NewzIntel.com

Category: United States of America

  • MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Senators Call on Netanyahu to Immediately Change Course in Gaza

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Senate Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Jack Reed (D-RI), Senate Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Dick Durbin (D-IL), Senate Foreign Relations Committee Ranking Member Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Vice Chairman Mark Warner (D-VA), Ranking Defense Appropriator Chris Coons (D-DE), and Ranking State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriator Brian Schatz (D-HI) released the following joint statement urging the Trump Administration to press Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to immediately change course in its war in Gaza:

    “Humanitarian conditions in Gaza are appalling and unconscionable. This week, more than 100 NGOs—including Mercy Corps, Doctors Without Borders, Save the Children, and Oxfam—warned of mass starvation spreading across Gaza. Following Prime Minister Netanyahu’s nearly 3-month blockade of humanitarian assistance, three-quarters of the population is facing emergency or catastrophic levels of hunger.

    “The handful of Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) sites are wholly inadequate to meet the needs of this starving population. Widespread problems have made GHF aid delivery chaotic and dangerous, leading to the deaths of an estimated 700 people. Yet the Trump Administration recently approved $30 million for GHF, overriding established procedures and waiving consultation with Congress.

    “While some established humanitarian organizations have been allowed to resume very limited operations, a number of restrictions and security challenges prevent them from fully functioning. To make matters worse, this week’s expansion of Israel’s military operation into central Gaza for the first time in the conflict has put at risk these few remaining operations. Moreover, the UN estimates that nearly 88 percent of Gaza is no longer accessible to civilians, leaving approximately two million people confined to a troublingly small remaining area.

    “Meanwhile, hostages remain in captivity in Gaza, including American citizens, and three out of four Israelis are calling for an end to this war. Last September, the IDF assessed that Hamas had been largely defeated militarily from its peak strength when it heinously attacked Israeli civilians on October 7, 2023 and is now effectively a “guerilla terror group.” As we know from our own experience following the attacks of September 11, 2001, there is no solely military solution to defeating a terrorist group. Continuing this war with no discernable end is not in Israel’s national security interest, and the lack of a viable “day after” plan has been a glaring mistake.

    “We call on the Trump Administration to use its considerable leverage to press Prime Minister Netanyahu to:

    • Reach a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas that releases the hostages as soon as possible.
    • Support a surge in humanitarian assistance that provides both a sufficient amount of humanitarian aid and credible mechanisms for effective distribution, including the verification and monitoring of assistance to ensure equitable distribution and to prevent Hamas from diverting assistance. Established humanitarian organizations like the World Food Programme have the experience and ability to renew their delivery of assistance without civil unrest. We must allow them to do their jobs.
    • Dramatically reform or shut down the Gaza Humanitarian Fund and resume support for the existing UN-led aid coordination mechanisms in Gaza with enhanced oversight to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches civilians in need.
    • Establish a “day after” plan for Gaza where Hamas does not retain power, Israel disavows annexation of the West Bank and further integrates into the region, a reformed Palestinian Authority is fostered and empowered, and regional partners are included in rebuilding.
    • Create a framework for a viable path back to a two-state solution that will allow the Israeli and Palestinian people to live side by side in security, dignity, and prosperity.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: July 25th, 2025 After Republicans’ Cuts Threaten Rural Healthcare, Heinrich & Luján Demand Transparency on Trump Administration’s Inadequate Rural Health Slush Fund & Backroom Deals

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, joined Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee, Ron Wyden (D-OR), along with 12 of their Democratic colleagues, to demand accountability from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) on how the rural health slush fund will be distributed to states and what guidance will be considered in this decision:

    In a letter to Mehmet Oz, the Administrator for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the Senators demanded clarity on how the rural health slush fund will be distributed across the country. Earlier this month, Senate Republicans passed their “Big, Ugly Betrayal,” which delivered devastating cuts to the U.S. health care system – slashing funding by over $1 trillion dollars, the largest cut to healthcare in history. To try and cover up the damage of these cuts, they included a $50 billion rural health slush fund. However, this temporary fund only accounts for 5 percent of the cuts, which will have devastating, irreversible impacts. Perhaps even more alarming is the potentially blatant political distribution of this fund, underscoring the importance of accountability as to how CMS plans to award this money to states.

    “We are alarmed by reports suggesting these taxpayer funds are already promised to Republican members of Congress in exchange for their votes in support of the Big, Ugly Betrayal. In addition, the vague legislative language creating this fund will seemingly function as your personal fund to be distributed according to your political whims. As states, patients, hospitals, nursing homes and other health care providers brace for devastating cuts, we urge you to provide straightforward, detailed answers on how you plan to administer these funds,” the Senators wrote. “Republicans in Congress hastily developed the rural health slush fund to buy their members’ votes and give their caucus political cover for voting for the Big, Ugly Betrayal. Several Members of Congress have already touted your promises about the funding their states and districts will receive from the rural health slush fund.”

    Moreover, there are many questions about how the funds will be distributed. Shortly after the passage of the “Big, Ugly Betrayal,” Republican Senators took to “X” (formerly known as Twitter) to celebrate specific money for their states to support rural hospitals. Senator Britt (R-AL) tweeted: “the Senate just amended the Big Beautiful Bill to invest over $500M in Alabama’s rural hospitals.” Senator Husted (R-OH) said: “I’m proud to have secured $1.3 billion in funding for rural hospitals across Ohio—because every Ohioan deserves access to quality care close to home.” Senator Cassidy (R-LA) even noted an inequity, tweeting: “We secured a $50 billion fund to support rural hospitals. Louisiana is set to receive about 2% of that money, despite having only 1% of the U.S. population—a double share.” Since CMS has yet to release the criteria for how the funding will be awarded, there are questions about if this slush fund constituted a political pay-off.

    Additionally, the Senators noted the hasty and ill-conceived wording of the fund, which leaves it open to abuse, fraud, and re-appropriation.

    “Not only does the Republican rural health slush fund provide a meager amount of funding that fails to plug the $1 trillion hole caused by the Big, Ugly Betrayal, the fund is drafted in such a vague and open-ended manner that it is not even guaranteed to support rural health care. States are not required to use this funding to support rural hospitals or other rural health care providers. In fact, states can use funds to pay any health care providers, support technology-driven efforts like wearable devices, or fund unproven models of care that have nothing to do with rural health,” the Senators continued. “Further, there are no parameters outlined in the legislative language for how CMS should award, distribute, or rescind funding from the rural health slush fund, making it even more susceptible to abuse.”

    To combat this apparent political giveaway, the Senators demanded answers on several questions, including:

    • When will CMS provide guidance to states on criteria for an application?
    • Will they commit to clear defined criteria before distributing these funds, and an appeals process related to funding award decisions?
    • Will CMS prioritize rural providers receiving these funding awards?
    • How will CMS define proper vs improper use of funds and accountability for how CMS will hold states accountable for improper use?
    • What states/districts has the Trump administration already promised funding to?

    In addition to Heinrich, Luján, Schumer, and Wyden, other Senators who signed on to the letter include Senators Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Durbin (D-Ill.), Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Kim (D-N.J.), Markey (D-Mass.), Merkley (D-Ore.), Padilla (D-Calif.), Sanders (I-Vt.), Smith (D-Minn.), Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Warren (D-Mass.).

    The full text of the letter can be seen here and below.

    Dear Administrator Oz:

    As you know, the Republican reconciliation bill cuts funding to the U.S. health care system by over $1 trillion, and will devastate communities nationwide, with disproportionate, negative impacts on health care access in rural America. To cover up the harms of these catastrophic cuts, Trump and Republicans stood up a temporary $50 billion rural health slush fund. This meager investment amounts to just five percent of the Big, Ugly Betrayal’s largest health care cuts in history.

    We are alarmed by reports suggesting these taxpayer funds are already promised to Republican members of Congress in exchange for their votes in support of the Big, Ugly Betrayal. In addition, the vague legislative language creating this fund will seemingly function as your personal fund to be distributed according to your political whims. As states, patients, hospitals, nursing homes and other health care providers brace for devastating cuts, we urge you to provide straightforward, detailed answers on how you plan to administer these funds.

    Republicans in Congress hastily developed the rural health slush fund to buy their members’ votes and give their caucus political cover for voting for the reconciliation bill. Several Members of Congress have already touted your promises about the funding their states and districts will receive from the rural health slush fund. Before the Big, Ugly Betrayal was even signed into law, Senator Husted celebrated the $1.3 billion he claims is promised to rural hospitals in Ohio, and Senator Hawley said the bill will give $1 billion to rural hospitals in Missouri.

    Other reports suggest you promised to send funding from the rural health slush fund to districts in Pennsylvania that are not even rural. The Trump Administration’s explanation that this fund can and will be used for more than rural areas was a key fact that swayed Republicans to vote for the bill. The rural health slush fund appears to be nothing more than a political parachute to pay off members of Congress for their unpopular votes.

    Rural communities will suffer greatly because of the health care cuts enacted in the Republican reconciliation bill. One-third of all rural hospitals are already at risk of closing, and the bill will force over 330 rural hospitals to reduce service lines, convert to other types of hospitals with fewer services, or close altogether. The Big, Ugly Betrayal makes no meaningful investments in rural hospitals, rural health centers, and other rural health care providers, which have some of the most fragile operating margins in the nation, and often are the largest employers and economic engines of their communities.

    Not only does the Republican rural health slush fund provide a meager amount of funding that fails to plug the $1 trillion hole caused by the reconciliation bill, the fund is drafted in such a vague and open-ended manner that it is not even guaranteed to support rural health care. States are not required to use this funding to support rural hospitals or other rural health care providers. In fact, states can use funds to pay any health care providers, support technology-driven efforts like wearable devices, or fund unproven models of care that have nothing to do with rural health.

    Further, there are no parameters outlined in the legislative language for how CMS should award, distribute, or rescind funding from the rural health slush fund, making it even more susceptible to abuse. There is no clear definition of an appropriate state application for the rural health slush fund, CMS is not required to follow a clear formula for distribution of funds, and there are no guardrails on how CMS should claw back funding from states in cases of inappropriate use. Without more clarity, this rural health slush fund is vulnerable to the very abuse of taxpayer spending that Republicans purport to care about.

    To provide states, rural hospitals, and other health care providers clarity on the available use of funding from the rural health slush fund in advance of the December 31, 2025 deadline for CMS to approve or deny state applications, we request that you provide a staff-level briefing on the parameters of this fund as well as detailed, written responses to the following questions by August 15, 2025:

    1. When will CMS provide states with guidance on the components that should be included in an appropriate state application for funding from the fund?

    a) Will CMS provide guidance to states on applications for use of funds that are required to be distributed equally among states with an approved application?

    b) Will CMS provide guidance to states on applications for use of funds that are not required to be distributed equally among states?

    2. What percentage of program funding will CMS allocate to rural health care providers?

    a) How will CMS ensure that states use this federal funding to benefit rural hospitals and other health care facilities, providers, and patients?

    b) What is the breakdown of funding that CMS anticipates allocating across the different categories of eligible providers?

    c) How will CMS make sure that states use the funds for purposes that support the financial viability of rural hospitals and other health care providers, including by providing funding to address high fixed costs and low volumes, improve health care workforce retention and recruitment in rural areas, and replace aging infrastructure?

    3. The Big, Ugly Betrayal outlines several metrics that CMS may consider when distributing funding to states. How will CMS apply these metrics—the number of people who live in rural communities, the number of rural health facilities in a state, and the number of Medicaid Disproportionate Share Hospitals (DSH) in a state—when distributing funding to states?

    4. Will CMS commit to make the formula for awarding and distributing funds to states public before making any commitments to states and before formally distributing funding?

    5. Will CMS commit to creating a public website outlining state applicants for funding, the funding formula and criteria for distributing funds, and approved state applications?

    6. How will CMS define and determine improper uses of funding? How will CMS monitor funds to ensure appropriate spending and use?

    7. Will CMS commit to establishing an appeals process for states to provide an opportunity to contest decisions made on award, distribution and/or clawback of funding?

    8. Given the ongoing hiring freeze at CMS, it appears that the agency cannot hire more people to distribute this funding. How will CMS use the $200 million in implementation funding tied to the rural health slush fund?

    a)Will CMS hire a third party to administer this fund?

    b) If yes, has CMS already committed to a hire a specific third party to administer this fund and, if so, which vendor?

    9. What other states or districts have Trump Administration officials already promised funding from the rural health slush fund to? Which states and districts have received this promised funding?

    While this taxpayer-supported rural health slush fund is wholly insufficient to plug the massive hole created by the Big, Ugly Betrayal including the 15 million people expected to lose insurance coverage, it is critical that CMS move with urgency to provide clarity to rural communities, states, hospitals, and other health care providers about the fund. We look forward to your prompt response.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: July 25th, 2025 After Republicans’ Cuts Threaten Rural Healthcare, Heinrich & Luján Demand Transparency on Trump Administration’s Inadequate Rural Health Slush Fund & Backroom Deals

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, joined Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee, Ron Wyden (D-OR), along with 12 of their Democratic colleagues, to demand accountability from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) on how the rural health slush fund will be distributed to states and what guidance will be considered in this decision:
    In a letter to Mehmet Oz, the Administrator for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the Senators demanded clarity on how the rural health slush fund will be distributed across the country. Earlier this month, Senate Republicans passed their “Big, Ugly Betrayal,” which delivered devastating cuts to the U.S. health care system – slashing funding by over $1 trillion dollars, the largest cut to healthcare in history. To try and cover up the damage of these cuts, they included a $50 billion rural health slush fund. However, this temporary fund only accounts for 5 percent of the cuts, which will have devastating, irreversible impacts. Perhaps even more alarming is the potentially blatant political distribution of this fund, underscoring the importance of accountability as to how CMS plans to award this money to states.
    “We are alarmed by reports suggesting these taxpayer funds are already promised to Republican members of Congress in exchange for their votes in support of the Big, Ugly Betrayal. In addition, the vague legislative language creating this fund will seemingly function as your personal fund to be distributed according to your political whims. As states, patients, hospitals, nursing homes and other health care providers brace for devastating cuts, we urge you to provide straightforward, detailed answers on how you plan to administer these funds,” the Senators wrote. “Republicans in Congress hastily developed the rural health slush fund to buy their members’ votes and give their caucus political cover for voting for the Big, Ugly Betrayal. Several Members of Congress have already touted your promises about the funding their states and districts will receive from the rural health slush fund.”
    Moreover, there are many questions about how the funds will be distributed. Shortly after the passage of the “Big, Ugly Betrayal,” Republican Senators took to “X” (formerly known as Twitter) to celebrate specific money for their states to support rural hospitals. Senator Britt (R-AL) tweeted: “the Senate just amended the Big Beautiful Bill to invest over $500M in Alabama’s rural hospitals.” Senator Husted (R-OH) said: “I’m proud to have secured $1.3 billion in funding for rural hospitals across Ohio—because every Ohioan deserves access to quality care close to home.” Senator Cassidy (R-LA) even noted an inequity, tweeting: “We secured a $50 billion fund to support rural hospitals. Louisiana is set to receive about 2% of that money, despite having only 1% of the U.S. population—a double share.” Since CMS has yet to release the criteria for how the funding will be awarded, there are questions about if this slush fund constituted a political pay-off.
    Additionally, the Senators noted the hasty and ill-conceived wording of the fund, which leaves it open to abuse, fraud, and re-appropriation.
    “Not only does the Republican rural health slush fund provide a meager amount of funding that fails to plug the $1 trillion hole caused by the Big, Ugly Betrayal, the fund is drafted in such a vague and open-ended manner that it is not even guaranteed to support rural health care. States are not required to use this funding to support rural hospitals or other rural health care providers. In fact, states can use funds to pay any health care providers, support technology-driven efforts like wearable devices, or fund unproven models of care that have nothing to do with rural health,” the Senators continued. “Further, there are no parameters outlined in the legislative language for how CMS should award, distribute, or rescind funding from the rural health slush fund, making it even more susceptible to abuse.”
    To combat this apparent political giveaway, the Senators demanded answers on several questions, including:
    When will CMS provide guidance to states on criteria for an application?
    Will they commit to clear defined criteria before distributing these funds, and an appeals process related to funding award decisions?
    Will CMS prioritize rural providers receiving these funding awards?
    How will CMS define proper vs improper use of funds and accountability for how CMS will hold states accountable for improper use?
    What states/districts has the Trump administration already promised funding to?
    In addition to Heinrich, Luján, Schumer, and Wyden, other Senators who signed on to the letter include Senators Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Durbin (D-Ill.), Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Kim (D-N.J.), Markey (D-Mass.), Merkley (D-Ore.), Padilla (D-Calif.), Sanders (I-Vt.), Smith (D-Minn.), Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Warren (D-Mass.).
    The full text of the letter can be seen here and below.
    Dear Administrator Oz:
    As you know, the Republican reconciliation bill cuts funding to the U.S. health care system by over $1 trillion, and will devastate communities nationwide, with disproportionate, negative impacts on health care access in rural America. To cover up the harms of these catastrophic cuts, Trump and Republicans stood up a temporary $50 billion rural health slush fund. This meager investment amounts to just five percent of the Big, Ugly Betrayal’s largest health care cuts in history.
    We are alarmed by reports suggesting these taxpayer funds are already promised to Republican members of Congress in exchange for their votes in support of the Big, Ugly Betrayal. In addition, the vague legislative language creating this fund will seemingly function as your personal fund to be distributed according to your political whims. As states, patients, hospitals, nursing homes and other health care providers brace for devastating cuts, we urge you to provide straightforward, detailed answers on how you plan to administer these funds.
    Republicans in Congress hastily developed the rural health slush fund to buy their members’ votes and give their caucus political cover for voting for the reconciliation bill. Several Members of Congress have already touted your promises about the funding their states and districts will receive from the rural health slush fund. Before the Big, Ugly Betrayal was even signed into law, Senator Husted celebrated the $1.3 billion he claims is promised to rural hospitals in Ohio, and Senator Hawley said the bill will give $1 billion to rural hospitals in Missouri.
    Other reports suggest you promised to send funding from the rural health slush fund to districts in Pennsylvania that are not even rural. The Trump Administration’s explanation that this fund can and will be used for more than rural areas was a key fact that swayed Republicans to vote for the bill. The rural health slush fund appears to be nothing more than a political parachute to pay off members of Congress for their unpopular votes.
    Rural communities will suffer greatly because of the health care cuts enacted in the Republican reconciliation bill. One-third of all rural hospitals are already at risk of closing, and the bill will force over 330 rural hospitals to reduce service lines, convert to other types of hospitals with fewer services, or close altogether. The Big, Ugly Betrayal makes no meaningful investments in rural hospitals, rural health centers, and other rural health care providers, which have some of the most fragile operating margins in the nation, and often are the largest employers and economic engines of their communities.
    Not only does the Republican rural health slush fund provide a meager amount of funding that fails to plug the $1 trillion hole caused by the reconciliation bill, the fund is drafted in such a vague and open-ended manner that it is not even guaranteed to support rural health care. States are not required to use this funding to support rural hospitals or other rural health care providers. In fact, states can use funds to pay any health care providers, support technology-driven efforts like wearable devices, or fund unproven models of care that have nothing to do with rural health.
    Further, there are no parameters outlined in the legislative language for how CMS should award, distribute, or rescind funding from the rural health slush fund, making it even more susceptible to abuse. There is no clear definition of an appropriate state application for the rural health slush fund, CMS is not required to follow a clear formula for distribution of funds, and there are no guardrails on how CMS should claw back funding from states in cases of inappropriate use. Without more clarity, this rural health slush fund is vulnerable to the very abuse of taxpayer spending that Republicans purport to care about.
    To provide states, rural hospitals, and other health care providers clarity on the available use of funding from the rural health slush fund in advance of the December 31, 2025 deadline for CMS to approve or deny state applications, we request that you provide a staff-level briefing on the parameters of this fund as well as detailed, written responses to the following questions by August 15, 2025:
    1. When will CMS provide states with guidance on the components that should be included in an appropriate state application for funding from the fund?
    a) Will CMS provide guidance to states on applications for use of funds that are required to be distributed equally among states with an approved application?
    b) Will CMS provide guidance to states on applications for use of funds that are not required to be distributed equally among states?
    2. What percentage of program funding will CMS allocate to rural health care providers?
    a) How will CMS ensure that states use this federal funding to benefit rural hospitals and other health care facilities, providers, and patients?
    b) What is the breakdown of funding that CMS anticipates allocating across the different categories of eligible providers?
    c) How will CMS make sure that states use the funds for purposes that support the financial viability of rural hospitals and other health care providers, including by providing funding to address high fixed costs and low volumes, improve health care workforce retention and recruitment in rural areas, and replace aging infrastructure?
    3. The Big, Ugly Betrayal outlines several metrics that CMS may consider when distributing funding to states. How will CMS apply these metrics—the number of people who live in rural communities, the number of rural health facilities in a state, and the number of Medicaid Disproportionate Share Hospitals (DSH) in a state—when distributing funding to states?
    4. Will CMS commit to make the formula for awarding and distributing funds to states public before making any commitments to states and before formally distributing funding?
    5. Will CMS commit to creating a public website outlining state applicants for funding, the funding formula and criteria for distributing funds, and approved state applications?
    6. How will CMS define and determine improper uses of funding? How will CMS monitor funds to ensure appropriate spending and use?
    7. Will CMS commit to establishing an appeals process for states to provide an opportunity to contest decisions made on award, distribution and/or clawback of funding?
    8. Given the ongoing hiring freeze at CMS, it appears that the agency cannot hire more people to distribute this funding. How will CMS use the $200 million in implementation funding tied to the rural health slush fund?
    a)Will CMS hire a third party to administer this fund?
    b) If yes, has CMS already committed to a hire a specific third party to administer this fund and, if so, which vendor?
    9. What other states or districts have Trump Administration officials already promised funding from the rural health slush fund to? Which states and districts have received this promised funding?
    While this taxpayer-supported rural health slush fund is wholly insufficient to plug the massive hole created by the Big, Ugly Betrayal including the 15 million people expected to lose insurance coverage, it is critical that CMS move with urgency to provide clarity to rural communities, states, hospitals, and other health care providers about the fund. We look forward to your prompt response.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: July 25th, 2025 Heinrich, Sheehy Introduce Legislation to Study Cost of Wildfires on Homeowners

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) introduced the Wildfire Insurance Coverage Study Act, legislation to better understand the cost of increasingly destructive wildfires on homeowners’ insurance coverage and identify possible measures to alleviate the financial risk of wildfires.

    “I’m hearing from more and more New Mexicans who’ve seen their insurance premiums skyrocket, lost coverage entirely, or been priced out of protecting their homes. That is completely unacceptable,” said Heinrich. “Families deserve fair, transparent coverage they can count on. We need a clearer picture of how worsening wildfires and climate risks are impacting insurance companies’ decisions to raise insurance premiums. Without better data, we can’t push back when insurers jack up rates or pull the rug out from under homeowners altogether.”

    “In addition to destroying livelihoods, wildfires that burn down communities threaten homeowners’ access to insurance coverage, lead to more costly premiums, and make the American Dream of homeownership less attainable. One-third of America lives in wildfire-prone areas, and we must get our arms around this crisis, because if you can’t get or afford homeowners’ insurance, you can’t finance your home, which means hardworking families can’t achieve homeownership. As we overhaul the federal wildfire apparatus to reduce catastrophic wildfire risk, which will help ease pressure on insurance markets, I’m also proud to lead the charge on this bill to ensure American families’ homes, financial futures, and communities are protected from wildfires,” said Sheehy.

    According to a 2023 report released by Heinrich as the former Chairman of the U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee (JEC), the financial risks of wildfires are difficult to predict because fires can start for a number of reasons and because their risk to peoples’ homes at any given time is based on a complicated combination of topography, drought conditions, wind patterns, fuel amounts, and the location of houses among many other factors. This has led many insurers to either raise premium costs substantially across the board in Western and forested communities or pull out of markets entirely — with several major insurance companies declining to provide any form of coverage.

    The Wildfire Insurance Coverage Study Act will help gain a clearer understanding of the cost associated with living in areas with increasingly intense and longer fire seasons, regardless of the fire damages that occur over a year.

    Specifically, the Wildfire Insurance Coverage Study Act will require a federal study to assess the:

    • Extent and nature of growing wildfire risks in the United States;
    • The existing state of homeowners insurance coverage and commercial property insurance coverage for damage from wildfires in the United States;
    • Extent to which private insurers have refused to renew new policies because of geographical location;
    • Responses of states’ insurance regulatory agencies to increased premiums and exclusion of coverage; and
    • Need for a national wildfire risk map.

    The Wildfire Insurance Coverage Study Act is endorsed by Public Citizen and the National Association of Counties (NACo).

    Full text of the bill is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: July 25th, 2025 Heinrich, Sheehy Introduce Legislation to Study Cost of Wildfires on Homeowners

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) introduced the Wildfire Insurance Coverage Study Act, legislation to better understand the cost of increasingly destructive wildfires on homeowners’ insurance coverage and identify possible measures to alleviate the financial risk of wildfires.

    “I’m hearing from more and more New Mexicans who’ve seen their insurance premiums skyrocket, lost coverage entirely, or been priced out of protecting their homes. That is completely unacceptable,” said Heinrich. “Families deserve fair, transparent coverage they can count on. We need a clearer picture of how worsening wildfires and climate risks are impacting insurance companies’ decisions to raise insurance premiums. Without better data, we can’t push back when insurers jack up rates or pull the rug out from under homeowners altogether.”

    “In addition to destroying livelihoods, wildfires that burn down communities threaten homeowners’ access to insurance coverage, lead to more costly premiums, and make the American Dream of homeownership less attainable. One-third of America lives in wildfire-prone areas, and we must get our arms around this crisis, because if you can’t get or afford homeowners’ insurance, you can’t finance your home, which means hardworking families can’t achieve homeownership. As we overhaul the federal wildfire apparatus to reduce catastrophic wildfire risk, which will help ease pressure on insurance markets, I’m also proud to lead the charge on this bill to ensure American families’ homes, financial futures, and communities are protected from wildfires,” said Sheehy.

    According to a 2023 report released by Heinrich as the former Chairman of the U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee (JEC), the financial risks of wildfires are difficult to predict because fires can start for a number of reasons and because their risk to peoples’ homes at any given time is based on a complicated combination of topography, drought conditions, wind patterns, fuel amounts, and the location of houses among many other factors. This has led many insurers to either raise premium costs substantially across the board in Western and forested communities or pull out of markets entirely — with several major insurance companies declining to provide any form of coverage.

    The Wildfire Insurance Coverage Study Act will help gain a clearer understanding of the cost associated with living in areas with increasingly intense and longer fire seasons, regardless of the fire damages that occur over a year.

    Specifically, the Wildfire Insurance Coverage Study Act will require a federal study to assess the:

    • Extent and nature of growing wildfire risks in the United States;
    • The existing state of homeowners insurance coverage and commercial property insurance coverage for damage from wildfires in the United States;
    • Extent to which private insurers have refused to renew new policies because of geographical location;
    • Responses of states’ insurance regulatory agencies to increased premiums and exclusion of coverage; and
    • Need for a national wildfire risk map.

    The Wildfire Insurance Coverage Study Act is endorsed by Public Citizen and the National Association of Counties (NACo).

    Full text of the bill is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Disaster Loans Still Available for New York Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Remnants of Tropical Storm Debby

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in New York of the Aug. 25 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses due to Remnants of Tropical Storm Debby that occurred on Aug. 8-10, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the counties of  Franklin and St. Lawrence in New York.

    Under this declaration SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The deadline to return economic injury applications is Aug. 25, 2025.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Minnesota Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Excess Rain and Flash Flood

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The  U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP)organizations of the Aug. 25 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by excessive rain and flash flooding occurring June 15-24, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the Minnesota counties of Blue Earth, Faribault, Jackson, Martin, and Watonwan, as well as the counties of Emmit and Kossuth in Iowa.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than Aug. 25, 2025.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Baldwin Demands Trump Admin Stop Withholding Funding for Labs that Protect Food Supply to Prevent Disease Spread and Price Hikes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) is leading her colleagues in demanding that the Trump Administration release withheld funding for labs that are dedicated to early detection, response, and control of animal diseases and outbreaks. If these labs do not get their funding by the end of July, the risk of food contamination increases, threatening the safety of our domestic food supply chains, restricting American farmers’ access to markets, and driving up grocery prices across the country. Wisconsin is one of seventeen states that host a Level 1 National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN) laboratory.

    “Barring the labs from doing their jobs risks a major disease outbreak which would exacerbate the stress on our nation’s farmers and food supply, ultimately driving up food costs for American consumers. Now is not the time for confusion and uncertainty; OMB must allow the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to expend these funds and protect the American agricultural sector from disease spread,” wrote the Senators in a letter to Office of Management and Budget Secretary Russell Vought. 

    Every Level 1 laboratory, spread across 17 states, relies on federal funding to support personnel and operations. If OMB fails to immediately release funding, operations at these facilities will be severely impaired, or even halted entirely, when their current funding expires at the end of July 2025.

    This letter was co-signed by Senators Tina Smith (D-MN), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Gary Peters (D-MI).

    Full text of the letter is available here and below.

    Director Vought:

    We write to you today to request that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) release the funds designated for Level 1 laboratories within the National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN) that are currently being withheld. These funds are dedicated for early detection, response and control of animal diseases and outbreaks. Withholding these funds threatens the safety of our domestic food supply chains, restricts American farmers access to international markets, and could cause a rapid increase in food costs for Americans.

    As Senators representing states that host Level 1 NAHLN laboratories, we have seen firsthand the vital role these facilities play in safeguarding farmers, workers and agricultural operations. The laboratories are on the frontlines of identifying and containing highly contagious and economically devastating animal diseases, including highly pathogenic avian influenza, foot and mouth disease, African swine fever, and the New World screwworm. These diseases pose enormous risks, but the longstanding funding of NAHLN labs, and their coordination with farmers and ranchers, has successfully mitigated the impact of many disease outbreaks thus far.

    Each Level 1 laboratory, spread across 17 states, relies on $250,000 in annual infrastructure funding to support personnel and operations. By withholding over half of these funds, approximately $2.65 million in total, OMB is putting these laboratories in a grave position. If OMB fails to immediately release funding, operations at these facilities will be severely impaired, or even halted entirely, when their current funding expires at the end of July 2025.

    NAHLN funds are a key component to our ability to rapidly detect and respond to animal disease outbreaks, maintain international trade, and conduct biosecurity measures. Barring the labs from doing their jobs risks a major disease outbreak which would exacerbate the stress on our nation’s farmers and food supply, ultimately driving up food costs for American consumers. Now is not the time for confusion and uncertainty; OMB must allow the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to expend these funds and protect the American agricultural sector from disease spread.

    We strongly urge OMB and USDA to work together to immediately release the remaining 58% of funding before the July 31 deadline to ensure operational continuity of Level 1 NAHLN laboratories. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Announces Bill to Reopen Lawful Pathway to Legalization, Countering Trump’s Cruel Mass Deportation Agenda

    US Senate News:

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

    Padilla Announces Bill to Reopen Lawful Pathway to Legalization, Countering Trump’s Cruel Mass Deportation Agenda

    WATCH: Padilla pushes back against indiscriminate ICE raids and the militarization of Los Angeles
     
    A one-pager on the Registry bill is available here.

    LOS ANGELES, CA — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, hosted a press conference in Los Angeles alongside immigration advocates, impacted families, and community leaders to announce legislation to expand a pathway to lawful permanent residency for millions of long-term U.S. residents. Amid the Trump Administration’s indiscriminate immigration enforcement in California and across the country, the bill would offer a forward-looking, strategic update to our outdated immigration system to counter President Trump and Stephen Miller’s demonization of undocumented immigrant communities.

    Padilla’s Renewing Immigration Provisions of the Immigration Act of 1929 would update the existing Registry statute of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) by adjusting the Registry date to meet current circumstances so that an immigrant may qualify to apply for lawful permanent resident status if they have lived in the U.S. continuously for at least seven years before filing an application, do not have a criminal record, and meet all other current eligibility requirements to receive a green card.

    This overdue update would provide a much-needed pathway to a green card for more than 8 million people, including Dreamers, forcibly displaced citizens (TPS holders), children of long-term visa holders, essential workers, and highly skilled members of our workforce, such as H-1B visa holders, who have been waiting years for a green card to become available. According to 2023 FWD.us estimates, if the undocumented individuals covered in this bill eventually became citizens, they would contribute approximately $121 billion to the U.S. economy annually and about $35 billion in taxes.

    Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, is co-leading the legislation in the Senate, and Representative Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.-18) is leading companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

    “Americans know there’s a better path forward than the Trump Administration’s cruel scapegoating of hardworking immigrants and fearmongering of California communities,” said Senator Padilla. “We believe that if you’ve lived here for over seven years, paid taxes for years, contributed to your community for years, and you don’t have a criminal record, then you deserve a pathway to legalization. My bill is a commonsense fix to our outdated immigration system and the same kind of reform that Republican President Ronald Reagan embraced four decades ago, calling it a ‘matter of basic fairness.’ This legislation creates no new bureaucracies or agencies — it’s simply an update to a longstanding pathway to reflect today’s reality and provide a fair shot at the American Dream for millions of Dreamers, TPS holders, and highly skilled workers who have faced delays and uncertainty for decades.”

    “Recently, we have seen devastating arrests of immigrants who have spent their lives in this country, building communities and families in the United States, without any due process. Most have never committed any crime. Protections for these hard-working individuals are long overdue. It’s common sense that immigrants who pose no safety threat and contribute to our country should be able to call America home with certainty; additionally, it’s also common sense that the small percentage of undocumented immigrants who do commit violent crimes should be removed. Expanding the registry pathway to citizenship is a practical solution to provide stability to immigrants who have worked and contributed to our country for years. It’s part of the solution, and I look forward to working to pass this bill into law,” said U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Durbin, Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee.

    “When Donald Trump ran for president, he pledged to deport violent criminals. Instead, masked, heavily-armed agents, often refusing to identify themselves, are aggressively, sometimes violently, targeting day laborers, busboys, farmworkers, and some of the hardest-working people in this country. It’s outrageous and deserves the condemnation of every Member of Congress. We need to control our borders, but we also need a straightforward reform solution for those who have resided peacefully for a long time in America,” said Representative Lofgren. “My colleagues and I are reintroducing our registry legislation to simply update a historically-bipartisan provision that provides lawful permanent resident status to vetted immigrants who have been a part of our communities for years. Providing stability to our communities and our workforces – versus terrorizing them – will make our country stronger.”

    The bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.).

    Section 249 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, also known as the Registry, gives the Secretary of Homeland Security the discretion to register certain individuals for lawful permanent resident status if they have been in the country since a certain date and meet other requirements. Section 249 was first codified in 1929 and Congress has modified it four times, most recently during the Reagan Administration in 1986. No changes have been made since 1986, and the cutoff date for eligibility remains January 1, 1972 — more than 50 years ago.

    Specifically, the Renewing Immigration Provisions of the Immigration Act of 1929 would:

    • Amend the existing Registry statute by moving the eligibility cutoff date so that an immigrant may qualify for lawful permanent resident status if they have been in the U.S. for at least seven years before filing an application under Registry.
    • Preempt the need for further congressional action by making the eligibility cutoff rolling, instead of tying it to a specific date, as it is now.

    Padilla continues to lead the charge to pass commonsense immigration reforms that strengthen communities, protect long-term residents, and unlock America’s economic potential. He was joined today by community members impacted by the Trump Administration’s cruel immigration raids, including Alejandro Barranco — a veteran and the son of Narciso, who was violently detained by masked Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents in Orange County.

    “As the son of a hardworking immigrant, I never imagined our family’s story would become national news. Yet the violent and unjust treatment my father endured on June 21st is one that countless others are experiencing across this country. My father, a man who has spent over 30 years working to provide for our family, was beaten and detained by men with no identification—simply for doing the work that makes this country great. This attack wasn’t just on him; it was on every immigrant who has ever sacrificed for the American dream. It’s long overdue for this country’s broken immigration system to be fixed, or more families will continue to be torn apart. I stand with leaders like Senator Padilla to fight for a pathway to citizenship for people like my dad, whose contributions make America stronger,” said Alejandro Barranco.

    “I ask the American people: if you trust us to pick your crops, help build your homes, take care of your children and elderly parents, play with sons and daughters in the same sports teams, why won’t you trust us to be part of the American dream? A path to citizenship is the only solution that will protect us and the nation. Only a path to citizenship will allow us to live free in this our home, the United States of America,” said Angelica Salas, Executive Director for Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA).

    Senator Padilla is a leading voice in Congress for providing long-term undocumented immigrants with pathways to citizenship or permanent legal residence. As Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids and mass deportation assaults intensified in Los Angeles, Padilla marked the 13th anniversary of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policy by urging Congress to take immediate action to deliver permanent protections for millions of families, parents, and individuals who are increasingly at risk amid President Trump’s mass deportation agenda. He also delivered remarks on the Senate floor ahead of the anniversary, pushing for permanent protections for Dreamers rather than the indiscriminate ICE raids stoking fear in Los Angeles communities. Padilla previously introduced the Citizenship for Essential Workers Act, which would create a pathway to citizenship for immigrant essential workers, including Dreamers, as his first bill in Congress.

    Senator Padilla has been outspoken in criticizing Trump’s mass deportations and unprecedented militarization and escalation of tensions by deploying National Guard troops and active-duty U.S. Marines to respond to overwhelmingly peaceful protests in Los Angeles. He recently introduced the VISIBLE Act to require immigration enforcement officers to display clearly visible identification during public-facing enforcement actions. He also led the entire Senate Democratic Caucus last month in demanding that President Trump immediately withdraw all military forces from Los Angeles and cease all threats to deploy the National Guard or active-duty service members to American cities. Padilla spoke on the Senate floor following his forcible removal from Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem’s press conference, where he was thrown to the ground and handcuffed after attempting to ask a question.

    Video of Senator Padilla’s opening remarks from today’s press conference can be viewed here and downloaded here. His closing remarks are available to watch here and can be downloaded here.

    Additional photos from today’s event can be found here.

    A one-pager on the bill is available here.

    Full text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Salinas and Barragán, Sens. Padilla and Gallego Introduce Mental Health for Latinos Act

    Source: US Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06)

    Washington, D.C. – As the nation observes Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, Representatives Andrea Salinas (OR-06) and Nanette Barragán (CA-44) and U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), introduced the Mental Health for Latinos Act, legislation to improve mental health outcomes among Latino and Hispanic communities.  

    Barriers to mental health care within Latino communities cause far too many individuals to suffer in silence. Only 47.4 percent of Hispanic adults ages 18 or older with any mental illness received services in 2023. Between 2010 and 2020, the suicide rate among male Hispanic adults (ages 20 to 64) increased by 35.7 percent, and the rate among women specifically increased by 40.6 percent. Even those who can access services rarely receive the effective, culturally competent care they need. 

    “As Co-Chair of the bipartisan Mental Health Caucus and a proud Latina, I know how crucial it is to end the stigma around mental health care and improve outcomes and access to care among Latino communities,” said Representative Salinas. “I’ve been on the other end of a phone call with someone who is having a mental health crisis. I see how important it is for people not only to have access to mental health care, but also to be able to get the culturally competent care that meets them where they are.”

    “This legislation is a first step to breaking down the unique barriers that prevent our Latino communities from receiving the help they need. Mental health is a challenge that many Americans bear silently — but they shouldn’t have to,” said Representative Barragán. “Ensuring that our communities in need receive specialized resources and outreach will help break down cultural stigmas and language barriers that prevent Americans from accessing mental health care that is essential to their overall health and well-being.”

    “No one should suffer in silence,” said Senator Padilla. “We need to break down the barriers that keep Latinos from getting the mental health care they need, when stigma and language access can make it even harder to ask for help. The Mental Health for Latinos Act would improve mental health outcomes by reducing stigma in the Latino community and encouraging people to reach out for help. As we tackle the rise in mental health challenges, it’s critical that we acknowledge the distinct needs of our diverse communities and develop solutions that meet people where they are.”

    “Too many Latinos, especially men, shy away from seeking help because they’re afraid of being judged, and that only makes the problem worse. This issue is personal to me. This bill would help break the stigma around mental health and make it easier to get care from people who actually understand our community. I want everyone to know that they’re not alone and that getting help is not a weakness,” said Senator Gallego.

    “APA is proud to support the Mental Health for Latinos Act of 2025,” said Arthur C. Evans Jr. PhD, CEO of the American Psychological Association. “By promoting mental health and reducing stigma in the Latino community, this legislation underscores APA’s mission to use psychological knowledge to improve the lives of all individuals.”

    “Long-standing health care disparities within the Latino community are preventing countless individuals from receiving the timely, high-quality mental health care they need,” said Hannah Wesolowski, Chief Advocacy Officer at the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). “The Mental Health for Latinos Act from Senator Padilla, Representative Salinas, Senator Gallego and Representative Barragan will help address these disparities and bring mental health resources to historically underserved communities.”  

    “The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention strongly supports the Mental Health for Latinos Act of 2025, which will advance health equity by addressing long-standing barriers to care and stigma that disproportionately impact Hispanic and Latino communities,” said Laurel Stine, J.D., M.A., Executive Vice President and Chief Policy and Advocacy Officer at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. “In 2023, Hispanic adults were 60% less likely to have received mental health treatment than non-Hispanic white adults. By promoting culturally and linguistically tailored outreach and education, this bill will help ensure that more individuals recognize the signs of mental health conditions and are connected to life-saving resources. It represents a meaningful step forward in our national effort to prevent suicide and expand access to mental health support for all communities.”

    Informed and culturally competent resources, education materials, and outreach programs are vital to addressing the mental health crisis. The Mental Health for Latinos Act recognizes the unique mental health challenges of the Latino community, aiming to reduce cultural stigma and rectify health care disparities that prevent people from receiving lifesaving mental health services. As our nation confronts a worsening mental health crisis, this critical legislation reinforces the message that there is zero shame in asking for help and that seeking support is a sign of strength.

    Specifically, the bill would:

    • Require the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to develop and implement an outreach and education strategy to promote behavioral and mental health among the Latino and Hispanic populations that:
      • Meets diverse cultural and language needs and is developmentally and age-appropriate,
      • Increases awareness of symptoms of mental illnesses,
      • Provides information on evidence-based, culturally and linguistically appropriate adapted interventions and treatments,
      • Ensures full participation of community members, and
      • Uses a comprehensive public health approach to promoting behavioral health by focusing on the intersection between behavioral and physical health.
    • Require SAMHSA to report annually to Congress on the extent to which the strategy improved behavioral and mental health outcomes among these populations.

    The Mental Health for Latinos Act is endorsed by organizations including American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, National Alliance on Mental Illness, Unidos US, American Mental Health Counselors Association, Inseparable, American Association for Psychoanalysis in Clinical Social Work, Psychotherapy Action Network (PsiAN), Global Alliance for Behavioral Health & Social Justice, American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists (AAPP), American Group Psychotherapy Association, Epilepsy Foundation of America, National Council for Mental Wellbeing, the International Society for Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurses (ISPN), Fountain House, and the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF).

    Full text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Larsen Releases Statement on Department of Education Releasing Funding

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Larsen (2nd Congressional District Washington)

    Larsen Releases Statement on Department of Education Releasing Funding

    Everett, W.A., July 25, 2025

    Today, Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement:

    “Kids deserve to have the support they need to learn, and teachers deserve to have the resources they need to do their jobs. That’s why I joined my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to demand the Trump administration reverse its irresponsible and illegal decision to withhold billions of dollars from students and teachers across the country, including roughly $12 million from Northwest Washington state. Today, the Administration backed down and released the money.

    “In the coming weeks, I am meeting with local school districts to hear about how budget cuts and layoffs at the Department of Education are impacting our communities. I will continue to fight for the release of other federal funding that has been irresponsibly and illegally held up.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven: 119th Wing in the Fight Every Day, Need New $33 Million Headquarters to Better Support Operations

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
    07.25.25
    Facility Will Bring Happy Hooligan Leadership, Support and Training Personnel Under Single Roof, Strengthening Reaper & RTS Operations
    FARGO, N.D.- Senator John Hoeven today announced efforts to build a new $33 million headquarters for the North Dakota Air National Guard’s (NDANG) 119th Wing in Fargo:
    The new facility will provide nearly 22,400 sq. ft. of space to consolidate the 119th Wing’s leadership, support and training personnel under a single roof.
    A replacement is needed for the existing, 66-year-old headquarters, as it lacks adequate space to house the various aspects of the 119th Wing’s missions.
    This results in operational inefficiencies and imposes high maintenance costs on the unit, which must maintain multiple outdated facilities.

    As a member of the Senate Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Committee, Hoeven secured an initial $2 million in Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 for planning and design of the new headquarters.
    The Wing expects to award the design contract in the coming weeks, with a proposed floorplan to be ready by May 2026.
    Once the floorplan is approved, the final location of the building will be identified.

    The facility will be purpose-built to support the range of missions and operations undertaken by the 119th Wing, including the Regional Training Site (RTS).
    The RTS provides specialized training programs like Rapid Airfield Damage Repair to active-duty and Guard units from across the country.
    This is one of only four RTS operated by the Air Guard in the nation, and the only Air Force RTS in the Upper Midwest region, with the next closest site being in Arkansas.

    “The Happy Hooligans have a record of pure excellence, and are one of the best units in the Air National Guard. Moreover, they are in the fight globally every single day supporting our military, special forces and intelligence agencies, and they deserve facilities that more effectively support the important missions they carry out for our nation. This new $33 million headquarters will do just that by enabling them to consolidate a range of offices, staff and operations into a single, updated and purpose-built facility, rather than maintaining multiple out-of-date structures,” said Hoeven. “This aligns with our ongoing work to not only enhance the Reaper mission flown by the Happy Hooligans, but also support the specialized training they offer to military units from across the country through their Regional Training Site, the only site of its kind in the entire Upper Midwest.”
    The new headquarters comes as the latest in Hoeven’s work to strengthen the missions and operations of the 119th Wing. This includes:
    The $17.5 million state-of-the-art operations center that Hoeven previously worked to fund.
    The 119th Wing’s MQ-9 Reaper mission began moving into the new center in 2023, and the facility is anticipated to be fully operational later this year.

    Securing funding to upgrade the Reaper mission from the Block 1 to the Block 5 aircraft.
    Currently, the Happy Hooligans operate four Block 5 MQ-9 Reapers, one of which has been permanently assigned to the Wing.
    The Air Force plans for three additional Block 5s to have a permanent home at the Wing in the future.

    Securing $10 million in FY25 funding to create a data center in the former MQ-9 ops facility to support the Test Resource Management Center’s (TRMC) Sky Range hypersonic missile testing program.
    Sky Range is an innovative method for gathering information from hypersonic missile tests using refurbished Global Hawks and MQ-9s.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boozman Joins Britt, Colleagues in Advocating Critical NIH Research Funding

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Arkansas – John Boozman

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Katie Britt (R-AL), joined by twelve of their Republican colleagues, called on White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Russell Vought to disburse appropriated funds for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to help cure disease, advance health, protect biomedical innovation, benefit the economy and compete with adversaries like Communist China.

    Specifically, Boozman and colleagues requested the administration implement the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, which President Trump signed into law earlier this year. This legislation contains critical funding to support NIH initiatives across a range of research areas, including but not limited to cancer, cardiovascular disease and rare pediatric disorders.

    “We are concerned by the slow disbursement rate of FY25 NIH funds, as it risks undermining critical research and the thousands of American jobs it supports. Suspension of these appropriated funds – whether formally withheld or functionally delayed – could threaten Americans’ ability to access better treatments and limit our nation’s leadership in biomedical science. It also risks inadvertently severing ongoing NIH-funded research prior to actionable results,” wrote the senators.

    “We share your commitment to ensuring NIH funds are used responsibly and not diverted to ideological or unaccountable programs,” the senators continued. “We are confident Secretary Kennedy and Director Bhattacharya are well positioned to uphold gold standard research by ensuring that NIH awards are grounded in transparency, scientific merit, and a clear alignment with national interests.”

    Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Susan Collins (R-ME), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Dave McCormick (R-PA), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Tim Scott (R-SC), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Todd Young (R-IN) co-signed Boozman and Britt’s letter to Director Vought.

    Full text of the letter can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Pettersen Joins Call Demanding Answers from Federal Agencies on DOGE Cut

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brittany Pettersen (Colorado 7th District)

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representative Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) joined a call to the Social Security Administration (SSA) and Internal Revenue Service (IRS), demanding answers about the impacts that mass firings, or reductions in force (RIFs), will have on casework processing for constituents. 

    Casework is a crucial service provided by congressional offices for constituents to raise their concerns with tax refunds, Social Security payments, passports, and other benefits that they are owed from federal agencies. After recent layoffs, congressional caseworkers are receiving bounce-back emails and no-replies from federal agencies leaving many cases delayed and unresolved.

    “My office has heard from countless seniors, families, and small businesses who can’t get anyone at the IRS or Social Security Administration to pick up the phone,” said Rep. Pettersen. “Our seniors, communities, and families rely on Social Security to put a roof over their heads, pay for their medications, and for basic needs. Any issues with these benefits can impact people’s health, safety, and wellbeing. It’s unacceptable people have been unable to get a hold of anyone to help at these taxpayer-funded agencies. The reckless destruction of our federal workforce makes it so that people cannot get access to the benefits they rely on or get answers to their questions – I’m deeply worried about the reprehensible impact on our communities but especially on our seniors who live on a fixed income. We’re here to support them and advocate for them any way that we can.”

    Earlier this year, the Social Security Agency rolled out its plan to cut an estimated 7,000 jobs nationwide, raising concerns about staffing and capability of disbursing retirement and disability benefits. Additionally, the Trump administration has pushed to cut as much as 50% of staff from the IRS. These deep staffing cuts threaten to delay or disrupt critical services, leaving seniors without timely access to their benefits and taxpayers without the support they need to navigate the system.

    Rep. Pettersen joined 50+ House Democrats in letters to the IRS and SSA. The full text of the letter to the IRS can be found HERE and full text of the SSA can be HERE. 

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    To access downloadable, high-quality photos, click here. To stay up-to-date on what Pettersen is doing in Congress, follow her on Twitter here, Facebook here, or Instagram here. Residents can also sign-up for her e-newsletter subscription here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cammack Introduces Truth in Women’s Healthcare Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL-03)

    Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Kat Cammack (FL-03) introduced a House Resolution reaffirming the importance of accurate medical information and guidance for the public, lawmakers and emergency department professionals, treating pregnant women and their unborn children, particularly in the cases involving miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy.
     
    “No woman facing a medical emergency like a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy should be left in danger because of confusion or misinformation,” said Congresswoman Cammack. “This resolution is about reinforcing the importance of long established and clear guidance for doctors so that patients receive quality care and that the public is properly informed on what current law does—and does not—allow.”
     
    Background:
     
    Last May, Congresswoman Cammack experienced a life-threatening ectopic pregnancy—a medical emergency in which the embryo implants outside the uterus and cannot survive. Her case, like thousands of others faced by women across the country, required immediate intervention to save her life.
     
    After courageously sharing her experience in the Wall Street Journal, the Congresswoman became the target of vicious backlash. She, her unborn child, her family, and even her staff received an onslaught of death threats and harassment. This deeply personal and painful moment laid bare the consequences of today’s toxic political environment surrounding women’s healthcare.
     
    More alarmingly, it revealed how reckless and dangerous the abortion lobby’s disinformation campaign has become—conflating emergency medical care for miscarriages and ectopic pregnancies with elective abortion in order to push a broader narrative. By weaponizing fear and misrepresenting facts, they are not only endangering the lives of patients but also silencing those who speak the truth. Not a single professional medical, health organization or state law regards treatment for miscarriages or ectopic pregnancies as abortion. Cammack’s experience underscores the urgent need for educating the general public, ensuring clarity in policy and civil discourse.
     
    The Congressional Pro-Life Caucus, numerous pro-life and women’s advocacy organizations have also voiced their strong condemnation of the threats and harassment against the Congresswoman. Read their full statement here.
     
    Read the full resolution here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister’s statement on U.S. antidumping duties

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Ravi Parmar, Minister of Forests, has released the following statement in response to the softwood lumber antidumping duties announced by the United States:

    “U.S. President Donald Trump has made it his mission to destroy Canada’s economy, and the forestry sector is feeling the full weight of this.

    “It is no secret, the sector — one that employs tens of thousands of workers in our province — has faced years of uncertainty, driven by ongoing trade disputes, global market pressures, and the compounding effects of climate change. Now, we face further challenges, with rising unfair and unjust duties imposed by the United States. 

    “These duties are nothing more than a tax on middle-class Americans trying to build or rebuild a home. They are hurting people on both sides of the border, with the forestry sector being unfairly targeted.

    “Let me be clear: we will not stand by while Donald Trump tries to rip paycheques out of the hands of hard-working people in B.C.

    “We’re going to fight for our workers, our communities and the future of this sector. Not just to protect jobs, but to build a future where forestry workers and their families thrive for generations to come.

    “Premier David Eby is at the table with other premiers federally discussing our Team Canada approach and response. In B.C., I will be convening my Softwood Lumber Advisory Council to advise and support our government’s response and strategy.

    “I have appointed former deputy minister to the premier, Don Wright, as a strategic advisor on softwood lumber, to ensure B.C.’s interests are well represented, and to help us align with federal and cross-provincial efforts.

    “We will continue to take action to address the challenges the forestry sector is facing because this is about more than lumber; it’s about people and place. By working together with industry, First Nations and communities, we can build a resilient and sustainable forest economy that works for people, protects our resources, and ensures long-term prosperity for everyone in B.C.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor signs emergency order for Doña Ana County flooding

    Source: US State of New Mexico

    SANTA FE – Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has issued an emergency order to make $750,000 in state funding available to support state agencies responding to the flooding in Doña Ana County. 

    “Vado is facing devastating flooding, and this crisis demands immediate action,” said Gov. Lujan Grisham. “New Mexico is mobilizing resources to support this resilient community through recovery.” 

    Executive Order 2025-333 directs the New Mexico Department of Finance Administration to allocate $750,000 to the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) for emergency response efforts.  

    The state of New Mexico has also requested team from FEMA to assist with preliminary damage assessments next week to determine whether the county meets the requirements for federal assistance.  

    The State Disaster Helpline is available to residents looking for resources from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at 1-833-663-4736. Information can also be found on the DHSEM’s website.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Brown releases statement on agreement to temporarily pause federal restrictions on public benefit programs

    Source: Washington State News

    SEATTLE — Washington Attorney General Brown today released the following statement after the federal government agreed to temporarily pause implementation of harmful new restrictions on access to public benefit programs:
     
    “I’m glad there is a temporarily pause in enforcement of this harmful policy, which has caused confusion and chaos for Washington’s safety net programs. But relief through September 3 is not enough. All Washingtonians should be able to access critical services without fear.”
     
    Earlier this week, Attorney General Brown and 20 other attorneys general filed a lawsuit opposing the federal government’s attempt to change how eligibility for federally supported services is interpreted under the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA). Now, the U.S. Departments of Justice, Health and Human Services, Education, and Labor have agreed not to enforce the challenged policy changes in the plaintiff states until at least September 3, 2025. The agreement also confirms that no one will face penalties or enforcement for any actions taken in line with the old PRWORA rules during this same period. 

    -30-

    Washington’s Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state’s largest law firm, the Attorney General’s Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington’s 39 counties. Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Email: press@atg.wa.gov

    Phone: (360) 753-2727

    General contacts: Click here

    Media Resource Guide & Attorney General’s Office FAQ

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Buffalo arrests illegal alien with 9 US criminal convictions including assault, arson and robbery

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BUFFALO, N.Y. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Buffalo arrested Wahota Allassane Ouattara upon his release from the New York Department of Corrections and Community Supervision in Comstock July 23. The 38-year-old illegal alien from the Côte d’Ivoire has an extensive criminal history that includes nine convictions in the United States, including arson and assault.

    Ouattara entered the United States as a nonimmigrant in New York City and violated the terms of his admission when he failed to depart by Oct. 7, 2016. ICE encountered him Oct. 25, 2024, after his most recent incarceration for arson and attempted robbery. ICE officers issued him a notice to appear and placed him into removal proceedings Jan. 8.

    “This criminal alien not only violated our nation’s federal immigration laws, but he has repeatedly proven his complete disregard for New York State penal laws as well,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Buffalo Deputy Field Office Director Joseph Freden. “Our officers will continue to prioritize public safety by ensuring criminal aliens stay off of our streets while affecting their removal from the United States.”

    Ouattara’s criminal convictions include the following:

    • Third-degree assault (two counts) from Feb. 9, 2022.
    • Second-degree aggravated harassment from Feb. 9, 2022.
    • Second-degree criminal trespass from Sept. 9, 2022.
    • Second-degree criminal trespass (two counts) from Jan. 27, 2023.
    • Third-degree assault from May 23, 2024.
    • Third-degree arson from July 25, 2024.
    • Attempted robbery from July 25, 2024.

    Ouattara is currently detained in ICE custody pending immigration proceedings and removal from the United States.

    Aliens placed in removal proceedings receive their legal due process from federal immigration judges in the immigration courts, which are administered by the Executive Office for Immigration Review. EOIR is an agency within the U.S. Department of Justice and is separate from the Department of Homeland Security and ICE. Immigration judges in these courts make decisions based on the merits of each individual case. ICE officers carry out the removal decisions made by the federal immigration judges.

    Learn more about ERO Buffalo’s mission to preserve public safety on X at @EROBuffalo.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Stratton holds change-of-command ceremony

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    U.S. Coast Guard sent this bulletin at 07/25/2025 06:00 PM EDT

     

    07/25/2025 05:39 PM EDT

    HONOLULU — The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Stratton (WMSL 752) held a change-of-command ceremony Tuesday at Base Honolulu. Rear Adm. Jeffrey Novak, deputy commander of Coast Guard Pacific Area and commander of the Coast Guard Southwest District, presided over the ceremony in which Capt. Dorothy Hernaez relieved Capt. Brian Krautler as Stratton’s commanding officer.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Sanders Announces Vermont Will Receive Nearly $20 Million in Withheld Public Education Funding

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders

    BURLINGTON, Vt., July 25 — Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, today issued the following statement after the Trump administration announced it would release nearly $20 million in public education funding for Vermont that it had illegally withheld, as part of nearly $5.5 billion that was held back nationwide.

    A total of $26.1 million will now be available for schools in Vermont as a result of Sanders’ efforts.

    On June 30, just one day before states expected to receive the funds, the Education Department sent a three-line email notifying states that $6.88 billion in public education funding would be illegally withheld. This decision received strong opposition from both Democrats and Republicans in Congress — including a letter led by Sanders and Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Patty Murray (D-Wash.) alongside 32 Democratic senators, and a letter from Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and nine Republican senators demanding the release of these funds.

    Last week, the department released a portion of these funds for summer and after-school programs — $6.5 million in Vermont and $1.3 billion nationally — as a result of Sanders’ demands that the Trump administration release the funds. That funding supports nearly 100 after-school and summer programs in Vermont serving 11,000 students.

    “Let’s be clear: Today the administration solved a problem of its own making by finally releasing funding for our public schools that it illegally and unconstitutionally withheld,” Sanders said.

    “I am glad these funds will finally get to schools to offer critical services — including support for students learning English, professional development for educators, and mental health services in the classroom. We as a nation must do much, much more to support our public schools,” Sanders continued. “I will continue to do everything in my power as Ranking Member to ensure the Department administers these funds in accordance with the law and without additional strings attached.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FDA Investigating Death of 8-Year-Old Boy Who Received Elevidys

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    For Immediate Release:
    July 25, 2025

    The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is investigating the death of an 8-year-old boy who received Elevidys, a Sarepta Therapeutics gene therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The death occurred on June 7, 2025. The FDA has requested and received voluntary suspension of product distribution as it investigates the safety concerns.  
    Elevidys is an adeno-associated virus vector-based gene therapy using Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc.’s AAVrh74 Platform Technology for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The product is administered as a single intravenous dose.  Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a rare genetic condition characterized by progressive muscular weakness. The disease occurs due to a defective gene. 

    Consumer:888-INFO-FDA

    ###

    Boilerplate

    The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, radiation-emitting electronic products, and for regulating tobacco products.

    Content current as of:
    07/25/2025

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Applauds USDA Funding Grant for Volunteer Fire Departments

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington – On Friday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) issued the following statement after the Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) were released for disbursement.
    “I want to thank USDA Secretary Rollins for her thorough review of the funding and allocation to our state fire agencies,” said Senator Marshall. “These funds are essential for maintaining safe communities and supporting our volunteer firefighters in their dedicated service.”
    These funds are distributed to local volunteer fire departments, based upon annual applications for funding, so they can purchase essential equipment, improve their training, and increase their capacity to fight fires and protect property and lives.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: After GOP Cuts Threaten Rural Healthcare, Luján and Heinrich Demand Transparency on Administration’s Inadequate Rural Health Slush Fund and Backroom Deals

    US Senate News:

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

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), joined Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee, Ron Wyden (D-OR), along with 12 of their Democratic colleagues, to demand accountability from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) on how the rural health slush fund will be distributed to states and what guidance will be considered in this decision:

    In a letter to Mehmet Oz, the Administrator for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the Senators demanded clarity on how the rural health slush fund will be distributed across the country. Earlier this month, Senate Republicans passed their “Big, Ugly Betrayal,” which delivered devastating cuts to the U.S. health care system – slashing funding by over $1 trillion dollars, the largest cut to healthcare in history. To try and cover up the damage of these cuts, they included a $50 billion rural health slush fund. However, this temporary fund only accounts for 5 percent of the cuts, which will have devastating, irreversible impacts. Perhaps even more alarming is the potentially blatant political distribution of this fund, underscoring the importance of accountability as to how CMS plans to award this money to states.

    “We are alarmed by reports suggesting these taxpayer funds are already promised to Republican members of Congress in exchange for their votes in support of the Big, Ugly Betrayal. In addition, the vague legislative language creating this fund will seemingly function as your personal fund to be distributed according to your political whims. As states, patients, hospitals, nursing homes and other health care providers brace for devastating cuts, we urge you to provide straightforward, detailed answers on how you plan to administer these funds,” the Senators wrote. “Republicans in Congress hastily developed the rural health slush fund to buy their members’ votes and give their caucus political cover for voting for the Big, Ugly Betrayal. Several Members of Congress have already touted your promises about the funding their states and districts will receive from the rural health slush fund.”

    Moreover, there are many questions about how the funds will be distributed. Shortly after the passage of the “Big, Ugly Betrayal,” Republican Senators took to “X” (formerly known as Twitter) to celebrate specific money for their states to support rural hospitals. Senator Britt (R-AL) tweeted: “the Senate just amended the Big Beautiful Bill to invest over $500M in Alabama’s rural hospitals.” Senator Husted (R-OH) said: “I’m proud to have secured $1.3 billion in funding for rural hospitals across Ohio—because every Ohioan deserves access to quality care close to home.” Senator Cassidy (R-LA) even noted an inequity, tweeting: “We secured a $50 billion fund to support rural hospitals. Louisiana is set to receive about 2% of that money, despite having only 1% of the U.S. population—a double share.” Since CMS has yet to release the criteria for how the funding will be awarded, there are questions about if this slush fund constituted a political pay-off.

    Additionally, the Senators noted the hasty and ill-conceived wording of the fund, which leaves it open to abuse, fraud, and re-appropriation.

    “Not only does the Republican rural health slush fund provide a meager amount of funding that fails to plug the $1 trillion hole caused by the Big, Ugly Betrayal, the fund is drafted in such a vague and open-ended manner that it is not even guaranteed to support rural health care. States are not required to use this funding to support rural hospitals or other rural health care providers. In fact, states can use funds to pay any health care providers, support technology-driven efforts like wearable devices, or fund unproven models of care that have nothing to do with rural health,” the Senators continued. “Further, there are no parameters outlined in the legislative language for how CMS should award, distribute, or rescind funding from the rural health slush fund, making it even more susceptible to abuse.”

    To combat this apparent political giveaway, the Senators demanded answers on several questions, including:

    • When will CMS provide guidance to states on criteria for an application?
    • Will they commit to clear defined criteria before distributing these funds, and an appeals process related to funding award decisions? 
    • Will CMS prioritize rural providers receiving these funding awards?
    • How will CMS define proper vs improper use of funds and accountability for how CMS will hold states accountable for improper use? 
    • What states/districts has the Trump administration already promised funding to?

    In addition to Luján, Heinrich, Schumer, and Wyden, other Senators who signed on to the letter include Senators Alsobrooks (D-MD), Blumenthal (D-CT), Durbin (D-IL), Gillibrand (D-NY), Kim (D-NJ), Markey (D-MA), Merkley (D-OR), Padilla (D-CA), Sanders (I-VT), Smith (D-MN), Van Hollen (D-MD), and Warren (D-MA).

    The full text of the letter can be seen here and below.

    Dear Administrator Oz:

    As you know, the Republican reconciliation bill cuts funding to the U.S. health care system by over $1 trillion, and will devastate communities nationwide, with disproportionate, negative impacts on health care access in rural America. To cover up the harms of these catastrophic cuts, Trump and Republicans stood up a temporary $50 billion rural health slush fund. This meager investment amounts to just five percent of the Big, Ugly Betrayal’s largest health care cuts in history. 

    We are alarmed by reports suggesting these taxpayer funds are already promised to Republican members of Congress in exchange for their votes in support of the Big, Ugly Betrayal. In addition, the vague legislative language creating this fund will seemingly function as your personal fund to be distributed according to your political whims. As states, patients, hospitals, nursing homes and other health care providers brace for devastating cuts, we urge you to provide straightforward, detailed answers on how you plan to administer these funds.

    Republicans in Congress hastily developed the rural health slush fund to buy their members’ votes and give their caucus political cover for voting for the reconciliation bill. Several Members of Congress have already touted your promises about the funding their states and districts will receive from the rural health slush fund. Before the Big, Ugly Betrayal was even signed into law, Senator Husted celebrated the $1.3 billion he claims is promised to rural hospitals in Ohio,[1] and Senator Hawley said the bill will give $1 billion to rural hospitals in Missouri.[2]

    Other reports suggest you promised to send funding from the rural health slush fund to districts in Pennsylvania that are not even rural.[3] The Trump Administration’s explanation that this fund can and will be used for more than rural areas was a key fact that swayed Republicans to vote for the bill.[4] The rural health slush fund appears to be nothing more than a political parachute to pay off members of Congress for their unpopular votes.   

    Rural communities will suffer greatly because of the health care cuts enacted in the Republican reconciliation bill. One-third of all rural hospitals are already at risk of closing, and the bill will force over 330 rural hospitals to reduce service lines, convert to other types of hospitals with fewer services, or close altogether.[5] The Big, Ugly Betrayal makes no meaningful investments in rural hospitals, rural health centers, and other rural health care providers, which have some of the most fragile operating margins in the nation, and often are the largest employers and economic engines of their communities. 

    Not only does the Republican rural health slush fund provide a meager amount of funding that fails to plug the $1 trillion hole caused by the reconciliation bill, the fund is drafted in such a vague and open-ended manner that it is not even guaranteed to support rural health care. States are not required to use this funding to support rural hospitals or other rural health care providers. In fact, states can use funds to pay any health care providers, support technology-driven efforts like wearable devices, or fund unproven models of care that have nothing to do with rural health.

    Further, there are no parameters outlined in the legislative language for how CMS should award, distribute, or rescind funding from the rural health slush fund, making it even more susceptible to abuse. There is no clear definition of an appropriate state application for the rural health slush fund, CMS is not required to follow a clear formula for distribution of funds, and there are no guardrails on how CMS should claw back funding from states in cases of inappropriate use. Without more clarity, this rural health slush fund is vulnerable to the very abuse of taxpayer spending that Republicans purport to care about.

    To provide states, rural hospitals, and other health care providers clarity on the available use of funding from the rural health slush fund in advance of the December 31, 2025 deadline for CMS to approve or deny state applications, we request that you provide a staff-level briefing on the parameters of this fund as well as detailed, written responses to the following questions by August 15, 2025:

    1. When will CMS provide states with guidance on the components that should be included in an appropriate state application for funding from the fund? 
    1. Will CMS provide guidance to states on applications for use of funds that are required to be distributed equally among states with an approved application?
    2. Will CMS provide guidance to states on applications for use of funds that are not required to be distributed equally among states?
    3. What percentage of program funding will CMS allocate to rural health care providers?
    1. How will CMS ensure that states use this federal funding to benefit rural hospitals and other health care facilities, providers, and patients?
    2. What is the breakdown of funding that CMS anticipates allocating across the different categories of eligible providers?
    3. How will CMS make sure that states use the funds for purposes that support the financial viability of rural hospitals and other health care providers, including by providing funding to address high fixed costs and low volumes, improve health care workforce retention and recruitment in rural areas, and replace aging infrastructure?  
    1. The Big, Ugly Betrayal outlines several metrics that CMS may consider when distributing funding to states. How will CMS apply these metrics—the number of people who live in rural communities, the number of rural health facilities in a state, and the number of Medicaid Disproportionate Share Hospitals (DSH) in a state—when distributing funding to states?
    2. Will CMS commit to make the formula for awarding and distributing funds to states public before making any commitments to states and before formally distributing funding? 
    3. Will CMS commit to creating a public website outlining state applicants for funding, the funding formula and criteria for distributing funds, and approved state applications? 
    4. How will CMS define and determine improper uses of funding? How will CMS monitor funds to ensure appropriate spending and use?
    5. Will CMS commit to establishing an appeals process for states to provide an opportunity to contest decisions made on award, distribution and/or clawback of funding?  
    6. Given the ongoing hiring freeze at CMS, it appears that the agency cannot hire more people to distribute this funding. How will CMS use the $200 million in implementation funding tied to the rural health slush fund? 
    1. Will CMS hire a third party to administer this fund?
    2. If yes, has CMS already committed to a hire a specific third party to administer this fund and, if so, which vendor?
    3. What other states or districts have Trump Administration officials already promised funding from the rural health slush fund to? Which states and districts have received this promised funding?

    While this taxpayer-supported rural health slush fund is wholly insufficient to plug the massive hole created by the Big, Ugly Betrayal including the 15 million people expected to lose insurance coverage, it is critical that CMS move with urgency to provide clarity to rural communities, states, hospitals, and other health care providers about the fund. We look forward to your prompt response.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Coast Guard, Royal Canadian Air Force medevac man 180 miles west of Astoria

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    News Release  

    U.S. Coast Guard Northwest District PA Detachment Astoria
    Contact: Coast Guard PA Detachment Astoria
    Office: (503) 861-6380
    After Hours: (206) 220-7237
    PA Detachment Astoria online newsroom

     

    07/25/2025 05:06 PM EDT

    A U.S. Coast Guard aircrew medevaced a man from a fishing vessel approximately 180 miles offshore of Astoria, Oregon, Thursday. A Royal Canadian Air Force CC-295 Kingfisher crew from 19 Wing Comox in British Columbia, provided assistance overhead with weather reporting and communications. The man was safely flown to Astoria where he was transferred to EMS.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Coast Guard, Royal Canadian Air Force medevac man 180 miles west of Astoria

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    News Release  

    U.S. Coast Guard Northwest District PA Detachment Astoria
    Contact: Coast Guard PA Detachment Astoria
    Office: (503) 861-6380
    After Hours: (206) 220-7237
    PA Detachment Astoria online newsroom

     

    07/25/2025 05:06 PM EDT

    A U.S. Coast Guard aircrew medevaced a man from a fishing vessel approximately 180 miles offshore of Astoria, Oregon, Thursday. A Royal Canadian Air Force CC-295 Kingfisher crew from 19 Wing Comox in British Columbia, provided assistance overhead with weather reporting and communications. The man was safely flown to Astoria where he was transferred to EMS.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Roanoke Rapids Man Sentenced in Large-Scale Drug and Gun Case

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    RALEIGH, N.C. – Diandre Sherod Ireland, aka “Debo”, 35, was sentenced Wednesday to 13 years in prison for drug trafficking in Roanoke Rapids.

    “This sentence reflects the serious threat posed by fentanyl traffickers who fuel addiction and violence in our communities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “We remain committed to working with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who profit from dealing this deadly poison.”

    “This conviction is the culmination of hard work by the Halifax Narcotics and Gang Taskforce, a partnership between RRPD and the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office, as well as our federal law enforcement partners, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The dedication of each,” said Roanoke Rapids Police Chief Lawrence Wiggins.

    “Over the past three years we have built an excellent relationship with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners. We have used this partnership to go after those who are terrorizing our community,” said Halifax County Sheriff Tyree Davis. “Drugs and gangs are a problem in Halifax County and a vast majority of our murders, violent crimes and non-violent crimes are directly related to drugs and gangs. In partnership with the Roanoke Rapids Police Department, our (HCSO & RRPD) Drug and Gang Task Force works tirelessly to ensure our communities are safer. Our agents will build strong, detailed cases. The Chief and I take a tough stance on drugs and gangs.”

    According to court documents and other information presented in court, the Halifax Regional Drug and Gang Task Force began investigating Ireland in 2022 after sources identified him as a major drug supplier. Officers observed him making short visits to suspected drug houses in North Carolina and Virginia and interacting with known traffickers.

    In February 2024, agents executed a search warrant at his home. When they arrived, law enforcement observed Ireland exit out the back door and toss two backpacks into the neighboring yard before returning inside. Inside the bags, investigators found more than 1,500 grams of cocaine and 300 grams of fentanyl. A search of Ireland’s home uncovered nearly 250 grams of marijuana, digital scales, more than $38,000 in cash, and four firearms – including two stolen handguns and a rifle with a high-capacity magazine.

    Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Halifax County Sheriff’s Office, the Roanoke Rapids Police Department, and the ATF investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie A. Childress prosecuted the case.

    Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:24-CR-00075.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Roanoke Rapids Man Sentenced in Large-Scale Drug and Gun Case

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    RALEIGH, N.C. – Diandre Sherod Ireland, aka “Debo”, 35, was sentenced Wednesday to 13 years in prison for drug trafficking in Roanoke Rapids.

    “This sentence reflects the serious threat posed by fentanyl traffickers who fuel addiction and violence in our communities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “We remain committed to working with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who profit from dealing this deadly poison.”

    “This conviction is the culmination of hard work by the Halifax Narcotics and Gang Taskforce, a partnership between RRPD and the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office, as well as our federal law enforcement partners, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The dedication of each,” said Roanoke Rapids Police Chief Lawrence Wiggins.

    “Over the past three years we have built an excellent relationship with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners. We have used this partnership to go after those who are terrorizing our community,” said Halifax County Sheriff Tyree Davis. “Drugs and gangs are a problem in Halifax County and a vast majority of our murders, violent crimes and non-violent crimes are directly related to drugs and gangs. In partnership with the Roanoke Rapids Police Department, our (HCSO & RRPD) Drug and Gang Task Force works tirelessly to ensure our communities are safer. Our agents will build strong, detailed cases. The Chief and I take a tough stance on drugs and gangs.”

    According to court documents and other information presented in court, the Halifax Regional Drug and Gang Task Force began investigating Ireland in 2022 after sources identified him as a major drug supplier. Officers observed him making short visits to suspected drug houses in North Carolina and Virginia and interacting with known traffickers.

    In February 2024, agents executed a search warrant at his home. When they arrived, law enforcement observed Ireland exit out the back door and toss two backpacks into the neighboring yard before returning inside. Inside the bags, investigators found more than 1,500 grams of cocaine and 300 grams of fentanyl. A search of Ireland’s home uncovered nearly 250 grams of marijuana, digital scales, more than $38,000 in cash, and four firearms – including two stolen handguns and a rifle with a high-capacity magazine.

    Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Halifax County Sheriff’s Office, the Roanoke Rapids Police Department, and the ATF investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie A. Childress prosecuted the case.

    Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:24-CR-00075.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: $10M to Support Coastal Shoreline Project in Buffalo

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced $10 million to support the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park’s Coastal Shoreline Project in the City of Buffalo. The funding from the $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act is part of a $65 million initiative to enhance the resiliency of the Lake Erie shoreline by replacing an aging 100-year-old seawall and naturalizing the shoreline along the park property.

    “Enhancing the Ralph Wilson Park is just the type of project New York voters envisioned when they overwhelmingly supported the $4.2 billion Environmental Bond Act in 2022,” Governor Hochul said. “This park restoration project enhances accessible recreational opportunities just steps away from downtown Buffalo while advancing a more sustainable and resilient future for the Lake Erie shoreline. By bolstering and naturalizing the urban shoreline, we’re helping protect this special area from high water, reducing flooding from extreme weather events driven by climate change and enhancing valuable shoreline fish and wildlife habitat.”

    Governor Hochul first announced the transformation of the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park property in 2022. The waterfront location on the east end of Lake Erie at its confluence with the Niagara River provides desirable lake access but is also subject to frequent and damaging wind, ice, and waves. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ condition assessment of the seawall in June 2011 showed significant deterioration requiring repairs to structural failures along this stretch of shoreline.

    In 2018, the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation committed $50 million to support the City of Buffalo and surrounding community to transform the former LaSalle Park into a world-class destination. The Wilson Foundation provided additional funding to launch the Imagine LaSalleinitiative, a multi-year, community-driven effort to explore and develop a community vision for the park as it undergoes a $110 million transformation. The park’s name honors the legacy of the late Buffalo Bills owner, American veteran, entrepreneur and philanthropist, Ralph C. Wilson, Jr.

    The City of Buffalo, University at Buffalo Regional Institute, and community engagement group Imagine LaSalle conducted outreach and created a redevelopment plan for Ralph Wilson Park that includes replacement of part of the degraded sea wall with a resilient softened shoreline that will dissipate damaging wave energy, reduce flood risk, and create recreational waterfront access.

    New York State is contributing $10 million in funding from the Environmental Bond Act, administered by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to support Phase II of the shoreline redevelopment, including the Blueway, at Ralph Wilson Park to rehabilitate a segment of the Lake Erie shoreline, replace the deteriorating seawall with a more resilient, graded revetment-based shoreline that reduces flooding of City infrastructure, provide waterfront access to car-top watercraft, and contribute to the larger efforts of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. This new resilient shoreline includes an armored natural slope that will restore habitat while protecting a revamped community gem. The park is a world class destination that serves neighborhoods, residents from Western New York, and beyond. The park features a new signature pedestrian bridge that spans I-90 and connects neighbors with a regional destination. The park builds on existing high value amenities such as the swimming pool, splash pad, skate park, and dog park and by adding new and revamped community assets which include: an active-imaginative play garden, soccer fields, baseball and softball diamonds, tennis courts, playground areas with custom equipment, picnic shelters and concession stands, and miles of pedestrian and bike paths.

    New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “As climate change and extreme weather continue to impact our shorelines, the $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act is one of the most critical tools we have to support projects like the shoreline restoration at Ralph Wilson Park in Buffalo. This investment is helping New York State safeguard communities from extreme weather, protect natural resources and drinking water, and ensure people have places to explore nature and public recreation. Under Governor Hochul’s sustained leadership and generational investments, New York State is committed to building a healthier, more sustainable, and resilient future for every New Yorker.”

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said,“Empire State Development is pleased to support the Ralph C. Wilson Centennial Park project through the Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper by funding paddlesport launches to provide safe access to the water. The excitement for this project is building as we work to create a thriving waterfront that attracts visitors, boosts tourism, and generates economic activity.”

    Environmental Facilities Corporation President and CEO Maureen A. Coleman said, “We applaud this latest investment in the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park shoreline project, which builds on EFC’s earlier support of nearly $2.5 million through our Green Innovation Grant Program. This transformational project is a model for how Environmental Bond Act funding can strengthen shoreline resiliency, improve water quality, and reconnect communities to their natural waterfronts. We’re proud of the continued partnership on projects like this that deliver long-lasting benefits for Buffalo and the region.”

    In addition to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation, Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper, and Empire State Development are supporting the current phase of shoreline restoration. Other contributing partners to previous phases of the project include the Great Lakes Commission, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation, Dormitory of the State of New York, City of Buffalo, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and the Western New York Land Conservancy.

    State Senator Ryan said, “When New Yorkers voted to pass the Environmental Bond Act, we took a massive step forward to promote climate resiliency, insulate communities across the state from the impacts of climate change, and invest in the future of parks and green spaces across New York. This project is a natural fit for the bond act’s shoreline restoration funding. This funding will help protect the park and the pumping station for decades to come, which is essential for the future of the City of Buffalo. I thank Governor Hochul and the DEC for recognizing this critical need.”

    Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes said, “I applaud Governor Hochul and DEC for their $10 million investment in Niagara River shoreline restoration with the seawall replacement. This investment will protect and complement the continued redevelopment of Ralph C. Wilson Centennial Park, the shoreline aquatic habitat, and recreational water access. Both investments will be appreciated by generations of Buffalonians to come.”

    Assemblymember Jonathan Rivera said, “This investment and commitment to the Coastal Shoreline Project at Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park will ensure that this treasured community space is both environmentally resilient and accessible for generations to come. This project strengthens our shoreline, restores natural habitats, and enhances a beloved public destination that connects Buffalo’s neighborhoods both to its waterfront and to each other. This is a win for sustainability, recreation, and regional pride, and I’m proud to continue building on New York State’s commitment to our region’s greatest natural assets.”

    City of Buffalo Mayor Christopher P. Scanlon said, “Ralph Wilson Park represents a once-in-a-generation transformative investment in the future of Buffalo’s waterfront and in the quality of life for our residents. This $10 million investment through the Environmental Bond Act helps us build a more sustainable future by safeguarding critical infrastructure, enhancing natural ecosystems, and strengthening the long-term resiliency of our Lake Erie shoreline — all while honoring the community’s vision for a park that is inclusive, accessible, and connected to surrounding neighborhoods. I want to thank Governor Hochul, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, and the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation for their partnership and shared commitment to making Buffalo a greener, stronger, and more connected city.”

    Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation President & CEO David Egner said, “Throughout the Imagine LaSalle community engagement process, thousands of residents shared their hopes and concerns for the future of the park. As the Foundation joins with the City of Buffalo, State of New York and dozens of public and private partners to invest in the incredible transformation of Ralph Wilson Park into the community’s vision, it’s critical that we also address the safety and resiliency needs along the shoreline so the park can be enjoyed today, tomorrow and long into the future.”

    Ralph Wilson Park Conservancy Executive Director Katie Campos said, “This funding shores up one of the most vital pieces of infrastructure in our city—and unlocks the next phase of a once-in-a-generation investment in Ralph Wilson Park. Thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership and the support of the Environmental Bond Act, we are delivering on the community’s bold vision for a world-class, resilient, and welcoming waterfront park. This shoreline not only protects the park and our drinking water system—it makes the entire transformation possible.”

    Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper Executive Director Jill Jedlicka said, “Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper has guided efforts in the region for decades in order to create living shorelines and a healthier environment, and we couldn’t be happier with the results and progress that has been made by all of the partners working on this project at Ralph Wilson Park. The vision has always been to create a more resilient waterfront in the face of climate change, to endure relentless Lake Erie seiche impacts, and to rehabilitate habitat for the fish and wildlife that can once again thrive here. Through collaboration and creativity, that vision is becoming a reality. Thank you to the Ralph Wilson Park Conservancy, the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation, and state and federal partners including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the New York State Department of Conservation, for collaborating on the transformation of this invaluable Great Lakes shoreline and community space.”

    On Nov. 8, 2022, New Yorkers overwhelmingly approved the Environmental Bond Act ballot proposition to make $4.2 billion available for environmental and community projects. The Environmental Bond Act supports new and expanded projects across the state to safeguard drinking water sources, reduce pollution, and protect communities and natural resources from climate change. State agencies, local governments, and partners can access this historic funding to protect water quality, help communities adapt to climate change, improve resiliency, and create green jobs.

    This investment is the latest step in Bond Act investments to enhance shoreline resiliency, encourage economic development, revitalize neighborhoods, and bolster recreational opportunities. In April, the Governor announced $60 million in Environmental Bond Act funding for the next round of  Green Resiliency Grants to support vital stormwater management and resilient infrastructure projects in flood-prone communities across New York State. Applications for this program are due by Aug. 15, 2025. To learn more about resources available for resilient Bond Act-supported projects, visit environmentalbondact.ny.gov.

    New York’s Commitment to Water Quality

    New York State continues to increase its nation-leading investments in water infrastructure. With an additional $500 million for clean water infrastructure in the 2025-2026 enacted State Budget announced by Governor Hochul, New York will have invested a total of $6 billion in water infrastructure since 2017. The budget also maintains a strong commitment to environmental conservation with a $425 million Environmental Protection Fund (EPF). This funding bolsters a wide array of vital programs, including land acquisition for habitat and open space preservation, climate change mitigation and adaptation initiatives, and water quality improvement projects.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Albany Capital Center Authority Expansion Project

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Hochul today announced a $10 million grant to the Albany Convention Center Authority (ACCA) in support of the expansion of the Albany Capital Center (ACC) to continue its mission to be the premier event and meeting destination in the Capital Region. Since opening its doors in 2017, the ACC has hosted more than 1,100 events which attracted more than 630,000 visitors to the capital city, generating nearly $100 million in total new visitor spending and adding over 133,000 hotel room nights in the Capital Region. This grant complements Governor Hochul’s $400 million FY26 Budget investment to launch the Championing Albany’s Potential (CAP) Initiative, a comprehensive, State-led effort to revitalize Albany’s downtown core in partnership with local stakeholders.

    “Albany isn’t just the State’s capital — it’s a place where residents should thrive and visitors should feel welcomed,” Governor Hochul said. “The Albany Capital Center is an iconic destination that bolsters tourism through exciting events. With this investment into its expansion, more residents and visitors will be able to experience what the Capital Region has to offer — from expositions to educational conferences — while uplifting the region’s local economy.”

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “New York’s investment in the Albany Capital Center is another example of Governor Hochul’s commitment to revitalize our State’s proud capital city. By expanding this premier destination for events and conventions, we’re not only building upon the transformative Championing Albany ‘s Potential Initiative, but also enhancing Albany’s ability to attract world-class gatherings that support local businesses, create jobs, and generate sustained economic activity across the Capital Region.”

    Albany Convention Center Authority Executive Director and CEO Monica Kurzejeski said, “We are thankful to be at the forefront of Governor Hochul’s CAP initiative in downtown Albany. The Albany Capital Center’s expansion will welcome larger events and more people to Albany — an American crossroads of history, innovation and culture. At a time where profound collaboration is paramount, the ACCA appreciates the partnership with the Governor’s Office, Empire State Development, the Albany County Executive, Albany County Legislature and other local elected officials.”

    Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy said, “The Albany Capital Center is a cornerstone of our community’s event and hospitality industry, and this funding will help unlock its full potential to attract larger events, generate new business opportunities, and boost our local economy. This grant will also bolster the county’s own financial commitment to the Convention Center’s expansion, and help accelerate our shared vision for the Downtown neighborhood. I would like to thank Governor Hochul for recognizing the importance of this effort and for her continued dedication to strengthening Albany County.”

    Albany County Legislature Chair Joanne Cunningham said, “Everyone who lives in, works in, and visits Albany County wins today. A heartfelt thank you to Governor Hochul and her team for believing and investing in the capital city by adding this keystone piece in the partnership between New York State, Albany County, and the Convention Center Authority. The shockwave of economic activity that emanates from this expansion will bring tens of millions of dollars into downtown Albany and throughout Albany County. We are thrilled to see the expansion move forward with this additional investment and support by our Governor.”

    State Senator Patricia Fahy said, “The Albany Convention Center is a key anchor and pillar institution of downtown Albany. Enlarging the Convention Center by adding space will strengthen its ability to attract events, conferences, and more to downtown Albany. Coupled with the $400 million we secured in this year’s budget, we’re making the necessary investments in our Capital City that will pay dividends in the future. I want to thank Governor Hochul and her team for recognizing the importance of reinvigorating and revitalizing our City, and I look forward to continuing to partner with her to ensure that it is indeed, finally Albany’s day.”

    Assemblymember John T. McDonald III said, “Thank you to Governor Hochul for this exciting announcement in support of the Albany Capital Center (ACC) expansion. As a board member of the Albany Convention Center Authority, I’m proud to see this $54 million investment nearly double the size of the ACC, paving the way for more events and greater regional success for the Capital Region. Now in its eighth year of operation, the ACC welcomes up to 100,000 visitors annually from across the region and beyond, generating significant sales tax revenue that supports local government budgets and benefits taxpayers. It also plays a key role in filling hotel rooms and boosting the local economy. This expansion, including a new connection to State Street in downtown Albany, aligns with the Governor’s broader investment in revitalizing downtown, benefiting Albany, Albany County, and the entire Capital Region. A strong Capital City builds a stronger Capital Region, and this expansion moves us in that direction.”

    Assemblymember Gabriella A. Romero said, “I’m thrilled to see this $10 million investment in the Albany Convention Center to expand its capacity and boost Albany’s standing as a top event destination. I commend Governor Hochul for the $400 million investment through the Championing Albany’s Potential (CAP) initiative that was included in this year’s budget, a vital commitment to revitalizing our downtown, enhancing tourism, and stimulating sustained economic growth in our community.”

    Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan said, “The expansion of the Albany Capital Center will help New York’s Capital City attract even more world-class events, bring even more people to our historic city, and further raise the profile of our vibrant Downtown Albany corridor. Thank you to Governor Hochul for this important funding to help make this expansion possible, and thank you to the leadership of the Albany Convention Center Authority for having the vision to lead this important enhancement of the Albany Capital Center. I look forward to seeing how this project, coupled with Governor Hochul’s $400 million investment in Downtown Albany, helps catalyze even more investment and make our newest neighborhood and our entire city even stronger.”

    Discover Albany President and CEO Jill Delaney said, “The expansion of the Albany Capital Center brings much-needed meetings and events space to our region, allowing us to grow current events, and meet the needs of larger groups who have been hoping to bring their event to Albany County. We are thrilled that the Governor has supported this project.”

    The project, located at 126 State Street, expands the ACC meeting space and adds amenities that will position the center to better serve the growing demands of the events industry. This expansion will add five new meeting rooms, a large multi-purpose room, a large ballroom and pre-function area on the first floor, and a 4,000 square foot courtyard for outdoor events on State Street. This will increase the ACC’s rentable space to 84,000 square feet, making it more competitive and bringing more world-class events that serve as an economic anchor for Albany’s ongoing renaissance.

    The $54.9 million project builds on prior State investments at and around the Albany Capital Center that create jobs and economic activity in Downtown Albany and across New York State. The project was recommended for funding by ESD’s Regional Office and Regional Council.

    As part of Governor Hochul’s FY26 Enacted Budget, the State is investing $400 million in Albany’s downtown to launch the Championing Albany’s Potential (CAP) Initiative, a collaborative, State-led effort to revitalize Albany’s downtown core. This includes $200 million in funding to plan and implement projects that reinvigorate commercial corridors, strengthen small businesses, promote housing growth, and revitalize underutilized real estate and open spaces. The CAP initiative also includes up to $150 million to transform cultural experiences in and around Downtown Albany such as the State Museum, up to $40 million to advance plans to reconnect communities divided by Interstate 787, and $1.5 million for public safety enhancements.

    MIL OSI USA News –