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Category: United States of America

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Opens Disaster Loan Outreach Center in Clayton

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today the opening of a Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) in St. Louis County to assist small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and wildfires occurring March 14–15 and also for those affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding occurring May 16.

    Beginning Friday, July 25, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the Disaster Loan Outreach Center in Clayton to answer questions and assist with the disaster loan application process. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Those who prefer to schedule an in-person appointment in advance can do so at appointment.sba.gov.

    The center’s hours of operation are as follows:

    ST. LOUIS COUNTY

    Disaster Loan Outreach Center

    Mid-County Branch Library

    7821 Maryland Ave.

    Clayton, MO  63105

    Opens at 9:00 a.m., Friday, July 25

    Mondays – Thursdays, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

    Fridays – Saturdays, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

    The following locations are also open and continue to serve survivors:

    THE INDEPENDENT CITY OF ST. LOUIS

    Business Recovery Center

    St. Louis Community College

    Harrison Education Center

    3140 Cass Ave., Rm. #104

    St. Louis, MO  63106

    Mondays – Fridays, 8:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

    ST. LOUIS COUNTY

    Disaster Loan Outreach Center

    St. Louis County Library

    Florissant Vallet Branch

    Quiet Room

    195 S. New Florissant Rd.

    Florissant, MO  63031

    Mondays – Thursdays, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

    Fridays – Saturdays, 9:00 – 5:00 p.m.

    “When disasters strike, SBA’s Disaster Loan Outreach Centers perform an important role by assisting small businesses and their communities,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the U.S. Small Business Administration. “At these centers, our SBA specialists help business owners and residents apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to support their recovery.”

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

    Applicants may be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.

    The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to these disasters. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

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

    For SBA declaration MO 21094 for the March storms, interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.75% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years.

    For SBA declaration MO 21129 for the May storms, interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.813% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years.

    Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines eligibility and sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

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

    Although the deadline to return applications for physical property damage due to the March storms has passed, there is a grace period of 60 days the SBA will accept applications beyond the July 22 deadline. The grace period will end on Sept. 20, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 23, 2026.

    The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage due to the May storms is Aug. 11, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is March 9, 2026.

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    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Available to New Mexico Small Businesses, Private Nonprofits and Residents Affected by Severe Storms, Flooding and Landslides

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – In response to a Presidential disaster declaration issued July 22, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to New Mexico small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents affected by severe storms, flooding and landslides beginning June 23.

    The disaster declaration covers the New Mexico county of Lincoln which is eligible for both Physical damage loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) from the SBA. Small businesses and PNP organizations in the following adjacent counties are eligible to apply only for SBA EIDLs: Chaves, De Baca, Guadalupe, Otero, Sierra, Socorro and Torrance.

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

    Applicants may be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damage, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.

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

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

    “One distinct advantage of SBA’s disaster loan program is the opportunity to fund upgrades reducing the risk of future storm damage,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “I encourage businesses and homeowners to work with contractors and mitigation professionals to improve their storm readiness while taking advantage of SBA’s mitigation loans.”

    Interest rates can be as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for PNPs and 2.813% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    As soon as Federal-State Disaster Recovery Centers open throughout the affected area, SBA will provide one-on-one assistance to disaster loan applicants. Additional information and details on the location of disaster recovery centers is available by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955.

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

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Nearly $25 Million for Maine Housing Projects Advanced by Senator Collins in Funding Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she advanced $24,675,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending for Maine housing infrastructure projects in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations bill. The bill, which was officially approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee today, now awaits consideration by the full Senate and House.

    “Maine continues to face a severe affordable housing shortage,” said Senator Collins. “This funding would help to improve the quality and safety of affordable and emergency housing throughout the state. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for this funding as the appropriations process moves forward.”

    This funding advanced through the Committee’s markup of the FY 2026 THUD Appropriations bill—an important step that now allows the bill to be considered by the full Senate.

    Funding advanced by Senator Collins is as follows:

    Auburn Area Infrastructure for Workforce Housing

    Recipient: City of Auburn

    Project Location: Auburn, ME

    Amount Requested: $8,000,000

    Project Purpose: To expand the infrastructure needed for housing and economic development.

    Down East Community Hospital Workforce Housing

    Recipient: Down East Community Hospital

    Project Location: East Machias, ME

    Amount Requested: $2,190,000

    Project Purpose: To support housing units for hospital workforce.

    Maine Woods Housing Initiative

    Recipient: Northern Forest Center

    Project Location: Greenville, ME

    Amount Requested: $2,500,000

    Project Purpose: To support affordable housing in Piscataquis County.

    Indian Township Passamaquoddy Housing Initiative

    Recipient: Passamaquoddy Tribe at Indian Township

    Project Location: Indian Township, ME

    Amount Requested: $2,985,000

    Project Purpose: To support affordable housing in Indian Township.

    York County Workforce and Senior Housing

    Recipient: Sanford Housing Authority Development Corporation

    Project Location: Springvale, ME

    Amount Requested: $2,500,000

    Project Purpose: To develop workforce and senior housing.

    York County Community College Workforce and Student Housing

    Recipient: York County Community College

    Project Location: Wells, ME

    Amount Requested: $6,500,000

    Project Purpose: To construct housing for year-round use.

    In 2021, Congress reinstituted Congressionally Directed Spending. Following this decision, Senator Collins has secured more than $1 billion for hundreds of Maine projects for FY 2022, FY 2023, and FY 2024. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins is committed to championing targeted investments that will benefit Maine communities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bill to Fund Key Transportation and Housing Programs in Maine Clears Appropriations Committee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Appropriations Committee, announced that she secured significant funding and provisions for Maine in the Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations Act. The bill, which was officially approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee today, now awaits consideration by the full Senate and House.

    The measure, which was advanced by a vote of 27-1, provides $400 million in defense funding and $99.8 billion in nondefense funding.

    “Strengthening local economies throughout Maine starts with prioritizing and improving our infrastructure and transportation network. This legislation would build on previous investments, providing funding to enhance safety, move people and products more safely and efficiently, and create jobs across the state. It would also maintain existing rental assistance for more than 4.6 million households throughout the United States and invest in programs aimed at tackling homelessness,” said Senator Collins. “As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for this funding as the appropriations process moves forward.”

    Since joining the Appropriations Committee in 2009, Senator Collins has helped to secure more than $1 billion in competitive transportation grants for the State of Maine.

    Bill Highlights:

    Local Projects: Nearly $135 million for Congressionally Directed Spending projects in Maine. This includes more than $46 million for six MaineDOT projects.

    Department of Transportation:

    • Bridge Repair and Rehabilitation Funding: $350 million for a competitive rural bridge rehabilitation and replacement program, of which Maine is guaranteed to receive at least $32.5 million and is eligible for up to $55 million.
    • BUILD Grants: $250 million for BUILD grants, a program championed by Senator Collins to provide federal assistance for vital transportation projects across the country. Maine has received more than $393 million since the program, previously known as TIGER and RAISE, was established in 2009.
    • Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvement (CRISI) Grants: $100 million for discretionary CRISI grants to support projects that improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of intercity passenger and freight rail.
    • State Maritime Academies (SMAs): $143 million for SMA Operations, which includes $115 for the National Security Multi-Mission Vessels program and associated SMA shore-side infrastructure improvements, benefitting Maine Maritime Academy.
    • Ports and Shipyards: $75 million for the Port Infrastructure Development Program to support improvements to ports and $30 million for the Small Shipyard Grant program to support capital improvements and workforce training in shipbuilding, ship repair, and associated industries. Maine shipyards that have benefitted from the Small Shipyards Grant program include Rockland Marine Corporation, Washburn & Doughty, and Front Street Shipyard.
    • Aviation Improvement Program (AIP): $4 billion, which includes $25 million in discretionary supplemental AIP funding, which has benefited airports in Bangor, Presque Isle, Old Town, and Wiscasset in prior years. This also includes $25 million for a new discretionary rural airport grant program that targets those airports who have typically received a smaller amount of entitlement money based on their annual AIP formula amounts. Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport would be eligible to receive funds from this new rural airport program.
    • Essential Air Service (EAS): $513.6 million to support all existing EAS communities, including Augusta, Hancock County-Bar Harbor, Presque Isle, and Rockland.

    Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD):

    • Community Development Block Grants (CDBG): $3.1 billion for the CDBG program, which helps state and local governments promote economic development and job creation.
    • HOME Investment Partnerships Program: $1.25 billion for the HOME program, which provides critical funding for the development of new affordable housing.
    • Youth Homelessness: $107 million for the Youth Homelessness Demonstration program and $25 million for Family Unification Program (FUP) vouchers for youth exiting foster care and at risk of homelessness.
    • Aging-in-Place Home Modifications for Seniors: $30 million for home modification grants to enable low-income seniors to “age in place” and remain in their own homes. The bill addresses several barriers to greater participation, including streamlining environmental reviews, adjusting the cost per property cap to account for increased labor and materials costs, and encouraging rather than requiring the use of occupational therapists.
    • Housing for the Elderly: $972 million for the Housing for the Elderly (Section 202) program, of which $122 million is for the development of new HUD-assisted senior housing properties.
    • Housing During Substance Abuse Recovery: $30 million for states to provide individuals in recovery with stable, temporary housing. This includes more than $1 million for transitional housing support for addiction recovery programs in Maine.
    • Lead Hazard Reduction Grants: $295.6 million to remediate lead-based paint hazards, helping communities protect children from the harmful effects of lead-based paint poisoning in homes.

    This funding and language advanced through the Committee’s markup of the FY 2026 THUD Appropriations bill—an important step that now allows the bill to be considered by the full Senate.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: More Than $4 Million for North Pond and Unity Pond Restoration Advanced by Senator Collins in Funding Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Susan Collins

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she advanced $4,350,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending to improve the water quality of North Pond and Unity Pond in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Interior and Environment Appropriations bill. The bill, which was officially approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee today, now awaits consideration by the full Senate and House.

    “Maine’s lakes and ponds play an important role in communities throughout the state, offering recreational, fishing, and birding opportunities for locals and visitors,” said Senator Collins. “This funding aims to address frequent algae blooms and improve water quality, helping to ensure these natural resources will be available for all to enjoy for generations to come. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for this funding as the appropriations process moves forward.”

    This funding advanced through the Committee’s markup of the FY 2026 Interior and Environment Appropriations bill—an important step that now allows the bill to be considered by the full Senate.

    Funding advanced by Senator Collins is as follows:

    North Pond Water Quality Restoration

    Recipient: Belgrade Regional Conservation Alliance

    Project Location: Somerset and Kennebec Counties, ME

    Amount Requested: $2,350,000

    Project Purpose: To remediate algae blooms in North Pond.

    Unity Pond Water Quality Restoration

    Recipient: Friends of Lake Winnecook

    Project Location: Waldo County, ME

    Amount Requested: $2,000,000

    Project Purpose: To remediate algae blooms in Unity Pond.

    In 2021, Congress reinstituted Congressionally Directed Spending. Following this decision, Senator Collins has secured more than $1 billion for hundreds of Maine projects for FY 2022, FY 2023, and FY 2024. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins is committed to championing targeted investments that will benefit Maine communities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warnock Leads Bipartisan Push to Address Physician Workforce Shortage

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Senator Reverend Warnock introduced the bipartisan Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act of 2025 with Senator Boozman to increase the number of physicians in communities across the country

    The legislation would increase the number of Medicare funded residency positions by expanding the number of available slots

    143 counties in Georgia are designated as a “Health Professional Shortage Area” by the federal government. 10 Georgia counties had no physicians in 2024

    Over one third of practicing Georgia physicians said they completed their residency in Georgia, showing that increasing residency slots in Georgia will increase the number of doctors that practice in the state

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and John Boozman (R-AR) introduced the bipartisan Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act of 2025. The legislation would help address the nation’s doctor shortage by increasing the number of Medicare funded residency positions by 14,000 over seven years. The legislation would also make progress toward providing the necessary primary care and specialty physicians necessary to meet the country’s workforce needs.

    “Our state faces a critical shortage of primary care and specialty physicians, preventing many Georgians from accessing health care services in their community,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “Where you live shouldn’t determine the type of medical care you receive, and I will not stop working to help our hospitals hire and retain the health care workforce that Georgians deserve.”

    “There is an urgent, demonstrated need to strengthen our health care system by combating the alarming shortage of providers, particularly in rural areas,” said Senator Boozman. “Lifting the outdated cap on residency positions supported by Medicare can expand the supply of physicians while helping ensure access to quality care and treatment in more communities nationwide. I am proud to work in a bipartisan way on this important medical workforce solution that also supports better health outcomes.”

    The Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act of 2025 will address the United States’ impending physician shortage of up to 86,000 physicians by 2036. As a large portion of the physician workforce nears traditional retirement age, there is a critical need to educate and train more physicians to ensure there are enough medical professionals to care for patients across all communities. The legislation prioritizes increasing the number of graduate medical education (GME) positions in states with hospitals in rural and underserved areas, hospitals training physicians in excess of their cap, hospitals affiliated with a historically Black medical school, new or expanding medical schools, and hospitals that serve areas designated as health professional shortage areas.

    As a lifelong advocate for public health, Senator Warnock has advocated tirelessly for greater investment in Geogia’s health care workforce. In 2022, Senator Warnock helped secure federal funding for GA-STRONG, a proposal that provides funds to teaching hospitals across Georgia to help hire, train, and retain more health care workers. In 2023, Senator Warnock secured $500,000 for Emory University’s Nursing Program through annual appropriations process. Most recently, Senator Warnock published a report, “Healthy People, Healthy Economy” that outlines the risk of placing bureaucratic red tape between working people and their healthcare.

    The legislation is supported by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), the National Rural Health Association (NRHA), the American Medical Association (AMA), and the Greater New York Hospital Association (GNYHA). A companion bill was introduced in the House by Representatives Terri Sewell (D-AL-07) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01).

    Read the Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act of 2025 HERE

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warnock, Ossoff Urge DOJ to Investigate Conditions at Bibb County Jail

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Jon Ossoff (D-GA) urged the Department of Justice to open a federal investigation into conditions at the Bibb County Jail in Macon, Georgia.

    Senator Reverend Warnock and Senator Jon Ossoff: “given the extremity of the reported health, safety, and civil rights concerns that persist in the jail, we urge the DOJ to conduct a full and thorough investigation into conditions at this jail and whether the rights of any individuals who work at or are incarcerated at these facilities may have been violated.”

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Jon Ossoff (D-GA) urged the Department of Justice to open an investigation into conditions at the Bibb County Jail in Macon, Georgia. The Senators are demanding action following recent reports of health, safety, and civil rights concerns at the facility. In recent years, multiple inmates have been killed or injured in outbreaks of violence at the jail, including a 22-year-old inmate who was stabbed to death at the facility in June.

    “The reports emerging from Bibb County Jail are disturbing. On June 4, 2025, Breele Jahiem Johnson, 22, was stabbed to death. Multiple other inmates were injured in the same incident. Unfortunately, violence at this facility is not rare. In April, an inmate had boiling water thrown on his face, causing severe burns. In May 2024, an inmate died after being tasered by officers. Just last week, another inmate was stabbed and had to be taken to a local hospital. Since 2020, four individuals have died by suicide. The pattern of violence at this facility is troubling.” the Senators wrote to Attorney General Pam Bondi. “We have been encouraged by local officials’ recent efforts to address Bibb County Jail conditions. However, given the extremity of the reported health, safety, and civil rights concerns that persist in the jail, we urge the DOJ to conduct a full and thorough investigation,” the Senators added. 

    The effort builds on Senator Warnock’s previous work to ensure humane conditions in prisons in Georgia and across the nation. In February of 2024, Senator Warnock led his colleagues in successfully urging the Justice Department prioritize the investigation into Fulton County Jail following multiple deaths at the facility in recent years. In 2025, the Justice Department entered a consent decree over the conditions at Fulton County Jail.

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

    Dear Attorney General Bondi:

    We are writing you today to request that the Department of Justice (DOJ) open an investigation into conditions at the Bibb County Jail in Macon, Georgia.

    Throughout our time in office, we have conducted oversight and taken action to expose and address civil and human rights abuses in prisons and jails, including in federal, state, and local institutions across Georgia. The reports emerging from Bibb County Jail are disturbing. On June 4, 2025, Breele Jahiem Johnson, 22, was stabbed to death.1 Multiple other inmates were injured in the same incident. Unfortunately, violence at this facility is not rare. In April, an inmate had boiling water thrown on his face, causing severe burns. In May 2024, an inmate died after being tasered by officers. Just last week, another inmate was stabbed and had to be taken to a local hospital. Since 2020, four individuals have died by suicide.6 The pattern of violence at this facility is troubling.

    Living conditions at the Bibb County jail are also unacceptable. After touring the jail, the president of the Georgia NAACP stated that the “cracked walls, broken plumbing, poor lighting and unsanitary conditions create an environment no human should be subjected to.” According to others, rodents and waste are regularly seen in the hallways.

    We have been encouraged by local officials’ recent efforts to address Bibb County Jail conditions. However, given the extremity of the reported health, safety, and civil rights concerns that persist in the jail, we urge the DOJ to conduct a full and thorough investigation into conditions at this jail and whether the rights of any individuals who work at or are incarcerated at these facilities may have been violated. Our offices are ready to assist your work in any capacity.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 07.24.2025 Cruz, Cornyn Bill to Make Jocelyn Nungaray National Wildlife Refuge Signed Into Law

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) released the following statements after their Jocelyn Nungaray National Wildlife Refuge Act, which codifies President Trump’s Executive Order renaming the Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge near Houston, Texas, to the Jocelyn Nungaray National Refuge, was signed into law by President Trump.
    Sen. Cruz said, “I’m deeply grateful to my colleagues in Congress and to President Trump for signing into law the Jocelyn Nungaray National Wildlife Refuge Act. This bill will rename the Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge in Jocelyn’s memory. Jocelyn was murdered by illegal aliens, an unspeakable crime that should have never occurred. We have a duty to commemorate her life alongside her family.”
    Sen. Cornyn said, “Last year, Jocelyn Nungaray’s life was stolen from her by dangerous illegal immigrants who were wrongfully let into the country by the Biden-Harris administration, and today we ensure her life and legacy are never forgotten. I want to thank President Trump for swiftly signing my legislation to permanently rename of the Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge in Jocelyn’s honor and was proud to join today’s White House bill signing ceremony.”
    Congressman Brian Babin (TX-36) led this legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.
    BACKGROUND
    On June 17, 2024, 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray was brutally murdered in Houston, Texas. Two illegal aliens who were allegedly members of the Tren de Aragua gang have been charged with her murder. Jocelyn loved animals and, given the close proximity of her hometown of Houston, it is fitting that the Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge be renamed in her honor.
    Located along the Texas Gulf Coast, the 39,000-acre refuge is a sanctuary for migratory birds and diverse wildlife. Managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, it is part of the National Wildlife Refuge System and plays a vital role in coastal conservation, public recreation, and environmental education. Now, it will also stand as a solemn tribute to Jocelyn’s memory and a symbol of the Trump administration’s commitment to protecting American communities. On March 4, 2025, President Trump signed Executive Order 14229 to officially change the name from Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge to Jocelyn Nungaray National Wildlife Refuge. On March 7, 2025, the refuge was officially renamed after Interior Secretary Doug Burgum’s implementation order was signed. This law will ensure that this renaming cannot be overturned by a future administration by codifying the refuge’s new name into law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Historic ICJ climate ruling ‘just the beginning’, says Vanuatu’s Regenvanu

    By Ezra Toara in Port Vila

    Vanuatu’s Minister of Climate Change Adaptation, Ralph Regenvanu, has welcomed the historic International Court of Justice (ICJ) climate ruling, calling it a “milestone in the fight for climate justice”.

    The ICJ has delivered a landmark advisory opinion on states’ obligations under international law to act on climate change.

    The ruling marks a major shift in the global push for climate justice.

    Vanuatu — one of the nations behind the campaign — has pledged to take the decision back to the UN General Assembly (UNGA) to seek a resolution supporting its full implementation.

    Climate Change Minister Regenvanu said in a statement: “We now have a common foundation based on the rule of law, releasing us from the limitations of individual nations’ political interests that have dominated climate action.

    “This moment will drive stronger action and accountability to protect our planet and peoples.”

    The ICJ confirmed that state responsibilities extend beyond voluntary commitments under the UNFCCC and Paris Agreement.

    It ruled that customary international law also requires states to prevent environmental and transboundary harm, protect human rights, and cooperate to address climate change impacts.

    Duties apply to all states
    These duties apply to all states, whether or not they have ratified specific climate treaties.

    Violations of these obligations carry legal consequences. The ICJ clarified that climate damage can be scientifically traced to specific polluter states whose actions or inaction cause harm.

    As a result, those states could be required to stop harmful activities, regulate private sector emissions, end fossil fuel subsidies, and provide reparations to affected states and individuals.

    “The implementation of this decision will set a new status quo and the structural change required to give our current and future generations hope for a healthy planet and sustainable future,” Minister Regenvanu added.

    He said high-emitting nations, especially those with a history of emissions, must be held accountable.

    Despite continued fossil fuel expansion and weakening global ambition — compounded by the United States’ withdrawal from the Paris Agreement — Regenvanu said the ICJ ruling was a powerful tool for campaigners, lawyers, and governments.

    “Vanuatu is proud and honoured to have spearheaded this initiative,” he said.

    ‘Powerful testament’
    “The number of states and civil society actors that have joined this cause is a powerful testament to the leadership of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and youth activists.”

    The court’s decision follows a resolution adopted by consensus at the UNGA on 29 March 2023. That campaign was initiated by the Pacific Island Students Fighting Climate Change and backed by the Vanuatu government, calling for greater accountability from high-emitting countries.

    The ruling will now be taken to the UNGA in September and is expected to be a central topic at COP30 in Brazil this November.

    Vanuatu has committed to working with other nations to turn this legal outcome into coordinated action through diplomacy, policy, litigation, and international cooperation.

    “This is just the beginning,” Regenvanu said. “Success will depend on what happens next. We look forward to working with global partners to ensure this becomes a true turning point for climate justice.”

    Republished from the Vanuatu Daily Post with permission.

    The International Court of Justice (ICJ) delivers its historic climate ruling in The Hague on Tuesday. Image: VDP

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Scott Applauds the Major Economic Benefits for South Carolinians from the One Big Beautiful Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) released a statement on the impact of H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, on South Carolinians.

    “The One Big Beautiful Bill is a game-changer for South Carolina families and businesses,” said Sen. Scott. “This historic legislation delivers real tax relief to hardworking South Carolinians while protecting jobs and strengthening our state’s manufacturing base. This unified government has once again proven our commitment to putting America First and making sure that our economy works for everyone so that every American has the opportunity to succeed.”

    Background:

    Analysis by the Council of Economic Advisers shows that the One Big Beautiful Bill will deliver substantial economic benefits to South Carolina, protecting nearly 97,000 jobs and increasing wages by $3,300 to $6,000 over the next four years. 

    The comprehensive legislation provides significant tax relief to South Carolina families and workers through multiple provisions. A typical family with two children can expect higher take-home pay of $6,900 to $9,800 compared to if the bill had not passed. 

    The bill eliminates taxes on tips, benefiting approximately 5 percent of South Carolina’s labor force employed in tip-eligible occupations. Additionally, about 1 million seniors in the state will benefit from the elimination of taxes on Social Security benefits. 

    South Carolina’s workforce will also see substantial relief through the bill’s overtime tax elimination provision. Roughly 26 percent of all state employees regularly work overtime and could benefit directly, while 66 percent of workers are in occupations likely eligible for overtime compensation. 

    The legislation particularly strengthens South Carolina’s manufacturing sector, which represents 4 percent of firms, 3 percent of establishments and 13 percent of employment statewide. The bill extends the Section 199A pass-through deduction for small businesses, potentially benefiting about 74,000 firms — 44 percent of all businesses in South Carolina.

    The bill also makes permanent and enhances Opportunity Zones incentives, a program championed by Sen. Scott. South Carolina’s 135 Opportunity Zones created an estimated 18,000 jobs following passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act through 2021 and led to construction of approximately 3,900 housing units through the third quarter of 2024. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gillibrand Touts Big Wins For New York State In Senate Appropriations Transportation, Housing, And Urban Development Subcommittee’s Fiscal Year 2026 Appropriations Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Kirsten Gillibrand

    The Bill Bolsters Funding for New York State Projects, Including Phase 2 of the Second Avenue Subway, Tenant Protection Vouchers, and Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor

    Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, ranking member of the Transportation and Housing subcommittee of the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations, touted big wins she worked to include for New York State and that were passed out of committee in the Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act.

    “New Yorkers from Brooklyn to Hamilton County know firsthand that our state needs critical infrastructure, transportation, and affordable housing investment,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I am proud that our committee worked together on a bipartisan basis and passed a bill that addresses these critical needs. The funding will help New Yorkers travel around our state more easily, make homes more affordable, and improve air traffic congestion at local airports. I’m proud of the work this subcommittee has done to produce a strong bill and urge my colleagues to pass it through the full Senate as soon as possible.”

    The bill includes funding for important priorities in New York State:

    1. $700 million to fund the Hudson River Tunnel;
    2. $307.3 million to fund Phase 2 of the Second Avenue Subway;
    3. $850 million to fully fund Amtrak’s budget request for the Northeast Corridor;
    4. $22 billion to fully fund the Federal Aviation Administration, which will help address congestion issues at John F. Kennedy, LaGuardia, and Newark Airports;
    5. $514 million for the Essential Air Service program to continue to support the Massena, Ogdensburg, Plattsburgh, Saranac Lake/Lake Placid, and Watertown airports;
    6. $62 million for the Reconnecting Communities program Senator Gillibrand created in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to fund projects to remove and mitigate infrastructure that divides communities;
    7. $20 million in new funding to support transit safety and security initiatives, including for the MTA;
    8. $161.5 million infunding for the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, including for campus and building renovations;
    9. Full funding to maintain rental assistance, including $430 million for tenant protection vouchers to assist the most at-risk residents in NYCHA;
    10. Invests in expanding and improving the homeless response system to help senior citizens, veterans, youth, and others facing homelessness;
    11. $1.25 billion to sustain the HOME Investment Partnerships Program, the primary federal program builds more affordable housing;
    12. And $73 million in congressionally directed spending for affordable housing, community development, and transportation projects across New York.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Makes Permanent Exclusions to Overreaching Obama-Era WOTUS Regulations

    US Senate News:

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

    WASHINGTON – After recently scoring a major victory in her longstanding fight to overturn the harmful expansion of the “waters of the United States” (WOTUS) rule, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) is introducing legislation to prevent future overregulation. Her new bill would make permanent key exclusions clarifying that waste treatment systems, temporary streams from rain, and groundwater are not navigable waterways.
    The Clarifying Legal Exclusions Around Regulated (CLEAR) Waters Act excludes covered water features that do not interact with navigable waters from being regulated under WOTUS.
    “If you try and navigate a wastewater treatment pool, you will be up a creek without a paddle,” said Ernst. “WOTUS regulatory uncertainty has threatened the livelihoods of hardworking Iowa farmers, small businesses, and landowners for far too long, and I was thrilled to join EPA Administrator Zeldin in announcing that the Trump administration is revising this misguided and harmful regulatory expansion. After leading this fight for a decade, I am making it CLEAR that the federal government has no businesses regulating cooling ponds, municipal treatment plants, groundwater, and streams that only flow after rainfall under WOTUS.”
    “Senator Ernst continues to be a champion for Iowa’s farmers and businesses, and her CLEAR Waters Act is another example of her leadership,” said Mike Naig, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture. “This legislation will provide much-needed clarity and consistency when it comes to WOTUS, helping end the constant policy whiplash that changes with each new administration. It’s a commonsense approach that brings certainty to those who are working every day to responsibly manage our land and water.”
    “The CLEAR Waters Act would provide Iowa farmers regulatory certainty to ensure waste treatment systems are not treated as navigable waters,” said Brent Swart, Iowa Soybean Association President and farmer from Spencer, Iowa. “This commonsense exclusion allows farmers to continue being good stewards of the land without being overregulated.”
    “Thank you, Sen. Joni Ernst, for introducing the CLEAR Waters Act and leading on this issue, which is critical to the aggregates industry,” said Michele Stanley, National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association Interim CEO. “The definition of Waters of the United States (WOTUS) is often subject to change under different administrations. The CLEAR Waters Act will provide the clarity and certainty our association members have long sought by excluding waste treatment systems from WOTUS and Clean Water Act permitting programs. This exclusion has historically received bipartisan support from Republican and Democratic administrations. It was maintained under the definitions of WOTUS established by the past four administrations of Presidents Obama, Trump and Biden. Importantly, the bill codifies key parts of the Sackett decision.”
    Click here to view the bill text.
    Background:
    After leading the fight against Obama’s WOTUS overreach for years, Ernst and Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Zeldin recently announced a revision that adheres to the law, cuts red tape, and provides certainty for Iowans.
    During her first year in the Senate, Senator Ernst led an effort against the harmful WOTUS rule to protect Iowans from burdensome regulations. Her effort was passed by both the Senate and the House, but President Obama vetoed it.
    During Trump’s first term, Ernst commended his administration for successfully rolling back the harmful Obama-era WOTUS rule to help spur economic growth and called on Congress to codify a reasonable definition of WOTUS into law.
    After Biden doubled down on Obama’s government overreach, Ernst supported a bipartisan effort, worked in 2023 to stop Biden’s out-of-touch WOTUS rule that aimed to repeal the Trump administration’s Navigable Waters Protection Rule (NWPR), and applauded the Supreme Court’s ruling in Sackett v. EPA.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Protects U.S. Farmland, Calls for Modernization for Farmers

    US Senate News:

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

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, is working to modernize outdated U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) systems that burden many farmers and leave farmland vulnerable to foreign adversaries.
    During the hearing, Ernst secured a commitment from Richard Fordyce, nominee for Undersecretary of Agriculture for Farm Production and Conservation, to update and digitize the process for producers when working with their local USDA offices. She also pointed out her oversight efforts and ongoing work to overhaul the outdated Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act (AFIDA) reporting system to better protect American farmland from malign foreign actors.

    Watch her full line of questioning here.
    “That same modernization is needed when it comes to how USDA tracks and monitors foreign land in the United States,” said Ernst.“The Agriculture Foreign Investment Disclosure Act – AFIDA – was signed into law in 1978, and it has been barely touched since then. Even today, foreign land purchases are reported on paper and staff must manually reenter each submission, a process that’s inefficient and prone to errors, and I’ve seen this firsthand…The recent commitments from Secretary Rollins to modernize the AFIDA reporting process is welcome news. It’s a much-needed step to protect our farmland from adversaries.”
    Background:
    Ernst understands that food security is national security. Her bipartisan FARMLAND Act will overhaul the current outdated system that has allowed China’s malign influence to threaten American security.
    Ernst confronted the Biden USDA about its lack of oversight of foreign involvement in American agricultural land and questioned officials to ensure they make updates to the AFIDA reporting process a priority.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Trahan Reintroduce Legislation to Codify College Athletes’ Unrestricted Right to Their Name, Image, Likeness

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    July 24, 2025

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, and U.S. Representative Lori Trahan (D-Mass.-03), a member of the U.S. House Committee for Energy and Commerce and a former college athlete, on Wednesday reintroduced legislation that would establish an unrestricted federal right for college athletes to market their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). The College Athlete Economic Freedom Act allows international college athletes to market their NIL without losing their visa status, encourages negotiation between athletes and their colleges for the use of athletes’ NIL for promotion and media rights deals, and ensures colleges and collectives do not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, or participating sports in the facilitation of NIL deals.

    “College athletes dedicate years of their lives to their craft and deserve their fair share of a multibillion-dollar industry built on their hard work,” said Murphy. “While the past four years of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policy have allowed these athletes to finally make money off their talent, the NCAA is hoping Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress will help them undo years of hard-earned progress. Our legislation shields college athletes from an assault on their livelihoods by expanding and codifying their basic right to be fairly compensated for their Name, Image, and Likeness.”

    “Instead of trying to undo the rights college athletes fought for decades to secure, Congress should address the real issues facing college sports today,” said Trahan. “The College Athlete Economic Freedom Act codifies athletes’ unrestricted NIL rights nationwide, closes the loophole prohibiting international athletes from entering into NIL agreements, and guarantees that women have a fair shot in the NIL marketplace. It’s long past time for Congress to stand with the athletes who’ve driven this industry without a real seat at the table.”

    Specifically, the College Athlete Economic Freedom Act would:

    • Establish an unrestricted federal right for college athletes and prospective college athletes to market the use of their name, image, and likeness — individually and as a group — by prohibiting colleges, conferences, and the NCAA from setting or enforcing rules that restrict this right or otherwise colluding to limit how athletes can use their NIL
    • Protect athletes’ ability to retain representation as they see fit, including lawyers, agents, and collective representatives (i.e. players associations) while prohibiting the NCAA or conferences from regulating athlete representation
    • Ensure colleges and affiliated NIL collectives do not discriminate by gender, race, or sport in the facilitation of NIL deals along with requiring collectives to register with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and report the NIL deals they have facilitated so athletes and stakeholders asserting discrimination have all the information they need to address it
    • Ensure equitable opportunities for college athletes to market their NIL by asserting that institutional support by colleges, conferences, or the NCAA for NIL opportunities is made available to all college athletes, along with commissioning a market analysis of NIL monetization with recommendations for improving opportunities across race, gender, and sport
    • Allow international college athletes to market their NIL in the same ways their non-immigrant peers can without losing their F-1 visa status, including in the case that athletes become employees of their schools and/or athletic associations
    • Require colleges and athletic associations to obtain a group license from athletes for using their NIL for any type of promotion, including via a media rights deal, and notify athletes of how their NIL was used along with how much revenue those deals generated, helping athletes negotiate with colleges, conferences, and the NCAA for their fair share of the revenues they produce
    • Assert robust enforcement for violations by colleges, conferences, or the NCAA in restricting athletes’ NIL rights, notably through asserting per se antitrust penalties, a private right of action for athletes to pursue civil action against violators, and authorizing the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to levy “unfair or deceptive practice” penalties.

    Full text of the bill is available here.

    A one-pager of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: As Trump, Congressional Republicans Side With NCAA Bosses, Murphy, Sanders, Warren Reintroduce Legislation to Strengthen College Athletes’ Collective Bargaining Rights

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    July 24, 2025

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) on Wednesday reintroduced the College Athlete Right to Organize Act (CARO), legislation that affirms college athletes are employees under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA). While the SCORE Act, recently introduced in the House, would put the power in the hands of the NCAA and roll back some of the progress and protection college athletes have already won, CARO would ensure college athletes have the right to organize and collectively bargain for fair compensation and better working conditions. U.S. Representative Summer L. Lee (D-Pa.-12) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

    “The multibillion-dollar college sports industry would not exist without the labor of college athletes. Between grueling two-a-day practices, cross country travel, and primetime game days, it’s absurd to claim these athletes are amateurs who doesn’t deserve a seat at the negotiating table,” said Murphy. “While the NCAA is cozying up to the Trump administration to try to protect its profits at the expense of these athletes, our bill would empower them to form unions and negotiate for better revenue-sharing agreements, working conditions, and health and safety protections.”

    “Fair pay and the right to unionize are the bare minimum universities and the NCAA should offer the college athletes that make them billions of dollars each year. Our bill protects the students powering this industry and gives them the rights they deserve as workers,” said Warren.

    “Pittsburgh is and always will be a union town—and our college athletes deserve the same rights as any other worker who generates revenue through their labor,” said Lee. “From early morning workouts to grueling travel schedules, these athletes put their bodies and futures on the line for their schools while bringing in millions for athletic departments and universities. Yet the NCAA continues to deny them the fundamental right to organize and fight for fair treatment. That’s why I’m proud to partner with Senator Murphy on the College Athlete Right to Organize Act—to ensure that student athletes from Pitt, Duquesne, and CMU to my own alma mater Penn State can stand together, form a union, and demand the dignity, protections, and compensation they’ve long been denied.”

    The legislation is endorsed by the major professional players associations including the Major League Baseball Players Association, Major League Soccer Players Association, National Basketball Players Association, National Football League Players Association, National Hockey League Players Association, and United Soccer League Players Association. AFL-CIO, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, American Federation of Teachers, Service Employees International Union (SEIU), and United Steelworkers (USW) also endorsed the bill.

    “Collective bargaining has immeasurably benefitted the athletes we represent and professional sports as a whole. Our members enjoy elevated health and safety standards, medical benefits, more equitable compensation, and other rights both on and off the field. Leagues and teams can negotiate roster construction, roster stability, and other competitive regulations. And fans receive the most compelling entertainment product in the world. The same result is achievable at the collegiate level, and we applaud Sen. Murphy for his continued efforts to ensure the option to organize and collectively bargain is safeguarded,” said the Major League Baseball Players Association, Major League Soccer Players Association, National Basketball Players Association, National Football League Players Association, and National Hockey League Players Association.

    “The USW applauds Sen. Chris Murphy’s efforts to protect college athletes. The NCAA is a massive business kept afloat by more than half a million players in the United States. Our union has advocated on behalf athletes for more than 60 years, and we’re proud to once again back common-sense measures like the College Athletes Right to Organize Act that ensure college athletes receive the fair compensation, just treatment and safe workplaces all workers deserve,” said USW International President David McCall.

    With Division I college football programs raking in hundreds of millions a year and paying their coaches in the tens of millions, it’s unconscionable and unacceptable that the workers who create that immense value are barred from bargaining over safety, compensation, and schedules. “Student-athletes” is a legal fiction used to justify rampant exploitation of disproportionately Black and brown workers. Every worker who puts in a physically and mentally grueling day of work should have the right to advocate for their collective interests. We should not have sectors of our economy, whether they are hidden from view, or live in prime time, where workers lack basic rights. The College Athlete Right to Organize Act recognizes the plain reality that the NCAA and its supplicants would prefer to cover-up and deny. The Senate should pass it swiftly,” said Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation for Teachers.

    U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-Mo.-5), Maxwell Frost (D-Fla.-10), Hank Johnson (D-Ga.-4), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.-14), Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.-5), Delia Ramirez (D-Ill.-3), Shri Thanedar (D-Mich.-13), and Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.-12) co-sponsored the legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

    Murphy also reintroduced the College Athlete Economic Freedom Act, legislation that would establish an unrestricted federal right for college athletes to market their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schatz, Murphy Introduce New Legislation To Improve Wages, Operations Transparency For Rideshare Drivers, Delivery App Workers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) and Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) today introduced the Empowering App-Based Workers Act, new legislation to improve transparency on how app companies operate and help boost wages for rideshare drivers and delivery app workers.

    “Every day rideshare drivers and delivery app workers work long hours and travel many miles to make a living, often without knowing how much money they’ll make. Our bill would shed some light on how apps determine work assignments and pay, ensuring workers are treated and paid fairly,” said Senator Schatz.

    Millions of workers across multiple industries, report to work by turning on an app. These platforms collect data from both workers and consumers to shape working conditions, evaluate workers, and make work-related decisions, including decisions on how much to pay a worker, which workers get which assignments, and whether, when, or for how long a worker will be suspended or ‘deactivated.’ All this is done with systems that are not transparent to workers, consumers, or regulators, creating information imbalances that mask wage theft, discrimination, and price-gouging.

    The Empowering App-Based Workers Act would create a level playing field for workers managed by digital labor platforms by:

    • Requiring disclosure of electronic monitoring and automated decision systems uses, including how they are used to determine pay and other work decisions;
    • Providing itemized receipts to workers and consumers after every work assignment;
    • Providing workers receive weekly pay statements with relevant information on their compensation;
    • Ensuring rideshare workers receive at least 75 percent of the amount paid by consumers; and
    • Stopping platforms from using interfaces that contain unfair or deceptive information on compensation.

    “We applaud Senators Schatz and Murphy for listening to workers’ demands and introducing the Empowering App-Based Workers Act,” said Rebecca Dixon, President and CEO of NELP. “App-based workers have long sought better pay and greater accountability from corporations that use hidden algorithms to determine pay, work assignments, and discipline. This legislation is an important step forward in building a good-jobs economy where all workers have expansive rights and thrive in good jobs.”

    “Senator Schatz’s bill is a great first step toward protecting app-based workers from hidden fees, undue surveillance, and algorithms that violate their civil rights. It also creates mechanisms to hold Big Tech accountable when their greed harms workers,” said Jody Calemine, AFL-CIO Director of Advocacy.

    The bill is supported by the ACE Collaborative of New Virginia Majority, Action Center on Race and Economy, AFL-CIO, Athena, Center for Law and Social Policy, Color Of Change, Colorado Independent Drivers United, Connecticut Drivers United, Coworker, Data & Society, Drivers Union Washington/Teamsters Local 117, Economic Policy Institute, Fair Work Center, Groundwork Collaborative, Hawai‘i Workers Center, Los Deliveristas Unidos, Minnesota Uber/Lyft Drivers Association, Make the Road New Jersey, National Women’s Law Center, National Employment Law Project (NELP), New York Taxi Workers Alliance, New School Center for NYC Public Affairs, NLAN/GLOW, National Partnership for Women & Families, National Women’s Law Center Action Fund, Open Markets Institute, Portland Drivers United, Rideshare Drivers United, PowerSwith Action, Service Employees International Union (SEIU), Tech Equity Collaborative, Tennessee Drivers Union, The People’s Lobby, Towards Justice, United Food and Commercial Workers International Union, and Working Washington.

    The text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: TOMORROW: Governor Newsom to respond to Texas’ redistricting plan and provide update on fight to preserve American democracy

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jul 24, 2025

    SACRAMENTO COUNTY — Governor Gavin Newsom will hold a press availability tomorrow to discuss Texas’ latest redistricting maneuver aimed at tilting the outcome of the 2026 election — with serious implications for democracy nationwide.

    WHEN: Friday, July 25 at approximately 2 p.m.

    LIVESTREAM: Governor’s Twitter page, Governor’s Facebook page, and the Governor’s YouTube page. This event will also be available to TV stations on the LiveU Matrix under “California Governor.”

    NOTE: This in-person press event will be open to credentialed media only. Media interested in attending must RSVP by clicking here no later than 12 p.m., July 25. Location information will be provided upon RSVP confirmation.

    Media advisories, Recent news

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    Jul 24, 2025

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    Jul 24, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement today on a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit striking down California’s ammunition background check law, which was passed by voters in 2016: Strong…

    Jul 23, 2025

    News What you need to know: Through Governor Newsom’s support of local government efforts and state investments, California is reversing decades of inaction on homelessness. Last year’s 2024 point-in-time count showed California had outperformed the nation by slowing…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Coast Guard, international partners conclude Operation Nasse in Pacific region

    Source: United States Coast Guard

     

    07/24/2025 07:56 PM EDT

    HONOLULU – The U.S. Coast Guard completed participation July 11 in Operation Nasse, a three-month operation conducted by Australia, France, New Zealand, and the U.S. to safeguard the marine resources of Pacific Island nations.

    For breaking news follow us on twitter @USCGHawaiiPac

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: President Trump to visit Scotland

    Source: Scottish Government

    First Minister says United States remains one of Scotland’s closest partners.

    Scotland will have “a platform to make its voice heard” during the visit of the President of the United States, First Minister John Swinney has said.

    Speaking ahead of President Trump’s arrival, Mr Swinney said the global attention the visit will receive provides Scotland with an opportunity to respectfully demonstrate the principles of freedom and justice for all, while also promoting Scotland’s tourism sector and economic investment potential.

    First Minister John Swinney said:

    “Scotland shares a strong friendship with the United States that goes back centuries. That partnership remains steadfast through economic, cultural and ancestral links – including of course, with the President himself.

    “As we welcome the President of the United States, Scotland will be showcased on the world stage. This provides Scotland with a platform to make its voice heard on the issues that matter, including war and peace, justice and democracy.

    “It also includes the millions of Americans – many of them potential future tourists or investors in Scotland – who will watch their elected President as he visits our country.

    “As First Minister it is my responsibility to advance our interests, raise global and humanitarian issues of significant importance, including the unimaginable suffering we are witnessing in Gaza, and ensure Scotland’s voice is heard at the highest levels of government across the world. That is exactly what I will do when I meet with President Trump during his time in Scotland.

    “We are a proud democratic nation, a country that stands firm on the principles of equality and freedom for all, and a society that stands up for a fair and just world. The right to peaceful demonstration is something we cherish, and everyone has the democratic right to protect and express their views in a peaceful, and democratic manner. That is right and proper.

    “I am confident the vast majority of people protesting will do Scotland proud and demonstrate as they should – peacefully and lawfully. I am also confident that Scotland’s police service can handle the challenge of keeping all our communities safe and, as they must, in maintaining the appropriate security any US President requires.

    “This weekend is a landmark moment in our relationship with the United States, and I am certain it will be remembered for Scotland showing the world the very best of itself.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 541

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL1

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 541
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    705 PM EDT Thu Jul 24 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Southeast Lower Michigan
    Far Northwest Ohio
    Lake Erie

    * Effective this Thursday night from 705 PM until Midnight EDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Isolated damaging wind gusts to 65 mph possible

    SUMMARY…A line of strong to occasionally severe thunderstorms is
    moving eastward across central Lower MI, near the MI/IN/IL border
    intersection. This line is expected to continue eastward into the
    warm, moist, and strongly unstable airmass downstream across
    southeast Lower MI and adjacent far northwest OH. Strong to severe
    gusts will be possible with this line. Additional more cellular
    development is possible ahead of this line, which could also pose a
    risk for damaging water-loaded downbursts.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 40
    statute miles east and west of a line from 15 miles west northwest
    of Mount Clemens MI to 10 miles south southwest of Toledo OH. For a
    complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
    update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU1).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
    favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
    Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
    weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
    warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
    tornadoes.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 540…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    1 inch. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 55 knots. A few
    cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
    24035.

    …Mosier

    SEL1

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 541
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    705 PM EDT Thu Jul 24 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Southeast Lower Michigan
    Far Northwest Ohio
    Lake Erie

    * Effective this Thursday night from 705 PM until Midnight EDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Isolated damaging wind gusts to 65 mph possible

    SUMMARY…A line of strong to occasionally severe thunderstorms is
    moving eastward across central Lower MI, near the MI/IN/IL border
    intersection. This line is expected to continue eastward into the
    warm, moist, and strongly unstable airmass downstream across
    southeast Lower MI and adjacent far northwest OH. Strong to severe
    gusts will be possible with this line. Additional more cellular
    development is possible ahead of this line, which could also pose a
    risk for damaging water-loaded downbursts.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 40
    statute miles east and west of a line from 15 miles west northwest
    of Mount Clemens MI to 10 miles south southwest of Toledo OH. For a
    complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
    update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU1).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
    favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
    Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
    weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
    warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
    tornadoes.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 540…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    1 inch. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 55 knots. A few
    cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
    24035.

    …Mosier

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW1
    WW 541 SEVERE TSTM MI OH LE 242305Z – 250400Z
    AXIS..40 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    15WNW MTC/MOUNT CLEMENS MI/ – 10SSW TOL/TOLEDO OH/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 35NM E/W /31NNE DXO – 51SSW DXO/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1 INCH. WIND GUSTS..55 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 24035.

    LAT…LON 42688232 41448310 41448465 42688389

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU1.

    Watch 541 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Low (

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Wicker Leads SASC Confirmation Hearing on Chief of Naval Operations Nominee Admiral Daryl Caudle

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker
    Watch Video Here
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today led a hearing to consider the nomination of Admiral Daryl Caudle to be Chief of Naval Operations.
    In his opening remarks, Chairman Wicker praised Admiral Caudle’s extensive experience and highlighted the challenges facing the Navy amid rising demands in the maritime domain.
    Read Senator Wicker’s hearing opening statement as delivered.
    I welcome Admiral Daryl Caudle, and his family are here, thank you for being here today.  As Commander of United States Fleet Forces Command for the past four years, Admiral Caudle has been responsible for the readiness, training, and deployment of naval forces.  He is uniquely suited to guide the Navy through today’s complex challenges.
    The U.S. Navy handles critical maritime missions that no other nation could shoulder. Our Navy is unmatched in its capabilities. No other navy can operate complex naval exercises in the Pacific, defend Israel from Iranian ballistic missile attacks, and prosecute a campaign against the Houthi terrorists in Yemen – executing all of these missions nearly simultaneously.
    Accomplishing all these objectives is no easy feat.  Admiral Caudle has championed a ready fleet, targeting a goal of 80 percent surge combat readiness to ensure forces are prepared for rapid deployment.  He also started the important task of rethinking force generation models to consider how we can more efficiently generate combat power.  We must start addressing the global demand for United States naval presence by increasing the supply of ready ships, personnel, and equipment.
    Last week, this committee released the text of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026.  In addition to reforms proposed by the FORGED Act, our bill seeks to address maintenance challenges faced by the Navy’s surface fleet. The Senate’s plan adjusts the contracting strategy for ship repair.  We would like to see the Navy give a clear demand signal to each shipyard and bring them into the planning process much earlier. Additionally, we proposed authorities that are meant to reverse inefficiencies in current processes by empowering the fleet to oversee maintenance.  I would like to hear from our witness about these reforms and his strategies for boosting readiness to meet global demands.
    The committee’s NDAA would help correct serious deficiencies in the Navy’s budget by proposing additional support for the service.  Billions of dollars are misaligned between the Navy’s budget request and the recently enacted reconciliation law.  If confirmed, Admiral Caudle must navigate these fiscal realities in order to keep readiness and modernization on track.  I am hopeful that Congress will unite to raise the defense topline, closing these gaps to ensure our Navy remains the world’s preeminent maritime force.
    Fortunately, the reconciliation law gives the Navy a transformative opportunity.  It includes $18 billion for shipbuilding, $5 billion for unmanned systems, $5 billion for rebuilding the maritime industrial base, $5 billion for munitions and missiles, and $2 billion for ship spare parts.
    These investments are necessary, but they are no substitute for good management.  Leadership starts at the top, and I hope that our nominee and Secretary Phelan will build an immediate partnership.  The next Chief of Naval Operations will lead our Navy into the most dangerous threat window our country has faced in generations.
    Let me quote Admiral Hyman Rickover, “In everything we do, we must ask ourselves: Does this directly advance our preparation for war?”  We all seek peace, but the surest path to preserving peace is by building unmatched strength.  I look forward to hearing from our witness how he will strengthen our Navy to meet the challenges we need.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren on Trump Administration Approving Paramount Megamerger: “Bribery Is Illegal No Matter Who Is President”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    July 24, 2025
    Washington, D.C. – Today, in response to the news that the Trump administration approved Paramount Global’s (Paramount) $8 billion merger with Skydance Media (Skydance), U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) released the following statement:
    “Bribery is illegal no matter who is president. It sure looks like Skydance and Paramount paid $36 million to Donald Trump for this merger, and he’s even bragged about this crooked-looking deal. I’ve been ringing the alarm bell for months, launching a Senate investigation into possible corruption, and this merger must be investigated for any criminal behavior. It’s an open question whether the Trump administration’s approval of this merger was the result of a bribe.”
    Senator Warren has led the charge to determine if Paramount bribed President Trump in exchange for approval of its multi-billion-dollar megamerger with Skydance, and has fought relentlessly against President Trump’s corruption:
    On July 23, Senator Warren published an op-ed in Variety: “Elizabeth Warren on Colbert ‘Late Show’ Cancellation: Is the Paramount Trump Payoff a Bribe?”
    On July 21, Senators Warren, Sanders (I-Vt.), and Wyden (D-Ore.) pressed David Ellison, CEO of Skydance, about reports of a secret deal between Skydance and President Trump — and how it may be related to Paramount’s recent multi-million-dollar settlement agreement with Trump.
    On July 17, Senators Warren and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), along with Representatives Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.), Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), Melane Stansbury (D-N.M.), and lawmakers in Congress unveiled the Presidential Library Anti-Corruption Act to close loopholes that allow presidential libraries to be used as tools for corruption and bribery.
    On July 2, Senator Warren called for an investigation into Paramount’s settlement with Trump.
    On May 19, Senators Warren, Sanders, and Wyden wrote to Shari Redstone, Chair of Paramount, with concerns regarding whether Paramount may be engaging in potentially illegal conduct involving the Trump Administration in exchange for approval of its megamerger with Skydance.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Representative Nadler Delivers Remarks at Rally in Support of Brooklyn Container Port

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

    Today, Representative Jerrold Nadler (NY-12) delivered the following remarks, as prepared for delivery, at a community rally in Red Hook in support of the Brooklyn container port: 

    “Thank you for inviting me here today. As many of you know, I have advocated for the Port of New York and New Jersey for more than forty years. For many of those years, I represented the Red Hook waterfront in Congress and fought for this vital facility, the community, and the jobs that depend on the port.

    Red Hook is the only remaining container port facility on the eastern side of the Hudson River, making it immensely important for our city, state, and region. We gather today to address a critical decision facing our community regarding the future of the Brooklyn Marine Terminal and Red Hook’s working waterfront.

    Red Hook has served as an active working waterfront for 150 years. While the port may be smaller than terminals in New Jersey and Staten Island, its location in the heart of America’s largest consumer market provides unique value. Red Hook connects our region to vital supply chains, bringing fresh produce from Latin America and the Caribbean directly to grocery stores throughout the city and Long Island.

    The recent Baltimore bridge collapse reminded us how vulnerable our supply chains can be. We need redundancy and resilient alternatives. The Blue Highway barge service operating since 1991 employs skilled long-shore workers representing generations of maritime expertise. This infrastructure deserves our investment and protection.

    Unfortunately, the city in acquiring the facility made a bad deal with the Port Authority and inherited a facility with significant challenges from decades of underinvestment. But now that the city owns Brooklyn Marine Terminal, it must repair the facility without any conditions. The current proposal from EDC is deeply flawed. To save the port, they propose developing thousands of market-rate housing units to finance improvements. I believe there is a better path forward, because their plan would have the opposite effect—shrinking and killing the very port they claim to want to save.

    I fully recognize the city’s housing crisis requires urgent attention. However, adding 8,000 housing units to an area with narrow streets, aging infrastructure, and limited transit raises serious concerns about community impact and quality of life.
    I propose a more thoughtful approach. First, preserve the Red Hook Port with no reduction in its footprint. Second, the city should invest in port stabilization and improvements as a public infrastructure priority, similar to investments in ferry lines, roads, and bridges. New York State should contribute as well, since the terminal serves the broader region including Long Island and the Hudson Valley.

    Finally, housing decisions should be addressed through the established ULURP process, designed for complex land use decisions requiring maximum community input. This same process recently delivered the City of Yes housing plan through proper democratic engagement.

    The fact that EDC keeps postponing the Task Force vote shows they lack support for their deeply flawed plan. It is profoundly undemocratic for EDC to delay the vote simply because they know their plan will be rejected. I urge the Task Force to approve necessary port improvements immediately while deferring housing decisions for later consideration through the ULURP process. This approach respects both the community’s voice and the democratic processes that ensure good governance.

    The future of Red Hook deserves careful deliberation, not rushed decisions. We can protect our working waterfront while addressing housing needs through proper planning and community engagement.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Congressman Castro Testifies at Texas Capitol to Stand Against Governor Abbott’s Gerrymandering Efforts

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joaquin Castro (20th District of Texas)

    July 24, 2025

    AUSTIN, TX — Today, Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) testified before the Texas House Select Committee on Congressional Redistricting to stand up to Governor Greg Abbott and President Trump for subverting the will of all Texans and disenfranchising the voting power of minority voters.

    Congressman Castro Delivers 2 Minute Testimony

    Congressman Castro’s testimony below:

    Thank you, Chairman and Members of the Committee.

    I am proud to represent my hometown of San Antonio, Texas, the 20th Congressional District.

    I was a freshman in 2003, when as Democrats, we left the state for Ardmore, Oklahoma, to stop mid-decade redistricting more than 20 years ago.

    It was wrong then, and it’s wrong now.

    And you all are being used. You’re being used by the White House and by Donald Trump. You’re being used because he doesn’t want Democrats to control the majority of the Congress so that there’ll be no investigations.

    There has been no discussion in Congress about the floods that occurred in Kerr County and the loss of so many lives. There has been no discussion on the Epstein files, no discussions on the Iran leaks and all those messages by the Secretary of Defense and others.

    There literally is no accountability right now in Congress and the people that are going to pay for this are the folks in Black and Brown communities in our cities. They’re going to have their districts cracked and packed and un-Blacked because of this effort.

    That’s what’s at stake here, whether you all are going to work for the people of Texas, as we used to do, or try to do, or whether you’re going to take your commandments from Donald Trump and the White House.

    I hope that you all will choose to do the business of the people of Texas as this body has a history of being independent from the federal government, not a stooge for it.

    I yield back.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pressley Slams DHS Stealing Immigrants’ DNA and Giving it to FBI Criminal Database

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

    Pressley Also Condemns GOP Inhumane Treatment of Immigrant Children

    “This administration is turning childhood trauma into a permanent record. Republicans on this committee claim to be focused on protecting children, yet ignore actual threats to their safety.”

    Video (YouTube)

    WASHINGTON – In a House Oversight Federal Law Enforcement Subcommittee hearing, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) condemned Trump’s DHS policy to steal the DNA of immigrants – including children as young as four years old – and handing it over to an FBI criminal database to surveil them like suspects in waiting.

    In her remarks, Rep. Pressley made clear that the stealing of children’s genetic information is a direct violation of their civil rights and civil liberties and slammed Trump and Republicans for traumatizing children while claiming to protect them.

    A full transcript of her remarks as delivered is available below, and the full video is available here.

    Transcript: Pressley Slams DHS Stealing Immigrants’ DNA and Giving it to FBI Criminal Database

    House of Representatives

    July 23, 2025

    REP. PRESSLEY: Thank you. First, let me begin by saying this: Republicans, you sound absolutely absurd. Stop calling children “aliens.” This intentional – I mean, the cruelty is the point – this intentional, dehumanizing, and persistent persecution through your rhetoric is shameful. 

    You are literally attacking children. I cannot take seriously anyone who’s using othering language to bully babies and toddlers. 

    Republicans don’t want us to see the humanity of immigrants. That’s why they like saying “aliens” and even put it in the title of the hearing. And that inhumane approach is consistent with the actions of the Department of Homeland Security. 

    Dr. Cuffari, have you heard about the DHS policy of collecting the DNA of children and storing it into the FBI criminal database? Yes or no?

    DR. CUFFARI: I believe there is not a policy to do children.

    REP. PRESSLEY: There absolutely is. Mr. Chair, I ask unanimous consent to enter into the record this report from July 2025, titled ‘Rating the Genome: How the United States Government is Abusing its Immigration Powers to Amass DNA for Future Policing.’

    CHAIR HIGGINS: Without objection.

    REP. PRESSLEY: This policy began under Donald Trump. In his first term, he authorized DHS to begin mass DNA data collection from immigrants – including children – and hand that data over to an FBI database designed to track violent offenders. 

    Now that he’s back, Trump is taking this policy to new extremes, adding more than a quarter million people to the database in just four months. A quarter million people, okay, in four months. 

    This committee recently held a hearing on genetic data, and there was bipartisan agreement that DNA is highly sensitive and its misuse is a violation of people’s rights, because children as young as four years old could not possibly consent to DNA collection.

    So I want to know what your office is doing about it, Dr. Cuffari- 

    DR. CUFFARI: We actually wrote a report –

    REP. PRESSLEY: One moment, let me ask the question.

    DR. CUFFARI: Certainly.

    REP. PRESSLEY: Is it the responsibility of your office to investigate abuses of civil rights and civil liberties? Yes or no?

    DR. CUFFARI: Yes.

    REP. PRESSLEY: Has your office ever investigated concerns about DHS agents stealing genetic information from children and uploading it to the FBI criminal database?

    DR. CUFFARI: Not to my knowledge, during my tenure.

    REP. PRESSLEY: Well, for an Inspector General worthy of the title, it should be a priority investigation. Do you agree?

    DR. CUFFARI: I agree that we did a report –

    REP. PRESSLEY: Thank you.

    DR. CUFFARI: Thank you.

    REP. PRESSLEY: You agree? 

    DR. CUFFARI: I agree –

    REP. PRESSLEY: There should be a priority investigation?

    DR. CUFFARI: – On the matter you’re discussing.

    REP. PRESSLEY: For the record, I want to be clear. Do you agree this should be a priority investigation by your office to look into agents stealing genetic information from children and uploading it to the FBI criminal database – yes or no? Yes or no?

    DR. CUFFARI: We have done the report –

    REP. PRESSLEY: Let me just this –

    DR. CUFFARI: We have done the report you’re mentioning –

    REP. PRESSLEY: Let me just say this – your office, according to Title Five of the US Code, Chapter Four, Section 417 – this is the responsibility you are charged with, to investigate abuses of civil rights and civil liberties. 

    Children as young as four years old have not consented to the collection of their DNA. That is a violation of their civil rights and civil liberties. 

    So this is not a trick question. Do you believe, given the charge and jurisdiction of your office, that this should be a priority investigation, as their rights have been violated?

    DR. CUFFARI: Unless the adult consented on the child –

    REP. PRESSLEY: Yes or no? Yes or no, Dr. Cuffari?

    DR. CUFFARI: We just got done writing a report.

    REP. PRESSLEY: On what?

    DR. CUFFARI: On the DNA collection within the Department of Homeland Security.

    REP. PRESSLEY: I thought you said you weren’t even aware that it was a policy. I’m very confused.

    DR. CUFFARI: There’s not a policy.

    REP. PRESSLEY: Dr. Cuffari, I’m not going to, you know, play these games here – because we’re talking about children, so I don’t want to circle the drain. 

    But this should be a priority investigation, because we have children whose civil rights have been violated with the collection of their DNA. 

    This administration is turning childhood trauma into a permanent record. 

    Republicans on this committee, you claim to be focused on protecting children, yet you’re ignoring actual threats to their safety. 

    You traumatize children with the threat of disappearing their parents. You traumatize children by disappearing their parents. You traumatize children by conducting their DNA without their consent and criminalizing them. You traumatize children by denying them food when they’re hungry. You traumatize children by denying them essential health care, which is their human right. 

    You traumatize them so much that they’re afraid to show up to school, afraid to show up to church, afraid to go to doctor’s appointments. 

    Mr. Chair, I ask unanimous consent to enter into the record this July 2025 article from the Boston Globe, titled, ‘I Want Daddy: As ICE Detains Parents and Children –

    CHAIR HIGGINS: Without objection and the gentlelady’s time has expired. 

    REP. PRESSLEY: Stop using children as pawns. This is the real child abuse.

    Thank you, I yield.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: UPDATE–Brag House Announces $15 Million Private Placement

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Brag House Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: TBH) (“Brag House” or the “Company”) the Gen Z engagement platform operating at the intersection of gaming, college sports, and digital media, announces today that it has entered into a securities purchase agreement with twelve accredited investors (not one as previously reported) for a private investment in public equity (“PIPE”) financing that is expected to result in gross proceeds to the Company of approximately $15 million, before deducting placement agent fees and offering expenses.

    The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the offering for general corporate purposes, including working capital.

    Pursuant to the terms of the securities purchase agreement, the Company is selling an aggregate of 15,000 shares of its Series B Convertible Preferred Stock convertible into 15,923,567 shares of common stock, at a conversion price of $0.942 per share of Series B Convertible Stock and an aggregate of 15,923,567 warrants to acquire up to 15,923,567 shares of common stock. The purchase price for one unit (consisting of one share of Series B Convertible Preferred Stock convertible into approximately 1,061 shares and the same number of warrants) was $1,000. The warrants issued in the offering are exercisable immediately upon issuance at an exercise price of $0.817 per share and will expire five years from the date of issuance.

    Revere Securities LLC acted as the sole placement agent for the PIPE financing.

    The securities being offered and sold by the Company in the private placement have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), or state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) or an applicable exemption from such registration requirements. The securities were offered only to accredited investors. The Company has agreed to file one or more registration statements with the SEC covering the resale of the unregistered shares issuable upon the conversion of the Series B Preferred Stock and the shares issuable upon exercise of the unregistered warrants.

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    About Brag House Holdings, Inc.

    Brag House is a leading media technology platform dedicated to transforming casual college gaming into a vibrant, community-driven experience. By merging gaming, social interaction, and collegiate culture, Brag House enables brands to authentically connect with the influential Gen Z demographic through gamified experiences, live-streaming content, and scalable data insights. For more information, visit www.braghouse.com.

    Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “is/are likely to,” “potential,” “continue” or other similar expressions. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks including, but not limited to, the risk factors discussed in the Risk Factors and in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations sections of our Forms 10-K, 10-Q and other reports filed with the SEC and available at www.sec.gov. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s registration statement and other filings with the SEC. Additional factors are discussed in the Company’s filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations that arise after the date hereof, except as may be required by law.

    Investor Relations Contact
    Adele Carey
    VP, Investor Relations
    ir@thebraghouse.com

    Media Contact
    Fatema Bhabrawala
    Director of Media Relations
    fbhabrawala@allianceadvisors.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Pillen Touts Historic Income Tax Relief

    Source: US State of Nebraska

    . Pillen Touts Historic Income Tax Relief

    LINCOLN, NE – Governor Jim Pillen released the following statement after the Tax Rate Review Committee met to review the State’s fiscal position. The Committee has again supported the established tax rates. 

    “It’s pretty simple: Nebraskans should be able to keep more of what they earn,” said Gov. Pillen. “By signing historic income tax relief into law, we’re giving families and seniors in our state a boost. When we shrink government and cut spending, we can focus on providing better outcomes and improving services for everyone in our state. There’s more work to do to drive down taxes in this state, but our goal is to keep fighting to make Nebraska – for generations to come – the best place to live, work, and raise a family.”

    The Committee review is great news for Nebraska families and businesses who will see income tax rates fall from 5.2% to 4.55% this coming January, and down again to 3.99% beginning 2027. The reduced tax rates were set in motion in 2023 by legislation introduced on behalf of Governor Pillen.

    Today, the Committee reviewed end of year numbers for fiscal year 2025 and projections for the next two fiscal years. The July financial status report includes assumptions which will be updated prior to the October meeting of the Nebraska Economic Forecasting Advisory Board. State spending was under budget last year by $362 million. Some of this will be used for prior year obligations and $36 million is projected to lapse back to the General Fund. Compared with current projections, we are likely to see a higher lapse of unspent prior year funds, less mid-biennium spending, and higher reserve balances.

    The Committee also acknowledged a calculated variance from the required $337 million surplus reserve. The $47.7 million needed in each year to shore up the variance is equivalent to less than a percent of annual revenue and is well below Governor Pillen’s targeted budget reductions.  The total reserve, including the surplus reserve, is expected to remain above $1 billion. The impact of the Governor’s spending reductions will be finalized during the 2026 legislative session.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner, Thune Reintroduce Legislation to Expand Seniors’ Options for Care

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
    WASHINGTON — U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and John Thune (R-SD) today reintroduced the Equitable Community Access to Pharmacist Services (ECAPS) Act, bipartisan legislation that would ensure seniors can continue to access important clinical services from their pharmacist. The bill would allow Medicare to reimburse for certain pharmacist-administered tests, treatments, and vaccinations for illnesses like influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and strep throat, in accordance with state scope-of-practice laws. 
    “Seniors across South Dakota rely on the care and support they receive from their community pharmacists,” said Thune. “I am proud to lead this commonsense legislation that would allow these services and other important treatments to remain a reliable option for seniors, particularly in our rural communities.” 
    “During the pandemic, we saw firsthand how pharmacists stepped up to meet urgent health care needs, especially in underserved and rural communities,” said Warner. “This bill builds on that progress by making sure seniors can continue to count on their local pharmacists for routine tests, vaccines, and treatments for common illnesses like flu and COVID. This is a practical step to improve access to care, reduce the burden on hospitals and clinics, and make our health system work better for seniors.”
    “In rural states like South Dakota, pharmacists are often the most accessible – and sometimes the only – health care provider available to patients,” said Amanda Bacon, executive director of the South Dakota Pharmacists Association. “The ECAPS Act recognizes the vital role pharmacists play on the front lines of care, especially in areas where access is limited by geography, provider shortages, or both. The South Dakota Pharmacists Association strongly supports this legislation and the critical role it plays in strengthening our rural health care system. The ECAPS Act helps keep care close to home – and in South Dakota, that makes all the difference.” 
    “We applaud Senator Warner and Senator Thune for championing the reintroduction of the ECAPS Act,” said Jamie Fisher, executive director of the Virginia Pharmacy Association. “This bipartisan legislation recognizes what patients across Virginia already know – pharmacists are vital, trusted, and accessible members of the health care team. By ensuring Medicare beneficiaries can receive essential services like flu, COVID-19, RSV, and strep testing and treatment from their local pharmacist, the ECAPS Act will improve health outcomes, particularly in rural and underserved communities where access to care is often limited. We strongly support this effort to expand access and equity in health care.” 
    “The Future of Pharmacy Care Coalition commends Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Senator Mark Warner for championing the ECAPS Act to ensure seniors, including those living in rural areas and vulnerable communities, can turn to their local pharmacists for testing and treatment services that can protect them from certain common respiratory conditions,” said the Future of Pharmacy Care Coalition. “Congress must move with urgency to provide seniors with Medicare coverage in states where pharmacists can offer testing and treatment services for conditions that, although common, can quickly become life-threatening if not properly managed.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner, 28 Senators Call on Administration to Conduct Independent, U.S.-Led Investigation into Death of American Citizen in West Bank

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) joined Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and 27 of their Senate Democratic colleagues in a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Attorney General Pam Bondi calling on the Administration to conduct an independent investigation into the death of Saifullah Kamel Musallet, an American citizen recently killed near the West Bank town of Sinjil. The Senators point to the repeated lack of accountability in the deaths of other American citizens killed in the West Bank since January 2022, including Shireen Abu Akleh, Omar Assad, Tawfic Abdel Jabbar, Mohammad Ahmed Mohammad Khdour, Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, and Amer Mohammad Saada Rabee. Given that, the Senators also ask for an update on the status of any investigations into the killings of these six other Americans.
    The Senators wrote, “We write with grave concern regarding the brutal killing of a Palestinian-American, Saifullah Kamel Musallet, near the West Bank town of Sinjil, on July 11, 2025. The U.S. government must conduct a credible and independent investigation into his death and hold all perpetrators accountable. Protecting and supporting U.S. citizens abroad is one of the foremost responsibilities of the U.S. government. The United States Government has failed to secure accountability for the killing of respected Palestinian American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh, or any of the other five American citizens – Omar Assad, Tawfic Abdel Jabbar, Mohammad Ahmed Mohammad Khdour, Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, and Amer Mohammad Saada Rabee – killed in the West Bank since January 2022. Following the Trump Administration’s sudden revocation of all U.S. sanctions against extremist settlers in the West Bank, the first five months of 2025 have seen the highest rate of settler attacks in years and the killing of another American. We urge you to pursue a different approach.” 
    “Saifullah Kamal Musallet is the seventh American citizen killed in the West Bank since January 2022 — and the fifth in just the last nineteen months. The killings of these Americans in the West Bank have been met by a lack of accountability from the Netanyahu government and an inability to secure justice by the U.S. government. These failures have contributed to an unacceptable culture of impunity when it comes to incidents where civilians have been killed in the West Bank, including Americans,” they continued. 
    The Senators noted, “The Netanyahu government has failed to hold anyone accountable for any of these seven killings of Americans and the United States government has failed in its responsibility to protect American citizens overseas and demand justice for their deaths.”  
    “It is long past time for the U.S. government to demand accountability in these killings of Americans. To that end, we urge you to immediately launch an independent investigation into the brutal killing of Saifullah Kamel Musallet, including the circumstances that blocked ambulances from reaching him. We also ask that you provide us with an update on the status of any investigations into the killings of the six other Americans who have been killed since January 2022, and provide us with a briefing on actions you are taking to ensure accountability for their deaths and to prevent future killings of Americans in the West Bank,” the Senators closed. 
    In addition to Sen. Warner, the letter was signed by Senators Van Hollen, Murray, Kaine, Durbin, Reed, Shaheen, Schatz, Merkley, Sanders, Warren, Cantwell, Welch, Smith, Baldwin, Markey, Warnock, Lujan, Ossoff, Kim, Heinrich, Duckworth, Klobuchar, Whitehouse, Hirono, Booker, Alsobrooks, Blunt Rochester, and Murphy. 
    The full text of the letter is available here and below.
    Dear Secretary Rubio and Attorney General Bondi, 
    We write with grave concern regarding the brutal killing of a Palestinian-American, Saifullah Kamel Musallet, near the West Bank town of Sinjil, on July 11, 2025. The U.S. government must conduct a credible and independent investigation into his death and hold all perpetrators accountable. Protecting and supporting U.S. citizens abroad is one of the foremost responsibilities of the U.S. government. The United States Government has failed to secure accountability for the killing of respected Palestinian American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh, or any of the other five American citizens – Omar Assad, Tawfic Abdel Jabbar, Mohammad Ahmed Mohammad Khdour, Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, and Amer Mohammad Saada Rabee – killed in the West Bank since January 2022. Following the Trump Administration’s sudden revocation of all U.S. sanctions against extremist settlers in the West Bank, the first five months of 2025 have seen the highest rate of settler attacks in years and the killing of another American. We urge you to pursue a different approach.
    Saifullah Kamal Musallet is the seventh American citizen killed in the West Bank since January 2022 — and the fifth in just the last nineteen months. The killings of these Americans in the West Bank have been met by a lack of accountability from the Netanyahu government and an inability to secure justice by the U.S. government. These failures have contributed to an unacceptable culture of impunity when it comes to incidents where civilians have been killed in the West Bank, including Americans.
    Saifullah Kamel Musallet, a 20-year-old U.S. citizen from Florida, was visiting family in the West Bank when he was beaten to death by extremist Israeli settlers during a settler attack on the town of Sinjil. Reports indicate that ambulances could not reach the injured for more than two hours, with eyewitness accounts stating that settlers and Israeli forces impeded ambulance access. In April of this year, a 14-year-old boy from New Jersey, Amer Mohammad Saada Rabee, was also killed in the West Bank. Amer was reportedly shot at the entrance to Turmus Ayya by Israeli security forces. Reports suggest that Amer was shot a total of 11 times and two other Americans were also shot in the incident. 
    Last year, three other U.S. citizens were killed in the West Bank, including two teenagers. Tawfic Abdel Jabbar and Mohammad Ahmed Mohammad Khdour were both 17-year-old U.S. citizens visiting their families in the West Bank when they were shot and killed in separate incidents. In both cases they were shot in the head while they were traveling in vehicles. The third U.S. citizen killed in the West Bank last year was Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, a 26-year-old American citizen raised in Seattle who, according to reports, was shot in the head by an Israeli soldier from a distance of 200 meters. 
    The Netanyahu government has failed to hold anyone accountable for any of these seven killings of Americans and the United States government has failed in its responsibility to protect American citizens overseas and demand justice for their deaths.
    It is long past time for the U.S. government to demand accountability in these killings of Americans. To that end, we urge you to immediately launch an independent investigation into the brutal killing of Saifullah Kamel Musallet, including the circumstances that blocked ambulances from reaching him. We also ask that you provide us with an update on the status of any investigations into the killings of the six other Americans who have been killed since January 2022, and provide us with a briefing on actions you are taking to ensure accountability for their deaths and to prevent future killings of Americans in the West Bank.
    We respectfully ask for a response within two weeks.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Urges President Trump to Protect Whistleblowers While Cutting Federal Waste, Fraud and Abuse

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    WASHINGTON – In a letter to President Donald Trump, Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), co-founder and co-chair of the Whistleblower Protection Caucus, praised the president’s efforts to eliminate waste and fraud and requested that the administration ensure whistleblowers are not terminated or retaliated against after making legally protected whistleblower disclosures.
    “For decades, my oversight work has exposed bloated government that’s broken faith with the American taxpayer. Trillions of dollars of taxpayer money have been lost to waste, fraud and abuse … However, I write today because it’s important that federal agencies aren’t using this downsizing initiative as an excuse to retaliate against federal workers who have made protected whistleblower disclosures. If that has happened, this would not only be unlawful but also have a severe chilling effect on federal employees who would otherwise blow the whistle,” Grassley wrote.
    Grassley asked the administration to identify potential federal employees who were terminated after making a legally protected whistleblower disclosure and whose firing was not part of the administration’s overall Reduction in Force initiative. In the letter, Grassley requested each case be individually reviewed to ensure the termination, or pending termination, was not done because of the protected disclosure.
    “Whistleblowers are the government’s most powerful tool to root out waste, fraud, and abuse … In many circumstances, the misconduct and wrongdoing these patriotic whistleblowers risk their careers, livelihoods, and reputations to bring to light would have never been known to Congress, the federal government, or the American people if they didn’t have the guts to come forward. Yet, in many instances, they aren’t thanked for coming forward; rather, they’re treated like skunks at a picnic,” Grassley continued.
    The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) whistleblowers who made legally protected disclosures about misconduct in the handling of the Hunter Biden investigation faced retaliation by the Biden IRS and several attempts to discredit their reputations and ruin their careers. After President Trump returned to office, Grassley worked with the Trump administration to secure the whistleblowers’ promotions at the Treasury Department.
    Grassley also worked with the Trump administration to secure promotions and back pay for three Customs and Border Protection employees: Mark Jones, Mike Taylor, and Fred Wynn. At Grassley’s urging, the Trump administration also restored law enforcement credentials, badges and firearms for Jones and Taylor after they were revoked by the Biden administration. All three were retaliated against by the Biden administration for blowing the whistle on that administration’s failure to secure the border.
    Background:
    Grassley has consistently worked to ensure federal agencies treat whistleblowers fairly and are held accountable for whistleblower retaliation. He coauthored and helped lead the introduction of the original Whistleblower Protection Act, which passed Congress unanimously and was signed into law by then-President George H.W. Bush.
    He also helped get the Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act of 2012 signed into law, which included a Grassley-authored “anti-gag” provision. This makes federal agency nondisclosure policies, forms and agreements unenforceable unless they contain a provision notifying the employee that the agreement doesn’t prohibit them from making whistleblower disclosures to Congress, the Office of Special Counsel or an Inspector General.
    Full text of the letter is available HERE and below.
    July 24, 2025
    VIA ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSION
    The Honorable Donald J. TrumpPresident of the United StatesThe White House1600 Pennsylvania AveWashington D.C. 20500
    Dear President Trump:
    I applaud your efforts to eliminate waste and fraud within the federal government. For decades, my oversight work has exposed bloated government that’s broken faith with the American taxpayer. Trillions of dollars of taxpayer money have been lost to waste, fraud and abuse while some within the federal workforce ride the gravy train without actually doing the job for which they’re on payroll. As you work to eliminate government waste and fraud, it is necessary to reduce the federal workforce and federal building footprint. However, I write today because it’s important that federal agencies aren’t using this downsizing initiative as an excuse to retaliate against federal workers who have made protected whistleblower disclosures. If that has happened, this would not only be unlawful but also have a severe chilling effect on federal employees who would otherwise blow the whistle.
    Accordingly, I write to you concerning a potential subset of federal employees: federal employees outside of your administration’s Reduction in Force initiative who have been fired or otherwise retaliated against because they made legally protected whistleblower disclosures. If a federal employee fits within that category, it’s critically important that any individual personnel action and the federal agency’s investigation into allegations of reprisal are fair and comply with constitutional and statutory whistleblower protections. As a first step, I strongly encourage your administration to identify the universe of federal employees who were terminated outside of any Reduction in Force initiative and who made legally protected whistleblower disclosures. If federal employees within that universe do, in fact, exist, I further request that their case be individually reviewed to ensure that their termination, or pending termination, was not done because of that protected disclosure.
    Whistleblowers are the government’s most powerful tool to root out waste, fraud, and abuse. Indeed, our Founding Fathers recognized the significant importance of whistleblowers by enacting the first whistleblower protection legislation in our nation’s history in 1778 during the Second Continental Congress. In many circumstances, the misconduct and wrongdoing these patriotic whistleblowers risk their careers, livelihoods, and reputations to bring to light would have never been known to Congress, the federal government, or the American people if they didn’t have the guts to come forward. Yet, in many instances, they aren’t thanked for coming forward; rather, they’re treated like skunks at a picnic.
    For example, the brave Internal Revenue Service (IRS) whistleblowers who made legally protected disclosures about misconduct in the handling of the Hunter Biden investigation faced retaliation by the IRS and several attempts to discredit their reputations and ruin their careers. I was glad to see that your administration has done right by the IRS whistleblowers and promoted them, where the Biden administration retaliated against them. The same can be said of the Department of Homeland Security/Customs and Border Protection whistleblowers who faced years of retaliation for blowing the whistle on the government’s failure to collect DNA at the border. Your administration gave them their guns, badges, and retirement back. Many other whistleblowers from all over the federal government have done and continue to do the same, putting everything on the line to expose waste, fraud, abuse, and misconduct. These patriotic whistleblowers ought to be rewarded for their courage and sacrifices, not subjected to retaliation.
    Throughout my career I’ve committed to ensuring that federal agencies treat whistleblowers fairly and are held accountable for whistleblower retaliation. I coauthored and helped lead the introduction of the original Whistleblower Protection Act, which passed Congress unanimously and was signed into law by then-President George H.W. Bush. I also cosponsored and worked to get the Whistleblower Protection Enhancement Act of 2012 signed into law, which included language I authored, known as the “anti-gag” provision. This provision makes federal agency nondisclosure policies, forms, and agreements unenforceable unless they contain a provision notifying the employee that the agreement doesn’t prohibit them from making whistleblower disclosures to Congress, the Office of Special Counsel, or an Inspector General.
    Further, I’ve championed laws and legislation to expand whistleblower protections to employees of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Intelligence Community. But just because we’ve passed good laws does not mean we can stop paying attention to the issue. I founded the bipartisan Whistleblower Protection Caucus to encourage my Senate colleagues to further strengthen protections for whistleblowers and to recognize the sacrifices they make for our country. Those who fight waste, fraud, and abuse in government should be lauded for their patriotism. Accordingly, I strongly urge federal agencies to ensure all allegations of whistleblower retaliation are given fair and appropriate review, investigation, and consideration.
    And, finally, I kindly remind you of my outstanding request that you hold a Rose Garden ceremony for whistleblowers.
    Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
    Sincerely,
    Charles E. GrassleyChairmanCommittee on the Judiciary

    MIL OSI USA News –