NewzIntel.com

Category: United States of America

  • MIL-OSI USA: Casten, Beatty, Kiggans Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Empower Women in Abusive Situations

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Sean Casten (IL-06)

    June 24, 2025

    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representatives Sean Casten (D-IL-06), Joyce Beatty (D-OH-03), and Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02) introduced the bipartisan Financial Empowerment and Protection Act, legislation to remove barriers to the financial insights often necessary for people to leave abusive relationships safely.

    “Far too often, we hear of victims of abuse who feel trapped in their situation due to limited or no insight into their household finances,” said Congressman Casten. “This bipartisan legislation, which came out of one such story from a constituent who called my office, aims to take away that lever of control from an abuser, empowering women in these situations to make their own financial decisions.”

    “Financial control is often used to trap victims of abuse and prevent them from moving forward,” said Congresswoman Beatty. “This critical legislation puts power back in the hands of women and men in abusive situations, ensuring equal access to and control over shared household finances. Every individual deserves financial transparency in their romantic relationships, along with the tools to live independently. I’m proud to join Congressman Casten in advancing this bill to empower couples with equal financial rights so that everyone has the freedom to live a secure, independent life if they so choose.”

    “Financial control is one of the most common—and devastating—tools used by abusers to trap their victims,” said Congresswoman Kiggans. “When someone can’t access the bills in their own home or the accounts they rely on for housing or childcare, it becomes nearly impossible to leave safely. The Financial Empowerment and Protection Act takes meaningful, bipartisan action to fix that. By ensuring equal access to shared household accounts and removing penalties for leaving unsafe housing, this bill gives survivors a real chance to reclaim their independence and start fresh.”

    “Survivors of domestic violence deserve safety, financial stability and broader economic security. As the Trump Administration attempts to defund programs for survivors in its war on diversity, equity, and inclusion, maintaining their access to shared accounts, such as utility and mortgage accounts, is just one way survivors can preserve their economic well-being. Providing survivors with the ability to sever rental agreements without further financial penalties in the event of violence supports survivors’ ability to seek safety,” said Sharita Gruberg, vice president of the economic justice team at the National Partnership for Women & Families. “The Financial Empowerment and Protection Act would give power back to survivors by providing them with the tools to regain or retain their independence. We are grateful to Representatives Casten, Beatty, and Kiggans for their tremendous efforts to support survivors and their families.”

    “Too often, survivors fear the financial repercussions of their decision to leave—and every survivor trapped by an abuser deserves the chance to break free,” said Stefan Turkheimer, Vice President for Public Policy at RAINN. “The Financial Empowerment and Protection Act will change lives by offering survivors a way out. RAINN is proud to support this bipartisan effort, which provides protections—like equal access to joint accounts and relief from lease termination penalties when fleeing abuse—that help remove barriers to safety and security.”

    Under the Financial Empowerment and Protection Act, mortgage lenders, landlords, utility providers, and childcare providers would be required to offer joint accounts for cohabitating or co-parenting couples. 

    Oftentimes, abusive partners use financial limitations as a method of control to prevent a victim from leaving the situation. This means that people leaving abusive relationships may have limited access to pay their own bills and may lose access to housing and childcare. Domestic violence shelters report that information about these accounts is commonly withheld during the dissolution of abusive relationships. 

    The Financial Empowerment and Protection Act would circumvent this, allowing victims equal insight into their household finances.

    This bill is endorsed by the National Organization for Women, the National Partnership for Women & Families, and RAINN.

    Text of the legislation can be found here. A section-by-section summary of the legislation can be found here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mike Levin’s Statement on the Ceasefire Announcement Between Israel and Iran

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Levin (CA-49)

    June 24, 2025

    Washington, D.C.—Today, Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) released the following statement in response to the announcement of a ceasefire between Israel and Iran:

    “I am hopeful that the ceasefire between Israel and Iran will hold — and lead to lasting diplomacy. The world is safer without a nuclear-armed Iran, and preventing that outcome remains a vital U.S. national security interest.

    “I’m deeply grateful to the brave U.S. service members who carried out this mission and to all those serving in the region. Their courage, discipline, and commitment to duty are extraordinary. My prayers are with them and their families.

    “However, as of now, Congress has not been briefed on the intelligence that justified this strike. We don’t know whether the threat was truly imminent or how much damage was done to Iran’s nuclear program. Ordering a strike of this magnitude without consulting Congress likely violated Article I of the Constitution, which gives only Congress the power to declare war or authorize the use of military force.

    “The administration’s reliance on the 2001 AUMF is shaky at best. That law was passed to authorize military action against those responsible for the 9/11 attacks — specifically al Qaeda and its affiliates. Iran is not al Qaeda. Using that decades-old authorization to justify this strike stretches the law beyond recognition.

    “That’s why I’ll support a War Powers Resolution to reassert Congress’s constitutional role. No president, Democrat or Republican, gets to take this country to war alone. We either defend the role of Congress now — or risk losing it permanently.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Department of Defense Employee Charged with Unlawful Retention of Classified Documents

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    A civilian employee of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) was arrested and made her initial court appearance yesterday to face charges of unauthorized removal and retention of classified documents.

    Ewa Maria Ciszak, 64, of Huntsville, Alabama, is charged with knowingly removing and retaining classified documents and materials.

    According to court documents unsealed today in the Northern District of Alabama, Ciszak has been employed at the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) since January 2023. As part of her duties, she held a security clearance and had access to classified materials related to the national defense of the United States. Beginning in approximately February 2025, and continuing through June 18, 2025, Ciszak allegedly removed classified documents from MDA facilities without authorization and transported them to her personal residence and vehicle, which were not authorized for classified material storage.

    On June 18, 2025, pursuant to a search warrant authorized by the U.S. District Court, federal agents executed a search of Ciszak’s home, person, and vehicle. Agents recovered multiple documents bearing classification markings up to the SECRET level. Some of the documents had been placed in her personal backpack that day and transported directly from MDA to her home.

    Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg, U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona for the Northern District of Alabama, and Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division made the announcement.

    The FBI’s Birmingham Field Office and the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations are investigating the case. Valuable assistant was provided by the FBI Atlanta Field Office’s Savannah Resident Agency and the Missile Defense Agency.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Henry Cornelius for the Northern District of Alabama and Trial Attorneys Chantelle Dial and Adam Barry of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Department of Defense Employee Charged with Unlawful Retention of Classified Documents

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    A civilian employee of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) was arrested and made her initial court appearance yesterday to face charges of unauthorized removal and retention of classified documents.

    Ewa Maria Ciszak, 64, of Huntsville, Alabama, is charged with knowingly removing and retaining classified documents and materials.

    According to court documents unsealed today in the Northern District of Alabama, Ciszak has been employed at the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) since January 2023. As part of her duties, she held a security clearance and had access to classified materials related to the national defense of the United States. Beginning in approximately February 2025, and continuing through June 18, 2025, Ciszak allegedly removed classified documents from MDA facilities without authorization and transported them to her personal residence and vehicle, which were not authorized for classified material storage.

    On June 18, 2025, pursuant to a search warrant authorized by the U.S. District Court, federal agents executed a search of Ciszak’s home, person, and vehicle. Agents recovered multiple documents bearing classification markings up to the SECRET level. Some of the documents had been placed in her personal backpack that day and transported directly from MDA to her home.

    Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg, U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona for the Northern District of Alabama, and Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky of the FBI’s Counterintelligence Division made the announcement.

    The FBI’s Birmingham Field Office and the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations are investigating the case. Valuable assistant was provided by the FBI Atlanta Field Office’s Savannah Resident Agency and the Missile Defense Agency.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Henry Cornelius for the Northern District of Alabama and Trial Attorneys Chantelle Dial and Adam Barry of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Balint Announces South Burlington $700,000 Award from Environmental Protection Agency for Bartlett Bay Wastewater Facility Improvements

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Becca Balint (VT-AL)

    Rep. Balint Announces South Burlington $700,000 Award from Environmental Protection Agency for Bartlett Bay Wastewater Facility Improvements

    South Burlington, VT, June 24, 2025

    Rep. Becca Balint (VT-AL) is proud to announce that the City of South Burlington will receive an award of $700,000 from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to improve the Bartlett Bay wastewater facility. Rep. Balint secured this funding, alongside fourteen other community projects, through the FY2024 appropriations bill.

    “By funding improvement projects that will lower costs, ensure safe water, and reduce our carbon footprint, this kind of investment will make a meaningful difference in the daily lives of Vermonters. I’m proud to get this funding over the finish line and to do the real work that will mean cleaner and safer communities for Vermont,” said Rep. Balint.

    The funding will be used to reduce the overall carbon footprint as part of the current upgrade of the Bartlett Bay Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF) in South Burlington. The facility was last upgraded over 20 years ago and will undergo a refurbishment over the next 1-3 years. This funding will be used to replace existing conventional, fossil-fuel powered systems with efficient heat pump units which can reduce the system’s carbon footprint by 25%. In addition, modern heat pumps can reduce electricity used for heating by approximately 50% compared to electric resistance heating. An energy efficient system will help keep wastewater rates low for rate payers, reduce the plant’s carbon footprint, and support a clean energy future.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Balint Announces South Burlington $700,000 Award from Environmental Protection Agency for Bartlett Bay Wastewater Facility Improvements

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Becca Balint (VT-AL)

    Rep. Balint Announces South Burlington $700,000 Award from Environmental Protection Agency for Bartlett Bay Wastewater Facility Improvements

    South Burlington, VT, June 24, 2025

    Rep. Becca Balint (VT-AL) is proud to announce that the City of South Burlington will receive an award of $700,000 from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to improve the Bartlett Bay wastewater facility. Rep. Balint secured this funding, alongside fourteen other community projects, through the FY2024 appropriations bill.

    “By funding improvement projects that will lower costs, ensure safe water, and reduce our carbon footprint, this kind of investment will make a meaningful difference in the daily lives of Vermonters. I’m proud to get this funding over the finish line and to do the real work that will mean cleaner and safer communities for Vermont,” said Rep. Balint.

    The funding will be used to reduce the overall carbon footprint as part of the current upgrade of the Bartlett Bay Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF) in South Burlington. The facility was last upgraded over 20 years ago and will undergo a refurbishment over the next 1-3 years. This funding will be used to replace existing conventional, fossil-fuel powered systems with efficient heat pump units which can reduce the system’s carbon footprint by 25%. In addition, modern heat pumps can reduce electricity used for heating by approximately 50% compared to electric resistance heating. An energy efficient system will help keep wastewater rates low for rate payers, reduce the plant’s carbon footprint, and support a clean energy future.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warnock, Colleagues Lead Effort to Create Increased Pathways to Legal Permanent Residency for Families Fleeing Turmoil

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Warnock, Colleagues Lead Effort to Create Increased Pathways to Legal Permanent Residency for Families Fleeing Turmoil

    The SECURE Act provides long-term stability for temporary protected status (TPS) and deferred enforced departure (DED) recipients by giving them the ability to apply for legal permanent residency

    The SECURE Act comes as the Trump administration continues to levy attacks against TPS and DED individuals

    There are more than 41,000 TPS holders in Georgia

    Senator Reverend Warnock: “All people no matter where they were born deserve just as much respect and compassion as we’d show to anyone else”

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Senate Democrats introduced the Safe Environment from Countries Under Repression and Emergency (SECURE) Act. The legislation would create a pathway for TPS and DED recipients by giving them the ability to apply for legal permanent residency.

    “As a pastor I believe every human being has dignity,”     said Senator Reverend Warnock. “All people no matter where they are born deserve just as much respect and compassion as we’d show anyone else. I’ll continue to be an advocate for the immigrant community in Georgia, and I won’t stop fighting in Washington for the policies we need to ensure all of our loved ones, friends, and neighbors can live full lives free from fear of persecution and deportation.”

    TPS is a temporary, legal immigration status granted to individuals who are endangered by conditions in their home country resulting from extraordinary events such as ongoing armed conflict, environmental disaster, or epidemic. TPS status is granted for set periods ranging from six to 18 months, requiring the Department of Homeland Security to extend a country’s status on a recurring basis. Recent estimates found there are approximately 41,000 people with TPS in Georgia.

    Deferred enforced departure (DED) is a temporary and discretionary administrative stay of removal granted to foreign citizens from designated countries. Unlike TPS, a DED designation emanates from the President’s constitutional powers to conduct foreign relations and has no statutory basis. 

    Since coming to the Senate, Senator Warnock has been a vocal proponent of fixing the nation’s immigration system through comprehensive immigration reform, and a strong supporter of Georgia’s vibrant immigrant communities. To that end, Senator Warnock has advocated for legislation to provide a legal pathway to citizenship for Dreamers and has supported measures to strengthen funding for border security and fentanyl screening.

    In addition to Senators Warnock and Van Hollen, the legislation was introduced by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez-Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Andy Kim (D-NJ) Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Edward Markey (D-MA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Mark Warner (D-VA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

    The bill text for the SECURE Act is HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NREL Welcomes 30 Participants To Join Energy to Communities Peer-Learning Cohorts on Utility Engagement and Load Growth

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    30 Local Leaders Join Two New Energy to Communities (E2C) Peer-Learning Cohorts on Electricity Load Growth and Utility Engagement

    The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is excited to announce the 30 local participants across 25 states, territories, and Tribes selected for two new Energy to Communities (E2C) peer-learning cohorts, managed on behalf of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

    These cohorts will bring together local leaders, energy experts, and community organizations to tackle critical challenges related to electricity load growth, grid impacts, and electric utility partnerships. From July to December, the 15 participants in each cohort will convene monthly to learn from energy experts—and each other—about best practices, strategies, and tools for addressing these energy topics.

    The “Navigating Electricity Load Growth and Associated Utility Grid Impacts” cohort will focus on strategies for adapting to increasing electricity demand driven by emerging industries such as artificial intelligence and data centers. Participants will explore how grid infrastructure can evolve to meet new economic opportunities while maintaining reliability and resilience.

    The “Engaging With Electric Utilities for Successful Local Partnerships” cohort will equip local leaders with knowledge on electric utility regulation, core functions, and business models. Participants will gain insights into collaborative approaches for working effectively with electric utilities, fostering innovation, and advancing policies that support local energy needs.

    Participants from more than 200 communities have already participated in E2C peer-learning cohorts for educational resources, case studies, analysis and modeling tools, templates, trainings, and facilitated collaboration.

    Learn more about E2C’s three different technical assistance offerings, and apply for short-term expert match support today.

    “These peer-learning cohorts represent an exciting opportunity for communities to deepen their understanding of the evolving energy landscape while building strong partnerships to navigate these challenges,” said Jenny Sumner, the E2C program lead at NREL. “We look forward to facilitating these cohorts and providing participants with the tools and expertise needed to shape their energy futures.”

    The cohort topics and participants in the July 2025 cycle are:

    Navigating Electricity Load Growth and Associated Utility Grid Impacts

    • Bennett, Colorado
    • Blaine County, Idaho
    • Cherokee Nation (Tahlequah, Oklahoma)
    • Chester, Pennsylvania
    • Columbus Municipal Division of Power, Ohio
    • Falls City Economic Development and Growth Enterprise Inc. (EDGE), Nebraska
    • Frisco, Texas
    • Guam Power Authority, Guam
    • Madelia Municipal Light and Power, Minnesota
    • Middle Tennessee Electric, Tennessee
    • Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission, Indiana
    • Prince William County, Virginia
    • Redmond, Washington
    • Somerville, Massachusetts

    Engaging With Electric Utilities for Successful Local Partnerships

    • Athens-Clarke County, Georgia
    • Blaine County, Idaho
    • Boston, Massachusetts
    • Central Vermont Regional Planning Commission, Vermont
    • Delray Beach, Florida
    • Douglas County, Kansas
    • Greater Portland Council of Governments, Maine
    • Johnstown, Colorado
    • Las Cruces, New Mexico
    • Lucas County, Ohio, with Toledo, Ohio
    • Missoula, Montana
    • Sedona, Arizona
    • Top of Alabama Regional Council of Governments, Alabama
    • Washoe County, Nevada
    • Windsor, Colorado

    Peer-learning cohorts are one of three technical assistance offerings from the E2C program, ranging from short-term technical assistance to address near-term energy challenges to more in-depth technical partnerships that support communities in developing abundant, reliable, affordable, and secure energy systems.

    E2C is funded by DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy and managed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory with support from Argonne National Laboratory, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.

    Learn more about E2C.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE investigation leads to 6 charged in connection with interstate commercial burglaries

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    NEWARK, N.J. — Following an ICE Homeland Security Investigations Newark investigation, six people were charged for conspiring to transport stolen property derived from burglarized consignment shops across multiple states.

    The subjects were charged by complaint with one count of conspiracy to sell and receive stolen property that had crossed state lines. Marco Honesty, 28, Richard Francis, 35, Dominique Hayes, 29, Deandre Dudley, 32, Ilon Coles-Melson, 21, and Marcus Gallmon, 21, residents of Washington, D.C. and Maryland, were charged at the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey in Newark.

    “Our law enforcement partnerships across the East Coast in this investigation led to the successful apprehension of six suspects and dismantled an interstate burglary ring behind a string of consignment store thefts across New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania Maryland and Delaware,” said ICE HSI Newark Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel. “The criminals hoping to line their own pockets by selling millions of dollars in stolen merchandise will now face the consequences of their illicit schemes.”  

    According to the investigation, the defendants are part of a commercial burglary ring that committed at least 18 burglaries in multiple states between March 2024 and November 2024, including in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware. On several dates, the defendants broke into the consignment shops in the middle of the night using sledgehammers and other objects, stole dozens of designer handbags and other items from each shop, and transported the stolen goods across state lines.

    HSI Newark led the investigation with the assistance of HSI Baltimore, HSI Malta, HSI Washington D.C. and HSI Wilmington. Many law enforcement partners from five states also supported the investigation.

    HSI Newark’s law enforcement partners in New Jersey who assisted in the investigation include the New Jersey State Police, Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office, Cape May Police Department, Cherry Hill Police Department, Colts Neck Police Department, Englewood Police Department, Haddonfield Police Department, Livingston Police Department, Manalapan Police Department, Margate Police Department, Millburn Police Department, Montclair Police Department, Roxbury Township Police Department, Springfield Police Department, Tenafly Police Department, Warren Police Department, and Watchung Police Department for their assistance.

    New York partners include Guilderland Police Department, North Castle Police Department and Saratoga Springs Police Department. Pennsylvania partners include Philadelphia Police Department. Delaware partners include Delaware State Police. Maryland partners include Prince George’s County Police Department and Baltimore County Police Department.

    Honesty appeared in Newark federal court June 13 and was detained. Hayes appeared in Newark federal court May 22 and was detained. Coles-Melson appeared n Newark federal court April 11 and was detained. Gallmon, Dudley and Francis also appeared in court earlier this year but were later released on a $100,000 unsecured bond. The charge of conspiracy to sell or receive stolen property carries a maximum potential penalty of five years in prison and a maximum potential penalty of up to a $250,000 fine, or twice the amount of money involved in the offense, whichever is greater.

    Anyone who believes they may be a victim, or has information about the theft group or burglaries, is asked to call 1-866-DHS-2-ICE, or call a local field office.

    The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. RaShaun Kemp Hosts Father’s Day Celebration at Georgia State Capitol

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA (June 24, 2025) — Last Friday, Sen. RaShaun Kemp (D–Atlanta) hosted a Father’s Day celebration at the Georgia State Capitol to honor fathers from across the state for their unwavering commitment to family and community.

    The event featured opening remarks from former State Representative Erica (Thomas) Adeyemi, followed by a presentation from Sen. Kemp, who introduced a resolution recognizing exceptional fathers and the lasting impact of fatherhood in Georgia.

    “This event holds personal significance for me,” said Sen. Kemp. “I didn’t grow up with my father in my life, and I only met him for the first time at age 37. Since then, he has been a blessing, showing up with open arms and a full heart. Through that experience, I was reminded of the power of grace, intention and presence.

    That’s why I believe it’s time we expand the way we talk about fatherhood. Too often, Father’s Day is framed solely around absence. But there is another story — one of fathers who are deeply present, who nurture and lead, who help shape not only their own children but the communities around them.

    With this resolution, we recognize those fathers and the lasting legacy they create through their everyday actions. Let this not be a one-day celebration, but a continued commitment to uplifting the value of fatherhood throughout our state. I look forward to making this an annual tradition here at our state capitol.”

    # # # #

    Sen. RaShaun Kemp represents the 38th Senate District, which includes a portion of Fulton County. He may be reached by phone at (404) 656-0105 or by email at rashaun.kemp@senate.ga.gov.

    For all media inquiries, please reach out to SenatePressInquiries@senate.ga.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Op-Ed: New York Will Always Support Reproductive Rights

    Source: US State of New York

    oday, on the third anniversary of the Supreme Court’s Dobbs ruling, which ended the constitutional right to an abortion in the United States, Governor Hochul authored an op-ed in Empire Report reaffirming her commitment to keeping abortion safe and accessible in New York. Since taking office, Governor Hochul has made nation-leading investments in expanding reproductive freedom rights for New Yorkers including: increasing funding to support abortion care providers, passing historic legislation protecting both patients and New York doctors and today announced nearly $25 million to organizations in New York that support abortion care. Text of the op-ed can be viewed online and is available below:

    Three years ago today was the last day that every woman in the United States had a constitutionally-protected right to access abortion.

    With the stroke of a pen the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, and our nation erupted in grief, anger and fear. This was a right that my mother’s generation fought for – a right we expected would be here to stay for my daughter and granddaughters’ generations.

    Over the past three years, anti-choice politicians have done everything in their power to restrict reproductive freedom. Nineteen states have passed total or near-total abortion bans, and women have literally died because they couldn’t get the care they needed.

    But here’s the thing about New Yorkers: when you try to take away our rights, we fight like hell to protect our people. New York will always stand as a safe harbor for women who need abortion care.

    So what did New York do when they tried to strip away our freedoms? We got to work.

    Immediately following the leaked release of the Dobbs decision, we invested a nation-leading $35 million to support abortion providers statewide. This funding is helping New York doctors address financial challenges and make much-needed investments in security. And in 2022, I signed New York’s “Shield Law” to protect the rights of patients and prevent other states from prosecuting New York’s doctors.

    This year, we went a step further by offering additional protections for those prescribing abortion medication via telemedicine by protecting their personal information.

    These issues aren’t hypothetical. Consider this: a warrant was issued in Louisiana to arrest a New York-based doctor who, for decades, performed her duties as a health care provider. She assisted women exercising control of their own bodies and helped them access the basic health care they needed. Because of our “Shield Law,” we protected that New York doctor.

    Even as other states continue to target, harass and scare doctors and patients, we’ll continue to stand up for what’s right. In this year’s budget, we’ve invested over $60 million to protect New Yorkers’ right to reproductive health care and the brave providers who ensure care is provided to those who need it most. Today, I’m proud to announce nearly $25 million in State grants from the New York State Abortion Access Program, which will go directly to organizations in New York that support abortion care.

    People across the nation look to us for leadership. My promise to them – and to all New Yorkers – is that we will continue to stand as a safe harbor for anyone who needs abortion care.

    And to anyone who dares threaten these fundamental freedoms, my message is simple: Not here. Not now. Not ever.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Foreign National Sentenced to Prison for Conducting Cyber Scams That Victimized U.S. Citizens and Businesses

    Source: US FBI

    CHICAGO — A foreign national has been sentenced to three and a half years in federal prison for conducting a variety of cyber fraud schemes that victimized U.S. citizens and businesses.

    RIDWAN ADELEKE ADEPOJU and co-schemers operated multiple fraud schemes from Nigeria, including phishing scams, romance scams, and the submission of fraudulent tax returns.  The scams involved multiple spoofed email addresses, fictional social media personas, and unwitting money mules.  Adepoju’s schemes victimized numerous U.S. citizens and businesses, including individuals and companies in the Chicago area.

    Adepoju, 33, of Lagos, Nigeria, was arrested last year in the United Kingdom and extradited to the United States.  He pleaded guilty in March to federal wire fraud and aggravated identity theft charges.  On Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Matthew F. Kennelly imposed a 43-month prison sentence.

    The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Ramsey E. Covington, Special Agent-in-Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation in Chicago, and Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI.

    “Defendant’s offense involved a years-long, complex scheme, involving several types of scams and many victims,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann Marie E. Ursini argued in the government’s sentencing memorandum.  “Defendant chose to be a willing participant in the scheme over and over again.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Chicago Lab Owner Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison in Connection with $14 Million COVID-19 Testing Fraud Scheme

    Source: US FBI

    CHICAGO — The owner of a Chicago laboratory was sentenced today to seven years in federal prison for his role in a Covid-19 testing fraud scheme.

    ZISHAN ALVI, 46, of Inverness, Ill., owned and operated a laboratory in Chicago that performed testing for Covid-19.  In 2021 and 2022, Alvi caused tens of thousands of claims to be submitted to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) for Covid-19 tests that were not performed as billed.  As part of the scheme, the laboratory released negative test results to patients, even though the laboratory either had not tested the specimens or the results were inconclusive because Alvi diluted the tests to save on costs while making them unreliable.  Alvi knew that the laboratory was releasing negative results for Covid-19 tests that were not performed or were inconclusive, but still caused the laboratory to submit claims to HRSA for those tests.  Alvi also lied to laboratory directors to conceal his fraud. HRSA paid the laboratory more than $14 million because of the fraudulent claims that Alvi caused to be submitted.

    Alvi pleaded guilty last year to one count of wire fraud.  U.S. District Judge John J. Tharp, Jr. imposed the prison sentence during a hearing today in federal court in Chicago.  Judge Tharp also ordered Alvi to pay more than $14.1 million in restitution and forfeit more than $8 million in cash, a 2021 Range Rover HSE, a 2022 Tesla X, and a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB250W4, all of which were previously seized by law enforcement.

    The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI, and Mario Pinto, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Region of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG).  The government was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Hasten of the Northern District of Illinois, and Claire T. Sobczak, Trial Attorney of the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division’s Fraud Section.

    “At the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, Zishan Alvi disregarded public health concerns in favor of greed and his own financial gain,” said U.S. Attorney Boutros.  “The government’s pandemic-relief programs were intended to keep people safe, not provide an avenue for fraud and illegal profits.  Our Office is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to root out abuse of these important programs and hold accountable those who seek to fraudulently profit from them.”

    “In the midst of economic uncertainty for many Americans, the defendant chose to cash in on a global pandemic by stealing millions of dollars and committing extensive fraud,” said FBI SAC DePodesta.  “Further, he placed patients and the public at risk by releasing false Covid-19 test results. The FBI and our dedicated partners are committed to investigating Covid con artists and ensuring they are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program.  Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion.  In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes.  More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Wakpala Man Sentenced to Nearly Six Years in Federal Prison for Assault and Burglary of a Home Within the Standing Rock Reservation

    Source: US FBI

    ABERDEEN – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Charles B. Kornmann has sentenced a McLaughlin, South Dakota, man convicted of First Degree Burglary and two counts of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon. The sentencing took place on June 16, 2025.

    Francis Lee Dubray, age 35, was sentenced to five years and ten months months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $300 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

    Dubray was indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2023. He was found guilty on October 24, 2024, following a three-day federal jury trial.

    Shortly after nightfall on July 5, 2023, Dubray and two co-defendants went to a woman’s home in McLaughlin, South Dakota, within the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation, to assault a man they believed had inappropriately touched a girl. As the woman yelled at them to go away, one of the co-defendants kicked in her front door. Dubray’s co-defendants rushed into the house while Dubray stood on the stoop, hollering and chastising the woman for allowing the man to stay in her house. Although the man they came to find was passed out, Dubray’s co-defendants repeatedly kicked him in the face and struck him with a bar while the woman pleaded for them to stop. The victim incurred a broken nose and shattered orbital and sinus bones in the assault. He still struggles with his vision and headaches today.  As Dubray’s co-defendants left the home, one of them knocked the woman to the floor. As she crawled toward the front door, Dubray kicked her in the face, then fled with his companions.

    This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in federal court as opposed to State court.

    This case was investigated by the FBI and the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carl Thunem prosecuted the case.

    Dubray was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lummis, Scott Release Principles for Market Structure Legislation 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    Washington, D.C.— U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) joined Senate Banking Chairman Tim Scott (R-SC) in releasing principles to guide the Committee’s consideration of market structure legislation.

    “America desperately needs digital asset legislation that promotes responsible innovation and protects consumers,” said Lummis. “While the European Union and Singapore have established clear regulations, the U.S. continues to sit on the sidelines while the digital asset industry seeks greener pastures. That changes today. I am partnering with Chairman Scott to provide principles for market structure legislation to finally draw the line between a security and a commodity and ensure the U.S. remains at the helm of global financial advancement.” 

    “Since taking over as Chairman, I’ve led a new approach to digital assets regulation, and we’ve delivered results for the industry and the American people,” said Scott.  “We have more work to do, and I look forward to building on the success of the GENIUS Act and advancing market structure legislation here in the Senate. These principles will serve as an important baseline for negotiations on this bill, and I’m hopeful my colleagues will put politics aside and provide long-overdue clarity for digital asset regulation.”

    The market structure principles state:

    Legislation Should Clearly Define the Legal Status of Digital Assets

    • A clear, economically rational line distinguishing digital asset securities from digital asset commodities should be fixed in statute, contemplating existing law and providing predictability, enhanced legal precision, and much-needed regulatory certainty.

    Jurisdiction Should Be Clearly Allocated Among Regulators

    • The authority of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) should be clearly allocated in statute, preventing either from emerging as an all-encompassing regulator.
      • The SEC’s authority should extend to, for example, initial fundraising transactions, disclosures and transactions in tokenized securities; and
      • The CFTC should be granted new spot authority focused on market conduct, which should not extend to digital assets that are securities.
    • Legislation should acknowledge that not all distributed ledger technology should be regulated by the SEC and CFTC.
      • Legislation should recognize the different risks and benefits between centralized firms, decentralized finance protocols, and non-custodial software platforms.
      • For similar reasons, self-custody of digital assets should be explicitly preserved.
      • Likewise, the use of distributed ledger technology and smart contracts for other, non-financial purposes, such as to manage health data, should fall outside the jurisdiction of the SEC and CFTC.

    SEC and CFTC Regulation Should be Modernized to Foster Innovation

    • Federal securities and commodities laws should be modernized to account for the unique nature of digital assets and distributed ledger technology.
      • A new SEC exemption for certain digital asset fundraising should be included in legislation.
      • The SEC should revisit its burdensome registration requirements for digital asset issuers, and instead provide a clear, appropriately tailored pathway to compliance for good faith, innovative actors.
      • Clear, pro-innovation principles regarding the trading of digital assets on the secondary market should be established.
        • These principles should consider whether digital asset securities may be traded alongside digital asset commodities, and whether traditional securities or commodities should be traded alongside digital asset securities or commodities, respectively.
    • Legislation, as well as SEC and CFTC rules, should not apply principles designed for centralized firms to decentralized protocols.
      • Tokenization should be recognized as an evolution of financial infrastructure that enhances efficiency, transparency, and liquidity, rather than a fundamental change to the nature of the underlying asset.

    Regulation Should Protect Those Who Purchase or Trade Digital Assets

    • Centralized digital asset intermediaries should be subject to innovation-friendly registration and risk management requirements similar to that of other centralized intermediaries today.
      • Requirements could include illicit finance compliance, clear and right-sized capital, custody and segregation requirements, and appropriate enforcement authority.
    • Legislation should also ensure that customer funds are protected during bankruptcy.

    Illicit Finance Measures Should Be Targeted and Pro-Innovation

    • A small, common-sense package of measures directed at preventing money laundering and sanctions evasion with digital assets should be included.
    • Potential provisions can and should be targeted and pro-innovation. This could include requiring the adoption of examination standards and clarifying that the Bank Secrecy Act and International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) extends to entities abroad with U.S. touchpoints.
    • Reforms should also consider the ways digital assets and distributed ledger technology can improve transparency, efficiency, and the detection of illicit activity, including money laundering.

    Federal Financial Regulators Should Welcome Responsible Innovation

    • Federal financial regulators should take common-sense steps to respond to responsible innovation, including potentially through increased use of no-action guidance, sandboxes, safe harbors, coordination, and appropriate application requirements.
    • Federal financial regulators should provide clear guidance affirming that many crypto-related activities are permissible for banks and other financial institutions, provided they do not threaten the safety and soundness of the institution.
    • Clear guidance will also improve and better enforcement by establishing well-defined rules and expectations, fostering accountability, and enabling consistent application of regulations, leading to better understanding and compliance.

    For complete market structure principles, click here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Smith Statement on Trump Ordering U.S. Strikes on Iran’s Nuclear Facilities

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Adam Smith (9th District of Washington)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash.), Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in response to President Trump ordering the U.S. military to conduct military strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan.
     
    “I condemn in the strongest terms the President’s decision to order the U.S. military to strike Iran’s nuclear sites. The President did not seek authorization from Congress or demonstrate that Iran posed an immediate threat to the security of the United States. Furthermore, the President failed to provide clear objectives for these actions and there are no guarantees that it will eliminate the possibility of Iran developing a nuclear weapon or how long it might set their program back.
     
    “Engaging in direct conflict places U.S. service members and military sites in the Middle East squarely in the crosshairs of Iran and its many proxies. Tonight’s actions could further escalate tensions, destabilize the region, and drag the United States into an avoidable war.

    “The way to stop Iran from developing a nuclear weapon and to protect American service members is through diplomacy and negotiation, not entering into direct conflict. The path that the President has chosen risks unleashing a wider war in the region that is both incredibly unpredictable and treacherous and that threatens the safety and security of the United States, Israel, and ultimately the world.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Long-term Satellite Data Reveal How Climate Shapes West Coast Shorelines

    Source: US Geological Survey

    The research, led by the Université de Toulouse and partners, highlights how coastal erosion and shoreline movement vary significantly with time and with latitude. By analyzing waterline positions—where land meets ocean—between 1997 and 2022, scientists found that in the Pacific Northwest, seasonal waterline movements often exceed 25 meters, while shifts in Southern California and farther south rarely top 10 meters.

    The driving forces behind these changes also vary by region. Wave power is the dominant force in the northern parts of the coast, while farther south, sea-level fluctuations and southern hemisphere swell become important. This reflects a transition in how wave climate affects coastal processes from north to south.

    “This paper is the synthesis of [lead author Marcan Graffin’s] many separate efforts, from developing satellite shoreline-detection algorithms, to generating large-scale data sets, and then analyzing them alongside climate data. We’ve learned a great deal about the nuances of shoreline variability on the U.S. West Coast from Marcan’s work,” said USGS Research Oceanographer Dr. Sean Vitousek, a co-author of the study.

     

    In addition, the study examines the outsized influence of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), the recurring climate pattern that swings between warm (El Niño) and cool (La Niña) phases in the Pacific Ocean, on shoreline positions. During El Niño years, intense storm tracks shift southward, boosting wave energy and accelerating erosion from Southern California to Baja California Sur. La Niña events, on the other hand, are associated with smaller winter waves and mild shoreline accretion across the subregion.

    However, farther north—from Northern California through the Pacific Northwest—the impacts of ENSO are less predictable. There, shoreline response depends on a complex blend of storm path changes, wave-energy intensity, and local geography.

    These patterns help explain why some coastlines erode dramatically during strong El Niño winters while others seem to hold steady, demonstrating how regional climate signals interact with local coastal dynamics.

    The study is one of the first to examine shoreline changes along such a large, diverse stretch of coast using a consistent satellite-derived dataset. The 25-year archive of shoreline imagery allowed researchers to tease out both seasonal and interannual trends—critical for anticipating how coastlines will respond to future climate extremes. 

    Read the study, Waterline responses to climate forcing along the North American West Coast, in Nature Communications: Earth & Environment.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: International Convention Gavels

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    This article was featured in the Summer 2025 IAM Journal and was written by IAM Communications Representative Bill Harkum.

    The gavels used at the 2024 International Convention in New York City symbolize the diverse crafts and skills of our membership. Four unique gavels were produced by four proud lodges within the Eastern Territory.

    The IAM Ritual used at union meetings tells us that by tra­dition, two raps of the gavel are a call to order for the gathered members. Three raps of the gavel require the members to stand and be silent. One rap of the gavel means members take their seats and maintain order.

    THREE RAPS OF THE FIRST GAVEL

    One gavel was made by Local S6 members in Maine, home to Bath Tron Works and members who build ships for the U.S. Navy. Derek Bozeman of IAM Local S6 collaborated with Jeremy Tripp, a member of Bath Maine Draftsmen Association Local 3999, collaborated to produce a gavel out scrap ship material and stainless steel. The result is an impressively balanced and weigh­ ted gavel that looks like materials representing the yard of this ship building facility.

    Tripp said “we were able to incorporate a lot of the identity of the yard, the shipyard, into it.”

    The shine of the stainless steel against an inlaid TAM brass coin and a brass outline of a Navy ship as a crown piece above the hammerhead shows the skill and crea­tivity to turn a simple tool into a showpiece.

    “The pride, execution and talent that went into this gavel speaks for itself when you see it,” said IAM District 4 Business Representative Chris Wiers.

    THREE RAPS OF THE NEXT GAVEL

    The next gavel is from Local 175 in York, a home of Harley-Davidson motorcycles manufacturing. Using scrap steel, three members of the lodge fashioned a Harley handlebar and throttle into a gavel, and a Harley gas tank into a strike plate.

    “The theme was, ‘We make the eagle fly,”‘ said Sam Santiago, one of the Local 175 craftsmen to do the intricate work by hand.

    William Anthony IV is the member who artistically trimmed, bent, and hand painted the steel to look like bird feathers. Scott Karaschak produced the handle bar and motorcycle throttle body used in the gavel itself.

    “I am in total awe of what our members did at local 175, from the beginning to the finished product,” said TAM District 98 Assistant Directing Business Representative Kermit Forbes Jr.

    THREE RAPS OF THE NEXT GAVEL

    The next gavel is made by a member of Local 1943 at Cleveland-Cliffs in Middletown, Ohio. This factory is the largest producer of flat-rolled steel in North America, much of which is used in automobile production.

    Michael Wilhelm is a maintenance technician, responsible for attending to and fixing the machinery within this steel mill, for over a decade. He’s known for always staying busy, and finding projects to work on, regardless of the rest cycles in the plan. Wilhelm made all the parts and components of this gavel by band.

    The gavel is made from flat stainless steel and some brass. It features a rotating center coil, driven by a step down motor that Wilhelm had to specially tweak to appear to be levitating inside the hammer head. It has a micro furnace with burner boxes at the corners, and a blower motor to move the air from the furnace.

    “Mike is a real go-getter. No idle time, always working,” said Local 1943 President and Directing  Business  Representative Shawn Coffey. “I knew it would be a success and he would knock it out of the park.”

    THREE RAPS OF THE NEXT GAVEL

    The final gavel was made by IAM Local 4 member John Wible at the Winpisinger Center in Hollywood, Md. It is the only gavel for this convention made from wood, and the craftsmanship is just as intricate as its steel siblings used at the International Convention.

    Wible is a full time mainte­nance technician at the Winpisin­ger Center. When not at work he is a life member and volunteer firefi­ghter at this local fire department. “We are so proud of every gavel that’s being made. It showcases the talent our members have, the creativity that our members have,” said IAM Eastern Territory Gene­ral Vice President David Sullivan. ‘The gavel is very, very important to our process, and anybody who has the honor to swing that gavel, needs to respect that gavel, and respect our members, and always do what’s right for our members.” 

    All four gavels are now on dis­ play at IAM Headquarters.

    One rap of the gavel so that all can be seated.

    Watch Video Here

    The post International Convention Gavels appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Office of Sustainability Awards Environmental and Social Sustainability Grants to Student-Led Projects

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    UConn, consistently one of the top ten most sustainable universities in the United States, will be getting even better at upholding sustainable practices with the help of seven student-led projects this year.

    These innovative projects are funded by the Environmental and Social Sustainability Grants (ESSG) Program through the Office of Sustainability. Creative student-faculty teams applied for funding to support campus programs that enhance environmental and social sustainability while engaging students and community members. Applicants shared ideas spanning education, research, authentic community engagement, and campus operations. This is the fourth round of ESSG funding since 2021, which has helped launch the Swap Shop (now Thrift Den), a composting privy at Spring Valley Student Farm, and efforts to combat food insecurity via hydroponic farming.

    “The ESSG program is just one of the Office of Sustainability’s growing suite of experiential learning programs available to all UConn students. In alignment with UConn’s strategic goals, we are excited to be able to award these funds to empower students to take action on addressing real-world challenges that impact the wellness of people and the planet. Faculty and staff mentors play an instrumental role in ensuring the success of these projects and we’re also incredibly grateful for their support,” said Patrick McKee, Director of the Office of Sustainability.

    Seven projects were awarded funds due to their interdisciplinary nature and ability to advance sustainability and equity.

    Harnessing Phosphorus

    Phosphorus is a key piece in fertilizing crops and producing food. This project aims to explore sustainable, easy ways of getting phosphorus out of wastewater to make it easier, cheaper, and less climate-intensive for farmers to grow food in underprivileged areas.

    • Student: Brenny Alcantara ’27 (CLAS)
    • Staff Mentor: Katie Milardo, Associate Director, Energy & Water Conservation

    The Grove of Generosity: Sustainable Food Forest for Students

    A food forest to create community for people, plants and wildlife on the Storrs campus. Using native plants, this project will provide habitat, food for all, and space to make connections between people and nature.

    • Students: Olivia Ballaro ’26 (CAHNR), Ella May ’27 (CAHNR), Howard Truax ’26 (CAHNR)
    • Faculty Mentor: Phoebe Godfrey, Professor in Residence, Sociology

    Sustainability Practicum: Designing a UConn Hartford Service-Learning Course

    This project will create materials for a UConn Hartford geography service-learning course titled “Sustainability Practicum,” designed to develop student leaders of environmental & social sustainability in collaboration with & in service of Keney Park Sustainability Project, a nonprofit developing sustainable community-based food systems in urban North Hartford.

    • Students: Thomas Bonitz, Ph.D. Candidate in Geography
    • Faculty Mentor: Dr. Carol Atkinson-Palombo, Professor in Geography

    Project Racoon

    Project Raccoon is a student-led initiative that collects redeemable bottles and cans to reduce waste, increase recycling, and fund student scholarships. With this grant, the program will expand to over 50+ bins and engage more volunteers.

    • Student: Abigail Koval ’26 (BUS), Anny Zheng ’26 (COE), Jennifer Weng ’26 (COE), Virginia Weng ’26 (COE)
    • Staff Mentor: Cody Ryan, Innovation Zone Supervisor

    Seeds2Sustain: Hartford & Stamford Campuses

    Seeds2Sustain is a program designed to help students address food insecurity on a personal level by using hydroponics. Over 9 weeks, students are taught about the evolution of food production, food insecurity, hydroponics, nutrition, cooking and more to gain a solid foundation of knowledge.

    • Students: Lucy Ledesma ‘26 (BUS, COE), Audrey Larson ‘25 (COE)
    • Faculty Mentor: Johnathan Moore, Executive Director, Digital Frontiers Initiative, Director of OPIM Innovate Labs 

    Disasters in Society: Working Towards Resilient & Sustainable Futures through Experiential Learning & Service

    This project captures Asheville’s recovery from Hurricane Helene, highlighting student engagement and hands-on learning in disaster resilience. Through storytelling and service, they aim to expand access to fieldwork and promote support for sustainability-focused education.

    • Students: Lisel Nee ’26 (COE), Melia Marshall, MPP Candidate, Daniel Kraemer, Ph.D. Candidate in Geography, Brandon Soto, Masters of Energy and Environmental Management Candidate
    • Faculty Mentor: Dr. Carol Atkinson-Palombo, Professor in Geography

    Sustainable Dairy Wastewater Treatment Using Microalgae at UConn

    This project addresses the challenge of dairy wastewater from the UConn barns, which can be a significant source of pollution if not properly managed. By using microalgae to treat wastewater, we can convert it into a sustainable biomass that can be used as poultry feed. This approach not only helps clean and recycle wastewater but also aligns with circular bioeconomy principles, turning waste into valuable resources. This initiative advances UConn’s environmental goals and contributes to a more sustainable campus ecosystem.

    • Students: Azeem Sarwar ’27 (COE), Syed Zahid Ahmad, Ph.D. Candidate in Mechanical Engineering
    • Faculty Mentors: Dr. Yu Lei, Professor in Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Dr. Yongku Cho, Associate Professor in Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering

    Over $37,000 will be awarded in total to support these student-lead projects.

    Thomas Bonitz, a grantee pursuing a Ph.D. in Geography says, “As an aspiring educator, I am thrilled to work on designing a “sustainability practicum” course for the UConn Hartford campus. There is obvious educational and community value getting students out of the traditional classroom setting to learn from and contribute to real-world efforts to practice sustainability.” His project exemplifies UConn’s dedication to promoting student success and providing service to Connecticut communities.

    “I look forward to moving onto the next stage for my Harnessing Phosphorus project and being able to work with more resources. I’ve been working on this project independently since my first semester at UConn, so receiving this grant and finding support from new mentors is a reminder of how far I’ve come. It’s great to see the University also believes in my project’s potential,” shares Brenny Alcantara ’27 (CLAS) who will be working on ways to make fertilizer more accessible, less likely to cause algae blooms, and decrease the carbon footprint of a critical agricultural ingredient.

    Students will present their project findings and impacts this fall at the Climate Change Cafe poster symposium in December.

    For more details on the Environmental and Social Sustainability Small Grants Program, please visit: https://sustainability.uconn.edu/environmental-social-sustainability-small-grants-program/

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Next President of Society of Clinical Psychology is from UConn

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    “Congratulation to Dr. Damion Grasso on his election as President of the Society of Clinical Psychology,” shares Department of Psychiatry Professor and Chair Dr. David C. Steffens. “There is little doubt that his term as President will be successful.”

    The Society of Clinical Psychology (Division 12 of the American Psychological Association) is the professional home of clinical and health service psychologists.

    Grasso, an elected fellow of the Division 12 of the APA, has always had a strong, longstanding commitment to the Society of Clinical Psychology. Since graduate school he served as a campus representative for the Society. Over time, he took on several leadership roles – most recently as Secretary on the Board and co-chair of the Committee on Science and Practice. As the Committee’s co-chair, Grasso has played an instrumental role in advancing SCP’s efforts to evaluate and inventory empirically supported psychological treatments (ESTs).

    As President, Grasso plans to prioritize these efforts by expanding SCP’s capacity to engage and inform the public with resources designed to promote ESTs, establish an informed consumer-base, and caution against the growing trend for non-efficacious and potentially harmful approaches.

    SCP’s mission is to promote the integration of clinical psychological science and practice in education, research, application, advocacy, and public policy. Also, the Society seeks to engage students and clinical and health service psychologists at any stage of their career in support of this mission.

    “I am honored to serve as the president-elect of the Society of Clinical Psychology. Since graduate school, the Society has been my professional home, connecting me with mentors and pioneers in our field I wouldn’t have otherwise come to know. This community has truly helped shape my career,” says Grasso. “My intent is to pay it forward and grow our community of students and early career professionals so that we can support the next generation of clinical psychologists – especially during these challenging times.”

    Grasso serves UConn Health, Connecticut’s only public academic medical center, caring for patients as a licensed clinical psychologist and associate professor in the Department of Psychiatry at UConn School of Medicine with a secondary appointment in its Department of Pediatrics.

    Additionally, his research broadly focuses on understanding biobehavioral mechanisms involved in trauma- and stress-related disorders in children and effective strategies for assessing and treating trauma-related impairment. He co-leads the UConn Health Family Adversity and Resilience Research (FARR) Program and provides evidence-based psychotherapy interventions for treating trauma-related disorders in the UConn Health Psychological Trauma Clinic.

    Grasso graduated from Skidmore College with his undergraduate degree in psychology, earned his master’s degree in general psychology at Wesleyan University, completed his Ph.D. in clinical psychology at the University of Delaware, and his clinical internship was performed at the Medical University of South Carolina.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Haverhill Man Sentenced to More Than Three Years in Prison for Cocaine and Firearms Trafficking

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

    BOSTON – A Haverhill man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for trafficking cocaine and illegal firearms in and around the Boston area.

    Cordell Miller, 29, was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young to 42 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In February 2025, Miller pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, aiding and abetting and one count of trafficking in firearms and conspiracy to do so. Miller was arrested and charged in November 2023 along with co-conspirators Malcolm Desir and Alan Robinson.

    Miller was identified as a firearms and ammunition trafficker in the metro Boston area. In August 2023, Miller arranged for the sale of distribution weight cocaine and several firearms to a cooperating witness. Prior to his arrest in November 2023, Miller and Robinson facilitated the sale of four separate firearms: an AR-15 “ghost gun” rifle; a Polymer 80 “ghost gun” pistol; a HIPOINT 9mm rifle; and a Ruger .38 caliber pistol.

    In April 2025, Robinson was sentenced to 10 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. Desir was sentenced on June 18, 2025 to seven years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release, with the first year to be served in home detention.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Scott Riordan, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Division; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Luke A. Goldworm of the Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: sonnen Pioneers Canada’s First Home Battery-Based VPP Embedded in a Master Planned Community

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    STONE MOUNTAIN, Ga. and EDMONTON, Alberta, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, sonnen, a global leader in energy storage and virtual power plant (VPP) technology, launched its first VPP in Canada at Blatchford Lands, a master planned community designed for net-zero living and a reduced environmental footprint. Landmark Homes, a recognized leader in sustainable and innovative home construction and the builder behind Blatchford Lands, collaborated with sonnen, along with utility provider EPCOR, electric retail provider Solartility and the University of Alberta. Together, these energy leaders developed the VPP that can be considered the vanguard of a newly decentralized and digitalized clean energy system for the future of Canada.

    With this inaugural VPP launch into Canada, sonnen once again sets the standard for innovation in solar powered battery storage systems deployed across master planned communities as a virtual power plant. The Blatchford Lands VPP is the first of its kind on scope and scale for Canada. As a primer for broad adoption throughout the EPCOR service territory, this project constitutes the beginning of renewable energy and grid coordination’s evolution. sonnen, with its partners, is providing the community and its residents with emergency back-up power, daily management of peak energy use and demand response, among other grid services, for the overall management of the electric grid.

    As a prototype, the Blatchford Lands VPP begins with 100 sonnen batteries deployed throughout the master planned community, representing nearly a half a megawatt (MW) of power and over two megawatt hours (MWh) of storage capacity that will support the Canadian energy grid. Following this initial deployment, sonnen plans to launch VPPs throughout Alberta and into other Canadian regions, with potential to reach over 3,000 individual sites, providing more than18 MW of energy and 60 MWHs of grid support over the next 3 years.

    “What has been achieved at Blatchford Lands is extremely special, and even beyond many of the VPP market designs in America,” said Blake Richetta, Chairman and CEO of sonnen Inc. USA. “sonnen proudly stands behind our Canadian colleagues and customers, as our sister market, and as the closest of friends to the American people.”

    sonnen, Solartility and the University of Alberta envision this highly innovative master planned community VPP project to become a replicable model for communities across the province and throughout Canada. This model can also be replicated in select U.S. markets, like Texas, where sonnen recently announced a Virtual Power Plant Power Purchase Agreement (VPA) and launched behind-the-meter, battery-enabled VPPs.

    “Canada has developed into a rich and innovative VPP market thanks to the pioneering efforts and support from great partners,” said Geoff Ferrell, Senior Vice President – Global C&I and VPP Project Business of sonnen Inc. USA. “The coming together of builders like Landmark Homes, the utility EPCOR, retail providers like Solartility, and academics like those at the University of Alberta, are working together to build this innovative VPP program at Blatchford Lands and beyond.”

    With awards from Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA), the Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA), the Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC), among others, Blatchford Lands has been recognized for its commitment to sustainability and innovative community planning. Residents can enjoy diverse housing options equipped with renewable energy sources for heating and cooling—all in a centrally located neighborhood that once served as Edmonton’s municipal airport, now reimagined as a model for sustainable urban development.

    Blatchford Lands is the latest sonnen VPP to launch at a master planned community, following wildly successful deployments at Soleil Lofts and Soleil Tech Park in Utah, Pearl Homes’ nationally renowned Hunters Point in Cortez Florida, and Mandalay Homes in Arizona, among other projects.

    ABOUT sonnen
    sonnen is a global leader in smart energy storage systems for residential use and a pioneer in residential battery-based virtual power plants. The sonnen VPP is recognized as a model for the decentralized, digitalized, and decarbonized energy system of the future. As one of the most experienced and rapidly growing VPP energy storage companies worldwide, sonnen has earned numerous international awards for its technological achievements. The sonnenCommunity, a network of visionaries worldwide, utilizes sonnen’s products and services to promote clean and affordable energy for all. With offices in Germany, Italy, Spain, Australia, and the USA, sonnen is a wholly owned subsidiary of Shell. Learn more at: https://sonnenusa.com

    Media Contact
    sonnen@fischtankpr.com
    FischTank PR

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: The Apache Software Foundation Announces Schedule for Community Over Code North America

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Wilmington, DE, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Apache Software Foundation (ASF), the global home of open source software the world relies on, today announced the schedule for Community Over Code North America. As the flagship event of the ASF, Community Over Code aims to unite a global network of open source contributors to ASF projects. Community Over Code North America will take place at the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis in Minneapolis, Minnesota on September 11-14, 2025. The full event schedule is now available.

    For more than 25 years, Community Over Code has brought together ASF project participants at all levels – including ASF members and committers, ASF Project Management Committee members, and ASF leadership – in a collaborative, vendor-neutral environment.

    Community Over Code North America will span four days and include sessions to cover key topics impacting the open source community including – big data, Internet of Things, financial tech, geospatial, and search, among others. Each evening will feature Birds of a Feather (BoF) sessions, where ASF community members have an opportunity for freeform discussion and planning around their respective projects.

    The full event schedule can be found on the Community Over Code website.

    Registration
    Registration is offered at the price of $650 USD through June 28, a savings of $150 USD. ASF committers can use their @apache.org email to register for the Committer Rate of $250 USD. To view all registration rates, deadlines, and room block information, visit the Community Over Code registration page.

    Event Sponsorship
    For organizations interested in joining the sponsor lineup for Community Over Code, visit the Community Over Code sponsorship page.

    Social Media
    Join the conversation on social media with the event hashtag #CommunityOverCode.

    About The Apache Software Foundation (ASF)
    The Apache Software Foundation (ASF) is the global home for open source software, powering some of the world’s most ubiquitous software projects including Apache Airflow, Apache Camel, Apache Cassandra, Apache Groovy, Apache HTTP Server, and Apache Kafka. Established in 1999, the ASF is at the forefront of open source innovation, setting industry standards to advance software for the public good. Learn more at https://apache.org.

    ASF’s annual Community Over Code event is where open source technologists convene to share best practices and use cases, forge critical relationships, and learn about advancements in their field. https://communityovercode.org/

    © The Apache Software Foundation. “Apache” is a registered trademark or trademark of the Apache Software Foundation in the United States and/or other countries. All other brands and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

    Media Contact
    press@apache.org

    ### 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Cherfilus-McCormick and Wasserman Schultz Lead Florida Democrats in Urging NOAA Restoration Ahead of Hurricane Season

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Florida 20th district))

    Washington, D.C. ─ Today, Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20) and Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) led the Florida Democratic delegation in urging Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to reverse recent staffing cuts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Weather Service (NWS) as Florida enters hurricane season.

    Due to the Trump-era DOGE initiative, NOAA has laid off approximately 20% of its workforce—including 9% of the NWS staff. These sweeping reductions come at a dangerous time, undermining the ability of meteorologists to monitor and respond to severe weather. The cuts have resulted in delayed weather balloon launches, critical staffing shortages at Gulf Coast NWS offices, and the elimination of overnight shifts—jeopardizing the timely delivery of life-saving storm tracking data.

    “These sudden firings at NOAA and NWS directly endanger the health and safety of my constituents and all Floridians,” said Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20). “Florida is one of the most hurricane-prone states in the nation. Our families, emergency responders, and local governments rely on NOAA and NWS for accurate, real-time information. Slashing these agencies just as storm season begins is both reckless and dangerous. I’m proud to stand with my Florida colleagues in demanding these job cuts be reversed immediately.”

    “The Trump Administration’s cruel, short-sighted decision to push out NOAA’s critical weather forecasters, data scientists, and storm modelers – just weeks before hurricane season – shows a callous disregard for the safety of all Floridians,” said Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25). “These are the very experts whose work guides local officials, emergency managers, and families on when to evacuate, when to seek shelter, and how to protect their homes and businesses. Cutting them loose is not just short-sighted, it’s dangerous.”

    “The beginning of Hurricane season always stirs a rush into the hearts of South Floridians, especially many of the coastal communities I represent,” said Congresswoman Fredrica Wilson (FL-24). “The firings at the National Weather Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are nothing short of outrageous and reckless—especially for South Florida, which sits on the frontlines of hurricane season year after year. When a storm is brewing, families across our region turn to these centers and services for real-time updates, life-saving alerts, and clear guidance on how to stay safe. Who does this administration expect residents to turn to in these moments of crisis if we allow the very institutions that safeguard us to be gutted? These firings only weaken our emergency response, undermine public safety, and leave Florida more vulnerable at the exact moment we should be strengthening our defenses.”

    “We are deeply alarmed by the recent workforce cuts at NOAA and the National Weather Service under the DOGE initiative,” said Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09). “These reductions pose an unacceptable risk to hurricane preparedness and emergency response efforts in Florida. With our state facing increasingly severe and frequent storms, we cannot afford to weaken our frontline defense. All cuts to NOAA and NWS must be immediately reversed, and hiring freezes lifted to ensure Florida communities remain protected and informed.”

    “When I was Director of Emergency Management in Florida, I saw firsthand the critical role that NOAA and the National Weather Service play preparing for hurricanes and other disasters,” said Congressman Jared Moskowitz (FL-23). “Putting these agencies at risk puts public safety at risk. That’s why I introduced bipartisan legislation to fill critical vacancies at NOAA and the NWS, and it’s why I’m proud to join my Florida colleagues pushing to lift hiring freezes and restore all cuts at the agencies. With hurricane season already here, Florida can’t afford for NOAA and the National Weather Service to be anything but fully equipped with what they need.”

    “Hurricane season already is dangerous and anxiety-inducing enough without Elon Musk’s DOGE cuts undermining the resources and specialists we rely on to keep Floridians safe,” said Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14). “Gutting NOAA and NWS, cutting forecasters and grounding hurricane hunters leaves our communities vulnerable and uninformed while storms grow more frequent, more severe and more costly. Sec. Lutnick rightfully acknowledged the Trump Administration’s grave error in haphazardly firing essential NOAA and NWS workers. However, much more must be done to lower the risks and costs of the climate crisis and the extreme events tied to it. Firing essential problem-solvers and public servants ends up costing Floridians more.” 

    Read the full letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Cherfilus-McCormick and Wasserman Schultz Lead Florida Democrats in Urging NOAA Restoration Ahead of Hurricane Season

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Florida 20th district))

    Washington, D.C. ─ Today, Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20) and Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25) led the Florida Democratic delegation in urging Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to reverse recent staffing cuts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Weather Service (NWS) as Florida enters hurricane season.

    Due to the Trump-era DOGE initiative, NOAA has laid off approximately 20% of its workforce—including 9% of the NWS staff. These sweeping reductions come at a dangerous time, undermining the ability of meteorologists to monitor and respond to severe weather. The cuts have resulted in delayed weather balloon launches, critical staffing shortages at Gulf Coast NWS offices, and the elimination of overnight shifts—jeopardizing the timely delivery of life-saving storm tracking data.

    “These sudden firings at NOAA and NWS directly endanger the health and safety of my constituents and all Floridians,” said Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20). “Florida is one of the most hurricane-prone states in the nation. Our families, emergency responders, and local governments rely on NOAA and NWS for accurate, real-time information. Slashing these agencies just as storm season begins is both reckless and dangerous. I’m proud to stand with my Florida colleagues in demanding these job cuts be reversed immediately.”

    “The Trump Administration’s cruel, short-sighted decision to push out NOAA’s critical weather forecasters, data scientists, and storm modelers – just weeks before hurricane season – shows a callous disregard for the safety of all Floridians,” said Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25). “These are the very experts whose work guides local officials, emergency managers, and families on when to evacuate, when to seek shelter, and how to protect their homes and businesses. Cutting them loose is not just short-sighted, it’s dangerous.”

    “The beginning of Hurricane season always stirs a rush into the hearts of South Floridians, especially many of the coastal communities I represent,” said Congresswoman Fredrica Wilson (FL-24). “The firings at the National Weather Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are nothing short of outrageous and reckless—especially for South Florida, which sits on the frontlines of hurricane season year after year. When a storm is brewing, families across our region turn to these centers and services for real-time updates, life-saving alerts, and clear guidance on how to stay safe. Who does this administration expect residents to turn to in these moments of crisis if we allow the very institutions that safeguard us to be gutted? These firings only weaken our emergency response, undermine public safety, and leave Florida more vulnerable at the exact moment we should be strengthening our defenses.”

    “We are deeply alarmed by the recent workforce cuts at NOAA and the National Weather Service under the DOGE initiative,” said Congressman Darren Soto (FL-09). “These reductions pose an unacceptable risk to hurricane preparedness and emergency response efforts in Florida. With our state facing increasingly severe and frequent storms, we cannot afford to weaken our frontline defense. All cuts to NOAA and NWS must be immediately reversed, and hiring freezes lifted to ensure Florida communities remain protected and informed.”

    “When I was Director of Emergency Management in Florida, I saw firsthand the critical role that NOAA and the National Weather Service play preparing for hurricanes and other disasters,” said Congressman Jared Moskowitz (FL-23). “Putting these agencies at risk puts public safety at risk. That’s why I introduced bipartisan legislation to fill critical vacancies at NOAA and the NWS, and it’s why I’m proud to join my Florida colleagues pushing to lift hiring freezes and restore all cuts at the agencies. With hurricane season already here, Florida can’t afford for NOAA and the National Weather Service to be anything but fully equipped with what they need.”

    “Hurricane season already is dangerous and anxiety-inducing enough without Elon Musk’s DOGE cuts undermining the resources and specialists we rely on to keep Floridians safe,” said Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14). “Gutting NOAA and NWS, cutting forecasters and grounding hurricane hunters leaves our communities vulnerable and uninformed while storms grow more frequent, more severe and more costly. Sec. Lutnick rightfully acknowledged the Trump Administration’s grave error in haphazardly firing essential NOAA and NWS workers. However, much more must be done to lower the risks and costs of the climate crisis and the extreme events tied to it. Firing essential problem-solvers and public servants ends up costing Floridians more.” 

    Read the full letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Prevents the Largest Tax Hike in History and Unleashes Economic Growth

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    THE ONE BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL DELIVERS FOR THE AMERICAN WORKER: The One Big Beautiful Bill delivers the largest tax cut for working- and middle-class Americans in history. Put simply, President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill will unleash our economy and deliver a Blue-Collar BOOM.
    Bigger Paychecks: Hardworking Americans and families will see an average increase in take-home pay of OVER $10,000 per year.
    Historic Tax Relief for Workers: 15% tax cut for Americans earning between $30,000 and $80,000 per year.
    No Taxes on Overtime or Tips: Saves overtime and tipped workers nearly $2,000 annually.
    Historic Tax Breaks for Seniors: Introduces unprecedented financial relief for seniors.
    Made-in-America Tax Breaks: Interest deduction for loans on new American-made vehicles.
    Large Standard Deduction: Keeps the doubled standard deduction used by 91% of taxpayers, ensuring taxpayers keep more of their money with a simpler tax break.
    Provides Historic Relief for Working Families
    Bolsters Child Tax Credit: Increases and makes permanent the child tax credit, supporting over 40 million families.
    Supports Working Families: Expands childcare access and makes the paid leave tax credit permanent.
    Establishes Trump Investment Accounts for Newborns: Creates savings accounts to secure financial futures for every American child from birth.
    Improves Housing Affordability: Expands the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit to incentivize the construction of affordable homes for American families.
    Supports Family Farms: Raises death tax exemption, Increasing the amount family farms can inherit without paying taxes—protecting two million family farms from excessive taxation.
    Empowers School Choices: Enhances 529 savings accounts to make education affordable and empower American families and students to choose the education that best fits their needs.
    Drives Economic Growth Through America First Tax Policies
    Incentivizes Made-in-America Manufacturing: Full expensing for new factories and improvements to unleash domestic production.
    Expands Opportunity Zones: Permanently renews program, unlocking $100B+ for rural and distressed communities.
    Boosts American Businesses: The bill delivers full 100% expensing for new factories, equipment, and machinery.
    Puts Main Street Over Wall Street
    Promotes Growth: Helps small businesses keep more money by making permanent—and enhancing—the small business tax deduction, making it easier to grow and hire.
    Doubles Small Business Expensing: Raises the limit for small businesses to immediately deduct up to $2.5 million in equipment and property costs, helping them hire more workers and expand.
    President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill lowers tax rates to keep more money in Americans’ pockets—PREVENTING THE LARGEST TAX HIKE IN HISTORY.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group Departs for Deployment

    Source: United States Navy

    NORFOLK, Va. — Nearly 4,500 Sailors assigned to the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group departed Naval Station Norfolk and Naval Weapons Station Yorktown, June 24, for a regularly-scheduled deployment to the U.S. European Command (EUCOM) area of responsibility.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DeGette Statement on Third Anniversary of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization Ruling

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Diana DeGette (First District of Colorado)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Diana DeGette (CO-01), Co-Chair of the Reproductive Freedom Caucus, released the following statement on the third anniversary of the Supreme Court’s Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization ruling.

    “Three years ago today, the Supreme Court took the unprecedented step of stripping Americans of a constitutional right it had previously guaranteed, ending nearly 50 years of legal precedent by dismantling Roe v. Wade.

    “Just last month, under the orders of Donald Trump, House Republicans voted to defund Planned Parenthood. The Big Ugly Bill he’s trying to force through Congress would block Medicaid reimbursements to its health centers and ban abortion coverage on ACA plans—moves that would create chaos in the insurance market. These policies would devastate access to care for over one million Medicaid recipients who rely on Planned Parenthood each year, slashing access to maternity care, birth control, cancer screenings, and more.

    “This is only the latest attack. Over the past three years, 20 states have enacted abortion bans, leaving millions of people without access to essential care. And we’ve seen patients forced to travel hundreds of miles across state lines, facing delays and uncertainty. In my home state of Colorado—a critical haven for care in the Mountain West—we’ve seen one of the largest increases in out-of-state patients in the country. Our clinics are strained, providers are overwhelmed, and our constituents are facing longer wait times for basic reproductive care.

    “As Co-Chair of the Reproductive Freedom Caucus, I refuse to let this extremist vision go unchallenged. I’m proud to lead the fight in Congress to restore the protections of Roe through the Women’s Health Protection Act—a landmark bill that would ensure the right to abortion nationwide, regardless of your ZIP code.

    “I stand with the majority of Americans who believe health care decisions should be made by patients and their doctors, not politicians, not judges, and not a radical minority trying to impose their beliefs on the rest of us. We will not stop until every person—no matter who they are or where they live—has the freedom to make their own reproductive health care decisions.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DeGette Statement on Military Actions in Middle East

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Diana DeGette (First District of Colorado)

    DENVER, CO — Today, Congresswoman Diana DeGette (CO-01) released the following statement after Donald Trump announced that the United States carried out military strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities.

    “Donald Trump’s unauthorized strike against Iran is an act of war that requires Congressional approval. He did not come to Congress to explain his reasons for bombing a sovereign nation and to seek authorization for these strikes. These reckless actions are going to put the lives of American servicemembers and American citizens at risk.

    “Additionally, these unconstitutional strikes threaten to expand conflict and further destabilize an already vulnerable region. The United States must now put its full diplomatic strength behind finding a peaceful resolution to this conflict. I am cosponsoring the war powers resolution in the House, and the administration must brief Congress as soon as possible.” 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Torres Leads Amendments to protect Americans’ Privacy, Ensure Safe Baby Formula, and Address the Threat of Bird Flu

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Norma Torres (35th District of California)

    June 24, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, Congresswoman Norma Torres led three amendments during the Appropriations Committee Markup of the FY2026 Agriculture, Rural Development, FDA, and Related Agencies Bill, offering critical amendments to safeguard tens of millions of Americans’ personal information from DOGE and protect the public servants who work to ensure the safety and supply of infant formula and address the ongoing threat of bird flu from the indiscriminate and lawless firings implemented by the Trump Administration and DOGE.  

    “I voted against this bill, which, like so much of what the Trump Administration and Republicans have been pushing, throws families and children under the bus, and in this case, our farmers and agricultural communities, too. The bill recklessly cuts vital programs that support our farmers and help hardworking families put food on the table, all under the hypocritical reasoning of “responsible spending” as Republicans push for trillions in tax breaks to billionaires,” said Congresswoman Torres. “But Republicans also rejected three amendments I led that aimed to improve the bill, from protecting Americans’ privacy from DOGE, protecting those who work tirelessly to ensure infant formula that many mothers rely on is safe, and ensuring the Trump Administration and DOGE can’t recklessly fire these critical public servants.”

    The House Republican FY26 Agriculture-FDA Appropriations bill cuts overall funding by more than $1 billion, underfunding programs that support farmers and ranchers, lower costs for consumers, and help families put food on the table.

    For example, the Republican bill underfunds the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), which helps pregnant mothers and babies not only access free healthy foods, but also receive breastfeeding support, nutrition education, and connects mothers with resources like medical, dental, and mental healthcare. On top of this, the bill included an additional 10% cut on WIC benefits for fruits and vegetables, making it harder for women and children to have access to healthy, nutritious foods. The bill also cuts rural wastewater funding, even though many communities in California struggle with water issues. 

    Congresswoman Torres led three amendments to help improve the bill that Republicans rejected: 

    No Sharing Personal Information with DOGE: This amendment prohibits agencies from sharing personally identifiable information with DOGE. It protects the privacy of tens of millions of Americans by preventing USDA, FDA, and other covered agencies from providing sensitive data to DOGE, safeguarding families’ personal information from unnecessary exposure.

    No Infant Formula Employee Firings: This amendment prohibits the firing of employees who work to ensure the safety and supply of infant formula. Congresswoman Torres is committed to protecting the dedicated public servants at the FDA who work tirelessly to maintain a safe, reliable supply of infant formula for families and babies nationwide.

    No Bird Flu Employee Firings: This amendment protects employees working on bird flu (also known as highly pathogenic avian influenza or HPAI) issues by prohibiting their dismissal. Bird flu continues to threaten poultry, livestock, and frontline workers, and these employees play a crucial role in addressing this ongoing threat. As of June 20, 38 of the 70 human cases in America have occurred in California.

    “These amendments reflect my commitment to protecting families’ privacy, ensuring the safety of mothers and babies, and defending our communities against bird flu. We must prioritize funding for programs that prevent families from going hungry, safeguard our food supply, and invest in our communities — not fund tax breaks for billionaires.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –