Category: United States of America

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Aderholt to Host Two Vietnam Veteran Pinning Ceremonies in August

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04)

    Washington, D.C. – Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) announced today that he will host two Vietnam Veteran Pinning Ceremonies this August to honor and thank Vietnam veterans living in Alabama’s Fourth Congressional District for their service and sacrifice.

    The ceremonies will take place in Tuscumbia and Cleveland, Alabama. These events are part of the ongoing United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration effort to give long-overdue recognition to those who served during the Vietnam War era. Family members and the public are welcome to attend.

    “These men and women served our nation with courage during a difficult chapter in our history, and many never received the recognition they so rightfully deserved when they returned home,” said Congressman Aderholt. “These ceremonies are a small but heartfelt way to say ‘thank you’ on behalf of a grateful nation.”

    Event Details:

    📍Tuscumbia Ceremony
    Date: Friday, August 22, 2025
    Time: 10:30 AM
    Location:Alabama Music Hall of Fame
    617 U.S. Hwy 72 W, Tuscumbia, AL 35674

    📍Cleveland Ceremony
    Date: Friday, August 29, 2025
    Time: 10:30 AM
    Location:Blount County Multi Purpose Center
    6700 Co Hwy 1, Cleveland, AL 35049

    Each Vietnam veteran in attendance who resides in the Fourth Congressional District will receive a commemorative lapel pin from Congressman Aderholt as a symbol of the nation’s gratitude.

    Vietnam veterans who live in the district and wish to be honored are asked to sign up in advance by visiting:
    👉https://aderholt.house.gov/services/vietnam-veterans-50th-anniversary-pin-program

    Or call (256) 546-0201

    Please register by August 18th.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Aderholt Applauds House Passage of President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill”

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04)

    Washington, D.C. — Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) today released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed President Donald J. Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill,” sending the landmark legislation to the President’s desk for his signature:

    “The One Big Beautiful Bill delivers the America First agenda in a fiscally responsible way. Getting this bill to the President’s desk to deliver his mandate for an economy that is pro-growth, pro-family, pro-business, and pro-worker. It also continues to support the most vulnerable in our society while helping able-bodied individuals get back to work.”

    In addition to the bill’s broad economic and social reforms, Congressman Aderholt successfully fought for the inclusion of a key pro-family provision — a refundable Adoption Tax Credit. This critical measure will help make adoption more accessible for lower- and middle-income families by ensuring they can fully benefit from the tax credit, regardless of their federal tax liability.

    “As someone who has long championed pro-life and pro-family policies, I was proud to lead the charge to make the Adoption Tax Credit refundable once again,” Aderholt said. “No family should be denied the opportunity to adopt a child simply because they can’t afford the upfront cost. This provision ensures that families of modest means receive the same support as wealthier households when they open their hearts and homes to a child in need.”

    The “One Big Beautiful Bill” is a sweeping legislative package aimed at restoring American prosperity, securing the border, promoting work, and uplifting families. With its passage, Congress takes a bold step forward in delivering on the America First vision and strengthening the nation from the ground up.

    “Despite what many of my Democrat colleagues and the national news media have claimed, this bill does not remove children or veterans from Medicaid or food assistance. What it does do is restore these vital programs to their original purpose — providing a safety net for the poor, pregnant women, children, and individuals with disabilities. The reforms we’ve made will help ensure that Medicaid remains focused on its core mission and continues to serve those who truly need it most. Not for able bodied people who just don’t want to work.”

    Having now cleared both chambers, the bill awaits the President’s signature and is expected to be signed into law in the coming days.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Underwood Introduces Prioritizing Rural Hospitals Act to Strengthen Health Care in Rural America

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (IL-14)

    WASHINGTON – Representative Lauren Underwood introduced the Prioritizing Rural Hospitals Act, bipartisan legislation co-led by Rep. Tracey Mann (R-KS). The Prioritizing Rural Hospitals Act would address the pressing health care disparities that rural communities face by prioritizing funding for rural health care facilities applying for Rural Development funding through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

    “Republicans just passed the largest cut to health care in American history, and now hundreds of rural health care facilities are projected to close. We must act immediately to address the significant challenges that people in our rural communities are facing in accessing quality health care,” said Congresswoman Underwood. “The Prioritizing Rural Hospitals Act is a crucial step towards addressing these disparities, providing essential resources to improve health care infrastructure, and support the dedicated professionals who serve these areas.”

    Nearly 1 in 5 Americans live in rural areas and they face significant health care disparities compared to Americans living in urban areas. The shortage of physicians, longer wait times, and need to travel long distances to access medical care are just a few of the challenges rural residents endure.

    This bill will provide much-needed support to these communities by prioritizing funding for health facilities and ensuring USDA resources can be used to renovate, remodel, and equip closed facilities.

    Rural hospital closures result in inadequate preventive health care for rural residents, increasing the need for emergency treatments that are becoming increasingly unavailable. By prioritizing funding and resources for rural health care facilities, the Prioritizing Rural Hospitals Act will help ensure that residents in rural areas receive the essential care they need.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Underwood Secures More Than $1.6 Million in Federal Funding for Affordable Housing, Environmental Cleanup, and Research

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (IL-14)

    WASHINGTON — This week, Representative Lauren Underwood announced a new round of federal funding she has secured for affordable housing, environmental cleanup, and research in the 14th District.

    As a member of the Appropriations Committee, Underwood has made securing federal resources for northern Illinois a top priority. The following funds will support programs in the 14th District with federal resources:

    The Neighbor Project, Aurora, Illinois – $57,000

    The Neighbor Project will receive $57,000 in federal funding from NeighborWorks America through the NeighborWorks Flexible Impact Grant program.

    This grant will support efforts to lower housing costs, expand housing supply, spark economic opportunity, revitalize neighborhoods, and strengthen communities across Illinois’s 14th Congressional District. NeighborWorks America, a public nonprofit established by Congress in 1978, provides financial and technical support to nearly 250 local and regional partner organizations nationwide.

    Rep. Underwood helped secure this funding through her work on the Appropriations Committee.

    City of Ottawa, Ottawa, Illinois – $1,243,270

    The City of Ottawa will receive $1,243,270 in federal funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Brownfields Cleanup Grant Program.

    The grant will fund the cleanup of the former Beer Depot site at 429 W. Lafayette Street, which was previously used for oil and coal distribution from 1891 until the 1970s. The site, vacant since the 1970s and contaminated with semi-volatile organic compounds, metals, and pesticides, will be remediated to support community revitalization and economic redevelopment.

    Rep. Underwood helped secure this funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and her work on the Appropriations Committee.

    A Cubed Design LLC, Aurora, Illinois – $305,000

    A Cubed Design LLC has been awarded federal funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) through a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I grant to develop an affordable, durable, and user-repairable refreshable braille display.

    This project aims to address the high cost and limited accessibility of current refreshable braille technology, which hinders braille literacy and digital access for blind and low-vision individuals. The innovation has strong commercial potential in a rapidly growing market and is expected to benefit thousands of users within three years of launch, expanding access to education, employment, and digital tools for the blind and low-vision community.

    Rep. Underwood helped secure this funding through her work on the Appropriations Committee.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: RELEASE: Harder Demands Restoration of Flood-Control Funding

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Josh Harder (CA-10)

    Administration budget proposal includes 53% cut to construction project funding

    1,100 miles of levees need repairs along the Delta 
     

    WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Josh Harder (CA-09) demanded a reversal of proposed cuts to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) flood protection projects, including the San Joaquin River Basin Project in Stockton. The Administration’s budget request for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) is 53% lower than previously enacted levels, and excludes funding for vital flood prevention projects in the Valley and across California.

    Proposed cuts come at a crisis moment in Valley flood mitigation:

    “Yanking flood protection funding at the last-minute makes no sense and puts our Valley communities at risk,” said Rep. Harder. “We face flood threats every year because of aging infrastructure and we worked across the aisle to finally get the flood protection we need. Now, Washington is trying to steal back funding for our levees, and I refuse to let them get away with it.”

    In his letter Harder urged Washington to:

    • Reject the 53% cuts to USACE projects.
    • Fully fund USACE flood risk mitigation efforts.
    • Protect projects like the San Joaquin River Basin project.

    Read the full letter here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: DELTA TUNNEL NEWS: Harder Calls for Approval of Audit into $20 Billion Boondoggle

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Josh Harder (CA-10)

    In the last year alone, the cost of the Delta Tunnel has ballooned by 25%

    Harder leading federal legislation to kill disastrous boondoggle
     

    STOCKTON – Today, ahead of the hearing to consider auditing the ballooning cost of the Delta Tunnel, Rep. Josh Harder (CA-09) released the following statement urging approval of this critical investigation:

    “Sacramento politicians have tried to backdoor the Delta Tunnel for years because they know this budgetary monstrosity won’t create a single drop of water for anyone. Worse still, the price tag to build it and the cost to Valley communities keeps going up. We need a full investigation into this $20 billion boondoggle. It’s time Sacramento admits what we already know – the Delta Tunnel is a direct attack on Valley communities and our way of life.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: RELEASE: Harder Demands Release of Frozen Education Funding for San Joaquin County Ahead of New School Year

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Josh Harder (CA-10)

    $18 million for hiring teachers, STEM education, and after-school programs locked up

    Clock running out with first day of school just weeks away

    STOCKTON – Today, in response to unacceptable education funding freezes just weeks away from the first day of school, Rep. Josh Harder (CA-09) demanded the immediate release of these funds to ensure Valley students heading into the new school year aren’t affected. More than $18 million in federal funding promised to San Joaquin County is currently locked up.

    Here’s what’s on Washington’s chopping block:

    • Funding for homework assistance and after-school clubs.
    • Investments in STEM education and digital learning services.
    • Hiring and training more teachers — one local school district has a 100+ shortage.

    “Make no mistake — this is an attack on our kids and their futures, and I’m furious that Washington is trying to pull the rug out from under our schools just weeks away from the first day of school,” said Rep. Harder. “Working families deserve to know that their tax dollars are going to invest in our schools, not sit locked up in the hands of politicians. I’m calling on Washington to immediately reverse this mindless decision before it’s too late.”

    In his letter, Harder urged Washington to:

    • Immediately release the $18 million promised to San Joaquin County.
    • Restore funding for hiring teachers and providing education programs.
    • Prioritizekids’ education and career futures.

    Read the full letter here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: MEGABILL: Harder Condemns Largest Health Care Cut in American History

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Josh Harder (CA-10)

    Rips health care away from nearly 50,000 San Joaquin County residents, lays off 3,000 health care workers 

    Finances trillions in handouts for billionaires like Elon Musk

    WASHINGTON – Today, following the U.S. House of Representatives’ passage of the largest health care cut in American history, Rep. Josh Harder (CA-09), who voted no, released the following statement condemning the bill:

    “I’m heartbroken for our community. This bill is cruel beyond words. It rips health care away from 50,000 people in San Joaquin County, shutters clinics, lays off thousands of health care workers, and sends premiums through the roof – all so billionaires like Elon Musk can get another handout. 

    “Thousands of working families will lose access to in-home care for aging parents. They’ll be forced to skip doctor’s appointments for their kids. They won’t be able to afford an emergency room visit if there’s an accident. This isn’t just politics, this is life and death.

    “Our families were already stretched thin – now they’re being kicked off their health care so the rich can get even richer. I’m heartbroken. I’m furious. I voted no, and I’ll do everything in my power to fight back against this heartless betrayal.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: WORLD DRUG DAY: Harder Announces Bipartisan Bills to Crack Down on Deadly Fentanyl

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Josh Harder (CA-10)

    New report: U.S. drug overdose deaths on the rise again

    Nearly 200,000 fentanyl pills seized in the Valley since September, enough to kill 26 million people

    WASHINGTON – Today, on the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Rep. Josh Harder (CA-09) announced two bipartisan bills to crack down on fentanyl drug dealers and expand overdose training for first responders. The Disrupt Fentanyl Pill Production Act, led with Rep. Dan Crenshaw (TX-02), helps local law enforcement track down drug dealers manufacturing counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl, and the Safer Response Act, led with Rep. Mike Lawler (NY-17), funds a grant training program to expand overdose training to local first responders.

    Valley communities are on the front lines of the drug epidemic:

    “This is about stopping criminals who are poisoning our families,” said Rep. Harder. “Fentanyl is flooding into our communities and we have to do something about it. These bipartisan bills give law enforcement the tools they need to crack down on traffickers and make sure more people are trained to save lives when every second counts. This is life or death – we need to pass these bills.”

    Stopping drug dealers with the Disrupt Fentanyl Pill Production Act:

    • Tracking down dealers by requiring traceable serial numbers on all machines used to mass-produce counterfeit pills.
    • Tougher penalties for dealers caught with pill press machines.
    • Better coordination between local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.

    “For the safety of our communities, it’s imperative that we give law enforcement the ability to trace these illicit pill presses moving across borders. This legislation will allow officers to better understand the criminal supply chain,” said Rep. Crenshaw. “Serializing pill presses will also give them better tools to effectively catch and prosecute cartels who use this equipment to disguise deadly drugs and exploit our children for profit.”

    Preventing overdose deaths with the Safer Response Act:

    • New training for local first responders to address and reverse overdoses.
    • Outreach coordination teams to bridge gaps between public and private medical and emergency response partnerships.

    “Over 80,000 lives were lost last year to overdoses and opioids like fentanyl continue to proliferate in our communities,” said Rep. Lawler. “I’m proud to co-lead the reintroduction of the Safer Response Act with Congressman Josh Harder to equip our first responders with the training and tools necessary to fight the opioid epidemic and save lives.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Neguse and Rep. Ocasio-Cortez Introduce Legislation to Impose Lifetime Ban on Members of Congress from Lobbying

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joe Neguse (D-Co 2)

    Washington, D.C. — Today, Congressman Joe Neguse (CO-02) and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14) introduced the Close the Revolving Door Act of 2025, legislation that would impose a lifetime ban on former Members of Congress from becoming lobbyists. The legislation also strengthens lobbying transparency laws, including significantly increasing penalties for violations of the Lobbying Disclosure Act. Reps. Neguse and Ocasio-Cortez have previously partnered on efforts to enact legislation to prohibit Members of Congress from trading stocks.

    “The American people deserve far better from their government and elected leaders — and that includes an end to the corruption that has become pervasive in Washington D.C. It is why I’ve led an effort for years to ban stock trading by Members of Congress, and why I’m proud to join my colleague Rep. Ocasio-Cortez in introducing the Revolving Door Act — common-sense legislation that would ban former Members of Congress from becoming lobbyists after they leave elected office. We must clean up government for future generations and ensure our government is serving the American people, not special interests, which is exactly what our legislation is designed to do,” said Congressman Joe Neguse

    “The revolving door of public service to lobbying is a major reason why everyday Americans struggle to trust our institutions. It erodes the faith and integrity of our lawmaking and cuts against the principle that our service here puts Americans first ahead of our own careers and ambitions. Lobbying by members of Congress should be banned, and I am happy to support Rep. Neguse’s bill,” said Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

    The Close the Revolving Door Act of 2025 would: 

    • Impose a lifetime ban on former Members of Congress from engaging in any lobbying activities aimed at influencing Congress after they leave office;
    • Prohibit senior congressional staff from lobbying Congress for six years following their departure from service; 
    • Require the Clerk of the House and the Secretary of the Senate to create and maintain a public database website called lobbyists.gov;
    • Create a six-year restriction on hiring lobbyists or foreign agents into congressional offices if they had substantial prior lobbying contact with the office in question; 
    • Increase civil penalties for violations of the Lobbying Disclosure Act from $200,000 to $500,000.

    Read the bill text HERE

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Neguse Leads Coalition of Lawmakers Opposing Proposed Cuts to NOAA

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joe Neguse (D-Co 2)

    In letters to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnik and Subcommittee Chairman Hal Rogers, lawmakers urge the rejection of proposed funding cuts and facility closures at NOAA. 

    Washington, DC— Following the release of the White House’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget proposal, Congressman Joe Neguse (CO-02) led a coalition of 23 lawmakers urging both the Department of Commerce and their colleagues on the House Appropriations Committee to reject devastating proposed cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) by the Trump administration. The budget proposal would decimate funding for NOAA’s critical programs, including the Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR), and terminate several Weather Laboratories and Cooperative Institutes, including several in Colorado’s Second Congressional District.   

    In their letter, the lawmakers condemned the proposed budget cuts to NOAA and underscored the importance of the agency and its Cooperative Institutes. Colorado is home to several of NOAA’s Climate Laboratories, including the Physical Sciences Laboratory (PSL), the Chemical Sciences Laboratory (CSL), and the Global Monitoring Laboratory (GML), all located in Boulder, CO. 

    Colorado is also the only state in the nation home to two Cooperative Institutes, the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere (CIRA) at Colorado State University and the Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES) at the University of Colorado Boulder, which are academic and non-profit research centers that have provided invaluable support to NOAA’s mission and work in drought, wildfire, and space weather since 1967. The lawmakers denounced the proposed cuts in their letter to Department of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Subcommittee Chairman Rogers and Ranking Member Meng, as well as any plans to terminate funding for these institutions, making clear the damage to our nation would be irreversible, and emphasizing the important work that is ongoing at both CIRES and CIRA.  

    “CIs are home to experienced researchers and long-standing data collection programs with major impacts on human societies. If these sweeping cuts are made, the damage will be irreversible. Even short-term interruptions in their research could threaten the safety and economies of the communities that CIs serve across the nation. These cuts would primarily leave tornado and weather research and ocean observation to be reprogrammed to other offices, effectively moving weather research and development under the National Weather Service, while getting rid of most of the people and infrastructure that do this critical work.” 

    They continued: “The value NOAA and its programs, like OAR, provide to our communities cannot be overstated. OAR operates research laboratories across the country providing the foundation for understanding and predicting changes in Earth’s atmosphere, oceans, and inland waters. This work improves weather and climate forecasts, provides early warnings for natural disasters, and enhances our understanding of Earth’s systems. The work our scientists and civil servants do at NOAA is essential to U.S. national security and economic prosperity, as well as the personal safety and daily lives of Americans. Any attempt to gut these essential programs would have devastating effects on Americans.” 

     

    Read their full letter HERE and below: 

    July 8, 2025

    The Honorable Howard Lutnick 

    Secretary

    U.S. Department of Commerce 

    1401 Constitution Ave. NW 

    Washington, DC 20230

     

    The Honorable Laura Grimm

    Acting Administrator

    National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    1401 Constitution Avenue NW Washington, DC 20230
     

    Dear Secretary Lutnick and Acting Administrator Grimm,

    We write to implore you to reject the proposed funding cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) as laid out in the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Fiscal Year 2026 budget request. NOAA’s programs provide essential services to all Americans, and gutting its programs and research would be gravely irresponsible.

    In NOAA’s FY26 Congressional Justification document, the agency lays out plans to effectively eliminate NOAA’s Operations, Research, and Facilities for FY26. This includes a decrease in 216 employees and complete termination of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR) Climate Laboratories and Cooperative Institutes. 

    This document also proposes closing down several NOAA facilities across the United States that are in our respective districts. This includes the Atlantic Oceanographic & Meteorological Laboratory (AOML) in Miami, FL; the Air Resources Laboratory (ARL) in College Park, MD, Idaho Falls, ID, and Oak Ridge, TN, Physical Sciences Laboratory (PSL) in Boulder, CO; the Chemical Sciences Laboratory (CSL) in Boulder, CO; the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory (GFDL) in Princeton, NJ; , as well as a nation-wide network of soil moisture sensors; the Global Monitoring Laboratory (GML) in Boulder, CO, Utqiaġvik, AK; Mauna Loa, HI; Hilo, HI; Big Island, HI; American Samoa, and the South Pole; and the Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory (PMEL) in Seattle. Shutting down these facilities would be devastating for our communities.

    These cuts would also affect Cooperative Institutes (CIs), which are academic and non-profit research institutions that support NOAA’s goals, containing 80 universities and institutions across 33 states. CIs are home to experienced researchers and long-standing data collection programs with major impacts on human societies. If these sweeping cuts are made, the damage will be irreversible. Even short-term interruptions in their research could threaten the safety and economies of the communities that CIs serve across the nation.

    These cuts would primarily leave tornado and weather research and ocean observation to be reprogrammed to other offices, effectively moving weather research and development under the National Weather Service, while getting rid of most of the people and infrastructure that do this critical work. You cannot simply shuffle a handful of programs across NOAA offices while terminating an entire line office responsible for providing the research base for the agency and expect continued success; to maintain American excellence in this work requires continuity of OAR’s core functions as well as its skilled workforce, including at the labs and CIs.

    The value NOAA and its programs, like OAR, provide to our communities cannot be overstated. OAR operates research laboratories across the country providing the foundation for understanding and predicting changes in Earth’s atmosphere, oceans, and inland waters. This work improves weather and climate forecasts, provides early warnings for natural disasters, and enhances our understanding of Earth’s systems. The work our scientists and civil servants do at NOAA is essential to U.S. national security and economic prosperity, as well as the personal safety and daily lives of Americans. Any attempt to gut these essential programs would have devastating effects on Americans. As such, we urge you to reject these proposed funding cuts and facility closures at NOAA.

    Sincerely,

     

    Read their full letter HERE and below: 

    July 8, 2025

     

    The Honorable Hal Rogers 

    Chairman

    Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies

    Committee on Appropriations

    H-310 The Capitol Washington, DC 20515

     

    The Honorable Grace Meng

    Ranking Member

    Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science,

    and Related Agencies

    Committee on Appropriations

    H-310 The Capitol, Washington, DC 20515

     

    Dear Chairman Rogers and Ranking Member Meng,

    As you continue crafting the Fiscal Year 2026 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies appropriations bill, we write to implore you to reject the proposed funding cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) as laid out in the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Fiscal Year 2026 budget request. NOAA’s programs provide essential services to all Americans, and gutting its programs and research would be gravely irresponsible.

    In NOAA’s FY26 Congressional Justification document, the agency lays out plans to effectively eliminate NOAA’s Operations, Research, and Facilities for FY26. This includes a decrease in 216 employees and complete termination of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR) Climate Laboratories and Cooperative Institutes. 

    This document also proposes closing down several NOAA facilities across the United States that are in our respective districts. This includes the Physical Sciences Laboratory (PSL) in Boulder, CO; the Chemical Sciences Laboratory (CSL) in Boulder, CO; the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory (GFDL) in Princeton, NJ; Atlantic Oceanographic & Meteorological Laboratory (AOML) in Miami, FL; the Air Resources Laboratory (ARL) in College Park, MD, Idaho Falls, ID, and Oak Ridge, TN, as well as a nation-wide network of soil moisture sensors; the Global Monitoring Laboratory (GML) in Boulder, CO, Utqiaġvik, AK; Mauna Loa, HI; Hilo, HI; Big Island, HI; American Samoa, and the South Pole; and the Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory (PMEL) in Seattle. Shutting down these facilities would be devastating for our communities.

    These cuts would also affect Cooperative Institutes (CIs), which are academic and non-profit research institutions that support NOAA’s goals, containing 80 universities and institutions across 33 states. CIs are home to experienced researchers and long-standing data collection programs with major impacts on human societies. If these sweeping cuts are made, the damage will be irreversible. Even short-term interruptions in their research could threaten the safety and economies of the communities that CIs serve across the nation.

    These cuts would primarily leave tornado and weather research and ocean observation to be reprogrammed to other offices, effectively moving weather research and development under the National Weather Service, while getting rid of most of the people and infrastructure that do this critical work. You cannot simply shuffle a handful of programs across NOAA offices while terminating an entire line office responsible for providing the research base for the agency and expect continued success; to maintain American excellence in this work requires continuity of OAR’s core functions as well as its skilled workforce, including at the labs and CIs.

    The value NOAA and its programs, like OAR, provide to our communities cannot be overstated. OAR operates research laboratories across the country providing the foundation for understanding and predicting changes in Earth’s atmosphere, oceans, and inland waters. This work improves weather and climate forecasts, provides early warnings for natural disasters, and enhances our understanding of Earth’s systems. The work our scientists and civil servants do at NOAA is essential to U.S. national security and economic prosperity, as well as the personal safety and daily lives of Americans. Any attempt to gut these essential programs would have devastating effects on Americans. As such, we urge you to reject these proposed funding cuts and facility closures at NOAA, and to instead fully fund NOAA in the FY26 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies appropriations bill.

    Sincerely,

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Representatives Neguse and Crank Lead Bipartisan Effort to Bolster Colorado’s Aerial Firefighting Capabilities

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joe Neguse (D-Co 2)

     

    In a letter to Dr. Troy E. Meink, Secretary of the Air Force, the lawmakers requested upgrades to the aircraft currently stationed at the 302nd Airlift Wing. 

    Lafayette, CO — As Colorado braces for peak wildfire season, Congressmen Joe Neguse (CO-02) and Jeff Crank (CO-05) teamed up in a bipartisan effort to strengthen the state’s aerial firefighting capabilities. More specifically, the lawmakers penned a letter to the Secretary of the Air Force requesting eight upgraded C-130J aircrafts for the 302nd Airlift Wing (AW) at Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado Springs. 

    C-130Js are fitted with a firefighting unit that can assist in the rapid deployment of thousands of gallons of water or fire retardant. This makes them uniquely capable of suppressing flames and curbing the spread of wildfires over large ranges. 

    “Colorado, and states across the West, have experienced devastating wildfires in recent years and continue to face increased drought conditions and wildfire risk. It is in our nation’s best interest to ensure our communities are well-equipped to respond when disaster strikes. Without adequate tools, including the C-130Js, our country is at a disadvantage to manage these wildfires–threatening the safety of our communities. It is with that in mind that we urge the Department of Air Force to upgrade the 302nd AW with eight C-130Js,” wrote Representatives Neguse and Crank 

    Read their full letter HERE and below. 

    Congressman Neguse, founder and Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Wildfire Caucus, has prioritized efforts to coordinate better wildfire preparedness, response, and recovery nationwide. Recently, he teamed up with a coalition of Western lawmakers to introduce a number of policy proposals that would implement a holistic approach to combating the wildfire crisis.

    July 1, 2025

    The Honorable Troy E. Meink

    Secretary of the Air Force

    Department of the Air Force

    1670 Air Force Pentagon

    Washington, D.C. 20330-1670

    Dear Secretary Meink:

    We write to request your consideration and assistance with upgrading and designating eight C-130Js to the Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC) 302nd Airlift Wing (AW) at Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The 302nd AW has been among the only aerial firefighting AFRC Wings since 1993, including one of the four wings using the U.S. Forest Service Modular Airborne Firefighting Systems, and is responsible for operating an aeromedical evacuation mission. It is imperative that the U.S. Air Force equip the 302nd AW with eight upgraded C-130Js in order to carry out their tactical airlift and airdrop mission and aerial firefighting mission.

    The 302nd AW is on track to be the only remaining Department of Defense aerial firefighting wing still equipped with older C-130Hs. As wildfires continue to impact communities across the nation, maintaining an upgraded air fleet for the 302nd AW is imperative. Full capabilities for the AW and the 1,400 Reserve Citizen Airmen serving at Peterson Space Force Base are among our biggest assets to aerial firefighting and national security.

    Colorado, and states across the West, have experienced devastating wildfires in recent years and continue to face increased drought conditions and wildfire risk. It is in our nation’s best interest to ensure our communities are well-equipped to respond when disaster strikes. Without adequate tools, including the C-130Js, our country is at a disadvantage to manage these wildfires–threatening the safety of our communities. It is with that in mind that we urge the Department of Air Force to upgrade the 302nd AW with eight C-130Js.

    We appreciate your prompt attention to this matter, and we look forward to continuing to work together to maintain the necessary infrastructure and capabilities to respond adequately to the nation’s security needs, including wildfires.

    Sincerely,

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Crow Statement on Senate Passage of Budget Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06)

    WASHINGTON — Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06) issued the following statement after Senate Republicans passed President Trump’s budget bill. The bill now heads to the U.S. House of Representatives:

    In a statement, Congressman Crow said:

    “In all my time in Congress, this is one of the worst bills I’ve ever seen. 

    “The bill is a massive wealth transfer from the working class to the rich. It would kick millions off their health care, take away food assistance for millions, and add trillions to the national deficit.

    “I cannot support this Republican bill that takes health care and food assistance from working people to give tax cuts to the wealthiest Americans. This bill is bad for Colorado and America.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Crow Honors WWII Army Rangers Awarding them the Congressional Gold Medal at Ceremony

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06)

    WASHINGTON — On Thursday, June 26, Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO-06), a former Army Ranger and a member of the House Armed Services Committee, honored World War II Army Rangers with the Congressional Gold Medal—the highest civilian award bestowed by Congress.

    Congressman Crow authored and passed bipartisan legislation, the United States Army Rangers Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act, to bestow this award on our nation’s heroes. Congressman Crow’s legislation was signed into law in 2022. Two WWII Rangers attended the ceremony to receive the award in-person.

    “These Rangers represent the best of us. During World War II, the Army formed six all-volunteer Ranger Battalions and one provisional battalion. Some of the most important battles of the war relied on their skill, sacrifice, and unending courage. They fought throughout Europe, including D-Day landings at Omaha Beach, and liberated 500 prisoners from a Japanese POW camp in the Philippines. It’s a great honor to award the Congressional Gold to those who confronted fascism face-to-face and won,” said Congressman Crow.

    The Rangers attending the ceremony were Sergeant. Joseph J. Drake and Private First Class. John Wardell. Other notable speakers in attendance were Speaker Mike Johnson, Secretary Pete Hegseth, Secretary Douglas Collins, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer, Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Senator Joni Ernst, Senator Tammy Duckworth, Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks, and General John D. Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

    Crow introduced the House version of the bill, the United States Army Rangers Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act, on a bipartisan basis with 319 co-sponsors. The Senate version of the bill was introduced by Senator Joni Ernst. Congressman Crow’s bill was endorsed by organizations including: Veterans of Foreign Wars, Descendants of World War II Rangers, U.S. Army Ranger Association, Association of the United States Army, Arnold Community Council, 75th Ranger Regiment Association, The National Ranger Association, The Darby Project, and Valor Studios.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Crow Statement on U.S., Iran Military Strikes

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06)

    WASHINGTON — Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO-06) issued the following statement after President Trump bombed Iran’s nuclear facilities and Iran launched retaliatory strikes against a U.S. military base in Qatar:

    In a statement, Congressman Crow said:

    “I strongly condemn Iran’s attack against American servicemembers in the Middle East. The Iranian government sponsors terrorism, seeks to harm Americans, and works to undermine U.S. interests. Thankfully, Iran’s missiles were intercepted and no American servicemembers were injured in this attack. 

    “This attack on American troops is the direct consequence of President Trump’s decision to attack Iran’s nuclear facilities. The President exceeded his authority when he conducted military strikes on Iran without congressional approval. The Constitution is clear–only Congress can authorize the use of military force unless there is an imminent risk to Americans or U.S. facilities. As a member of the Intelligence Committee, I have not seen any evidence that Iran posed an imminent risk to Americans or U.S. facilities.

    “Before coming to Congress, I served as an Army Ranger and paratrooper. I did three combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. I was a part of the decades-long wars in the Middle East that claimed thousands of American lives, cost trillions of dollars, and diminished U.S. credibility around the world. America cannot repeat our past mistakes. When elites in Washington make decisions, it’s young men and women from where I grew up who get sent to fight. The last thing I want to see is another generation of Americans pulled into another Middle East conflict.

    “The American people deserve an open and honest debate about the path forward. Congress must reclaim its power over the decision to send young men and women into conflict.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Crow Statement on Final Passage of Trump’s Budget Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06)

    WASHINGTON — Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06) issued the following statement after House Republicans passed President Trump’s budget bill. The bill now heads to the President’s desk:

    In a statement, Congressman Crow said:

    “In all my time in Congress, President Trump’s budget bill is the worst I’ve ever seen. It shamefully is one of the largest transfers of wealth from the working class to the rich in history. 

    “With his signature, President Trump will kick millions of Americans off of their health care and take away food assistance from the working class. Republicans are taking from working people in order to give massive tax breaks to the rich. Their bill is also fiscally reckless and irresponsible, adding trillions to the national debt.

    “Republicans pretend they’re for the working class, but with one bill, Donald Trump and Republicans just made life more difficult for many hardworking Americans who were already struggling to get by—all to give their billionaire friends a tax cut. 

    “It’s an awful bill that will hurt Colorado and our country. I voted NO.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Crow Leads Bipartisan Bill to Help Servicemembers Suffering from Traumatic Brain Injury

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06)

    WASHINGTON – Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO-06), a former Army Ranger, has introduced the Support Modern Approaches in Recovery Technology for Traumatic Brain Injury (SMART for TBI) Act, bipartisan legislation that would improve care for active-duty servicemembers suffering from traumatic brain injury (TBI) by identifying ways that digital technology can be used to better deliver care.

    Due to the rigors of military training and combat, servicemembers are particularly vulnerable to traumatic brain injury. TBI affects brain function, and if left untreated, people have a higher risk of experiencing mental health or substance use problems, as well as an increased risk of suicide. Between 2000 and 2019, more than 400,000 American servicemembers were diagnosed with at least one TBI – and more than 185,000 veterans have been diagnosed with TBI through the VA system. 

    Congressman Crow’s Support Modern Approaches in Recovery Technology for Traumatic Brain Injury (SMART for TBI) Act would require the establishment of a working group to identify ways digital technology can treat our active-duty servicemembers with TBI. Congressman Jeff Crank (R-CO-05) joined Congressman Crow in introducing this bipartisan legislation.

    “As a veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan, caring for our servicemembers is personal to me,” said Congressman Crow. “That’s why I’m introducing a bipartisan bill to identify new ways to treat traumatic brain injury & deliver world-class care for our servicemembers.”

    “I am proud to cosponsor the SMART for TBI. We owe it to our service men and women, along with our veterans, to advance Traumatic Brain Injury treatments. Using Artificial Intelligence and digital health technologies, we can improve outcomes for servicemembers and veterans in training and operational environments,” said Congressman Jeff Crank.

    “Conducting innovative medical research into traumatic brain injuries is crucial for active duty warfighters, veterans, and first responder communities,” noted Vik Bebarta, MD, interim chair of Emergency Medicine and the director of the Center for Combat and Battlefield Research at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus.  “We are grateful for Congressman Crow and Congressman Crank’s leadership by introducing SMART TBI Act,  ensuring Colorado remains the leader in digital health innovation and TBI treatment.”

    As an Iraq and Afghanistan veteran, ensuring America’s military servicemembers and their families get the appropriate care and resources is a top priority for Congressman Crow. In the 118th Congress, he introduced the Veteran’s Sentinel Act, bipartisan legislation to respond to suicide by US veterans at Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) facilities by improving the accuracy of data collection and enhancing congressional oversight. Previously, he introduced the Justice Involved Veterans Support Act and supported the PACT Act, which expands health care to millions of servicemembers exposed to toxic chemicals.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pappas Leads Amendments to Protect Granite Staters’ Access to Health Care and Food Assistance

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

    Pappas’s amendments would strike provisions that will imperil Granite Staters’ access to Medicaid and food assistance, as well as pass increased costs onto the state if the bill passes.

    Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) filed two amendments to the Senate-passed Republican reconciliation bill to protect Granite Staters’ access to Medicaid and food assistance and prevent Congress from passing the burden of cuts to these programs onto the state.

    “This bill is a betrayal of working families, and it is also a betrayal of states like New Hampshire that will be forced to shoulder the burden of increased costs being passed on to them by Congress – all in the name of another tax break for the wealthiest Americans and the biggest corporations,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “Just yesterday I met with providers who shared how these Medicaid provisions in particular will rip health care coverage away from more Granite Staters, strain resources at our clinics and hospitals, and destabilize our state’s health care system. Families struggling to make ends meet deserve better than to have their access to care and healthy nutrition ripped away. While I continue fighting to stop this bill, these amendments would protect access to health care and food assistance for families nationwide, and I urge my colleagues on the Rules Committee to support them.”

    Pappas’s first amendment would strike new limitations that will severely restrict the amount of funding states can direct toward Medicaid, which creates significant budget gaps for Medicaid and kicks people off their health insurance. This amendment would help providers keep their doors open and protect Granite Staters’ access to care.

    Pappas’s second amendment would strike from the bill provisions that create cost-sharing requirements for states for SNAP, requiring states to cover a portion of SNAP benefits and potentially cut benefits. This amendment would protect Granite Staters’ access to school meals and food assistance and prevent increased costs from being passed on to the state by Congress.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pappas, Goodlander Raise Alarm Over President Trump’s Proposed Cuts to Critical Drug Interdiction Efforts

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

    The Trump Administration’s proposed budget for FY2026 would cut HIDTA funding by $102 million, a cut greater than one-third of the program’s entire budget from FY2025.

    Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) led a group of eight of his colleagues, including Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), in calling on House leadership to fully fund the High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program following the news that the Trump Administration’s proposed budget for FY2026 would cut HIDTA funding by $102 million, a cut greater than one-third of the program’s entire budget from FY2025.

    There are 33 HIDTAs throughout the country, serving all 50 states. The program provides essential coordination assistance to federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies in critical drug-trafficking regions to reduce drug trafficking. Hillsborough and Rockingham counties in New Hampshire are both part of the New England HIDTA (NEHIDTA).

    In the letter, the members wrote, “These partnerships represent the best of interagency coordination to respond to the most serious drug threats to the region… without full funding, HIDTAs will be unable to complete their mission.”

    In 2024 the HIDTA program seized 4.1 million pounds of fentanyl and other drugs and disrupted or dismantled 3,209 drug trafficking or money laundering organizations, stopping traffickers from making an estimated $17.7 billion in illicit profits. For every dollar invested in the HIDTA program, taxpayers receive a $68.07 return on investment, showing that HIDTA is not only a critically important component of America’s drug interdiction efforts but also an effective and efficient use of funding.

    They also highlighted the concerns of local communities and law enforcement, writing, “Local partners have also raised their concerns. The Administration’s request to cut HIDTA funding by $102 million dollars has also received 67 letters of opposition and counting from police departments, sheriffs’ associations, police chiefs’ associations, associations of narcotics enforcers, and non-profits. We urge you to heed our collective call and ensure that HIDTAs receive the full funding and structural support needed to protect our communities.”

    Read the full letter here

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pappas, Shaheen, Hassan Deliver Remarks and Congratulate New Citizens at U.S. Naturalization Ceremony

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

    Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01)Senator Jeanne Shaheen (NH), and Senator Maggie Hassan (NH) attended and delivered remarks congratulating new citizens from over 40 different countries at a U.S. Naturalization ceremony at the Strawbery Banke Museum. Photos from today’s event can be found here.

    “At today’s naturalization ceremony we welcomed our newest American citizens and reflected on the profound impact that immigrants have on New Hampshire and in our country. Immigrants come to work hard and seek freedom, opportunity, and security, and immigration renews the spirit of our nation,” said Congressman Pappas. “I was honored to join these patriotic Americans and congratulate them on taking the oath of citizenship.”

    “At every point in our history, America has been shaped by immigrants from every corner of the world and every sector of society,” said Senator Shaheen. “I was honored to be a part of today’s naturalization ceremony in Portsmouth, and I congratulate each and every new citizen on this momentous event in their lives.”

    “It was a privilege to join today’s naturalization ceremony at Strawbery Banke and to welcome and celebrate America’s newest citizens,” said Senator Hassan. “Ceremonies like the one held today are an opportunity for American citizens, new and old, to recommit ourselves to supporting and defending the ideals of freedom, self-government, and the rule of law as embodied by our Constitution.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pappas Continues to Stand Against Largest Health Care Cut in American History

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

    Legislation takes health care away from 17 million Americans, cuts off food assistance for millions of families, triggers nearly $500 billion in cuts to Medicare, and adds at least $3.5 trillion to the debt.

    Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released the following statement before once again voting against Republicans’ reconciliation bill:

    “I am appalled that despite the immense outcry from our constituents, Republicans are choosing to move forward with this betrayal of American families. One senior in Manchester, Dan, wrote to my office to share how SNAP ensures he can put food on the table for his family, as his fixed income cannot keep up with the cost of his rent. This legislation wouldn’t only put food assistance for his family at risk; it would put Medicare coverage for seniors like him at risk because of how drastically this scheme raises our national debt.”

    “People’s health, their dignity, and their independence and ability to make ends meet are on the line. Sending this bill to the President’s desk would leave millions of Americans without access to affordable health care and unable to put food on the table, all for the sake of tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans. I remain a no on this bill and urge my Republican colleagues to listen to the voices of their constituents and join me in voting down this cruel scheme.”

    The latest available figures indicate this legislation would:

    • Leave 17 million Americans uninsured, including at least 46,388 Granite StatersThe bill cuts more than $1 trillion from Medicaid, Medicare, and the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Combined with the expiring tax credits and the Trump Administration’s sabotage of ACA Marketplaces, the bill leaves a whopping 17 million more Americans uninsured.
    • Trigger $500 billion in cuts to Medicare.Because the bill adds trillions of dollars to the deficit, it triggers a process known as Medicare sequestration, which requires hundreds of billions in automatic payment cuts to Medicare providers and threatens patient access to care.
    • Increase monthly out-of-pocket costs for families and leave more Americans with overwhelming medical debt. The bill increases co-pays for people on Medicaid who make as little as $1,300 a month, forcing them to choose between health care and other basic needs, and cuts retroactive Medicaid coverage, leaving low-income Americans with overwhelming medical debt in times of crisis and hospitals and nursing homes with more uncompensated care. The bill also fails to extend ACA enhanced premium tax credits, which expire at the end of 2025, spiking health insurance premiums for millions of families. 
    • Defund Planned Parenthood, leaving more than 1.1 million women without access to needed care like cancer screenings and birth control. The bill bans Planned Parenthood health centers nationwide from participating in the Medicaid program, which helps people with lower incomes obtain basic reproductive health care such as birth control, cancer screenings, and STI testing and treatment. Without this coverage, patients will lose access to essential care.
    • Kick millions of Americans off SNAP, leaving them unable to put food on the table. Nearly 77,000 Granite Staters enrolled in SNAP would have their benefits put at risk of being cut.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: After Passage of Republicans’ Megabill, NH Delegation Highlights Disastrous Impacts for Granite Staters

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

    Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), alongside Senator Jeanne Shaheen (NH), Senator Maggie Hassan (NH), and Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), held a press conference at Waypoint to highlight the harmful impacts of Republicans’ disastrous budget megabill on New Hampshire. Photos from today’s event can be found here.

    The bill will take health care and food assistance away from millions while also ending tax credits that help folks save on their utility bills, all to give tax breaks to billionaires and corporations. More than 46,000 Granite Staters will lose their health care coverage through Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act and thousands are at risk of losing food assistance. It will also raise household energy and health care bills for everyone while adding trillions to the debt, in order to give the top .1% of people an extra $300,000 a year on average.

    “President Trump and Republicans’ so-called ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’ is a betrayal of working families. Hurriedly forced through Congress in the dead of night, this bill rips health care coverage away from millions of Americans, kills programs that are lowering energy costs, and leaves families unable to put food on their table for their children, all to give tax cuts to the ultra-wealthy,” said Congressman Pappas. “This administration and Republicans in Congress have ignored the needs of working families by enacting this cruel bill and starting a trade war that will increase costs. I will continue to stand with New Hampshire families and fight to protect access to health care, defend food assistance, and lower costs.” 

    “At a time when Americans are feeling squeezed by the cost of living thanks to President Trump’s chaotic trade war, we should be doing everything we can to make life more affordable for families,” said Senator Shaheen. “Instead, Republicans passed a ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ that is going to take health care and food assistance away from Granite Staters to give trillions of dollars to corporations and the wealthiest, exploding the deficit in the process. There’s nothing beautiful about making life more expensive for families in order to give more money to billionaires. That’s why we’re going to continue to remind our Republican colleagues every day what their votes mean for the middle class.”

    “Despite bipartisan opposition, Republicans in Congress pushed through an unpopular budget bill that will have devastating impacts on New Hampshire,” said Senator Hassan. “I appreciated hearing directly from leaders at Waypoint about how this bill will affect the ability of Granite Staters to access health care and the ability of providers to deliver care. I know that I, along with Senator Shaheen and Representatives Pappas and Goodlander, will continue to push back against this devastating bill and I encourage Granite Staters to continue to speak out as well about the ways in which this bill harms their communities.”

    “Hardworking families across New Hampshire will pay the price and bear the burdens of the GOP’s big and truly brutal budget bill. The bill adds trillions of dollars to America’s already sky-high debt and rips healthcare away from millions of Americans by making the biggest cuts to healthcare in American history. It kills good-paying jobs and will jack up healthcare costs, energy costs, education costs, and more,” said Congresswoman Goodlander. “At a moment when the cost crisis is standing between hardworking Americans and the American dream, I was a hard no on this bill. I’ll never stop working to prevent its worst provisions from going into effect.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Panetta Secures New Federal Funding for Monterey Regional Airport Modernization

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

    Monterey, CA – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) announced a new $5,353,204 federal grant for the Monterey Regional Airport to continue construction on its new state-of-the-art terminal.  The funding, made possible through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, will support Phase 5 of the terminal replacement project, including the relocation of utilities and the construction of a new public parking lot.

    This latest federal investment builds on Rep. Panetta’s long-term commitment to delivering modern, safe, and sustainable infrastructure to California’s 19th Congressional District, even as federal programs come under increasing threat of cuts or elimination from the Trump Administration.

    “Despite this Administration slashing federal funding for local infrastructure programs, I was able to work and obtain this federal investment for our community,” said Rep. Panetta.  “This new federal funding for Monterey Regional Airport will help it modernize with safer, more efficient, and more sustainable facilities.  I’ll continue my fight to deliver results that improve our economy and enhance the daily lives of those who call California’s 19th Congressional District home.”

    “This funding is a critical component for the circulation in and out of the replacement terminal to ensure the passenger journey remains easy and convenient for both residents and visitors,” said Monterey Regional Airport Interim Executive Director Chris Morello.  “We’d like to thank Representative Panetta for his assistance, means a great deal to the airport to have such strong support in the District and in Washington.”

    This announcement follows Rep. Panetta’s previous efforts to secure over $64 million in federal funding for the Monterey Regional Airport’s modernization, supporting terminal design, tarmac improvements, and other safety upgrades.  Earlier this month, the airport broke ground on the new 62,754 square-foot terminal, set to open in 2027, marking a major milestone in the project’s progression.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: California Members of Congress Urge House Appropriators to Reject Funding Cuts for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

    “We urge you to return to topline and project-specific funding levels that can achieve the strong, bipartisan support that USACE funding has historically had.”

    WASHINGTON, DC – A dozen Members of the California Congressional Delegation, including United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) sent a letter to House Appropriations Committee calling for the Committee to reject the Trump Administration’s drastic cuts to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). The President’s budget request for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) included only $1.56 billion for USACE construction – 53% below the fiscal year 2024 enacted funding level – and excluded vital flood prevention projects in California. This funding request is seriously insufficient to meet the flood risk management, navigation, ecosystem restoration, and other needs of communities across the country. 

    Specifically excluded from the Budget request were four California projects which have previously received strong, unambiguous Congressional support. The four projects are: the American River Common Features, Natomas Basin, CA project; the Pajaro River at Watsonville, CA project; the San Joaquin River Basin project; and the West Sacramento, CA project. The FY25 President’s Budget and both the House and Senate draft FY25 appropriations bills all included a total of $126.4 million in construction funding for four projects before the Trump Administration prevented them from receiving any FY25 funding.

    “Each of these projects has already received substantial federal funding to date. Leaving the projects half-finished would not be an efficient use of federal or non-federal resources…These projects are vital to the safety and prosperity of our constituents,” said the Congressmembers.

    Full text of the letter can be found here. Joining Rep. Lofgren in sending the letter were Reps. Josh Harder (CA-09), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Mike Thompson (CA-04), Ami Bera (CA-06), Doris Matsui (CA-07), Derek Tran (CA-45), Mike Levin (CA-49), Nanette Barragan (CA-44), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Ro Khanna (CA-17), and Jared Huffman (CA-02).

    “The Administration’s decision to omit the Pajaro River Flood Risk Management Project from the Army Corps’ work plan not only ignores the bipartisan support behind this project, but also puts lives, homes, and livelihoods in the Pajaro Valley at continued risk,” said Rep. Panetta. “That’s why our delegation is urging Congressional appropriators to reject these devastating cuts and fund the critical, shovel-ready flood protection projects that have already been vetted, authorized, and previously funded. As we’ve done before, we will keep fighting to protect the people and produce of the Pajaro Valley and ensure the federal government lives up to its commitment to our community.”

    “Californians are all too familiar with the devastating consequences of poor flood risk management. In California’s 18th District, the community of Pajaro has suffered significant damage and loss of life due to flooding for decades. The Pajaro River Project is vital for the area’s safety and livelihood, and I will continue to fight to ensure it receives funding until its completion,” said Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren, Chair of the California Democratic Congressional Delegation.

    “Yanking flood protection funding at the last-minute makes no sense and puts our Valley communities at risk,” said Rep. Harder. “We face flood threats every year because of aging infrastructure and we worked across the aisle to finally get the flood protection we need. Now, Washington is trying to steal back funding for our levees, and I refuse to let them get away with it.” 

    “It’s outrageous that the President is suggesting reducing Army Corps construction funding by 53 percent. The projects he proposes defunding include essential plans in California to repair and reconstruct levees and build and strengthen flood protection infrastructure. These projects have bipartisan support because our community knows too well the devastation from floods and other natural disasters. I urge our leaders on the Appropriations Committee to ensure that California’s Army Corps projects are fully funded in 2026,” said Congressman Mike Thompson

    “Sacramento County is one of the most at-risk areas in the nation for catastrophic flooding. In recent decades, we’ve seen firsthand how high-water events threaten our neighborhoods, small businesses, and critical infrastructure. The American River Common Features project in the Natomas Basin plays a vital role in strengthening levees to modern standards and ensuring that our region is better prepared for the future. Leaving this project unfunded not only puts Sacramento families in harm’s way—it risks wasting the significant progress and investments already made. We must keep our commitment to public safety by continuing to partner with the Army Corps of Engineers and fully funding these vital projects,” said Congressman Ami Bera

    “When it comes to the safety of our communities, politics needs to be put aside to build life-saving infrastructure improvements. That is how it has always been – and that is how it should stay,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “In Sacramento, we’ve long worked with the Army Corps—regardless of who is in the White House—to reduce flood risk and save lives. These partnerships have transformed our region’s outlook on disaster preparedness. That’s why I’ll keep fighting to restore funding for the Natomas Basin and West Sacramento projects that are critical to the future of the region.”  

    “The Trump Administration’s proposed cuts to the USACE will devastate communities across Orange and LA Counties that are still recovering from disastrous fires,” said Representative Tran. “Infrastructure capable of withstanding increased rainfall and flooding throughout California is essential to keeping our communities safe. I urge my colleagues to reject these drastic cuts and protect our neighbors from the impacts of serious flooding.” 

    “The President’s attempt to cut funding for critical infrastructure projects in California threatens our work to reduce flood risk, restore ecosystems, and support public safety on life support,” said Rep. Mike Levin. “Since entering Congress in 2019, I’ve fought to provide the Army Corps with the resources it needs to ensure our communities are safe and resilient, including funding to combat coastal erosion. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to fight for necessary resources for California and push back against any attempts to play politics with vital infrastructure investments.” 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Lofgren and Barragán Lead Democrats’ Response to Rep. Kim’s Distorted, Partisan Resolution Regarding Trump’s Authoritarian Response to the LA Protests

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Zoe Lofgren (D-San Jose)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Representatives Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Chair of the California Democratic Congressional Delegation, and Nanette Barragán (CA-44) led Democrats in introducing a resolution to condemn Donald Trump’s deployment of the National Guard and Marines during the LA protests, while reaffirming support for state and local law enforcement and the people’s First Amendment right to peacefully protest. This resolution provides a fact-based response to Representative Young Kim’s distorted, partisan, and misleading resolution that House Republican leadership will have the House vote on later this week. 

    Rather than working on a bipartisan basis to condemn violence, defend the peaceful expression of First Amendment rights, and thank members of law enforcement, Rep. Kim’s resolution instead falsely claims that violence was widespread across LA and that California’s leadership has “prioritized protecting illegal immigrants and violent individuals over United States citizens” among other highly partisan claims. 

    In contrast, the Barragán-Lofgren resolution accurately notes that violence in LA was limited and under control by local and state law enforcement. When communities exercised their First Amendment right to assemble and protest U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids, President Trump wrongfully deployed the National Guard and active-duty members of the U.S. Marine Corps in violation of the Posse Comitatus Act and without the consent of California Governor Gavin Newsom or local officials. Democrats’ resolution commends the state and local law enforcement officers who have worked to protect public safety and maintain peace, supports Americans’ right to protest peacefully, condemns acts of violence, and supports the military servicemembers in the Marines and National Guard while objecting to their current deployment to Los Angeles County. 

    “Rep. Kim’s resolution regarding the L.A. protests is not just misguided, inaccurate, and disingenuous: it’s dangerous,” said Rep. Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Chair of the California Democratic Congressional Delegation. “President Trump’s deployment of Marines and the National Guard in response to largely peaceful protests was unprecedented and wrong. Trump’s refusal to coordinate with state and local officials in deploying active-duty troops also put both protestors and state and local law enforcement officers at risk. House Republicans should be conducting vigorous oversight of the shocking deployment of servicemembers – a blatant attempt to take over states’ law enforcement responsibility – not reflexively jumping to providing justification for Trump to send troops into other communities or defending his dangerous attempt to squash constitutionally-protected dissent.”

    “Our communities have been terrorized by Donald Trump and Stephen Miller’s indiscriminate mass deportation ICE operations — in response, people spoke up and protested to express their fear, anger, and anxiety,” said Rep. Nanette Barragán. “State and local law enforcement had the situation under control and the Trump Administration intentionally escalated the situation when they deployed troops into Los Angeles. Our resolution makes clear that we will not stand by while the federal government tries to intimidate Californians into silence through a show of military force. We must protect the right to protest, condemn violence, and reject authoritarian tactics that have no place in America.”

    “Communities throughout California have been upended by ICE raids where masked ICE agents are using excessive force to go after people without probable cause. People want safer communities, not to see elementary school students and sick people at hospitals deported without due process. Instead of deescalating violence, Trump has fomented it. By deploying Marines and the National Guard against protestors in LA, Trump exacerbated a situation that local officials had under control. The resolution introduced by Rep. Kim does not accurately state the facts of the situation and instead falsely lays blame on Californians for Trump’s escalatory actions. By introducing a resolution with the correct facts, Democrats are standing up for Californians, including our law enforcement officials, who have been repeatedly demonized by partisan hacks looking to score cheap political points,” said Rep. Lieu. 

    “There was only one reason Trump deployed the National Guard and Marines in Los Angeles: to launch his pathetic, made-for-TV reality show to justify his authoritarian crackdowns and cruel ICE raids,” said Rep. Kamalger-Dove. “But Angelenos know our city is not on fire.  We see right through the reality TV president’s theatrics that are meant to distract from this Administration’s tanking of our economy, devastating cuts to Medicaid, and the brutality and inhumanity of its mass deportations. If you pan away from the set, you won’t see Trump’s toy soldiers or violence, but real people hurting from his policies. Let’s focus the camera back on that.”

    “The Trump Administration is using our military service members as political pawns to create a false narrative of uncontrolled violence, trample on legal precedent, and perpetuate fear and hate in our communities,” said Rep. Cisneros. “Last week, I led a letter with over 34 of my colleagues demanding that the President withdraw troops from L.A. and allow our local officials and law enforcement to do their jobs.  I’m proud to join California Democrats in demanding answers from the Administration.”

    “As a proud born-and-raised Angeleno, Los Angeles will always be home. The Republican resolution we are voting on this week is a distorted and inaccurate attack on Los Angeles and our great state,” said Congresswoman Luz Rivas. “I thank Representatives Barragan and Lofgren for leading our California colleagues in introducing this resolution that reaffirms our support for peaceful protest and condemns President Trump’s mobilization of the National Guard and Marines on American soil. The President’s unprovoked and politically-motivated escalation of our military sowed more chaos and harm across our communities. My California House Democratic Caucus colleagues will continue to support the Constitutional right to peacefully protest the Trump Administration’s heartless immigration agenda while also swiftly condemning any acts of violence. Our Republican colleagues – especially our California Republican colleagues – need to do the same.”

    “Trump’s deployment of Marines to Los Angeles was a dangerous overreach that bypassed both state and local authority. We all condemn violence. Californians have a right to protest peacefully — and the Governor’s office assured me that local law enforcement had the capacity to get the situation under control,” said Congresswoman Laura Friedman (CA-30). “The Republican resolution isn’t about safety — it’s political theater aimed at stripping Americans of their rights. Instead of targeting violent criminals, Trump is going after hardworking community members and using military force to intimidate dissent. Our resolution makes clear: we won’t let fear or federal overreach silence Californians exercising their constitutional rights.”

    “This week, Republicans are forcing a vote on a partisan resolution to legitimize Trump’s unacceptable attacks on our community in Los Angeles and to excuse his warrantless mass ICE raids, his takeover of our National Guard, and his deployment of U.S. Marines on the streets of Southern California. This is just wrong. I’m proud to instead join my California Democratic colleagues in introducing this resolution to stand up to Trump’s attacks on California, defend our constitutional rights to due process and free expression, and thank the state and local law enforcement officers who have worked to protect public safety and prosecute those committing acts of violence and vandalism,” said Rep. Chu.

    The resolution is cosponsored by: Reps. Aguilar, Bera, Brownley, Bynum, Carbajal, T. Carter, Chu, Cisneros, Correa, Costa, Dean, DelBene, DeSaulnier, Doggett, Espaillat, Friedman, Garamendi, R. Garcia, S. Garcia, J. Gomez, Gray, J. Hayes, Huffman, Ivey, Jacobs, Hank Johnson, Kamlager-Dove, T. Kennedy, Khanna, Landsman, Larsen, Latimer, Leger Fernandez, Levin, Liccardo, Lieu, Lofgren, Matsui, McCollum, Min, Morelle, Mullin, Panetta, Pelosi, Peters, Pettersen, Rivas, Ross, Ruiz, Salinas, L. Sanchez, Sherman, Simon, Swalwell, Takano, Thanedar, Thompson, N. Torres, Tran, Vargas, Waters, Whitesides. 

    The text of the resolution can be found HERE

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Khanna, Progressive Caucus Demand Congress Reclaim Its Power: Pass the Iran War Powers Resolution Now

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Rep Ro Khanna (CA-17)

    Washington, D.C. — On Wednesday, June 25th, Representative Ro Khanna and  members of the Congressional Progressive Caucus joined anti-war civil society leaders to call on Congress to pass Rep. Khanna’s bipartisan War Powers Resolution to prohibit United States Armed Forces from unauthorized hostilities in Iran.  

    There are currently 73 members signed onto the resolution. The text can be found here

    Following the press conference, Rep. Khanna delivered a floor speech calling for the U.S. to “invest in good jobs at home, not billions in more missiles that we cannot afford.”

    “Americans do not want another costly and disastrous war in the Middle East. They want peace abroad and good-paying jobs at home,” said Rep. Ro Khanna (CA-17). “I am standing with my Progressive Caucus colleagues today to say no to more endless wars and to urge Congress to pass my bipartisan War Powers Resolution to reassert that any military action against Iran must be authorized by Congress.”

    “Donald Trump cannot drag America into another endless foreign war. The House should vote this week on a War Powers Resolution,” said Progressive Caucus Chair Greg Casar (TX-35).

    “Donald Trump said he was going to be the president of peace that got America out of foreign wars. He then unconstitutionally struck Iran without Congressional approval, even though Iran posed no imminent threat to the United States,” said Chair Emerita Rep. Pramila Jayapal (WA-07). “This is not our war to fight. Congress must vote on our War Powers Resolution to preserve our authority and stop’s President Trump’s illegal acts.” 

    “Trump claims to be ‘pro-peace’, yet he’s dragging us into another destructive, unpopular, and expensive forever war without Congressional approval,” said Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04). “The War Powers Act exists exactly for situations like these—to prevent Presidents from pursuing reckless, ego-driven military actions. Only Congress can authorize war—and frankly, in this case, we shouldn’t.”

    “President Trump sending U.S. troops to bomb Iran without the consent of Congress is a blatant violation of our Constitution,” said Rep. Rashida Tlaib (MI-12). “The American people do not want another forever war. We have seen where decades of endless war in the Middle East gets us—all based on the lie of ‘weapons of mass destruction.’ We are not falling for it again.” 

    “The American people do not want to be dragged into yet another war. As Members of Congress, it’s our job to make their voices heard—and our constitutional obligation to debate and vote on going to war,” said Rep. Jim McGovern (MA-02). I pray that the ceasefire between Israel and Iran holds. U.S. military involvement should never have happened absent Congressional approval. That’s why I support the War Powers Resolution led by Representatives Massie and Khanna and why I encourage all of my colleagues in Congress to do the same.”

    “Time and again, Trump has exercised executive overreach—from mass firings to deporting citizens, and most recently, to dropping bombs on Iran without congressional authorization,” said Rep. Summer Lee (PA-12).“This resolution is about reining in a wannabe dictator who continues to bypass Congress and risk the lives of the American people who are tired of sending their babies and spouses abroad into endless war. I am proud to be a co-sponsor and oppose this descent into fascism.”  

    “If you want to send our children to war, you better come to Congress first,” said Rep. Val Hoyle (OR-04). “The Constitution is clear—that’s our call, not the President’s. I represent a working-class district, and no one back home is asking for another war. They’re asking for us to lower costs on rent, groceries, and healthcare—not to be used as cannon fodder in someone else’s fight. I will keep fighting for them.”

    “Four days later, we haven’t received a Congressional briefing scheduled on the president’s decision to unilaterally engage in an act of war. The facts about the impacts of the strike and Iran’s remaining nuclear capability are unclear. This is unacceptable,” said Rep. Debbie Dingell (MI-06). “Congress has a constitutional role in our national security and we need the facts. We all want stability in the Middle East. We must work toward peace, not get drawn into another extended war.”

    “It has only been a dozen years since nearly 100 Republican colleagues demanded that President Obama seek Congressional approval for his proposed attack against Syria,” said Rep. Lloyd Doggett (TX-37). “Today, it appears most have ignored their own warning about the constitutional duty to consult and receive approval from Congress before engaging in an act of war. With the evidence coming forth that Trump misled the world on his claims of a ‘spectacular success,’ all that’s been obliterated is the credibility of Republicans who are displaying contradictions as big as the President’s. Our democracy is endangered more and more by the contradictions of both Trump and his enablers.”

    “President Trump’s attack on Iran without authorization from Congress was illegal, threatens to destabilize the entire region, and makes Americans less safe. I stand with my CPC colleagues in supporting this resolution to reinforce the constitutionally-mandated separation of powers, and urging the President to return to a strategy of diplomacy that was successful under President Obama in preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon,” said Rep. Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10).

    “Regardless of our political party, we should all be clear that the power to declare war does not belong in the hands of the President. When unaccountable, extremist leaders seek to profit from endless wars and human suffering, we as Congressmembers have the obligation to affirm the Constitution and exert oversight,” said Congresswoman Delia Ramirez (IL-03). “It’s why I joined my colleagues to cosponsor the War Powers Resolution.”

    “President Trump’s unilateral and unauthorized decision to conduct military strikes against Iran shows how he continues to put his own ego above the safety of our country. The Constitution gives Congress the sole power to declare war. Trump’s reckless strike violates the clear intent of our Founders, that Congress, not a king-like executive, should decide when our nation goes to war. I’m proud to stand with my colleagues to reassert the constitutional power of Congress,” said Rep. John Garamendi (CA-08). 

    “Donald Trump created this mess when he walked away from the Iran deal, and now he’s trying to bomb his way out of it. It didn’t work – we know we don’t have inspectors that can access Iran’s nuclear sites or information about where crucial stockpiles are,” said Sara Haghdoosti, Executive Director of Win Without War. “We are so grateful to Ro Khanna and all the members who have supported his resolution to ensure that Donald Trump cannot take such reckless action that puts so many lives at risk again. We thank them for showing what it means to take a pledge to the Constitution of the United States and not to a wannabe king. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: RELEASE: REP. RO KHANNA CALLS FOR CONGRESS TO CONVENE AND HAVE A VOTE MONDAY ON THE BIPARITSAN WAR POWERS RESOLUTION

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Rep Ro Khanna (CA-17)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    June 21, 2025 

    Contact: 

       Sarah Drory (Khanna), (202) 746-8361

    Washington, DC – Representative Ro Khanna released the following statement after President Donald Trump announced U.S. strikes in Iran: 

    “Stopping Iran from having a nuclear bomb is a top priority, but dragging the U.S. into another Middle East war is not the solution. Trump’s strikes are unconstitutional and put Americans, especially our troops, at risk. Congress needs to come back to DC immediately to vote on Rep. Thomas Massie and my bipartisan War Powers Resolution to ensure there is no further conflict and escalation. President Obama’s JCPOA limited enrichment to 3.67 percent and only in Natanz. After Trump ripped it up, we had 60 percent enrichment in Fordo. Americans want diplomacy, not more costly wars. We need to deescalate and pursue a path of peace,” said Rep. Ro Khanna.  

    Rep. Khanna and Massie’s bipartisan War Powers Resolution has 47 cosponsors: Alexandria Ocasio Cortez, Val Hoyle, Rashida Talib, Pramila Jayapal, Don Beyer, Lloyd Doggett, Greg Casar, Ayanna Pressley, Delia Ramirez, Summer Lee, Ilhan Omar, Chuy Garcia, Nydia Velazquez,  James McGovern, Chellie Pingree, Mark Pocan, Veronica Escobar, Paul Tonko, Becca Balint, Bonnie Watson Coleman, Hank Johnson, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Sara Jacobs, Jan Schakowsky, Lateefah Simon, Chris Deluzio, Gwen Moore, Mike Thompson, Yasmin Ansari, Bennie Thompson, Luis Correa, Betty McCollum, Marcy Kaptur, Mark DeSaulnier, Stephen Lynch, Andre Carson, Mary Gay Scanlon, Joaquin Castro, Maxwell Frost, Al Green, Debbie Dingell, Jamie Raskin, Melanie Stansbury, Sylvia Garcia, Leger Fernande, Diana DeGette. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Khanna, Massie, Introduce Bipartisan War Powers Resolution to Prohibit Involvement in Iran

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Rep Ro Khanna (CA-17)

    Washington, D.C.–– Rep. Ro Khanna (CA-17), the Ranking Member on the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Cyber, Innovative Technologies and Information Systems (CITI), announces that he has introduced a bipartisan War Powers Resolution to prohibit “United States Armed Forces from unauthorized hostilities in the Islamic Republic of Iran.” War Powers Resolutions are privileged in the House of Representatives and can be called up for debate and a floor vote after 15 calendar days without action in committee.                                                                                                                                                       

    Rep. Khanna joins Rep. Massie as co-lead of the Iran War Powers Resolution. 

    “No president should be able to bypass Congress’s constitutional authority over matters of war. The American people do not want to be dragged into another disastrous conflict in the Middle East. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan War Powers Resolution with Rep. Massie to reassert that any military action against Iran must be authorized by Congress,” said Rep. Khanna.

    “The Constitution does not permit the executive branch to unilaterally commit an act of war against a sovereign nation that hasn’t attacked the United States,” said Rep. Massie. “Congress has the sole power to declare war against Iran. The ongoing war between Israel and Iran is not our war. Even if it were, Congress must decide such matters according to our Constitution.”

    In addition to Reps. Khanna and Massie, original cosponsors include Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA), Rep. Gregorio Casar (D-TX), Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Rep. Chuy Garcia (D-IL), Rep. Val Hoyle (D-OR), Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Rep. Summer Lee (D-PA), Rep. Jim McGovern (D-MA), Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Rep. Ayanna Presley (D-MA), Rep. Delia Ramirez (D-IL), Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), and Rep. Nydia Velazquez (D-NY). Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) has introduced companion legislation in the United States Senate. 

    The text of the Khanna-Massie Iran War Powers Resolution is available here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Swalwell Statement on the Israel-Iran Conflict

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Eric Swalwell (CA-15)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell (CA-14) issued the following statement on the Israel-Iran conflict:

    “I am closely monitoring the unfolding crisis in the Middle East following Israel’s operation targeting Iran’s military and nuclear infrastructure — and Iran’s subsequent response. This is a deeply volatile moment. I am gravely concerned about the potential for escalation into a broader regional conflict.

    Iran’s repressive regime continues to pose a grave threat to global security — sponsoring terrorism throughout the region, violently suppressing its own people, and targeting Americans. Iran must never be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon. Preventing that outcome is a matter of America’s national security.

    I want to be clear: the Iranian people are not our enemy. They are victims of an oppressive regime. Like all people, they deserve dignity, peace, and the opportunity to live free from fear, violence, and repression.

    Clearly, Israel has the right to defend itself against existential threats. It is also clear that we need strong, principled American leadership that ensures Iran never acquires a nuclear weapon, while simultaneously working to de-escalate tensions, avoid regional war, and chart a path forward through diplomacy, stability, and lasting security.

    I will continue to engage directly with my constituents — including the vibrant and diverse Muslim and Jewish communities in the East Bay — as we confront these difficult issues together. My priority remains the safety and security of all people, and our shared hope for peace.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. McClintock Remarks on the Big Beautiful Bill: Lower Taxes, Lighter Regulations, a Secure Border, More Frugal Government and a War on Waste

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom McClintock Representing the 4th District of California

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Tom McClintock delivered remarks on the House Floor preceding the final vote on the Big Beautiful Bill:

    Click to watch Rep. McClintock’s remarks

    Big Beautiful Bill
    Senate Amendments
    July 3, 2025

    This bill fulfills many of our promises to the American people: lower taxes, lighter regulations, a secure border, more frugal government and a war on waste.  Throughout history, these are the policies that have produced prosperity and security and there is every reason to believe they will again.  

    I remind my conservative friends who say this bill doesn’t go far enough: our process was not designed to make perfect law – it was designed to make the best law that is acceptable to a majority.  Judging by the narrow votes, we have pushed this bill about as far toward perfection as the process allows.

    The proof is not in the talking points made today, but next year, when Americans will ask themselves if they are better off.  I believe because of this bill, the answer will be a resounding YES.  And perhaps that is what the Democrats fear most.

    # # #

     

     

    MIL OSI USA News