency.
    • Promote transparency for both employers and patients in their prescription drug plans, with semi-annual reporting on drug spending, rebates, and formulary determinations.
    • Require Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to define and enforce “reasonable and relevant” contract terms in Medicare Part D pharmacy contracts and enforce oversight on reported violations.

    Original Co-Sponsors include: Buddy Carter (R-GA), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Greg Murphy (R-NC), Deborah Ross (D-NC), Jodey Arrington (R-TX), Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX), Rick Allen (R-GA), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), John Rose (R-TN), Derek Tran (D-CA), and Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY). 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar Statement on Decision to Keep Duluth Federal Prison Open

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Minnesota Amy Klobuchar

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar released the following statement about the Federal Bureau of Prisons decision to keep the Duluth facility open.

    “This is good news for Duluth. I spoke with the Director of the Bureau of Prisons ahead of his visit to Duluth last week and urged him to reconsider the decision to deactivate the facility. I emphasized the harmful impact its closure would have on the employees who work there, as well as their families, and the regional economy. I am glad the BOP heard the concerns of people on the ground and reversed course.” 

    In December 2024 and in February 2025 Senator Klobuchar wrote to the Bureau of Prisons asking them to explain the decision to close FPC Duluth. She also asked Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche about keeping the facility open. She also expressed her concerns in calls with the previous BOP Director and the new director ahead of his visit to the facility last week.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Seventeen Individuals Charged for Smuggling Kilogram Quantities of Cocaine Through the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – A federal grand jury in the District of Puerto Rico returned three separate indictments charging 17 individuals with drug trafficking through the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport. Two defendants are also charged with money laundering.

    First Indictment

    On June 26, 2025, a federal grand jury in the District of Puerto Rico returned an indictment charging three individuals with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine.

    As alleged in the indictment, beginning on a date unknown, but not later than in or about 2023, to the date of the indictment,

    [1] Kristian Yadiel Falcón-López

    [2] Chazz David Carter-Justiniano

    [3] Natalia Díaz-García

    knowingly and intentionally conspired and agreed with each other and with other individuals to possess with intent to distribute and distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine through the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport.

    Falcón-López and Charter-Justiniano are also charged with conspiracy to launder monetary instruments which involved the proceeds of their drug trafficking activities.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan R. McCabe and María Cristina Semanaz-Ojeda from the Transnational Organized Crime Section are in charge of the prosecution of the case.

    Second Indictment

    The second indictment charges the following individuals with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine through the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport:

    [1] Jonathan Ramírez-Colón, a.k.a. “Momia”

    [2] Ivelisse García-Osorio

    [3] Stephanie L. Suárez-Vélez

    [4] Francheska Muriel-Quintana

    [5] Estephanie Torres-Bosa, a.k.a. “Fany”

    [6] Charitty M. Hernández-Reyes

    The alleged period of the conspiracy is from a date unknown, but no later than in or about 2018, to the date of the indictment. Documents filed in the case also allege that Defendant Ramírez-Colón recruited couriers (commonly known as “mules”) and sent them with cocaine-filled suitcases to be checked in at the airport and transported to the continental United States where the cocaine would be delivered to other persons.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Antonio J. López-Rivera from the Transnational Organized Crime Section is in charge of the prosecution of the case.

    Third Indictment

    The third indictment unsealed today charges eight individuals with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine through the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport. Those defendants are:

    [1] Sandy L. Guardiola-Bermúdez, a.k.a. “Guny/Mario”

    [2] Carlos Alberto Cruz-Bonilla, a.k.a. “Huesito”

    [3] Onix Negrón-Guerrido

    [4] Jomar Maldonado-Ríos

    [5] Tanyshkaliz Archilla-Rivera, a.k.a. “Tany”

    [6] Yarauni Nieves-Rivera

    [7] Yairaliz Arzuaga-Díaz

    [8] Patricia Ayala-Otero

    According to the indictment, the conspiracy began on a date unknown, but not later than in or about 2023 and lasted through the date of the indictment. Documents filed in the case allege that the defendants were part of a drug trafficking organization comprised of a network of recruiters, coordinators, and transporters who traveled from Puerto Rico to the continental United States via commercial flights with cocaine for wholesale distribution, all for significant financial gain.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Antonio J. López-Rivera from the Transnational Organized Crime Section is in charge of the prosecution of the case.

    “These drug trafficking organizations were using the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport to smuggle large quantities of cocaine from Puerto Rico to several destinations throughout the continental United States. Today, federal agencies dismantled these organizations by arresting leaders, organizers and travelers who made their distribution network possible,” said U.S. Attorney W. Stephen Muldrow. “The United States Attorney’s Office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners in Puerto Rico and the Continental United States to gather the evidence necessary to bring the leaders and other members of these criminal organizations to justice.”

    “These investigations demonstrate the DEA’s unwavering commitment to protecting our airports and the communities from the impact of drug trafficking. These criminal organizations believed they could operate with impunity out of Puerto Rico, but today, they are facing the swift hand of justice. I am deeply grateful for the tireless work of our agents, analysts, local and federal partners,” said Michael Miranda, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Agency Caribbean Division.

    If convicted on the drug conspiracy charges, the defendants face a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, and a maximum sentence of life in prison. Those defendants charged with money laundering face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The Drug Enforcement Administration is in charge of the investigations with the assistance of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Puerto Rico Police Bureau and their respective Airport Investigations and Tactical Teams (AirTAT). The San Juan Municipal Police, the Carolina Municipal Police and the Puerto Rico Department of Treasury also collaborated during the investigations and arrests.

    AirTAT identifies, locates, disrupts, dismantles, and prosecutes transnational crime organizations using the airports in Puerto Rico to smuggle narcotics, weapons, human cargo, counterfeit documents, illegal proceeds, and other contraband.

    These cases are part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: $4 million electricity fraud scheme sends Texan to prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    McALLEN, Texas – A 51-year-old Houston man has been ordered to federal prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Daniel Rodriguez Martinez pleaded guilty May 1.

    Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane has now ordered Martinez to serve 54 months in prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence that detailed how Martinez directly benefited from the scheme by personally receiving $1.4 million and that he played an integral role by creating a fraudulent company to conceal payments.

    From March 2021 to May 2024, Martinez and others ran the scheme by creating a fake utility company to conceal profits. They used stolen personal information, including Social Security numbers, to open electricity accounts with real providers. The stolen identities were linked to actual service addresses, allowing customers to receive power while the billing responsibility fell on unsuspecting victims.

    When providers shut off service for nonpayment, the group reopened accounts under new fake identities. In exchange for uninterrupted electricity, customers paid a flat fee of $80 per month to the fraudulent company. The operation allowed participants to avoid legitimate charges while the organizers profited from the deception.

    Martinez admitted to creating a fake electricity services company solely to conceal the theft scheme. He received payments from clients through peer-to-peer apps such as CashApp and Zelle, then transferred the funds into a business account to mask their origin.

    As a part of his plea, he agreed to forfeit $456,859.76 in U.S. currency as well as his interest in multiple properties.

    He will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

    The FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jose A. Garcia prosecuted the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: $4 million electricity fraud scheme sends Texan to prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    McALLEN, Texas – A 51-year-old Houston man has been ordered to federal prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Daniel Rodriguez Martinez pleaded guilty May 1.

    Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane has now ordered Martinez to serve 54 months in prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence that detailed how Martinez directly benefited from the scheme by personally receiving $1.4 million and that he played an integral role by creating a fraudulent company to conceal payments.

    From March 2021 to May 2024, Martinez and others ran the scheme by creating a fake utility company to conceal profits. They used stolen personal information, including Social Security numbers, to open electricity accounts with real providers. The stolen identities were linked to actual service addresses, allowing customers to receive power while the billing responsibility fell on unsuspecting victims.

    When providers shut off service for nonpayment, the group reopened accounts under new fake identities. In exchange for uninterrupted electricity, customers paid a flat fee of $80 per month to the fraudulent company. The operation allowed participants to avoid legitimate charges while the organizers profited from the deception.

    Martinez admitted to creating a fake electricity services company solely to conceal the theft scheme. He received payments from clients through peer-to-peer apps such as CashApp and Zelle, then transferred the funds into a business account to mask their origin.

    As a part of his plea, he agreed to forfeit $456,859.76 in U.S. currency as well as his interest in multiple properties.

    He will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

    The FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jose A. Garcia prosecuted the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Urgent Care Operator Pays $3 Million Dollars to Resolve Alleged Violations of the False Claims Act

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Urgent Care Operator Bloom Care LLC and its owners have paid $3,000,000 to resolve allegations that they billed for unnecessary testing and inflated the extent of services performed.

    BOISE – Bloom Care LLC and its owners have paid $3,000,000 to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by submitting false claims to Federal healthcare programs for medically unnecessary testing and for inflating the extent of services performed. Bloom operated Urgent Care centers in Idaho and New Mexico throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

    The United States alleged that Bloom knowingly used the COVID-19 pandemic as an excuse for billing for medically unnecessary streptococcus and influenza tests for asymptomatic patients. Additionally, the United States contends that Bloom submitted claims for high-level evaluation and management services for COVID-19 patients when Bloom knew that the services should have been billed at a lower level of service that would have been reimbursed at a lower rate. To justify these high reimbursement claims, the United States contends that Bloom exaggerated the time spent with COVID-19 patients and/or the complexity of the evaluation required to care for these patients.

    “The Department of Justice is committed to identifying waste, fraud, and abuse in federal programs,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott. “I commend the federal and state agencies that investigated this case, as their important efforts protect taxpayer dollars.”

    “Healthcare providers participating in federal health care programs must follow all relevant laws and rules when submitting claims – and certainly not order medically unnecessary services to boost their profits,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey McIntosh of the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “This settlement shows HHS-OIG’s enduring commitment to protecting the integrity of federal health care programs and the people who rely on them. We will continue to collaborate with our law enforcement partners to investigate allegations brought under the False Claims Act.”

    “Companies that provide services to veterans will be held to the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and accountability,” said Special Agent in Charge Dimitriana Nikolov with the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General’s Northwest Field Office. “Submitting claims for medically unnecessary services will not be tolerated, and the VA OIG will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to hold wrongdoers accountable and ensure veterans receive the quality healthcare they deserve.”

    This matter was investigated jointly by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General, and the United States Department of Veterans Affairs Office of the Inspector General. Additional assistance was provided by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. Assistant United States Attorney Elliot Wertheim handled this case.

    The claims resolved by the settlement against Bloom Care LLC are allegations only and there has been no admission or determination of liability.

    On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Justice Department in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud.  The task force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, please visit www.justice.gov/coronavirus.

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866‑720‑5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pakistani Leader of International Alien Smuggling Organization Extradited from Mexico

    Source: United States Attorneys General 11

    A Pakistani man made his initial appearance in court in Tucson, Arizona, today after being extradited from Mexico to face charges relating to his role in leading an international alien smuggling organization.

    In May 2024, a federal grand jury in Tucson returned an indictment against Abbas Ali Haider, 48, of Sialkot, Pakistan, for conspiring to smuggle Pakistani nationals into the United States.

    Haider allegedly operated two sham film production companies, Diamond TV World Productions and Multimedia Advertising Ltd., which were fronts for his alien smuggling organization. According to court documents, Haider used those Pakistan-based companies to contract with film companies in Ecuador, Cuba, and Colombia. He then had those companies sponsor visas for Pakistani nationals purporting to work for Haider’s companies under the guise that they were working on a joint filming project in Latin America. Haider provided the Pakistani nationals with phony paperwork indicating that they worked for his companies, which they used at ports of entry in Panama, Brazil, and Colombia. Haider coached the aliens to say they worked in the film industry to deceive and thwart customs and border officials. Haider’s network of smugglers then assisted the Pakistani nationals in traveling to the U.S.-Mexico border, where they illegally crossed into California, Texas, and Arizona. Haider charged the aliens up to $40,000 for the trip.  

    Haider travelled from Pakistan to Mexico in late 2024 and was arrested in Mexico in January 2025 at the request of the U.S. government. Extensive coordination and cooperation between U.S. and Mexican law enforcement authorities resulted in Haider’s timely extradition.

    Haider is charged with one count of conspiracy to bring illegal aliens to the United States and four counts of bringing in illegal aliens for profit. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison.

    Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Timothy Courchaine for the District of Arizona, and Special Agent in Charge Shawn Gibson of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) San Diego, made the announcement.

    HSI Calexico led U.S. investigative efforts, working in concert with HSI’s Brasilia, Quito, Tijuana, and Caribbean attaché offices and the HSI Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C., U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s National Targeting Center International Interdiction Task Force, U.S. Border Patrol; the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force in Miami, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Office of Enforcement and Removal Operations office in Detroit provided substantial assistance. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with law enforcement partners in Mexico to secure the arrest and extradition of Haider. 

    Trial Attorney Chelsea Schinnour of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jared Kreamer Hope and Evan Wesley for the District of Arizona are prosecuting the case.

    The indictment and extradition are the result of the coordinated efforts of Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA) and the Extraterritorial Criminal Travel Strike Force (ECT) Program. JTFA, a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has been elevated and expanded with a mandate to target cartels and transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, and Colombia. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the border. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by HRSP and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, Office of Enforcement Operations, and the Office of International Affairs, among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 390 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 350 U.S. convictions; more than 300 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.

    The ECT program is a partnership between the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and HSI and focuses on human smuggling networks that may present particular national security or public safety risks, or present grave humanitarian concerns. ECT has dedicated investigative, intelligence, and prosecutorial resources. ECT also coordinates and receives assistance from other U.S. government agencies and foreign law enforcement authorities.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: CENTCOM Introduces Cyrus Jabbari as New Chief Data Officer

    Source: United States Central Command (CENTCOM)

    In May, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) hired Mr. Cyrus Jabbari to serve as the organization’s Chief Data Officer (CDO). As the CDO, Mr. Jabbari succeeds Dr. Michael Foster, who departed CENTCOM in December 2024, and will oversee the strategic integration of data-driven solutions to enhance operational effectiveness across CENTCOM’s area of responsibility.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Cantwell and Rep. Baumgartner Say SCORE Act is Big Loser for College Sports

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    07.15.25
    Sen. Cantwell and Rep. Baumgartner Say SCORE Act is Big Loser for College Sports
    Cantwell: “If you thought the dissolution of the Pac-12 was a heist, the SCORE Act is the National Championship of all heists. This legislation is a power grab by the two biggest conferences that will leave athletes, coaches, and small and mid-sized institutions behind.”
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, that oversees college sports, and Representative Michael Baumgartner (R, WA-05) called on the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade to delay its July 15 markup of the Student Compensation and Opportunity through Rights and Endorsements (SCORE) Act, citing significant changes needed to strengthen the bill and meet its goal of improving the future of college athletics—for ALL colleges and ALL athletes.
    “If you thought the dissolution of the Pac-12 was a heist, the SCORE Act is the National Championship of all heists,” said Sen. Cantwell. “This legislation is a power grab by the two biggest conferences that will leave athletes, coaches, and small and mid-sized institutions behind.” 
    “In its current form, the SCORE Act fails to protect what makes college sports special,” said Congressman Baumgartner. “It puts student-athletes at risk by empowering the wealthiest programs to poach talent and control the system. This bill accelerates the erosion of competitive balance, tradition, and opportunity—especially for smaller schools. I want to make sure that college athletics at WSU, Gonzaga, and EWU continue to have a strong future. If we truly care about student-athletes, we should be strengthening the institutions and values that support them, not stacking the deck against them.”
    In a letter to subcommittee Chairman Gus Bilirakis and Ranking Member Jan Schakowsky, Sen. Cantwell and Rep. Baumgartner wrote: “The bill appears to be a product of the richest conferences to cement into place the current power structure in college athletics that would leave only the wealthiest schools able to compete at the highest levels of college athletics. The SCORE Act will only cause more chaos and damage to the college athletics system. We urge you to pull this flawed bill from the mark up until the defects are fixed.”
    Sen. Cantwell and Rep. Baumgartner called out big flaws with the bill’s framework and identified six areas that need to be improved:  
    consider policies to increase revenue for small and mid-sized schools and for women’s and Olympic sports;
    give college athletes a voice in how policies are made and implemented, including those related to conference realignment;
    address the inequities and limitations of the House v. NCAA settlement regarding women’s athletics;
    address the budgetary concerns of small and mid-sized schools;
    ensure health and safety protections; and,
    establish a commission on the future of college athletics.
    “College sports are important to student athletes, schools, alumni, fans, and communities across the United States,” their letter concluded. “Congress needs to get this right and not miss an opportunity to fix the college sports landscape for generations to come. We urge everyone to think long-term and big picture about the future of college athletics that we want to achieve.”
    The text of the letter is below and can be found HERE.
    Dear Chairman Bilirakis and Ranking Member Schakowsky,
    We have significant concerns about H.R. 4312, the “Student Compensation and Opportunity through Rights and Endorsements” (SCORE) Act, slated to be marked up by the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade. The bill appears to be a product of the richest conferences to cement into place the current power structure in college athletics that would leave only the wealthiest schools able to compete at the highest levels of college athletics. The SCORE Act will only cause more chaos and damage to the college athletics system. We urge you to pull this flawed bill from the mark up until the defects are fixed.
    First, the bill entrenches the NCAA’s authority at a time when the NCAA’s governance structure is becoming increasingly dominated by wealthier conferences. The SCORE Act hands the NCAA unfettered ability to set rules that would make the rich schools richer, like representation on NCAA championship selection committees—and the tournament revenue that comes with it.
    Second, while we are pleased that college athletes can earn a share of the revenue they generate for their schools, the SCORE Act’s formula for determining the size of revenue shared with players will make it difficult for small and mid-sized schools to compete with wealthy schools. The non-policy-based formula in the bill is at least 22 percent of the average sports revenue of the 70 highest-revenue schools—an amount currently estimated to be $20.5 million. Very few schools will be able to pay out this full amount and the situation will be exacerbated over time as the limits increase each year as average revenue increases. These schools will not be able to keep up with wealthy schools who plan to pay their athletes the full $20.5 million each year or more. This will accelerate the loss of talent from these smaller schools, turning them into mere “feeder” schools for the largest programs.
    Third, the SCORE Act ignores important national policies regarding college sports. It ignores the explosive growth of women’s sports and how revenue sharing under the House v. NCAA settlement may jeopardize these gains and lead to far less money flowing to women’s sports. It ignores the importance of college athletics to the Olympic pipeline. The SCORE Act will inevitably lead to the loss of men’s and women’s Olympic sports as schools are implicitly forced to devote ever more resources to the college football arms race. The SCORE Act also fails to address how conference realignment has changed the map of college sports and the absurdity of sending college athletes coast-to-coast on a weekly basis while foreclosing any opportunity for athletes to have a voice at the table to advocate for themselves as these changes continue to play out.
    The SCORE Act is a missed opportunity to deliver creative solutions that will ensure a sustainable future for college athletics beyond the wealthiest programs. Rather than rush the SCORE Act through as is, we should press pause to fix the issues facing schools of all sizes and opportunity for all athletes. The Act should: (1) consider policies to increase revenue for small and mid-sized schools and for women’s and Olympic sports; (2) give college athletes a voice in how policies are made and implemented, including those related to conference realignment; (3) address the inequities and limitations of the House v. NCAA settlement regarding women’s athletics; (4) address the budgetary concerns of small and mid-sized schools; (5) ensure health and safety protections; and (6) establish a commission on the future of college athletics.
    College sports are important to student athletes, schools, alumni, fans, and communities across the United States. Congress needs to get this right and not miss an opportunity to fix the college sports landscape for generations to come. We urge everyone to think long-term and big picture about the future of college athletics that we want to achieve.
    We look forward to working with you on these important issues.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China plays an important role in promoting mutually beneficial cooperation in the field of rare earth metals – Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    Moscow, July 15 /Xinhua/ — China plays an important role in promoting mutually beneficial cooperation in the field of rare earth metals, while the negative narratives spread by the United States about the “Chinese threat” in this area sow discord and contradict the laws of economic globalization, Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui said in an opinion piece published in the Russian newspaper Argumenty i Fakty on Tuesday.

    “China has always carried out international cooperation in the mineral resource sector on the basis of equality and mutual benefit, in accordance with the law, and has never resorted to putting pressure on other countries or putting forward political or security-related conditions,” the publication says.

    As Zhang Hanhui emphasized, China has an important mission in the global supply of rare earth metals, accounting for nearly 70 percent of the world’s supply. The ambassador noted that in recent years, China has given priority to the high-quality development of the rare earth metal industry through scientific and technological innovation, consistently carries out industry regulation, and successfully mastered “green” mining technologies, solving the global pollution problem. “Strengthening the management of rare earth metal exports by China contributes to further changing the extensive development model of the industry, promoting its standardization, orderliness and sustainable development,” the Chinese diplomat said.

    The author of the article recalled that in November last year, China revised its Mineral Resources Law. Article 15 of the law clearly stipulates that international cooperation in the field of mineral resources should be actively promoted, adhering to the principles of equality, mutual benefit and win-win. Zhang Hanhui cited striking examples of mutually beneficial cooperation, including the project implemented by Chinese enterprises to modernize the largest lithium deposit in Zimbabwe, as well as the construction of a modern industrial park in Indonesia that formed a complete chain of “nickel mining – material production – battery production”.

    At the same time, as Zhang Hanhui noted, the US has recently been spreading negative narratives about China “weaponizing rare earth metals” and “strangling the world with rare earth metals.” Moreover, Western countries have declared their intention to build supply chains that exclude China and create a “metal NATO.” “These words are not only imbued with Cold War thinking and openly incite division, but also contradict the laws of economic globalization, threatening peace and stability,” the ambassador warned.

    The author of the publication is confident that the only right way is to strengthen international cooperation. As an example, he cited China and Russia, which are linked by comprehensive partnership and strategic interaction in the new era and have a high degree of complementarity in the field of critical minerals. “Deepening cooperation in this area is important,” the Chinese diplomat emphasized.

    Zhang Hanhui recalled that in a joint statement issued in May this year, China and Russia emphasized the importance of mutual supply of mineral resources, intensifying industrial cooperation, expanding cooperation in technology and innovation, and strengthening industrial chains. “The parties will jointly promote equal and mutually beneficial cooperation in the field of critical minerals, firmly defend the rights and interests of China, Russia and a wide range of developing countries, jointly achieve equal and orderly multipolarity, accessible and inclusive economic globalization, making Chinese-Russian contributions to global development and prosperity,” the Chinese Ambassador to the Russian Federation concluded. –0–

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: July Federal Grand Jury 2025-A Indictments Announced

    Source: US FBI

    United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the July Federal Grand Jury 2025-A Indictments.

    The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.

    Kennedy Antonio Ramirez Acosta. Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute. Ramirez Acosta, 39, a Mexican national, is charged with knowingly possessing fentanyl with intent to distribute. The Drug Enforcement Administration Tulsa Resident Office, the ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office, and the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tyson McCoy is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-239

    Ventura Rivera Arteaga; Ruben Amadow Meza Medina. Drug Conspiracy (Count 1); Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute (Counts 2 & 4); Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien (Count 3); Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises (Counts 5 & 6). Rivera Arteaga, 40, a Mexican national, and Meza Medina, 20, a Mexican national, are charged with conspiring to distribute fentanyl. They are separately charged with knowingly possessing fentanyl with intent to distribute and maintaining two separate residences for fentanyl distribution. Additionally, Rivera Arteaga is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in Dec. 2024. The Drug Enforcement Administration Tulsa Resident Office, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office, and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mandy Mackenzie is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-229

    Elijah Lee Chandler, Jr.  Attempted Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises. Chandler, 36, of Tulsa, is charged with attempting to possess more than 500 grams of methamphetamine and with possessing more than 50 grams of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. He is further charged with maintaining a residence to distribute methamphetamine. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Tulsa Police Department, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, and the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Nasar is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-231

    Douglas Eugene Chaney.Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. Chaney, 50, of Tulsa, is an individual who is knowingly required to register as a sex offender. He is charged with failing to register as a sex offender from April to May 2025. The U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services Office and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michele Hulgaard is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-230

    Daniel Contreras-Martinez.Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Contreras-Martinez, 46, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in June 2008. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Bailey is prosecuting the case. 
    25-CR-244

    Ramey Joe-Don Dill. Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. Dill, 38, of Ochelata, is an individual who is knowingly required to register as a sex offender. He is charged with failing to register as a sex offender in May 2025. The U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michele Hulgaard is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-232

    Luis Flores-Rodriguez.Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute. Flores-Rodriguez, 34, a Mexican national, is charged with knowingly possessing cocaine with intent to distribute. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, and the Rogers County Sheriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shakema Onias is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-245

    Franklin Francisco Gioani-Arubio. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Gioani-Arubio, 31, a Honduran national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in Nov. 2017. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mallory Richard is prosecuting the case. 
    25-CR-246

    Jarod Wade Jenkins. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. Jenkins, 26, of Hominy, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition, knowing he was previously convicted of a felony. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the FBI are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian Harris is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-247

    Thomas William Martin.Production of Child Pornography; Possession of Child Pornography. Martin, 42, of Mannford, is charged with coercing a minor child to produce a visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct. He is additionally charged with possessing visual images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children under 12 years old. The FBI, the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Broken Arrow Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tara Heign and Ashley Robert are prosecuting the case. 25-CR-233

    Felecia Martinez. Attempted Bulk Cash Smuggling Out of the United States. Martinez, 40, of Tulsa and a member of the Potawatomi Nation Tribe, is charged with concealing $32,950 in cash and attempting to transport it to Mexico. At the time of the offense, Martinez was on pre-trial release in the Northern District of Oklahoma related to a case charging her with drug conspiracy, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, and maintaining a drug-involved premises. The Drug Enforcement Administration Tulsa Resident Office, the U.S. Probation Office for the Northern District of Oklahoma, the Department of Homeland Security Anti-Terrorism Contraband Enforcement Team, and the Laredo Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Adam McConney and Matthew Cyran are prosecuting the case. 25-CR-234

    Sebastain Quino-Velasco. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Quino-Velasco, 51, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been previously removed in June 2010. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Dallas Field Office is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Valeria Luster is prosecuting the case. 
    25-CR-248

    Rebecca Dawn Quintero Torres. Drug Conspiracy; Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Use of a Communication Facility in Committing, Causing, and Facilitating the Commission of a Drug Trafficking Felony. Quintero-Torres, 50, of Tulsa, is charged with conspiring to distribute methamphetamine in June 2025. She is further charged with using the United Parcel Service and knowingly possessing more than 500 grams of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. The Homeland Security Investigations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tyson McCoy is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-240

    Dominic Rocky Torres. Conspiracy to Commit Hobbs Act Robbery; Hobbs Act Robbery; Aiding and Abetting Carrying, Using, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence; Use of Minor in Crime of Violence (superseding). Torres, 22, of Tulsa and a member of the Cherokee Nation, is charged with conspiring with others and aiding and abetting others to obstruct commerce by robbery. Further, he knowingly aided and abetted in brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. Lastly, Torres intentionally used a minor child to commit a crime of violence. The FBI and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stacey Todd and Jessica Wright are prosecuting the case. 25-CR-112

    Luciano Vasquez, Jr. Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering. Varquez, 58, of Sand Springs, is charged with conspiring with others to launder more than $16 million, including depositing two fraudulent United States Treasury tax refund checks totaling more than $727,800. The U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ammon Brisolara is prosecuting the case. 25-CR-242

    John Edgar Williams, IV; Jeremy Mindez Ruff; Savannah D’naisha May Gage; Nevaeh Charise Cox; Trinity Rinique Goudeau; Shavari Shantell Melton; Vanessa Lashay Bell; Ashley Elaine Charles. Conspiracy to Commit Sex Trafficking (Count 1); Transporting an Individual for Prostitution (Counts 2, 3, 7, 9, 10, and 13); Interstate Travel to Aid Racketeering (Count 4); Distribution of Child Pornography (Count 5); Sex Trafficking (Counts 6 & 12); Sex Trafficking a Minor (Counts 8, 11, and 14) (superseding). Williams, 38, Gage, 25, Cox, 39, Goudeau, 24, Melton, 20, Bell, 20, Charles, 37, of Tulsa, and Ruff, 39, of Dallas, Texas, are charged with conspiring with each other to recruit, entice, and harbor a person by threats of force to engage in a commercial sex act for payment. Williams, Gage, Ruff, and Goudeau are charged separately for transporting people to engage in prostitution and other sexual activities. Williams, Ruff, Gage, Cox, Goudeau, Melton, and Charles are further charged with using interstate and foreign commerce to promote and manage a business enterprise involving prostitution. Ruff, Cox, Gage, Goudeau, and Melton are charged with recruiting and enticing minor children, between 14 and 18 years old, to engage in sexually explicit acts. Additionally, Williams, Gage, and Goudeau are charged with benefiting financially from recruiting, harboring, and providing transportation to an individual to engage in commercial sex acts. Lastly, Cox is further charged with knowingly distributing visual images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children. The Tulsa Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Muscogee Creek Nation Lighthorse Police are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kenneth Elmore, John Brasher, and John W. Dowdell are prosecuting the case. 25-CR-197

    Allan Ray Wright; Jamie Lynn Wright. Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Minor. Allan Wright, 30, and Jamie Wright, 32, of Tulsa are charged with attempting to coerce a minor child they believed to be under 18 years old to engage in sexually explicit activity. The Homeland Security Investigations and the Owasso Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica Wright and Ashley Robert are prosecuting the case. 25-CR-241

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Costa Rica Resident Sentenced for Orchestrating Multimillion-Dollar International Telemarketing Scheme

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    A Costa Rica resident was sentenced today to more than 15 years in prison for carrying out a years-long telemarketing scheme that defrauded victims in the United States from a call center in Costa Rica.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Roger Roger, 41, of Costa Rica, led a fraudulent telemarketing scheme in which co-conspirators, who falsely posed as U.S. government officials, contacted victims in the United States to tell them that they had won a substantial “sweepstakes” prize. After convincing victims, many of whom were elderly, that they stood to receive a significant financial reward, the victims were told that they needed to make a series of up-front payments before collecting their supposed prize. Co-conspirators used a variety of means to conceal their true identities, including Voice Over Internet Protocol technology, which made it appear as though they were calling from Washington, D.C., and other locations in the United States. Roger recruited and taught others how to mislead victims on the phone and convince them to send money from the United States to Costa Rica for non-existent prizes. The evidence at trial showed that Roger and his co-conspirators stole over $4 million from their hundreds of victims.

    In September 2024, Roger was convicted at trial of one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, four counts of wire fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit international money laundering, and two counts of international money laundering. At sentencing, Roger was ordered to pay more than $3.3 million in restitution and to forfeit more than $4.2 million.

    Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson for the Western District of North Carolina; Inspector in Charge Rodney Hopkins of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s (USPIS) Atlanta Division; Special Agent in Charge Karen Wingerd of the IRS Criminal Investigation’s (IRS-CI) Detroit Field Office; and Acting Special Agent in Charge James C. Barnacle Jr. of the FBI’s Charlotte Field Office made the announcement.

    The USPIS, IRS-CI, and FBI investigated the case.  

    Trial Attorneys Andrew Jaco and Amanda Lingwood of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with law enforcement partners in Costa Rica to secure the arrest and February 2023 extradition of Roger.

    If you or someone you know is aged 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This U.S. Department of Justice hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professionals who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim, and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies, and provide resources and referrals, on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is staffed seven days a week from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Eastern time. English, Spanish and other languages are available.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cotton, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to End Birthright Citizenship for Illegal Aliens

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    Contact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353
    July 15, 2026

    Cotton, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to End Birthright Citizenship for Illegal Aliens

    Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today introduced the Constitutional Citizenship Clarification Act, legislation that would make children of illegal immigrants, terrorists, and foreign spies ineligible for birthright citizenship.

    This legislation is cosponsored by Senators Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), and Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio).

    “There is no constitutional right for illegal aliens to cross the border to gain citizenship for their children. Granting birthright citizenship to illegal aliens has contributed to the highest levels of illegal immigration in history. Fixing this will help reduce the damage from Joe Biden’s catastrophic border crisis,” said Senator Cotton.

    Text of the bill may be found here.

    The Constitutional Citizenship Clarification Act would:

    • Amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to clarify that no child is eligible for birthright citizenship if their parents are unlawfully present in the United States, present in the U.S. for diplomatic purposes, or engaged in a hostile operation against the U.S.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cotton, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to End Birthright Citizenship for Illegal Aliens

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353July 15, 2026
    Cotton, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to End Birthright Citizenship for Illegal Aliens
    Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today introduced the Constitutional Citizenship Clarification Act, legislation that would make children of illegal immigrants, terrorists, and foreign spies ineligible for birthright citizenship.
    This legislation is cosponsored by Senators Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), and Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio).
    “There is no constitutional right for illegal aliens to cross the border to gain citizenship for their children. Granting birthright citizenship to illegal aliens has contributed to the highest levels of illegal immigration in history. Fixing this will help reduce the damage from Joe Biden’s catastrophic border crisis,” said Senator Cotton.
    Text of the bill may be found here.
    The Constitutional Citizenship Clarification Act would:
    Amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to clarify that no child is eligible for birthright citizenship if their parents are unlawfully present in the United States, present in the U.S. for diplomatic purposes, or engaged in a hostile operation against the U.S.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: AG Labrador Secures Millions for Idaho in Nationwide Opioid Settlement

    Source: US State of Idaho

    Home Newsroom AG Labrador Secures Millions for Idaho in Nationwide Opioid Settlement

    BOISE — Attorney General Raúl Labrador today announced approximately $720 million nationwide in settlements with eight drug makers that manufactured opioid pills and worsened the nationwide opioid crisis. Based on the overwhelming participation by Attorneys General across the country, all eight defendants have agreed to proceed with a sign-on period for local governments. Idaho could receive up to $2.6 million, largely based on the volume of opioids shipped and distributed to the state from those manufacturers, and the occurrence of opioid use disorder within the state. 
    “These companies have prioritized profits over the lives of Idaho families, and we’re holding them accountable for that,” said Attorney General Labrador. “Since taking office, we’ve secured nearly $60 million for Idaho from opioid manufacturers. These settlement funds will be distributed to Idaho’s opioid fund, local governments, and health districts to support our ongoing fight against this devastating crisis.”
    Including this most recent settlement, Labrador has won settlements totaling $58.6 million from opioid manufacturers since taking office in 2023. Forty percent of Idaho’s maximum share is paid to the Idaho Opioid Fund, 40% of Idaho’s share is distributed among the cities and counties, and 20% of Idaho’s share is distributed to the seven health districts.
    The eight defendants are Mylan (now part of Viatris), Hikma, Amneal, Apotex, Indivior, Sun, Alvogen, and Zydus.
    Additionally, seven of the companies (not including Indivior) are prohibited from promoting or marketing opioids and opioid products, making or selling any product that contains more than 40 mg of oxycodone per pill, and are required to put in place a monitoring and reporting system for suspicious orders. Indivior has agreed to not manufacture or sell opioid products for the next 10 years, but it will be able to continue marketing and selling medications to treat opioid use disorder.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE New York investigation lands leader of Mexican sex trafficking organization 188 months in prison

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    NEW YORK — A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigation resulted in the July 10 sentencing of Hugo Hernandez-Velazquez, the leader of a Mexican sex trafficking organization, to 188 months’ imprisonment for sex trafficking multiple victims by force, fraud and coercion. The defendant was extradited from Mexico to the United States in February 2021.

    ICE Homeland Security Investigations New York Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel and Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, announced the sentence.

    Hernandez-Velazquez, 48 of Mexico, pleaded guilty to one count of sex trafficking in April 2023. He will be deported after completing his sentence.

    “For nearly a decade, the defendant and his family oversaw a vicious sex trafficking campaign wrought with violence, manipulation, coercion, and outright force against women whom they lured into romantic relationships through false promises of love and support,” stated Patel. “Every day, victims are targeted for human trafficking and other vile forms of exploitation and abuse, often at the hands of their own spouses or purported caretakers. Today’s sentencing is no doubt a direct result of the bravery of each survivor who courageously spoke up. Together with our partners, HSI is unflinchingly committed to investigating and vigorously pursuing anyone, anywhere, who sexually exploits the very individuals they claim to care for.”

    Patel credited HSI New York’s Human Trafficking Task Force for leading the investigation of the Hernandez-Velazquez sex trafficking organization. Additionally, he thanked the HSI Mexico City attaché office, the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, the U.S. Department of State, Interpol, International Affairs Department of the Attorney General’s Office in Mexico, the Law Enforcement Unit of the State of Tlaxcala Attorney General’s Office, Interpol Mexico, and the New York City Police Department for their assistance; and praised the government of Mexico for its role in advancing bilateral anti-trafficking enforcement efforts. Patel also acknowledged the non-governmental victim service providers and advocates for their dedicated efforts to restore and improve the lives of survivors of trafficking and their families.

    “For years, the defendant and his siblings operated an illegal, abusive, and exploitative sex trafficking operation that stripped victims of their dignity and subjected them to inhumane violence,” stated Nocella. “It is my hope that the prosecution of their tormentors and the punishment meted out will provide a measure of closure for the brave survivors who assisted the investigation and will help them on their path to healing.”

    Between approximately 2001 and 2009, the defendant and his siblings, Ernesto, Giovanni and Arcelia Hernandez-Velazquez, ran the Hernandez-Velazquez sex trafficking organization based in Mexico. The family organization used force, fraud and coercion to cause young women in Mexico to engage in prostitution in the United States. Members of the family organization lured victims into romantic relationships through false promises of love and support. The victims were pressured to travel to the United States with promises of a better life with their trafficker. Once smuggled into the United States, the victims were forced to engage in prostitution. The family organization maintained a base in Queens, New York, where victims would reside while they were forced to work in New York and other states, including Alabama, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The defendant subjected his victims to physical beatings, forced abortions, and threats. The defendant also threatened violence to the victims’ families to force the victims to continue prostituting on his behalf.

    A U.S. District Court judge previously sentenced Hernandez-Velazquez’s siblings, who also pleaded guilty to sex trafficking: Ernesto Hernandez-Velazquez and Giovanni Hernandez-Velazquez were each sentenced to 210 months’ imprisonment; and Arcelia Hernandez-Velazquez, who pleaded guilty to a Mann Act violation, was sentenced to time served after approximately 60 months in U.S. custody.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE New York investigation lands leader of Mexican sex trafficking organization 188 months in prison

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    NEW YORK — A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigation resulted in the July 10 sentencing of Hugo Hernandez-Velazquez, the leader of a Mexican sex trafficking organization, to 188 months’ imprisonment for sex trafficking multiple victims by force, fraud and coercion. The defendant was extradited from Mexico to the United States in February 2021.

    ICE Homeland Security Investigations New York Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel and Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, announced the sentence.

    Hernandez-Velazquez, 48 of Mexico, pleaded guilty to one count of sex trafficking in April 2023. He will be deported after completing his sentence.

    “For nearly a decade, the defendant and his family oversaw a vicious sex trafficking campaign wrought with violence, manipulation, coercion, and outright force against women whom they lured into romantic relationships through false promises of love and support,” stated Patel. “Every day, victims are targeted for human trafficking and other vile forms of exploitation and abuse, often at the hands of their own spouses or purported caretakers. Today’s sentencing is no doubt a direct result of the bravery of each survivor who courageously spoke up. Together with our partners, HSI is unflinchingly committed to investigating and vigorously pursuing anyone, anywhere, who sexually exploits the very individuals they claim to care for.”

    Patel credited HSI New York’s Human Trafficking Task Force for leading the investigation of the Hernandez-Velazquez sex trafficking organization. Additionally, he thanked the HSI Mexico City attaché office, the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, the U.S. Department of State, Interpol, International Affairs Department of the Attorney General’s Office in Mexico, the Law Enforcement Unit of the State of Tlaxcala Attorney General’s Office, Interpol Mexico, and the New York City Police Department for their assistance; and praised the government of Mexico for its role in advancing bilateral anti-trafficking enforcement efforts. Patel also acknowledged the non-governmental victim service providers and advocates for their dedicated efforts to restore and improve the lives of survivors of trafficking and their families.

    “For years, the defendant and his siblings operated an illegal, abusive, and exploitative sex trafficking operation that stripped victims of their dignity and subjected them to inhumane violence,” stated Nocella. “It is my hope that the prosecution of their tormentors and the punishment meted out will provide a measure of closure for the brave survivors who assisted the investigation and will help them on their path to healing.”

    Between approximately 2001 and 2009, the defendant and his siblings, Ernesto, Giovanni and Arcelia Hernandez-Velazquez, ran the Hernandez-Velazquez sex trafficking organization based in Mexico. The family organization used force, fraud and coercion to cause young women in Mexico to engage in prostitution in the United States. Members of the family organization lured victims into romantic relationships through false promises of love and support. The victims were pressured to travel to the United States with promises of a better life with their trafficker. Once smuggled into the United States, the victims were forced to engage in prostitution. The family organization maintained a base in Queens, New York, where victims would reside while they were forced to work in New York and other states, including Alabama, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The defendant subjected his victims to physical beatings, forced abortions, and threats. The defendant also threatened violence to the victims’ families to force the victims to continue prostituting on his behalf.

    A U.S. District Court judge previously sentenced Hernandez-Velazquez’s siblings, who also pleaded guilty to sex trafficking: Ernesto Hernandez-Velazquez and Giovanni Hernandez-Velazquez were each sentenced to 210 months’ imprisonment; and Arcelia Hernandez-Velazquez, who pleaded guilty to a Mann Act violation, was sentenced to time served after approximately 60 months in U.S. custody.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE New York investigation lands leader of Mexican sex trafficking organization 188 months in prison

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    NEW YORK — A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement investigation resulted in the July 10 sentencing of Hugo Hernandez-Velazquez, the leader of a Mexican sex trafficking organization, to 188 months’ imprisonment for sex trafficking multiple victims by force, fraud and coercion. The defendant was extradited from Mexico to the United States in February 2021.

    ICE Homeland Security Investigations New York Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel and Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, announced the sentence.

    Hernandez-Velazquez, 48 of Mexico, pleaded guilty to one count of sex trafficking in April 2023. He will be deported after completing his sentence.

    “For nearly a decade, the defendant and his family oversaw a vicious sex trafficking campaign wrought with violence, manipulation, coercion, and outright force against women whom they lured into romantic relationships through false promises of love and support,” stated Patel. “Every day, victims are targeted for human trafficking and other vile forms of exploitation and abuse, often at the hands of their own spouses or purported caretakers. Today’s sentencing is no doubt a direct result of the bravery of each survivor who courageously spoke up. Together with our partners, HSI is unflinchingly committed to investigating and vigorously pursuing anyone, anywhere, who sexually exploits the very individuals they claim to care for.”

    Patel credited HSI New York’s Human Trafficking Task Force for leading the investigation of the Hernandez-Velazquez sex trafficking organization. Additionally, he thanked the HSI Mexico City attaché office, the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, the U.S. Department of State, Interpol, International Affairs Department of the Attorney General’s Office in Mexico, the Law Enforcement Unit of the State of Tlaxcala Attorney General’s Office, Interpol Mexico, and the New York City Police Department for their assistance; and praised the government of Mexico for its role in advancing bilateral anti-trafficking enforcement efforts. Patel also acknowledged the non-governmental victim service providers and advocates for their dedicated efforts to restore and improve the lives of survivors of trafficking and their families.

    “For years, the defendant and his siblings operated an illegal, abusive, and exploitative sex trafficking operation that stripped victims of their dignity and subjected them to inhumane violence,” stated Nocella. “It is my hope that the prosecution of their tormentors and the punishment meted out will provide a measure of closure for the brave survivors who assisted the investigation and will help them on their path to healing.”

    Between approximately 2001 and 2009, the defendant and his siblings, Ernesto, Giovanni and Arcelia Hernandez-Velazquez, ran the Hernandez-Velazquez sex trafficking organization based in Mexico. The family organization used force, fraud and coercion to cause young women in Mexico to engage in prostitution in the United States. Members of the family organization lured victims into romantic relationships through false promises of love and support. The victims were pressured to travel to the United States with promises of a better life with their trafficker. Once smuggled into the United States, the victims were forced to engage in prostitution. The family organization maintained a base in Queens, New York, where victims would reside while they were forced to work in New York and other states, including Alabama, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The defendant subjected his victims to physical beatings, forced abortions, and threats. The defendant also threatened violence to the victims’ families to force the victims to continue prostituting on his behalf.

    A U.S. District Court judge previously sentenced Hernandez-Velazquez’s siblings, who also pleaded guilty to sex trafficking: Ernesto Hernandez-Velazquez and Giovanni Hernandez-Velazquez were each sentenced to 210 months’ imprisonment; and Arcelia Hernandez-Velazquez, who pleaded guilty to a Mann Act violation, was sentenced to time served after approximately 60 months in U.S. custody.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Defense Bill Includes Dozens of Budd-Led Provisions to Boost America’s Military Readiness & End Affirmative Action at Service Academies

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina)

    Washington, D.C.—Senator Ted Budd (R-NC), a Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), recently voted to advance the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to the Senate floor after securing numerous provisions to improve readiness and quality of life for our troops, increase funding for North Carolina military installations, protect the homeland, and strengthen alliances.

    Senator Budd said in a statement:

    “I’m proud that the FY 2026 NDAA contains dozens of provisions I led that will boost America’s fighting force in North Carolina and around the world by improving our facilities and programs, bolstering America’s air superiority, reducing regulatory burdens, supporting our friend and ally Israel, combatting terrorism, and banning discriminatory affirmative action policies at the service academies. Refocusing the Department of Defense on its core mission will send a clear deterrent message to potential adversaries and make America safer.”

    Below is a summary of the provisions Senator Budd championed in the recent SASC legislative markup that the full Senate will consider in the coming weeks:

    Boosting America’s Military Readiness & Supporting Military Families

    The SASC-passed NDAA represents an investment in America’s military personnel, a refocusing of the Pentagon’s priorities to boost troop readiness, and a needed reduction of bureaucratic red tape. Senator Budd championed a number of key priorities that will improve the quality of life and the effectiveness of our troops by:

    • Providing a 3.8% raise across the board for service members.
    • Creating a pilot program to improve Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rates for North Carolina service members and their families.
    • Prohibiting affirmative action in U.S. Service Academies admissions
    • Cutting burdensome environmental regulations that prohibit the Defense Department from procuring basic items.
    • Accelerating the development, prototyping, and deployment of mobile nuclear microreactor systems to enhance energy resilience and forward-deployed power capability for U.S. military operations.

    Delivering for North Carolina Military Installations & Manufacturers

    The FY 2026 NDAA authorizes more than $700 million for military construction projects and planning and design funding at facilities across North Carolina. Senator Budd successfully worked to include authorizing provisions to support the following facilities, programs, and units:

    Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point

    • Authorizing $40M in funding to boost the F-35 Aircraft Sustainment Center
    • Authorizing $15M in funding to design the next phase of the Flightline Utilities Modernization project

    Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune

    • Authorizing $34M in funding for the expansion of the Special Operations Forces Combat Service Support/Motor Transport
    • Authorizing $90M in funding to boost the Special Operations Forces Marine Raider Battalion Operations Facility
    • Authorizing $48.28M in funding to boost Amphibious Combat Vehicle Shelters

    Fort Bragg

    • Authorizing $19M in funding to boost the Automated Infantry Platoon Battle Course
    • Authorizing $24M in funding to complete the construction of the Aircraft Maintenance Hangar
    • Authorizing $80M in funding to improve the Fort’s power generation and microgrid
    • Authorizing $32M in funding for the Special Operations Forces Mission Command Center
    • Authorizing $80M in funding to boost the Special Operations Forces Operational Ammunition Supply Point
    • Authorizing $5M in funding for the Pathfinder Airborne Program to improve soldier readiness

    Seymour Johnson Air Force Base

    • Authorizing $54M in funding to improve the Child Development Center
    • Authorizing $41M in funding to boost the Combat Arms Training and Maintenance Complex

    North Carolina National Guard

    • Authorizing $69M in funding for the Aircraft Maintenance Hangar Addition/Alteration project at Salisbury Training Center

    North Carolina Manufacturers & Projects

    • Authorizing $34M in funding to procure Infantry Squad Vehicles manufactured in Concord, which will support the Army Transformation Initiative
    • Authorizing $4M in funding to procure rare earth magnets manufactured in Durham
    • Authorizing $8M in funding to procure Army Load-Carrying Technology Advancements built in Concord
    • Authorizing $5M in funding to expand the Defense Innovation Unit OnRamp Hub, which Senator Budd has advocated for bringing to North Carolina

    Protecting Our Homeland & Standing With Our Allies

    The core mission of America’s Armed Forces is to protect the United States and its citizens from threats and to defend our interests both at home and abroad. Sen. Budd led the inclusion of several key priorities that will help our troops and our allies carry out this vital mission by:

    Protecting Our Homeland:

    • Requiring a plan to ensure installation commanders have adequate guidance and authority to interdict hostile or suspicious drone activity with force immediately.
    • Directing the Secretary of the Army to diversify and expand the Army’s counter-drone capabilities to protect bases and installations at home and abroad.

    Deterring Threats from China:

    • Cutting bureaucratic red tape to permit fighter aircraft to use tactical datalinks needed for advanced air combat training, enhancing the preparation and readiness of 45 combat-coded fighter squadrons for high-end conflict. 
    • Directing a report on the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) operation, ownership, or control of strategic foreign ports and Department of Defense efforts to counter or mitigate the national security threats posed by PRC control of such foreign ports.

    Supporting the U.S.-Israel Bilateral Relationship & Countering Terrorism in the Middle East:

    • Authorizing $80M in funding forU.S.-Israel Anti-Tunnel Cooperation and extending the program through December 2028.
    • Authorizing $75M in funding for U.S.-Israel counter-UAS Cooperation and extending the program through December 2028.
    • Authorizing $15M in funding for US-Israel Joint Research & Development on Emerging Technologies.
    • Extending the authorization to provide assistance to counter the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).
    • Directing DoD to provide a briefing on the Counter-ISIS Train and Equip Fund, status of equipment delivery to Kurdish Peshmerga Forces, and plans to improve the Kurdish Peshmerga Forces’ ability to conduct counter terrorism operations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Defense Bill Includes Dozens of Budd-Led Provisions to Boost America’s Military Readiness & End Affirmative Action at Service Academies

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina)
    Washington, D.C.—Senator Ted Budd (R-NC), a Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), recently voted to advance the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to the Senate floor after securing numerous provisions to improve readiness and quality of life for our troops, increase funding for North Carolina military installations, protect the homeland, and strengthen alliances.
    Senator Budd said in a statement:
    “I’m proud that the FY 2026 NDAA contains dozens of provisions I led that will boost America’s fighting force in North Carolina and around the world by improving our facilities and programs, bolstering America’s air superiority, reducing regulatory burdens, supporting our friend and ally Israel, combatting terrorism, and banning discriminatory affirmative action policies at the service academies. Refocusing the Department of Defense on its core mission will send a clear deterrent message to potential adversaries and make America safer.”
    Below is a summary of the provisions Senator Budd championed in the recent SASC legislative markup that the full Senate will consider in the coming weeks:
    Boosting America’s Military Readiness & Supporting Military Families
    The SASC-passed NDAA represents an investment in America’s military personnel, a refocusing of the Pentagon’s priorities to boost troop readiness, and a needed reduction of bureaucratic red tape. Senator Budd championed a number of key priorities that will improve the quality of life and the effectiveness of our troops by:
    Providing a 3.8% raise across the board for service members.
    Creating a pilot program to improve Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rates for North Carolina service members and their families.
    Prohibiting affirmative action in U.S. Service Academies admissions
    Cutting burdensome environmental regulations that prohibit the Defense Department from procuring basic items.
    Accelerating the development, prototyping, and deployment of mobile nuclear microreactor systems to enhance energy resilience and forward-deployed power capability for U.S. military operations.
    Delivering for North Carolina Military Installations & Manufacturers
    The FY 2026 NDAA authorizes more than $700 million for military construction projects and planning and design funding at facilities across North Carolina. Senator Budd successfully worked to include authorizing provisions to support the following facilities, programs, and units:
    Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point
    Authorizing $40M in funding to boost the F-35 Aircraft Sustainment Center
    Authorizing $15M in funding to design the next phase of the Flightline Utilities Modernization project
    Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune
    Authorizing $34M in funding for the expansion of the Special Operations Forces Combat Service Support/Motor Transport
    Authorizing $90M in funding to boost the Special Operations Forces Marine Raider Battalion Operations Facility
    Authorizing $48.28M in funding to boost Amphibious Combat Vehicle Shelters
    Fort Bragg
    Authorizing $19M in funding to boost the Automated Infantry Platoon Battle Course
    Authorizing $24M in funding to complete the construction of the Aircraft Maintenance Hangar
    Authorizing $80M in funding to improve the Fort’s power generation and microgrid
    Authorizing $32M in funding for the Special Operations Forces Mission Command Center
    Authorizing $80M in funding to boost the Special Operations Forces Operational Ammunition Supply Point
    Authorizing $5M in funding for the Pathfinder Airborne Program to improve soldier readiness
    Seymour Johnson Air Force Base
    Authorizing $54M in funding to improve the Child Development Center
    Authorizing $41M in funding to boost the Combat Arms Training and Maintenance Complex
    North Carolina National Guard
    Authorizing $69M in funding for the Aircraft Maintenance Hangar Addition/Alteration project at Salisbury Training Center
    North Carolina Manufacturers & Projects
    Authorizing $34M in funding to procure Infantry Squad Vehicles manufactured in Concord, which will support the Army Transformation Initiative
    Authorizing $4M in funding to procure rare earth magnets manufactured in Durham
    Authorizing $8M in funding to procure Army Load-Carrying Technology Advancements built in Concord
    Authorizing $5M in funding to expand the Defense Innovation Unit OnRamp Hub, which Senator Budd has advocated for bringing to North Carolina
    Protecting Our Homeland & Standing With Our Allies
    The core mission of America’s Armed Forces is to protect the United States and its citizens from threats and to defend our interests both at home and abroad. Sen. Budd led the inclusion of several key priorities that will help our troops and our allies carry out this vital mission by:
    Protecting Our Homeland:
    Requiring a plan to ensure installation commanders have adequate guidance and authority to interdict hostile or suspicious drone activity with force immediately.
    Directing the Secretary of the Army to diversify and expand the Army’s counter-drone capabilities to protect bases and installations at home and abroad.
    Deterring Threats from China:
    Cutting bureaucratic red tape to permit fighter aircraft to use tactical datalinks needed for advanced air combat training, enhancing the preparation and readiness of 45 combat-coded fighter squadrons for high-end conflict. 
    Directing a report on the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) operation, ownership, or control of strategic foreign ports and Department of Defense efforts to counter or mitigate the national security threats posed by PRC control of such foreign ports.
    Supporting the U.S.-Israel Bilateral Relationship & Countering Terrorism in the Middle East:
    Authorizing $80M in funding forU.S.-Israel Anti-Tunnel Cooperation and extending the program through December 2028.
    Authorizing $75M in funding for U.S.-Israel counter-UAS Cooperation and extending the program through December 2028.
    Authorizing $15M in funding for US-Israel Joint Research & Development on Emerging Technologies.
    Extending the authorization to provide assistance to counter the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).
    Directing DoD to provide a briefing on the Counter-ISIS Train and Equip Fund, status of equipment delivery to Kurdish Peshmerga Forces, and plans to improve the Kurdish Peshmerga Forces’ ability to conduct counter terrorism operations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 1,100 U.S. Geological Survey Workers Vote Overwhelmingly to Join NFFE-IAM

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    More than 1,100 federal employees working at 14 U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) locations throughout the country have overwhelmingly voted to join the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM).

    Some elections had a 99% positive vote in favor of union representation. The latest organizing victories are part of a strategic organizing initiative between the IAM Organizing Department and NFFE-IAM.

    “This partnership was the best use of the people power, skills, and abilities that IAM Organizing has to offer,” said IAM Assistant Organizing Director Juan Eldridge. “These government employees knew they wanted union representation quickly. We had the right people and the know-how to make that happen and ensure their voices are heard going forward.”

    IAM Assistant Organizing Coordinator Jerry McCarty said that existing NFFE-IAM master agreements with federal agencies, like the U.S. Forest Service, help ensure immediate protection for members.

    “The IAM can make sure that the employment laws that are already on the books are utilized correctly when it comes to reduction-in-force and other job actions with federal workers that the current administration is trying to circumvent,” said McCarty.

    The new members at USGS include water science engineers, rare Earth mineral engineers, earthquake science engineers, and coastal change and hazards engineers. They provide key data and science to state and local governments, and the public at large.

    The USGS also has a large group of non-professional technical employees who operate and maintain specialized equipment and tools that the professional scientists need to do their work. 

    “We understand the employment laws and policy guidelines that impact the rights of these workers’ jobs,” said IAM Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett. “It just makes sense that they get professional representation from a union like no other.”

    The IAM Organizing Department and NFFE-IAM currently have more representation elections scheduled with other USGS locations.

    The post 1,100 U.S. Geological Survey Workers Vote Overwhelmingly to Join NFFE-IAM appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján Presses Trump Administration to Provide Update on Status of Congressionally Appropriated Funding for Agency Dedicated to Growing Local Businesses

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, called on United States Deputy Secretary of Commerce Paul Dabbar to provide an update on the status of the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), which the Trump administration has tried to illegally dismantle. Specifically, Senator Luján called on Deputy Secretary Dabbar to provide a detailed assessment of the status of all funding Congress appropriated to the MBDA.

    In the letter, Senator Luján highlighted previous efforts to investigate the status of the MBDA, “During your confirmation hearing before the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation on May 1, 2025, I asked you to investigate and report back to the Committee on the status of the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), which the Trump Administration has tried to illegally dismantle.”

    Seeking transparency, Senator Luján called for, “A detailed assessment of the status of all funding Congress appropriated to the MBDA. Please specify whether any such funds have been or ever were ‘repurposed’ to any program or activity outside MBDA.”

    In May, during the Senate Commerce hearing on the nomination of Paul Dabbar to be U.S. Deputy Secretary of Commerce, Senator Luján pressed Mr. Dabbar on the dismantling of the MBDA by the Trump administration and highlighted the successes of the MBDA.

    Senator Luján championed an amendment in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to make the MBDA permanent. He also secured passage of a provision to double the funding level for the MBDA’s Rural Business Development Center Program and to expand this program’s eligibility to include all Minority-Serving Institutions, which will expand opportunities for New Mexico’s colleges and universities. Additionally, in 2021, Senator Luján championed legislation to make permanent and expand the reach of the Minority Business Development Agency.

    The text of the letter can be found HERE and below:

    Deputy Secretary Dabbar:

    Congratulations on your recent confirmation as Deputy Secretary of the Department of Commerce. 

    During your confirmation hearing before the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation on May 1, 2025, I asked you to investigate and report back to the Committee on the status of the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), which the Trump Administration has tried to illegally dismantle. You testified: “I will commit to follow every dollar and report back as you request…” You reiterated this commitment in response to questions for the record regarding the MBDA, stating: “If granted the privilege of confirmation, I will promptly look into this matter.”

    I appreciate your clear commitment to “promptly” investigate these matters of serious concern and report back to the Committee on your findings without delay. Accordingly, please provide the following information no later than July 28, 2025:

    1. A detailed assessment of the status of all funding Congress appropriated to the MBDA. Please specify whether any such funds have been or ever were “repurposed” 4 to any program or activity outside MBDA. If so, please specify the programs or activities to which those funds were repurposed and the Department’s legal authority for doing so.
    2. A detailed assessment of the status of all MBDA grants, including:
      1. All MBDA grants that have been terminated since January 20, 2025;
      2. All MBDA grants that have not been renewed since January 20, 2025;
      3. All funded activities that the Department determined are “consistent with the agency’s priorities” and that “serve the interests of the MBDA program.”
    3. Based on your review and assessment, please certify whether the Department is in compliance with its statutory obligations under the MBDA Act of 2021, which was enacted as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. If you do not provide this certification, please explain why.
    4. Did Mr. Nate Cavanaugh have the legal authority to issue termination notices to MBDA grantees?  If yes, please provide a complete description of the authority under which Mr. Cavanaugh was operating, including whether acting Undersecretary Keith Sonderling expressly delegated authority to Mr. Cavanaugh to issue termination notices to MBDA grantees and whether such delegation was lawful.
    5. What steps, if any, has the Department taken to respond to the following letters from Committee Democrats requesting documents and information regarding the MBDA. Please detail the specific steps taken to respond to each letter and specify the date on which the Department anticipates providing a full and complete response to each letter:
      1. May 28, 2025, letter to Acting Deputy Secretary of Commerce for MBDA Keith Sonderling.
      2. April 30, 2025, letter to Acting Deputy Secretary of Commerce for MBDA Keith Sonderling.
      3. April 17, 2025, letter to Secretary Howard Lutnick.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyoming Guardsman honored in warrant officer pinning ceremony

    Source: US State of Wyoming

    Wyoming National Guard

    By Joseph Coslett Jr.

    CASPER, Wyo. — Family, friends and fellow Soldiers gathered to celebrate a defining milestone in the military career of Sgt. 1st Class Joshua Miller, Cowboy Guard, as he was officially appointed to the rank of warrant officer one during a formal pinning ceremony in Casper, Wyoming, July 10, 2025.

    Hosted by Chief Warrant Officer 4 Jared Sallee, the event recognized Miller’s 16 years of dedicated service with the Wyoming Army National Guard and his recent graduation from Warrant Officer Candidate School, Class 25-0A3, at Fort McClellan, Alabama.

    “Today, we gather to celebrate the achievement of Sergeant First Class Miller,” Sallee said. “The journey to becoming a warrant officer is not an easy one. It requires immense dedication and commitment to excellence. Warrant officers enhance the Army’s ability to defend our national interests, and to fight and win our nation’s wars.”

    Miller began his military journey in 2009, enlisting in the Wyoming Army National Guard from Cheyenne. Over the years, he served in multiple units across the state including the 2nd Battalion, 300th Field Artillery Regiment, the 920th Forward Support Company, the 960th Brigade Support Battalion, and the 133rd Engineer Company. Most recently, he deployed to the Middle East as the S4 Noncommissioned Officer in Charge for the 2-300th in support of Operations Inherent Resolve and Spartan Shield.

    After completing WOCS in March 2025, Miller postponed his appointment to fulfill his overseas duties, demonstrating the same selflessness and professionalism that earned him a place among the Army’s technical elite.

    During the ceremony, Chief Warrant Officer 5 Derek Fisbeck, Cowboy Guard command chief warrant officer, offered remarks acknowledging Miller’s commitment and the legacy of excellence he brings into the warrant officer ranks.

    Capt. Wyatt Winget, commander of the 920th Forward Support Company, administered the oath of office. With his family beside him, Miller pinned on the rank of warrant officer one, officially joining a cohort known for its deep technical knowledge, leadership and service.

    One of the most symbolic moments came when Miller received his first salute from Staff Sgt. William Vertz, a respected peer and mentor. Following tradition, Miller presented a silver dollar coin in appreciation, marking the transition from the noncommissioned officer corps into his new role as a technical leader.

    As the ceremony closed, Sallee reminded the audience that behind every successful Soldier is a strong support network. He thanked Miller’s family for their encouragement, patience and sacrifices along the way.

    “Congratulations once again to our newest member of the cohort,” Sallee said. “Warrant Officer 1 Miller, we welcome you to the Warrant Officer Cohort. Continue to seek self-improvement and exemplify the definition of a warrant officer.”

    Capt. Wyatt Winget, commander of the 920th Forward Support Company, administers the oath of office to Joshua Miller. Miller’s family joined him on stage to witness the significant moment. Family, friends, and fellow Soldiers gathered to celebrate the pinning ceremony of Warrant Officer 1 Joshua Miller, marking his official transition from the noncommissioned officer corps to the warrant officer cohort. The ceremony featured remarks from senior leaders, the administration of the oath of office, the traditional pinning of rank by his family, a first salute from Staff Sgt. William Vertz, and heartfelt recognition of Miller’s 16 years of dedicated service and the support of his loved ones. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Chief Warrant Officer 5 Derek Fisbeck)
    Family, friends, and fellow Soldiers gathered to celebrate the pinning ceremony of Warrant Officer 1 Joshua Miller, marking his official transition from the noncommissioned officer corps to the warrant officer cohort. The ceremony featured remarks from senior leaders, the administration of the oath of office, the traditional pinning of rank by his family, a first salute from Staff Sgt. William Vertz, and heartfelt recognition of Miller’s 16 years of dedicated service and the support of his loved ones. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Chief Warrant Officer 5 Derek Fisbeck)
    Family, friends, and fellow Soldiers gathered to celebrate the pinning ceremony of Warrant Officer 1 Joshua Miller, marking his official transition from the noncommissioned officer corps to the warrant officer cohort. The ceremony featured remarks from senior leaders, the administration of the oath of office, the traditional pinning of rank by his family, a first salute from Staff Sgt. William Vertz, and heartfelt recognition of Miller’s 16 years of dedicated service and the support of his loved ones. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Chief Warrant Officer 5 Derek Fisbeck)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Defense Bill Includes Dozens of Budd-Led Provisions to Boost America’s Military Readiness & End Affirmative Action at Service Academies

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina)
    Washington, D.C.—Senator Ted Budd (R-NC), a Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), recently voted to advance the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to the Senate floor after securing numerous provisions to improve readiness and quality of life for our troops, increase funding for North Carolina military installations, protect the homeland, and strengthen alliances.
    Senator Budd said in a statement:
    “I’m proud that the FY 2026 NDAA contains dozens of provisions I led that will boost America’s fighting force in North Carolina and around the world by improving our facilities and programs, bolstering America’s air superiority, reducing regulatory burdens, supporting our friend and ally Israel, combatting terrorism, and banning discriminatory affirmative action policies at the service academies. Refocusing the Department of Defense on its core mission will send a clear deterrent message to potential adversaries and make America safer.”
    Below is a summary of the provisions Senator Budd championed in the recent SASC legislative markup that the full Senate will consider in the coming weeks:
    Boosting America’s Military Readiness & Supporting Military Families
    The SASC-passed NDAA represents an investment in America’s military personnel, a refocusing of the Pentagon’s priorities to boost troop readiness, and a needed reduction of bureaucratic red tape. Senator Budd championed a number of key priorities that will improve the quality of life and the effectiveness of our troops by:
    Providing a 3.8% raise across the board for service members.
    Creating a pilot program to improve Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rates for North Carolina service members and their families.
    Prohibiting affirmative action in U.S. Service Academies admissions
    Cutting burdensome environmental regulations that prohibit the Defense Department from procuring basic items.
    Accelerating the development, prototyping, and deployment of mobile nuclear microreactor systems to enhance energy resilience and forward-deployed power capability for U.S. military operations.
    Delivering for North Carolina Military Installations & Manufacturers
    The FY 2026 NDAA authorizes more than $700 million for military construction projects and planning and design funding at facilities across North Carolina. Senator Budd successfully worked to include authorizing provisions to support the following facilities, programs, and units:
    Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point
    Authorizing $40M in funding to boost the F-35 Aircraft Sustainment Center
    Authorizing $15M in funding to design the next phase of the Flightline Utilities Modernization project
    Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune
    Authorizing $34M in funding for the expansion of the Special Operations Forces Combat Service Support/Motor Transport
    Authorizing $90M in funding to boost the Special Operations Forces Marine Raider Battalion Operations Facility
    Authorizing $48.28M in funding to boost Amphibious Combat Vehicle Shelters
    Fort Bragg
    Authorizing $19M in funding to boost the Automated Infantry Platoon Battle Course
    Authorizing $24M in funding to complete the construction of the Aircraft Maintenance Hangar
    Authorizing $80M in funding to improve the Fort’s power generation and microgrid
    Authorizing $32M in funding for the Special Operations Forces Mission Command Center
    Authorizing $80M in funding to boost the Special Operations Forces Operational Ammunition Supply Point
    Authorizing $5M in funding for the Pathfinder Airborne Program to improve soldier readiness
    Seymour Johnson Air Force Base
    Authorizing $54M in funding to improve the Child Development Center
    Authorizing $41M in funding to boost the Combat Arms Training and Maintenance Complex
    North Carolina National Guard
    Authorizing $69M in funding for the Aircraft Maintenance Hangar Addition/Alteration project at Salisbury Training Center
    North Carolina Manufacturers & Projects
    Authorizing $34M in funding to procure Infantry Squad Vehicles manufactured in Concord, which will support the Army Transformation Initiative
    Authorizing $4M in funding to procure rare earth magnets manufactured in Durham
    Authorizing $8M in funding to procure Army Load-Carrying Technology Advancements built in Concord
    Authorizing $5M in funding to expand the Defense Innovation Unit OnRamp Hub, which Senator Budd has advocated for bringing to North Carolina
    Protecting Our Homeland & Standing With Our Allies
    The core mission of America’s Armed Forces is to protect the United States and its citizens from threats and to defend our interests both at home and abroad. Sen. Budd led the inclusion of several key priorities that will help our troops and our allies carry out this vital mission by:
    Protecting Our Homeland:
    Requiring a plan to ensure installation commanders have adequate guidance and authority to interdict hostile or suspicious drone activity with force immediately.
    Directing the Secretary of the Army to diversify and expand the Army’s counter-drone capabilities to protect bases and installations at home and abroad.
    Deterring Threats from China:
    Cutting bureaucratic red tape to permit fighter aircraft to use tactical datalinks needed for advanced air combat training, enhancing the preparation and readiness of 45 combat-coded fighter squadrons for high-end conflict. 
    Directing a report on the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) operation, ownership, or control of strategic foreign ports and Department of Defense efforts to counter or mitigate the national security threats posed by PRC control of such foreign ports.
    Supporting the U.S.-Israel Bilateral Relationship & Countering Terrorism in the Middle East:
    Authorizing $80M in funding forU.S.-Israel Anti-Tunnel Cooperation and extending the program through December 2028.
    Authorizing $75M in funding for U.S.-Israel counter-UAS Cooperation and extending the program through December 2028.
    Authorizing $15M in funding for US-Israel Joint Research & Development on Emerging Technologies.
    Extending the authorization to provide assistance to counter the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).
    Directing DoD to provide a briefing on the Counter-ISIS Train and Equip Fund, status of equipment delivery to Kurdish Peshmerga Forces, and plans to improve the Kurdish Peshmerga Forces’ ability to conduct counter terrorism operations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Defense Bill Includes Dozens of Budd-Led Provisions to Boost America’s Military Readiness & End Affirmative Action at Service Academies

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina)
    Washington, D.C.—Senator Ted Budd (R-NC), a Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), recently voted to advance the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to the Senate floor after securing numerous provisions to improve readiness and quality of life for our troops, increase funding for North Carolina military installations, protect the homeland, and strengthen alliances.
    Senator Budd said in a statement:
    “I’m proud that the FY 2026 NDAA contains dozens of provisions I led that will boost America’s fighting force in North Carolina and around the world by improving our facilities and programs, bolstering America’s air superiority, reducing regulatory burdens, supporting our friend and ally Israel, combatting terrorism, and banning discriminatory affirmative action policies at the service academies. Refocusing the Department of Defense on its core mission will send a clear deterrent message to potential adversaries and make America safer.”
    Below is a summary of the provisions Senator Budd championed in the recent SASC legislative markup that the full Senate will consider in the coming weeks:
    Boosting America’s Military Readiness & Supporting Military Families
    The SASC-passed NDAA represents an investment in America’s military personnel, a refocusing of the Pentagon’s priorities to boost troop readiness, and a needed reduction of bureaucratic red tape. Senator Budd championed a number of key priorities that will improve the quality of life and the effectiveness of our troops by:
    Providing a 3.8% raise across the board for service members.
    Creating a pilot program to improve Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rates for North Carolina service members and their families.
    Prohibiting affirmative action in U.S. Service Academies admissions
    Cutting burdensome environmental regulations that prohibit the Defense Department from procuring basic items.
    Accelerating the development, prototyping, and deployment of mobile nuclear microreactor systems to enhance energy resilience and forward-deployed power capability for U.S. military operations.
    Delivering for North Carolina Military Installations & Manufacturers
    The FY 2026 NDAA authorizes more than $700 million for military construction projects and planning and design funding at facilities across North Carolina. Senator Budd successfully worked to include authorizing provisions to support the following facilities, programs, and units:
    Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point
    Authorizing $40M in funding to boost the F-35 Aircraft Sustainment Center
    Authorizing $15M in funding to design the next phase of the Flightline Utilities Modernization project
    Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune
    Authorizing $34M in funding for the expansion of the Special Operations Forces Combat Service Support/Motor Transport
    Authorizing $90M in funding to boost the Special Operations Forces Marine Raider Battalion Operations Facility
    Authorizing $48.28M in funding to boost Amphibious Combat Vehicle Shelters
    Fort Bragg
    Authorizing $19M in funding to boost the Automated Infantry Platoon Battle Course
    Authorizing $24M in funding to complete the construction of the Aircraft Maintenance Hangar
    Authorizing $80M in funding to improve the Fort’s power generation and microgrid
    Authorizing $32M in funding for the Special Operations Forces Mission Command Center
    Authorizing $80M in funding to boost the Special Operations Forces Operational Ammunition Supply Point
    Authorizing $5M in funding for the Pathfinder Airborne Program to improve soldier readiness
    Seymour Johnson Air Force Base
    Authorizing $54M in funding to improve the Child Development Center
    Authorizing $41M in funding to boost the Combat Arms Training and Maintenance Complex
    North Carolina National Guard
    Authorizing $69M in funding for the Aircraft Maintenance Hangar Addition/Alteration project at Salisbury Training Center
    North Carolina Manufacturers & Projects
    Authorizing $34M in funding to procure Infantry Squad Vehicles manufactured in Concord, which will support the Army Transformation Initiative
    Authorizing $4M in funding to procure rare earth magnets manufactured in Durham
    Authorizing $8M in funding to procure Army Load-Carrying Technology Advancements built in Concord
    Authorizing $5M in funding to expand the Defense Innovation Unit OnRamp Hub, which Senator Budd has advocated for bringing to North Carolina
    Protecting Our Homeland & Standing With Our Allies
    The core mission of America’s Armed Forces is to protect the United States and its citizens from threats and to defend our interests both at home and abroad. Sen. Budd led the inclusion of several key priorities that will help our troops and our allies carry out this vital mission by:
    Protecting Our Homeland:
    Requiring a plan to ensure installation commanders have adequate guidance and authority to interdict hostile or suspicious drone activity with force immediately.
    Directing the Secretary of the Army to diversify and expand the Army’s counter-drone capabilities to protect bases and installations at home and abroad.
    Deterring Threats from China:
    Cutting bureaucratic red tape to permit fighter aircraft to use tactical datalinks needed for advanced air combat training, enhancing the preparation and readiness of 45 combat-coded fighter squadrons for high-end conflict. 
    Directing a report on the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) operation, ownership, or control of strategic foreign ports and Department of Defense efforts to counter or mitigate the national security threats posed by PRC control of such foreign ports.
    Supporting the U.S.-Israel Bilateral Relationship & Countering Terrorism in the Middle East:
    Authorizing $80M in funding forU.S.-Israel Anti-Tunnel Cooperation and extending the program through December 2028.
    Authorizing $75M in funding for U.S.-Israel counter-UAS Cooperation and extending the program through December 2028.
    Authorizing $15M in funding for US-Israel Joint Research & Development on Emerging Technologies.
    Extending the authorization to provide assistance to counter the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).
    Directing DoD to provide a briefing on the Counter-ISIS Train and Equip Fund, status of equipment delivery to Kurdish Peshmerga Forces, and plans to improve the Kurdish Peshmerga Forces’ ability to conduct counter terrorism operations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Kemp: Georgia’s AAA Bond Rating Reaffirmed by Rating Agencies

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA – Governor Brian P. Kemp today announced that Georgia has again had the highest ratings of AAA reaffirmed with a stable outlook by each of the three main credit rating agencies: FitchRatings, Moody’s Investors Service, and S&P Global Ratings. This follows last week’s release of Moody’s reaffirmation of this coveted level of financial trustworthiness. 

    “I am proud to report that thanks to our state’s resilient economy and commitment to conservative budgeting, Georgia has once again secured the highest bond rating possible from all three main credit rating agencies,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “Georgia continues to be a safe and stable bet for job creators. That’s why we continue to see record investment and economic development, and it’s one of the many reasons we are well-positioned to save Georgia taxpayers tens of millions of dollars with low interest borrowing rates in the years to come.”

    For the second year in a row, Georgia has not issued general obligation bonds and has instead funded capital projects with cash, generating a net estimated savings of about $2.81 billion over a 20-year period.

    Bond Rating Agency Report Excerpts

    Fitch Ratings: “Georgia’s affirmed ‘AAA’ IDR, GO and guaranteed revenue bond ratings reflect the state’s proven willingness and ability to maintain fiscal balance and a broad-based, growth-oriented economy that supports solid revenue gains over time.”

    Moody’s Investors Service: “Georgia’s Aaa issuer rating reflects the state’s large and diverse economy, strong population and employment growth, robust reserves and liquidity, strong fiscal governance and flexibility and low direct leverage from debt, pension and OPEB liabilities.”

    S&P Global Ratings: “The ‘AAA’ long-term rating reflects our view of Georgia’s demonstrated resilient budgetary performance across credit cycles, coupled with responsive financial management that has enabled the state to make timely adjustments to general fund expenditures.

    The rating also incorporates our view of the state’s favorable population growth trends, and ability to attract diversified business developments and expansion within Georgia’s already large and diverse economic base, and our expectation that the state’s annual growth rates will match or be slightly above that of the nation.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Building Affordable Housing in East New York, Brooklyn

    Source: US State of New York

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    The multi-phase program will ultimately include a total of nearly 2,000 affordable apartments in 10 buildings. It will also feature community space with childcare, senior services, workforce development, and a new performing arts center. New streets are being added as an extension of the existing neighborhood street grid to maximize walkability through interconnected pedestrian routes and three acres of publicly accessible open space.

    The City of New York approved the rezoning of the project site to accommodate the redevelopment.

    Innovative Urban Village is supported by HCR’s Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program which is expected to generate more than $115 million in equity and $47 million from its Housing Finance Agency. Additional support includes $47 million from the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development’s Extremely Low- and Low-Income Affordability Program. The project is also supported by the Urban Investment Group at Goldman Sachs Alternatives.

    The site is participating in the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s successful Brownfield Cleanup Program and, when completed, would be eligible for $28 million in tax credits administered by the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance. Operating funding for the supportive apartments will be provided by the Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative administered by the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance.

    Today’s announcement also builds on Governor Hochul and Mayor Adams’ “City of Yes” plan to create thousands of new homes across the city and develop more family-friendly neighborhoods from Coney Island to Inwood.

    New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “We’re excited to be part of the holistic transformation occurring in East New York and we believe our $162 million investment in Innovative Urban Village will benefit this neighborhood and 385 households for years to come. I am grateful to Governor Hochul and the City of New York, Christian Cultural Center, Gotham Organization, Monadnock, and all our partners for their vision and dedication to making this project possible.”

    New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Barbara C. Guinn said, “The permanent supportive housing that will be created at Innovative Urban Village will provide individuals and families who have experienced homelessness with a place to call home along with onsite access to essential support services that will help them remain stably housed for years to come. We are grateful to all our state and local partners on this important project and to Governor Hochul for making landmark investments to expand the supply of affordable and supportive housing across New York State.”

    New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “Cleaning up environmental pollution in communities like Brooklyn unlocks investments in critical needs like affordable housing, transitional housing services, and community spaces. New York State’s Brownfield Cleanup Program is a vital tool that supports community revitalization across the state and the Innovative Urban Village project in East New York is a prime example of how this successful cleanup program is helping advance Governor Hochul’s continued efforts to increase affordable, sustainable housing statewide while also protecting public health and the environment.”

    “This project is helping us fight the housing affordability crisis while also prioritizing improvements that will make the neighborhood more livable for families.”

    Governor Kathy Hochul

    New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development Acting Commissioner Ahmed Tigani said, “Projects like Innovative Urban Village represent more than the construction of housing — they breathe life into a promise made to the people of Brooklyn and to our city: that development can be rooted in equity, shaped by community, and guided by care. Phase 1A is just one piece of a larger vision that spans multiple mixed-use buildings with community amenities and nearly 2,000 homes, including supportive housing for New Yorkers transitioning out of homelessness.”

    New York City Department of City Planning Director Dan Garodnick said, “Innovative Urban Village is a fantastic example of how smart planning can support families at every stage of life. Delivering income-restricted affordable housing alongside childcare, senior services, pedestrian-friendly streets, open space, and more, this future gem of East New York will serve as a model for vibrant neighborhoods across the city.”

    New York City Housing Development Corporation President Eric Enderlin said, “HDC is proud to support this dynamic, multi-phased project that will provide much-needed affordable housing for low-income and formerly homeless New Yorkers. In addition to brand-new affordable homes, Innovative Urban Village will deliver commercial and community facility space that will benefit the broader East New York neighborhood for years to come. Congratulations to all our partners on reaching this latest milestone.”

    Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said, “New Yorkers deserve access to affordable, secure, and modern housing. This development will help revitalize Christian Cultural Center’s campus, deliver critical support services for our most vulnerable, and bring another much-needed grocery store to East New York. I look forward to seeing the positive impact this project will have and will keep fighting for federal funding to expand affordable housing in our state and across the country.”

    House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said, “Here in America, when you work hard and play by the rules, you should be able to afford the good life. At the center of that life is a safe, affordable place to live, but for far too many New Yorkers, that reality is out of reach. I’m grateful to Governor Kathy Hochul, Pastor AR Bernard and their development partners for breaking ground on the Innovative Urban Village in the Christian Cultural Center’s campus, which will provide safe, sustainable and affordable housing for hundreds of Brooklyn families that I am privileged to represent.”

    State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud said, “The second construction phase of the Innovative Urban Village is a tremendous opportunity to provide more than four hundred affordable homes in East New York. This project not only helps address the housing deficiencies but also promotes equitable and sustainable living for our community for generations to come. I am excited for the future of our community.”

    Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso said, “When we build affordable housing alongside essential resources like access to fresh food, we’re investing in health, dignity, and opportunity. I applaud Governor Hochul and NYS Homes and Community Renewal for making this vision a reality in East New York and for setting a powerful example of what affordable housing looks like when it is rooted in community and equity.”

    New York City Council Member Farah N. Louis said, “Since taking office, I fought to ensure that our city would meaningfully partner with our clergy to bring much-needed affordable housing capital to Central Brooklyn. I have worked in lockstep with Reverend A.R. Bernard to advocate for this vision, and I applaud Governor Hochul and her administration for advancing this transformative project across the finish line to uplift the East New York community. I believe this project will provide opportunities for the next generation, and I look forward to seeing this visionary leadership, community partnership, and shared values project create lasting change for Brooklyn and our city.”

    New York City Council Member Chris Banks said, “The Innovative Urban Village redevelopment project on the Christian Cultural Center campus is set to be a transformative investment in the 42nd Council District. I’m proud to partner on a project that delivers truly affordable housing. This is how we build and sustain neighborhoods for generations and how we begin to build Black and Brown generational wealth in real, tangible ways.”

    Christian Cultural Center Senior Pastor Rev A. R. Bernard said, “It’s incredible to stand alongside each of the partners, elected officials and community members that worked together to make Innovative Urban Village a reality. We are confident that the ripple effects of this dynamic mixed-income community will be felt far beyond East New York, setting an example for all of New York to follow.”

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    Gotham Organization CEO David L. Picket said, “Today’s groundbreaking is a defining moment for Gotham and for the city my family has called home for over a century. Innovative Urban Village reflects our core values as a company—delivering high-quality housing that meets the needs of real New Yorkers while strengthening the fabric of our neighborhoods. IUV is the result of vision, partnership, and perseverance, and we’re proud to work with our partners in bringing it to life. It’s a powerful example of what can happen when the public and private sectors come together with purpose.”

    Gotham Organization President of Development Bryan Kelly said, “This moment is the result of years of dedicated collaboration with our partners, community leaders, and city agencies. We’re creating a neighborhood that prioritizes affordability, sustainability, and opportunity for all. At Gotham, we believe deeply in the power of thoughtfully planned development to uplift communities, and together with our partners and local stakeholders, have envisioned Innovative Urban Village to set a new standard for future housing developments. This is a meaningful step toward a more inclusive and equitable New York City.”

    Monadnock Development President Kirk Goodrich said, “Innovative Urban Village is about Pastor Bernard, Gotham and Monadnock deciding to see people in need rather than simply housing units. Our collective focus is on transforming lives and communities. I am proud of what we are doing and excited to see the impact the completed vision will have.”

    Urban Resource Institute CEO Nathaniel Fields said, “For over 40 years, Urban Resource Institute — the nation’s largest provider of shelter and support services — has been a leader in trauma-informed care for survivors of domestic violence and those facing housing insecurities. At the Innovative Urban Village, we are not just offering housing — we are delivering the full strength of our wraparound services to help residents heal and rebuild. From safety planning and legal advocacy to economic empowerment, we meet survivors where they are and walk with them toward lasting stability. This project is a bold step toward URI’s mission to end the cycles of violence, homelessness, and poverty — and creating a future where survivors don’t just survive but thrive.”

    Practice for Architecture and Urbanism Founder and Creative Director Vishaan Chakrabarti said, “More than a decade in the making, this project has been a true labor of love. It’s about taking an underutilized urban space and creating an inclusive community that offers dignity, stability, and a sense of home for New Yorkers across a broad range of incomes. Seeing it come to life is deeply meaningful.”

    Goldman Sachs Alternatives Urban Investment Group Chair Asahi Pompey said, “Goldman Sachs sees Innovative Urban Village as more than just bricks and mortar. Our investment is a down payment on East New York’s potential, creating thousands of high-quality, affordable homes and essential services that will fuel the economic vitality of the community.”

    J.P. Morgan Community Development Banking Executive Director Jane Silverman said, “We are honored to be part of the Innovative Urban Village Phase 1B project, a transformative development that embodies the spirit of community and collaboration. This project is a testament to what can be achieved when the public and private sectors unite. At J.P. Morgan, our commitment to Brooklyn and its residents runs deep, and we’re proud to support the creation of affordable housing that will serve as the foundation for a thriving community in East New York.”

    Governor Hochul’s Housing Agenda
    Governor Hochul is dedicated to addressing New York’s housing crisis and making the State more affordable and more livable for all New Yorkers. As part of the FY25 Enacted Budget, the Governor secured a landmark agreement to increase New York’s housing supply through new tax incentives, capital funding, and new protections for renters and homeowners. Building on this commitment, the FY26 Enacted Budget includes more than $1.5 billion in new State funding for housing, a Housing Access Voucher pilot program, and new policies to improve affordability for tenants and homebuyers. These measures complement the Governor’s five-year, $25 billion Housing Plan, included in the FY23 Enacted Budget, to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes statewide, including 10,000 with support services for vulnerable populations, plus the electrification of an additional 50,000 homes. More than 60,000 homes have been created or preserved to date.

    The FY25 and FY26 Enacted Budgets also strengthened the Governor’s Pro-Housing Community Program — which allows certified localities exclusive access to up to $750 million in discretionary State funding. Currently, more than 300 communities have received Pro-Housing certification, including the city of New York.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Representatives Nadler and Goldman Applaud NYC Council for Forcing City to Finally Release the Truth About 9/11 Air Toxins

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jerrold Nadler (10th District of New York)

    Representatives Nadler and Goldman Applaud NYC Council for Forcing City to Finally Release the Truth About 9/11 Air Toxins

    Washington, July 15, 2025

    Today, Congressman Jerrold Nadler (NY-12) and Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) made the following statement in response to the New York City Council vote on releasing 9/11 related documents:

    “We commend the New York City Council for passing Resolution 560, finally forcing the City to release records about what officials knew about the toxic air New Yorkers were breathing after 9/11 while they were telling the public it was safe to return to the City.

    “For years, we have demanded transparency from the Adams Administration about what the Giuliani and Bloomberg Administrations knew about toxins in the air following 9/11 and when they knew it. We sent multiple letters to the Adams Administration requesting the release of critical records, yet each time, they denied our requests. Their lack of a meaningful response denied justice to the thousands of New Yorkers and first responders who continue to deal with or have died from health complications due to the air quality following 9/11.

    “With the passage of Resolution 560, New York City’s Department of Investigation has the power to discover exactly what Mayor Giuliani knew about the toxins in the air after 9/11 while claiming it was safe for New Yorkers to return. These records could provide long overdue accountability for potentially devastating decisions that cost thousands of lives.

    “New Yorkers deserve the truth. We’re finally about to get some answers.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: East Asia and Pacific Subcommittee Chairwoman Kim Delivers Opening Remarks at Hearing on Critical Mineral Supply Chains

    Source: US House Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Media Contact 202-321-9747

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Foreign Affairs East Asia and Pacific Subcommittee Chairwoman Young Kim delivered opening remarks at a hearing titled, “Breaking China’s Chokehold on Critical Mineral Supply Chains.”

    Watch Here

    -Remarks-

    Good morning and welcome to East Asia and the Pacific Subcommittee hearing titled Breaking China’s Chokehold on Critical Mineral Supply Chains. I want to thank our witnesses for joining us this morning.
    Critical minerals — lithium, cobalt, real earth elements, and others — are the building blocks of modern technology, powering electric vehicles, microchips, and advanced defense systems. Global demand for these minerals is surging. With lithium demand alone, growing nearly 30% annually from 2021 to 2024, driven by rising electric vehicle battery production. Yet, the People’s Republic of China, or PRC, controls 92% of global rare earth element processing and dominates the manufacturing of battery and magnet components. This chokehold reinforced by China’s tens of billions in global mining investments and tactics like price manipulation and export restrictions poses a direct threat to the United States and our allies.
    While the U.S. possesses significant mineral resources, domestic production alone cannot meet the speed or scale of this demand. The U.S. manufacturing, they operate their operation costs, increased significantly in the region, increasing the regional bureau.
    It will take decades to permit natural mining in America. Moreover, the federal government lacks the financial capacity to fully subsidize the level of investment needed to drive large scale private sector investment expansion of domestic production, relying solely on domestic solutions is insufficient. Therefore, we need a bold global strategy to secure resilient, diversified supply chains free from Chinese control.
    The current geopolitical landscape offers an opportune window to act. The recent developments such as President Trump’s critical minerals agreement with Ukraine and the U.S. facilitated peace deal in the Democratic Republic of Congo, open new opportunities to access vital resources.
    We’ve also seen coordination like the recently announced quad critical minerals initiative underscore the importance of critical minerals to broader regional engagement. As the administration renegotiates trade relationships, we can strengthen partnerships with our allies to build non-Chinese supply chains, enhancing both economic and national security.
    So in today’s hearing, we will explore these challenges and opportunities. We will examine how to build a proactive global strategy to establish supply chains free from Chinese dominance. So our goal today is very clear: to ensure the United States and its allies have secure, reliable access to the critical minerals that will define the future of technology and security. I look forward to a productive discussion.

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    MIL OSI USA News –