NewzIntel.com

Category: United States of America

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brownley Statement on Israeli and Iranian Air Strikes 

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

    Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA) issued the following statement on the Israeli and Iranian air strikes.

    “Donald Trump has done virtually nothing to stop Iran’s continued enrichment of weapons-grade nuclear material or to curb its support for terrorist organizations that threaten Israel, destabilize the Middle East, and endanger U.S. interests since he walked away from the nuclear weapons treaty Obama negotiated.

    “While I’m not generally supportive of Prime Minister Netanyahu, as he often seems intent on addressing every security challenge through military means, Israel unquestionably has the right to defend itself. And Iran has unquestionably and repeatedly threatened the security of Israel, directly and through their proxies.

    “While I have hope, I also have little faith, that Donald Trump has the leadership skills or the interest to stabilize the region or secure lasting peace for Israel, but in the leadership vacuum he’s created, one thing is clear: Iran must not be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon and they have continued, in defiance of international nonproliferation treaties, to move toward acquiring nuclear weapons. Let’s be clear, a nuclear-armed Iran would endanger not just Israel — but the entire world.

    “I would like both Israel and Iran to de-escalate the current conflict. But ultimately, there will be no stability in the Middle East, which requires a secure Israel, hope for the Palestinian people, and a denuclearized Iran, without diplomacy and U.S. engagement. The President needs to step up and provide the leadership this moment demands.”

    ###

    Issues: 119th Congress

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pennsylvania Man Charged with Wire Fraud, Money Laundering, and Identity Theft

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DENVER – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Adepoju Babatunde Salako, 32, of Pennsylvania, has been charged with six counts of wire fraud; one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud; one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering; and four counts of aggravated identity theft.

    According to the indictment, between July 2020 and July 2021, Salako allegedly participated in a money laundering conspiracy involving fraudulent applications for COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loans to the Small Business Administration (SBA) and for unemployment insurance benefits to more than 30 states that obtained more than $5.6 million in government benefits using over 1,000 stolen or fake identities. Salako and his co-conspirators allegedly moved fraud proceeds through several intermediate accounts using various methods, eventually spending the money or transferring it overseas as currency or in the form of goods such as cars or solar panels.

    The indictment further alleges that between January 4, 2021, and March 20, 2021, Salako submitted approximately 15 fraudulent applications for unemployment insurance benefits to the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE), using stolen or false identities. Salako allegedly used names and addresses of residents of Colorado, which he looked up on personal information search websites such as TruthFinder, to submit applications using the Colorado residents’ actual identifiers.  The CDLE paid one unemployment insurance claim submitted by Salako, in the amount of $649, and paid an additional $15,431 to bank accounts controlled by Salako based on claims submitted by a co-conspirator.

    The indictment further alleges that in addition to submitting fraudulent unemployment insurance claims to Colorado, Salako submitted and aided and abetted in the submission of fraudulent claims in other states using stolen or false identities, including Maryland, Minnesota, New Hampshire, and New York,  at least 10 fraudulent applications for COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loans to the SBA, using stolen or false identities, and a fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program loan application in the name of Turn-Turn-Turn Woodturning, using the stolen identity of a Nevada resident.

    The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was enacted in March 2020 and was designed to provide emergency financial assistance to Americans dealing with the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.  The CARES Act created the PPP, a program administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA) that provided loans to small businesses to retain workers, maintain payroll, and certain other expenses consistent with PPP rules. Additionally, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, several federal programs expanded eligibility for unemployment benefits.

    The defendant made his initial appearance in Colorado on June 13, 2025, before Magistrate Judge Scott T. Varholak.

    The charges contained in the indictment are allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    This case is being investigated by the United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, and CDLE.  The case is being prosecuted by the Economic Crime Section of the United States Attorney’s Office.

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

    Case Number: 25-cr-00162-CNS

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grants Pass and Douglas County Fire District No. 2 Receive High-Tech Water Rescue Equipment through Oregon’s SPIRE Grant Program

    Source: US State of Oregon

    ALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is proud to announce the delivery of advanced water rescue equipment to two Oregon communities as part of the State Preparedness and Incident Response Equipment (SPIRE) grant program.

    The City of Grants Pass Fire Rescue and Douglas County Fire District No. 2 have each received an Emergency Integrated Lifesaving Lanyard (E.M.I.L.Y.) – a swift water rescue device designed to support life-saving efforts in dangerous water conditions. These compact, remote-controlled, battery-powered devices can travel through swift current to bring a flotation device directly to a person in distress, making them a vital tool for rapid water rescue.

    “We are excited to have received our Emergency Integrated Lifesaving Lanyard (E.M.I.L.Y.) devices through the SPIRE grant program,” said Joseph Hyatt of Grants Pass Fire Rescue. “This device will provide rescuers with a much-needed tool to mitigate water rescue incidents safely and successfully.”

    Douglas County Fire District No. 2 also recognized the immediate value of the device. “On behalf of Central Douglas County Fire & Rescue, and the constituents we serve, we are thankful to have been recipients of E.M.I.L.Y.,” said Fire Chief Rob Bullock. “We quickly realized the benefits and life-saving ability this will bring to our response area, ultimately aiding in a high success for survivability to the people that call for our aid. Deployment is quick, it’s effective and practical, and was immediately implemented into our response package.”

    The equipment was received in May by the City of Grants Pass Fire Rescue and the Douglas County Fire District No. 2. These cutting-edge tools represent the state’s commitment to enhancing local emergency response capabilities through SPIRE – a grant program designed to bolster disaster preparedness by equipping first responders with essential technology and tools.

    SPIRE-funded resources are mapped on Oregon’s SPIRE Hub (spire-geo.hub.arcgis.com), a public platform that provides information and coordination opportunities for emergency response assets across the state. The availability of this equipment on the SPIRE map enhances situational awareness and promotes mutual aid support across jurisdictions.

    To learn more about the SPIRE program and see where life-saving equipment is located throughout Oregon, visit: https://spire-geo.hub.arcgis.com

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fischer’s Paid Family & Medical Leave Tax Credit Included in Senate Finance Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer

    Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) issued the following statement after the Senate Finance Committee released legislative text as part of the reconciliation process which includes her Paid Family and Medical Leave Tax Credit: 

    “I want to thank Chairman Crapo for working with me to make sure my Paid Family and Medical Leave Policy is made permanent in the Senate Finance bill. Since securing the nation’s first-ever and only PFML policy in 2017, it has helped employers of all sizes offer PFML plans to their employees. I’m pleased we are continuing to build upon this important effort to benefit America’s working families.”

    In May, the House Way & Means Committee 

    included Fischer’s Paid Family and Medical Leave Tax Credit as part of their tax bill, which passed the House.

    Fischer’s work on Paid Family and Medical Leave:

    Fischer and Senator Angus King (I-Maine) established the country’s first-ever nationwide PFML policy, which was     included in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and implemented in 2018. Fischer and King reintroduced the bill in February, which builds upon the 2017 law to better serve working families. It also provides additional ways for employers to qualify for the paid leave tax credit, such as paying for PFML insurance products.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fischer’s Paid Family & Medical Leave Tax Credit Included in Senate Finance Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nebraska Deb Fischer

    Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) issued the following statement after the Senate Finance Committee released legislative text as part of the reconciliation process which includes her Paid Family and Medical Leave Tax Credit: 

    “I want to thank Chairman Crapo for working with me to make sure my Paid Family and Medical Leave Policy is made permanent in the Senate Finance bill. Since securing the nation’s first-ever and only PFML policy in 2017, it has helped employers of all sizes offer PFML plans to their employees. I’m pleased we are continuing to build upon this important effort to benefit America’s working families.”

    In May, the House Way & Means Committee 

    included Fischer’s Paid Family and Medical Leave Tax Credit as part of their tax bill, which passed the House.

    Fischer’s work on Paid Family and Medical Leave:

    Fischer and Senator Angus King (I-Maine) established the country’s first-ever nationwide PFML policy, which was     included in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and implemented in 2018. Fischer and King reintroduced the bill in February, which builds upon the 2017 law to better serve working families. It also provides additional ways for employers to qualify for the paid leave tax credit, such as paying for PFML insurance products.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Sanders Introduces No War Against Iran Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders

    WASHINGTON, June 16 – Following Israel’s military strikes against Iran, which threaten to further destabilize the Middle East and draw the United States into yet another military conflict, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) today introduced the No War Against Iran Act to prohibit the use of federal funds for any use of military force in or against Iran absent specific Congressional authorization. The bill contains an exception for self-defense as enshrined in the War Powers Act and applicable U.S. law.

    Joining Sanders on this legislation are Sens. Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis) and Tina Smith (D-Minn.). Sanders first introduced this legislation in January 2020 with Sens. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and then-Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) as cosponsors.

    “Netanyahu’s reckless and illegal attacks violate international law and risk igniting a regional war. Congress must make it clear that the United States will not be dragged into Netanyahu’s war of choice,” Sanders said. “Our Founding Fathers entrusted the power of war and peace exclusively to the people’s elected representatives in Congress, and it is imperative that we make clear that the President has no authority to embark on another costly war without explicit authorization by Congress.”

    “Another war in the Middle East could cost countless lives, waste trillions more dollars and lead to even more deaths, more conflict, and more displacement,” Sanders continued. “I will do everything that I can as a Senator to defend the Constitution and prevent the U.S. from being drawn into another war.”

    “Our taxpayer dollars should not be used to fund another reckless, open-ended conflict instigated by Prime Minister Netanyahu,” Welch said. “War has badly damaged this region. Millions of civilians face acute hunger and need lifesaving aid in Gaza right now. Netanyahu just upended U.S.-led negotiations to limit Iran’s nuclear program in favor of recklessly escalating tensions. Congress needs to listen to the American people, as our founders intended, before getting involved.”

    “The Constitution is clear: Congress decides when our country goes to war, not the President or the Netanyahu government,” Warren said. “The Trump administration must prioritize de-escalation to prevent this spiraling into a war that jeopardizes U.S. troops and destabilizes the Middle East.”

    “As strikes between Israel and Iran continue, we need de-escalation and restraint from all sides. Trump’s reckless decision to abandon the JCPOA nuclear agreement, cheered on by Netanyahu, helped bring us to this dangerous moment. This bill makes clear: the President cannot launch another war in the Middle East without Congressional authorization. It’s long past time for Congress to reassert its constitutional role and prevent another disastrous conflict,” Merkley said.

    “Instead of bringing wars to an end, Trump is facilitating them — leading to civilian deaths and threatening American lives in the region. Only the Congress has the constitutional power to declare war, and President Trump must not drag us further into this conflict without Congressional approval,” Van Hollen said.

    “Our Constitution and laws give Congress, not the President, the exclusive powers to authorize military force and declare war. Congress must reassert that authority so that we are not drawn into a catastrophic regional war that would further imperil the safety of American citizens and forces, the stability of Middle East, and the lives of innocent civilians,” Markey said.

    Read the bill text here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Reaction to Tax Bill Text, Unveiled by Senate Finance Committee 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    Bill will hurt Vermonters and tank the economy 
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today released the following reaction to the recently unveiled text of the Republicans’ reconciliation bill:  
    “Republicans’ tax bill poses a very real threat to the American people and the American economy. This bill makes painful cuts to Medicaid, which will limit or block access to care for millions of seniors, families and people with disabilities, and hurt the rural hospitals millions of patients rely on. The Republicans’ bill will rip away nutrition assistance kids and families need. Green energy jobs across America will be cut. Interest rates will go up, trillions will be added to the deficit, and the economy will get tanked.   
    “In Vermont, nobody comes up to me to ask about how this bill will affect their taxes, but they do ask about their access to health care and food assistance. They ask about the trusted community institutions—like our hospitals and health centers—that will close. They ask why Republicans in Washington are forcing a tax cut that will benefit the wealthy, but not everyday, hardworking people.  
    “This bill hurts folks in blue and red states alike. I urge my colleagues across the aisle to consider how this bill will inflict real pain in their state. They should stand up for the needs of their constituents, not the demands of the president.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement From Office of Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur On Heightened Law Enforcement Presence Following Events In Minnesota

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

    Toledo, Ohio — Today, the office of Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) released the following statement upon receiving notice that Congresswoman Kaptur was named in writing by an individual suspected of the targeted assassination of lawmakers in the State of Minnesota:

    “Congresswoman Kaptur is exceedingly grateful to law enforcement for keeping our Great Lakes communities safe on several occasions over these past few years and for their work around the clock this weekend in Minnesota.

    “Political extremism in America is cause for serious reflection and concern. The inclusion of Congresswoman Kaptur’s name in the Minnesota suspect’s writings is a matter better left for law enforcement and investigators — but it will not deter her work to make life better for families across Northwest Ohio. 

    “Uplifting those who she has the honor to serve has been her sole focus every single day she has served and nothing will deter her from doing so now. 

    “At this time out of respect to law enforcement working around the clock locally, and nationwide to keep law makers safe, we will not be providing further public comment on this matter.”

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pakistan native arrested, charged with illegal reentry

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Saima Qamar, 55, a citizen of Canada and native of Pakistan, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with re-entry of a removed alien, which carries a maximum penalty of two years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

    Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Smith, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, Qamar was detained by the Lewiston Police Department, which reached out to U.S. Border Patrol for assistance in identifying the defendant. A records check determined that Qamar was a citizen of Canada and national of Pakistan who was illegally present in the United States after previously having been removed in April 2019.

    Qamar made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy and was detained.

    This investigation is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

    The complaint is the result of an investigation by U.S. Border Patrol Niagara Falls Station, under the direction of Patrol Agent in Charge Brady Waikal.

    The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.   

    # # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: First Hearing of the Religious Liberty Commission, part 2

    Source: United States Department of Justice (video statements)

    The Religious Liberty Commission held its first hearing at the Museum of the Bible.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCXX89g4ogA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHOTOS: Capito Attends White House Signing of her Resolution Ending California’s EV Mandate

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, attended a White House ceremony where President Trump signed her joint resolution of disapproval under the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to repeal California’s attempted electric vehicle mandate through their “Advanced Clean Cars II” regulation that prohibits the sale of new gas-powered light-duty vehicles by 2035.

    “With President Trump’s signature today, we have successfully ended California’s attempt to establish a nationwide EV mandate that would have hurt our economy, eliminated jobs, and removed consumer choice across our country. Despite the best efforts of the Biden administration and Congressional Democrats, the voice of the American people has been heard and put into action through the repeal of this rule. I’m proud to have led this effort and thank President Trump and my Republican colleagues in Congress for their work and support throughout this process,” Chairman Capito said. 

    TIMELINE OF SENATOR CAPITO’S EFFORTS:

    • May 22, 2025: The Senate passed Senator Capito’s CRA to repeal California’s EV mandate through their “Advanced Clean Cars II” regulation.
    • May 21, 2025: Senator Capito spoke on the Senate floor outlining the importance of ending California’s EV mandate, and the Congressional Review Act process she led to repeal California’s waiver. 
    • May 1, 2025: Senator Capito applauded the House of Representatives’ passage of joint resolutions of disapproval under the Congressional Review Act to repeal California’s EV mandate.
    • April 4, 2025: Senator Capito, joined by Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), and Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) introduced joint resolutions of disapproval under the Congressional Review Act to repeal California’s EV regulations that prohibit the sale of new gas-powered light-duty vehicles by 2035 and set unrealistic and stringent requirements for heavy-duty trucks and heavy-duty diesel engines.
    • December 18, 2024: Senator Capito pledged to work to reverse the Biden administration’s lame duck action of approving California’s waiver to implement its “Advanced Clean Cars II” regulation.
    • February 28, 2024: Senator Capito joined Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Wash.-05), Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), and Rep. John Joyce (R-Pa.-13), in a bicameral letter to EPA Administrator Michael Regan warning of the legal and economic consequences of granting a Clean Air Act waiver for the Advanced Clean Cars II regulation, which would enable the state to require 35 percent of automobile sales to be electric vehicles in model year 2026, and 100 percent of them by 2035.

    PHOTOS:

    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) with President Donald Trump at the White House signing ceremony for her resolution to end California’s nationwide electric vehicle mandate.

    U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) with President Donald Trump at the White House signing ceremony for her resolution to end California’s nationwide electric vehicle mandate.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Capito Joins Cassidy, Republican Colleagues in Demanding an End to Biden-Era Flood Insurance Premiums

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) recently joined Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.) and eight other Republican senators in demanding the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) finally end the Biden era policy, Risk Rating 2.0, which caused flood insurance premiums to skyrocket. 

    “Since the Biden Administration’s rollout of Risk Rating 2.0, premiums under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) increased in every state. By FEMA’s own estimates, 77 percent of all NFIP policies now pay more than under the old system,” the senators said.

    “The lack of transparency surrounding Risk Rating 2.0 is beyond troubling. FEMA has never allowed for meaningful public comment nor has it published the underlying data or assumptions used to justify the steep premium increases and refuses to disclose its actuarial model. Without transparency, communities cannot plan mitigation projects, lenders cannot accurately underwrite mortgages, and citizens cannot appeal punitive rate increases. Worse still, rising costs encourage policy lapses—shifting risk back to taxpayers when disasters strike,” the senators continued.

    Read the full letter here or below. 

    Dear Acting Administrator Richardson,

    We write to draw your urgent attention to the increasingly untenable flood insurance premiums paid by American homeowners as a result of the Biden era policy, Risk Rating 2.0, administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). We respectfully ask for your leadership to halt further premium increases under Risk Rating 2.0 and implement much needed transparency from FEMA.

    On January 20, 2021, President Biden issued Executive Order (EO) 13990, directing every federal agency to target and modify Trump era regulations under the auspice of combating climate change. A few months later, Biden signed EO 14030, requiring agencies to integrate up-to-date flood risk considerations into federal actions. Collectively, both of these EOs laid the groundwork for FEMA’s implementation of a new rating system known as Risk Rating 2.0, which was enacted on October 1, 2021.  

    Since the Biden Administration’s rollout of Risk Rating 2.0, premiums under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) increased in every state. By FEMA’s own estimates, 77 percent of all NFIP policies now pay more than under the old system. According to a 2023 Government Accountability Office (GAO) report, premiums on primary residences under Risk Rating 2.0 are subject to a maximum 18 percent increase each year until such premiums reflect “the full risk loss of the insured property,” as determined by FEMA.

    Families in the following Republican states are especially hard-hit.

    Louisiana:

    • It is estimated that 80 percent of Louisiana NFIP policyholders experienced monthly premium increases in 2025 as a result of Risk Rating 2.0.
    • In 2023 alone, the average flood insurance premium in our state jumped by 234 percent, forcing more than 52,000 Louisianans—many of them seniors on fixed incomes—out of the program.
    • Coastal parishes, which depend on flood insurance to secure mortgages and rebuild after storms, are now facing premiums that exceed 2 percent of median household income—a threshold that federal guidance deems “cost prohibitive.”

    West Virginia:

    • It is estimated that 83% of West Virginia NFIP policyholders experienced monthly premium increases in 2025 as a result of Risk Rating 2.0.
    • As of August 2023 (the latest available FEMA data), Risk Rating 2.0 would increase annual NFIP premiums for homeowners in West Virginia by ~176%
    • Over the last 12 months, ~600 West Virginians have left the NFIP as a result of premium increases.

    Texas:

    • It is estimated that 86% of Texas NFIP policyholders experienced monthly premium increases in 2025 as a result of Risk Rating 2.0.
    • As of August 2023 (the latest available FEMA data), Risk Rating 2.0 would increase annual NFIP premiums for homeowners in Texas by ~53%.
    • Over the last 12 months, ~26,300 Texans have left the NFIP as a result of premium increases. 

    Alabama:

    • It is estimated that 79% of Alabama NFIP policyholders experienced monthly premium increases in 2025 as a result of Risk Rating 2.0.
    • As of August 2023 (the latest available FEMA data), Risk Rating 2.0 would increase annual NFIP premiums for homeowners in Alabama by ~106%.
    • Over the last 12 months, ~1,200 Alabamians have left the NFIP as a result of premium increases.

    Mississippi:

    • It is estimated that 84% of Mississippi NFIP policyholders experienced monthly premium increases in 2025 as a result of Risk Rating 2.0.
    • As of August 2023 (the latest available FEMA data), Risk Rating 2.0 would increase annual NFIP premiums for homeowners in Mississippi by ~103%.
    • Over the last 12 months, ~2,200 Mississippians have left the NFIP as a result of premium increases.

    Rural and low-income homeowners, along with high-risk coastal areas, are being priced out at far higher rates than urban or wealthier communities. In ten states, full risk NFIP premiums today exceed 2 percent of median household income.  This undermines home values, depresses property tax revenues, and ultimately inflates federal disaster assistance costs when uninsured homeowners cannot rebuild.

    The lack of transparency surrounding Risk Rating 2.0 is beyond troubling. FEMA has never allowed for meaningful public comment nor has it published the underlying data or assumptions used to justify the steep premium increases and refuses to disclose its actuarial model. Without transparency, communities cannot plan mitigation projects, lenders cannot accurately underwrite mortgages, and citizens cannot appeal punitive rate increases. Worse still, rising costs encourage policy lapses—shifting risk back to taxpayers when disasters strike.

    The President has long championed policies that reduce federal overreach and protect everyday Americans from burdensome costs. To limit the damage caused by this harmful Biden era policy, we urge you to:

    1. Direct FEMA to terminate the Risk Rating 2.0 pricing methodology.
    2. Require FEMA to publish all actuarial inputs and outputs of future flood insurance premium increases exceeding the 5% statutory minimum so stakeholders can verify fairness and accuracy.
    3. Restore targeted affordability measures for coastal, low income, and historically underinsured communities—ensuring NFIP remains accessible to those who need it most.

    Time is of the essence. Each month that Risk Rating 2.0 continues unchecked, more families are forced to abandon their insurance coverage, neighborhoods face economic strain, and entire communities risk collapse after the next disaster. We respectfully urge you to act now—before further harm is done—to protect vulnerable Americans, preserve homeownership, and ensure the NFIP fulfills its mission as Congress intended.

    Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Capito and Justice Release Statement Following Flooding in Ohio and Marion Counties

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Jim Justice (R-W.Va.) issued a statement following the devastating flooding in Ohio and Marion counties:

    “Our hearts go out to the families and communities across West Virginia who are being impacted by the devastating flooding we have seen these last few days, especially those who have lost or are missing loved ones. I am also incredibly grateful to our first responders who have been on the ground and working tirelessly. I have and will continue to closely monitor the situation, and remain in close contact with local and state officials to ensure every available resource is available and deployed as quickly as possible. I urge all West Virginians to remain cautious, and continue helping friends and neighbors in need. Although the recovery won’t happen overnight, West Virginia is strong, and we will rebuild—just as we always do,” Senator Capito said.

    “Unfortunately, West Virginia is no stranger to flooding. As a result of the storms from this weekend, we’ve lost multiple West Virginians, and some folks are still missing. My heart breaks for the families who are grieving and those who are still waiting to hear from their loved ones. Cathy and I are certainly holding them close in our prayers. Our first responders deserve more thanks than we could ever put into words. When the water came rushing in, they didn’t blink—they ran straight into the danger, no questions asked. That’s just who they are. They’re heroes through and through. I’ve been talking with our emergency folks on the ground, and we’re going to do everything in our power to get help where it’s needed. When West Virginia gets knocked down, we don’t stay down. We pull the rope together and we lift each other back up. That’s exactly what we’re going to do because these folks need all of us badly right now,” Senator Justice said.

    BACKGROUND:

    • Ohio County was under a flash flood warning beginning Saturday night and around 8:00 p.m., up to four inches of rain fell in just 30 minutes, causing rapid and dangerous flooding.
    • Numerous roadways, homes, and neighborhoods in the area sustained significant damage.
    • On Sunday, a second round of storms brought additional flash flooding across parts of the state.
    • Marion County was particularly impacted, with severe damage reported in Fairmont and surrounding areas.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Zealand hosts Asia Pacific privacy regulators

    Source: Privacy Commissioner

    Privacy authorities from 14 jurisdictions met last week to share information on emerging technology and challenges to privacy regulation.

    The Asia Pacific Privacy Authorities (APPA) Forum provides privacy authorities in our region with an opportunity to form partnerships and to discuss best practices.

    Privacy Commissioner Michael Webster, who chaired the two-day forum, says it’s important that common privacy issues and challenges can be discussed with other privacy authorities.

    “The APPA Forum is a great way to learn about the efforts other jurisdictions are making to anticipate and regulate global privacy disruptors such as AI and biometrics, as well as exchanging ideas about privacy regulation and the management of privacy breaches.”

    “Emerging technologies are an issue we all face, and there are several different approaches to how the associated privacy challenges are managed. The APPA Forum helps us all learn from our various experiences.”

    Issues discussed at APPA 63 included Artificial Intelligence, the use of biometrics for retail crime and public safety, and the importance of ensuring privacy regulation is fit for purpose in the digital age.

    APPA was formed in 1992 and is the principal forum for privacy and data protection authorities in the Asia Pacific region. Members meet twice a year to discuss and focus on different topical issues. Each year one of the forums is virtual, and one is in person. New Zealand hosted the 2025 virtual forum (APPA 63) on 11-12 June.

    Past topics discussed include cross-border privacy rules, children’s online privacy, employee surveillance, artificial intelligence, and privacy-enhancing technologies.

    The 14 jurisdictions that attended APPA 63 were Australia and the states of New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland, Canada and the state of British Columbia, the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions of China, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore and the state of California from the United States of America.

    The full communique for APPA 63 is available here.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Washington state will receive up to $105.6 million from national settlement with Purdue Pharma

    Source: Washington State News

    SEATTLE – Attorney General Nick Brown today announced that all 55 attorneys general, representing all eligible states and U.S. territories, agreed to sign on to a $7.4 billion settlement with Purdue Pharma and its owners, the Sackler family.

    This settlement in principle is the nation’s largest to date with individuals responsible for the opioid crisis. The Attorney General’s Office estimates Washington state and its local governments will receive as much as $105.6 million from this settlement over the next 15 years.

    “The Attorney General’s Office recovery of more than one billion dollars has empowered state, local, and tribal governments to combat the opioid crisis,” Brown said. “Today’s agreement means even more money will flow to fund treatment centers, support first responders, and improve Washingtonians’ lives. We must do more to help communities on the frontlines of the opioid crisis and today’s settlement will do exactly that.”

    Under the Sacklers’ ownership, Purdue made and aggressively marketed opioid products for decades, fueling the largest drug crisis in the nation’s history. The settlement ends the Sacklers’ control of Purdue and their ability to sell opioids in the U.S. Communities across the state will directly receive funds over the next 15 years to support addiction treatment, prevention, and recovery.

    The 55 attorneys general represent all of the state states and U.S. territories eligible to be part of the resolution and it will resolve the litigation against Purdue and Sacklers for their role in the creating and worsening the opioid crisis across the country. With the conclusion of the state sign-on period, local governments across the country will be asked to join the settlement contingent on bankruptcy court proceedings.  

    Most of the settlement funds will be distributed in the first three years. In Washington state, the funds must be split evenly between state and local governments and must be used to fund programs that combat the opioid epidemic.

    Like prior opioid settlements, the settlement with Purdue and the Sacklers will involve resolution of legal claims by state and local governments. The local government sign-on and voting solicitation process for this settlement moving forward will be contingent on bankruptcy court approval. A hearing is scheduled on that matter in the coming days.

    Including this new settlement, Washington state has recovered nearly $1.29 billion from companies that helped fuel the opioid epidemic.

    Washington state is joined in securing this settlement in principle by the attorneys general of Alabama, Alaska, American Samoa, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Guam, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Northern Mariana Islands, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, U.S. Virgin Islands, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin, Wyoming.

    -30-

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

    Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Email: press@atg.wa.gov

    Phone: (360) 753-2727

    General contacts: Click here

    Media Resource Guide & Attorney General’s Office FAQ

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Washington state will receive up to $105.6 million from national settlement with Purdue Pharma

    Source: Washington State News

    SEATTLE – Attorney General Nick Brown today announced that all 55 attorneys general, representing all eligible states and U.S. territories, agreed to sign on to a $7.4 billion settlement with Purdue Pharma and its owners, the Sackler family.

    This settlement in principle is the nation’s largest to date with individuals responsible for the opioid crisis. The Attorney General’s Office estimates Washington state and its local governments will receive as much as $105.6 million from this settlement over the next 15 years.

    “The Attorney General’s Office recovery of more than one billion dollars has empowered state, local, and tribal governments to combat the opioid crisis,” Brown said. “Today’s agreement means even more money will flow to fund treatment centers, support first responders, and improve Washingtonians’ lives. We must do more to help communities on the frontlines of the opioid crisis and today’s settlement will do exactly that.”

    Under the Sacklers’ ownership, Purdue made and aggressively marketed opioid products for decades, fueling the largest drug crisis in the nation’s history. The settlement ends the Sacklers’ control of Purdue and their ability to sell opioids in the U.S. Communities across the state will directly receive funds over the next 15 years to support addiction treatment, prevention, and recovery.

    The 55 attorneys general represent all of the state states and U.S. territories eligible to be part of the resolution and it will resolve the litigation against Purdue and Sacklers for their role in the creating and worsening the opioid crisis across the country. With the conclusion of the state sign-on period, local governments across the country will be asked to join the settlement contingent on bankruptcy court proceedings.  

    Most of the settlement funds will be distributed in the first three years. In Washington state, the funds must be split evenly between state and local governments and must be used to fund programs that combat the opioid epidemic.

    Like prior opioid settlements, the settlement with Purdue and the Sacklers will involve resolution of legal claims by state and local governments. The local government sign-on and voting solicitation process for this settlement moving forward will be contingent on bankruptcy court approval. A hearing is scheduled on that matter in the coming days.

    Including this new settlement, Washington state has recovered nearly $1.29 billion from companies that helped fuel the opioid epidemic.

    Washington state is joined in securing this settlement in principle by the attorneys general of Alabama, Alaska, American Samoa, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Guam, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Northern Mariana Islands, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, U.S. Virgin Islands, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin, Wyoming.

    -30-

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

    Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Email: press@atg.wa.gov

    Phone: (360) 753-2727

    General contacts: Click here

    Media Resource Guide & Attorney General’s Office FAQ

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Rochester business owner sentenced for food stamp fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Zina Amba Mbile Mbile, 46, of Rochester, NY, who was convicted of food stamp fraud, was sentenced to two years of supervised release and ordered to pay $246,890.00 in restitution to the United States Department of Agriculture by Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who handled the case, stated that the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) uses federal tax dollars to help low-income individuals purchase food. Eligible individuals are provided with a debit card from which they can make food purchases at authorized food stores. Businesses authorized to accepts SNAP benefits, can only do so for the sale of eligible food products. It is unlawful to accept SNAP benefits for non-food items such as cigarettes, beer, or for cash. Between March 1, 2020, and July 23, 2024, Mbile, who operated the Beni Food convenience store on Dewey Avenue in Rochester, accepted SNAP benefits from customers in exchange for non-food items, such as cosmetic products. Mbile also exchanged cash for food stamp benefits, resulting in a profit for Mbile. In total, Mbile fraudulently caused $246,890.00 to be deposited into Beni Food’s bank accounts for food that was never purchased.

    The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Charmeka Parker, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, and the Monroe County Department of Human Services, under the direction of Commissioner Thalia Wright.        

    # # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Honors Louisiana Students Accepting Service Academies Appointments

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    BATON ROUGE – On Saturday, in Baton Rouge, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) honored twenty-two Louisiana students who accepted appointments this year to the U.S. Military, Naval, and Air Force Academies.

    “We celebrate these students’ commitment to our country, their willingness to defend our nation, and their parents’ investment in their lives,” said Dr. Cassidy. “We’re grateful for their future service.”
    Of the twenty-two students, three are headed to the U.S. Military Academy, eleven to the U.S. Naval Academy, and eight to the U.S. Air Force Academy. They will depart for the Academies this month, where they will enter basic training programs before starting their fall semesters as cadets and midshipmen. Upon graduation, they will serve as commissioned officers in the U.S. military.

    At the event, retired Air Force Brigadier General Paul Tibbets, IV gave a keynote address, where he drew upon stories from his service and that of his grandfather to inspire the students.
    “I’m so proud of our young people today,” said General Tibbets. “One of my heroes, President Reagan, said many years ago that it’s up to each generation to step up and serve this country and defend this nation. Since we became a Republic, we’ve been doing that. But we rely on these young people of today and of tomorrow to make that leap. Today, we got to celebrate that with numerous Academy appointees that will now be our future leaders in the various services of our Armed Forces. I couldn’t be more proud to recognize them, to honor them, and to let them know that what they’re doing matters. This Republic, this United States of America, depends on them to continue to preserve our liberty and our freedoms for future generations.”
    For high school students who are interested in attending the U.S. Military, Naval, Air Force or Merchant Marine Academies, they must receive a nomination, and most nominations come from Members of Congress. Students who will be high school seniors in the fall should visit Senator Cassidy’s nomination website, where they can fill out a preliminary nomination application. They will later be sent a full application. Additionally, any high school student can attend a Service Academy Day event to learn more about the Academies. They will all occur in September, and more information on those events can be acquired by emailing the Senator’s Service Academy Coordinator at shawn_hanscom@cassidy.senate.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Introduces Bill to Remove Barriers to Telemental Health Care

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) introduced the Telemental Health Care Access Act to remove barriers to telemental and behavioral health services for Medicare beneficiaries by removing the statutory requirement that Medicare beneficiaries be seen in person within six months of being treated for mental or behavioral health services through telehealth.
    “Every Louisianan with a mental health condition must have access to telehealth services. For those in rural areas in my state who have a far drive to the nearest specialist, telehealth saves lives,” said Dr. Cassidy.  
    Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-MN) in introducing the legislation.
    U.S. Representatives Doris Matsui (D-CA) and Troy Balderson (R-OH) introduced a companion version of this legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.
    BackgroundIn 2020, Congress permanently allowed Medicare patients to be treated for mental health services at home or other non-clinical sites, but it also included an in-person visit requirement that limits access. This legislation eliminates that mandate and brings mental health telehealth rules in line with how Medicare covers substance use disorder services without requiring an in-person visit.
    The Telemental Health Care Access Act is supported by dozens of leading mental health, provider, and telehealth organizations, including: Alliance for Connected Care, Alliance of Community Health Plans, American Counseling Association, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, American Medical Association, American Psychiatric Association,American Psychological Association, American Telemedicine Association, ATA Action,Association for Behavioral Health & Wellness, Association of American Medical Colleges, California Medical Association, Center for Telehealth and e-Health Law, Centerstone, Eating Disorders Coalition for Research, Policy & Action, Health Innovation Alliance, Hims & Hers, HIMSS, Included Health, Mental Health America, National Alliance on Mental Illness, National Association for Behavioral Healthcare, National Association of Social Workers, Network of Jewish Human Service Agencies, REDC Consortium, Talkspace, Teladoc Health, United States of Care.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Give Bureau of Prisons Officers Fair Pay

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) introduced the Pay Our Correctional Officers Fairly Act to ensure fair pay for U.S. Bureau of Prisons (BOP) employees in rural areas. The bill will help to address staffing shortages at Federal Correctional Complex (FCC) Oakdale in Allen Parish and FCC Pollock in Grant Parish by allowing for competitive pay that better reflects the cost of living, commute times, alternative careers, and the hard work and dedication of BOP employees.
    “Underpaying correctional officers leads to fatigue, which leads to mistakes and safety risks. If we want criminals to remain behind bars, then we need to provide Bureau of Prisons employees with workable conditions. This goes for FCC Oakdale, Pollock, and the rest of Louisiana,”said Dr. Cassidy.
    U.S. Representative Randy Weber (TX-14) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.
    “Every day, federal correctional officers put their lives on the line to maintain order, enforce the law, and keep dangerous criminals behind bars,”said Representative Weber. “They serve with grit, integrity, and resolve—and they deserve to be paid accordingly. This bill delivers a long-overdue pay raise to correctional officers across the country. It’s a common-sense investment in public safety that will help us recruit and retain the best in the field.”
    Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) in introducing the legislation.
    Background
    The shortage of correctional officers has grown each year over the past four years. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 7% decline in correctional officers by 2032. Understaffed prisons and overworked employees have created increasingly dangerous work environments.
    FCC Oakdale houses approximately 2,000 federal inmates and faces unsustainably low staffing levels. These vacancies force FCC Oakdale to rely on mandatory overtime and using support staff to guard inmates just to meet the basic safety needs of its mission. FCC Pollok is facing similar shortages.
    Under current policies, BOP uses cooks, teachers, and nurses to guard inmates. This temporary fix pulls employees away from their usual duties and negatively impacts inmates by limiting visitations, recreational time, and academic enrichment opportunities.
    BOP employees are usually paid on the General Schedule (GS) pay scale, with slight pay modifications for correctional officers. Locality raises are determined by comparisons of local private sector salary rates, not by cost of living. An individual’s rate is based on where he or she works, not where he or she lives. Places located outside of these locality pay areas are compensated on a lower Rest of US (RUS) pay scale.
    Cassidy has urged the BOP to address staffing shortages in the past, highlighting the challenges at FCC Oakdale in 2022 and calling for staffing increases at both Oakdale and Pollock.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Opens Business Recovery Center in Pulaski County Kentucky

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the opening of Business Recovery Center (BRC) in Pulaski county to assist small businesses, private nonprofits and residents affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes occurring March 16-17.

    Beginning Monday, June 16, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the Business Recovery Center to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help individuals complete their application. Walk-ins are accepted, but you can schedule an in-person appointment in advance at appointment.sba.gov.

    Business Recovery Center (BRC-02)

    Pulaski County

    Emergency Management Office

    25 Jessie Lane

    Somerset, KY 42501

    Opening:     Monday, June 16, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

    Hours:    Monday – Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

    Closed: Sunday

    Permanently Closing: TBD

    The BRC hours of operation is listed below:

    “SBA’s Business Recovery Centers have consistently proven their value to business owners following a disaster,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “At these centers, “Business owners can visit these centers to meet face-to-face with specialists who will guide them through the disaster loan application process and connect them with resources to support their recovery.”

    Disaster survivors should not wait to settle with their insurance company before applying for a disaster loan. If a survivor does not know how much of their loss will be covered by insurance or other sources, SBA can make a low-interest disaster loan for the total loss up to its loan limits, provided the borrower agrees to use insurance proceeds to reduce or repay the loan.

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

    The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is July 23, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 23, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Don’t risk Dutton on TAFE

    Source: Reserve Bank of Australia

    15 April 2025

    The 2025 Federal Election will set the path for many aspects of the lives of TAFE students, teachers and educators, but none more pressing than the future of TAFE.

    We have seen landmark improvements to the sector since Anthony Albanese’s Labor government took office. TAFE once again holds its rightful place as the pre-eminent provider of vocational education in Australia. TAFE as a public institution must be supported and fully funded by state, territory and federal governments.

    In the three years since the election of the Albanese government, significant elements of the AEU’s Rebuild with TAFE campaign have been realised:

    • Major new sources of guaranteed funding for TAFE have been delivered realising that at least 70 per cent of total government vocational education funding is allocated to TAFE.

    • The contestable funding model that had marketised vocational education funding for more than a decade is being dismantled.

    • The mammoth task of restoring and investing in the TAFE workforce has begun with new workers employed across Australia and VET Workforce Blueprint projects underway.

    • Hundreds of thousands of students now have access to TAFE because of Free TAFE, many of whom would have been excluded from vocational education due to cost.

    • TAFE is once again recognised as the anchor of the vocational education system.

    • The creation of TAFE Centres of Excellence has recognised the outstanding quality of vocational education provided through TAFE and creates a mechanism for this to be coordinated and shared across Australia.

    • In a further recognition of the quality of TAFE, pilot programs are underway to empower TAFE to self-accredit qualifications at AQF level 5 and above.

    • TAFE workers are more central to decision making about government policy and actively involved.

    • Thousands of TAFE workers have security of employment through industrial relations reform and legislation restricting the indiscriminate use of fixed-term employment.

    • New collective bargaining laws have ensured that TAFE workers in several jurisdictions are the beneficiaries of long-overdue salary increases that have begun to address the imbalance between income and the cost of living.

    • The AEU has been elevated to a primary role as the voice of teachers and educators in TAFE, with critical roles on major new government bodies charged with setting policy and implementing change in vocational education, including Jobs and Skills Australia and the 10 Jobs and Skills Councils.

    The importance of the next government

    We have seen strong support in Parliament from the Australian Greens and members of the crossbench for Free TAFE and for progressive policies. But there’s more to be achieved, especially in terms of staff retention and attraction, boosting infrastructure funding, facilities and resources, and strengthening student support, and to achieve this and ensure that all the gains are not dismantled, the next federal government is key.

    Labor wants to legislate Free TAFE, recognising the value of TAFE and cementing its long-term future. Hundreds of thousands of people in Australia are enrolling in Free TAFE, they are getting the flexibility they need to study, work and raise families without a financial penalty.

    Already, Free TAFE has had a disproportionately positive impact for priority cohorts such as Aboriginal People and Torres Strait Islander People, women, people with disability, young people and those from low socio-economic backgrounds.

    Impact and reach of Free TAFE

    Data provided by the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations to the Senate inquiry indicates that more than 568,000 students have so far enrolled in Free TAFE courses, and many of these enrolments have been in national priority industry areas.

    In 2023:

    • Aboriginal Students and Torres Strait Islander Students represented 6.7 per cent of students in Free TAFE compared with 3.5 per cent in the wider VET sector.

    • Students with disability were 7.6 per cent compared with 3.8 per cent.

    • Women were 61.8 per cent compared with 46.2 per cent.

    • Regional and remote students were 35.9 per cent compared with 26.8 per cent.

    This demonstrates that Free TAFE is assisting those that need it most.

    Beyond just these cohorts, Free TAFE programs have also enabled many parents and older Australians to re-enter the workforce, or to make a change in their careers towards an in-demand area.

    Risks of a Coalition government

    Peter Dutton has threatened to end Free TAFE if he’s elected prime minister.

    The Coalition cut $3 billion from TAFE last time they were in government and almost 10,000 jobs were lost. When the current Liberal deputy leader Sussan Ley says: “TAFE is just the state-government-run trainer, just like public schools. The Liberal Party believes that you do not value something unless you pay for it” and Liberal MP Luke Howarth says: “We’ve said we won’t do Free TAFE, that’s another $1.5bn saved”, the same cuts are again expected.

    Dutton has not yet announced any policy but is already hinting at sending more federal funds to private RTOs rather than public TAFE. Australia cannot risk the Coalition getting in and stopping its investment in TAFE like they did last time they were in government.

    Also at risk is the suite of industrial reforms won under the Albanese government, which has seen swathes of the TAFE and AMEP workforce transitioned from contract to permanent positions, sector wage increases, allowed multi-employer bargaining, the right to disconnect from work after hours and strengthening workers’ rights across the board. The Coalition has already spoken of dismantling these worker-centred gains in favour of big business.

    Dutton has spent the last three years attacking and undermining teachers. He wants to spend $330 billion on nuclear power stations while investing nothing in building and upgrading public schools and public TAFE.

    TAFE needs a government that supports public education.

    Party Platform Comparisons

    ALP

    Climate action
    Supports:
    • Paris Climate Agreement
    • Net zero emissions by 2050
    • Just Transition to a clean energy
    Actions:
    • Has enshrined into law an emissions cut target of 43 per cent by 2030
    • A carbon cap for the biggest emitters
    • Legislated a Net Zero Authority
    • Restored the role of the Climate Change Authority (CCA)

    Aboriginal People and Torres Strait Islander People
    • Considering pathways to self-determination
    • Supports the states that want to work towards Treaty
    • Believes in community consultation

    Workplace Relations
    • Worker-friendly, inclusive of unions
    • Stronger worker protections
    • Introduced permanency for many workers, stronger protections for casuals, multi-employer bargaining, the right to disconnect
    • Delivered wage increases to ECEC workers
    • Supportive of the Fair Work Commission

    Schools
    • Fully funding public schools
    • Addressing teacher shortages and engaging with AEU
    • Addressing Aboriginal Teacher and Torres Strait Islander Teacher representation and engaging with Community experts

    TAFE
    • Supports Free TAFE and making it permanent
    • Centres TAFE as the anchor of vocational education in Australia
    • Supports Rebuilding TAFE and the TAFE workforce
    • Ongoing rollout of TAFE Centres of Excellence
    • Plans to establish a National TAFE Network to foster cross-country collaboration and innovation

    Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC)
    • Three day guarantee – a childcare subsidy for three days a week to all families earning up to $530,000 a year from January 2026
    • Scrapped the activity test
    • $1 billion Building Early Education Fund, which is the next step in creating a universal Early Childhood Education and Care system in Australia
    • 15 per cent pay rises for ECEC teacher and educator wages

    COALITION

    Workplace Relations
    • Unwind Labor’s industrial relations changes
    • Revert to a simple definition of a casual worker
    • Revoke the laws which provide for multi-employer bargaining
    • Remove the “right to disconnect”
    • Curtail unions in workplaces

    Schools
    • Believes government should continue to overfund private schools and that the federal government should only fund private schools
    • Says “children taught the basics – reading, writing and maths – through explicit instruction across our primary education system – and ensuring classrooms are places of education, not indoctrination”, which is the same coded language the Trump government used before banning books and threatening teachers in the USA
    • Has failed to declare their commitment to fully fund public schools

    TAFE
    • Opposes Free TAFE Bill and Free TAFE as a whole

    ECEC
    • Opposes scrapping the activity test

    Climate action
    Against climate action, instead:
    • Make our nation a mining powerhouse
    • Defund the Environmental Defenders Office
    • Slash resource approval timeframes in half
    • Stop the renewable energy roll-out, ramp-up domestic gas production and move to nuclear energy

    Aboriginal People and Torres Strait Islander People
    Against self-determination and Truth-telling, instead choosing punitive responses:
    • A full audit into spending on Aboriginal programs and Torres Strait Islander programs
    • Reintroduce the Cashless Debit Card
    • Bolster law and order in crime-heavy communities
    • A Royal Commission into Sexual Abuse in Indigenous Communities

    GREENS

    TAFE
    • Increase access and opportunity for people with disability and remove barriers to tertiary education for people with disability
    • Abolish all student debt, including HELP, SFSS, and VET, starting 1 July 2025

    ECEC
    • Fix the current broken system
    • Extend free preschool for three-year-olds to at least 15 hours a week

    Climate action
    • No new coal or gas
    • Protect precious water resources
    • Expand publicly owned renewable energy
    • End the billions in handouts to coal, oil and gas corporations
    • End native forest logging
    • Save koalas and wildlife from extinction
    • Create thousands of jobs during renewable transition

    Aboriginal People and Torres Strait Islander People
    • Truth, Treaty, Justice for Aboriginal Peoples and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
    • Connect kids to Country by funding school-based programs guided by Elders to learn about culture, language, and Country as a means of holistic healing and growth
    • Support language revival and bilingual instruction in schools

    Workplace Relations
    • Defend workers’ rights, lift wages

    Schools
    Make public schools free and fully funded:
    • Fully fund all public schools to 100% of the Schooling Resource Standard (SRS)
    • Ensure sustainable funding by indexing public school funding to the higher of the Wage Price Index, Consumer Price Index, or SRS indexation factor
    • Restore $5 billion to the system by closing Morrison-era loopholes
    • Abolish public school fees and charges with an additional allocation of $2.4 billion over the forward estimates
    • Establish a new capital grants fund for public schools to invest in capital works of $1.25 billion in its first year, and then $350 million annually
    • Develop a National Inclusive Education Transition Plan in collaboration with people with disability, families, unions and experts
    • $800 ‘back to school’ payments to parents

    Article by Correna Haythorpe, AEU Federal President
    Originally published in The Australian TAFE Teacher, Autumn 2025

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Truck Driver Sentenced to Life in Federal Prison for Kidnapping Leading to Death

    Source: US FBI

    A truck driver who kidnapped a 25-year-old woman and dumped her dead body in the woods in August 2024 was sentenced today to life in federal prison, announced Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Nancy E. Larson.

    Naasson Hazzard, 28, of Austin, was indicted in October 2024 on federal charges of kidnapping resulting in death, which carried a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment.  Hazzard’s victim was an army veteran who entered the military immediately after high school.  Information shared during the sentencing hearing today revealed that there were full military honors at her funeral.

    After an eight-day trial in late January this year, a jury convicted Hazzard.  Today, U.S. District Judge Sam A. Lindsay sentenced him to life in federal prison.

    “The tremendous, relentless work of multiple law enforcement partners brought the terrible acts of this predator to light, and the jury answered the call for justice by finding him guilty,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Nancy E. Larson. “Now, the life sentence he will serve reflects the value and sanctity of this victim’s life.  We hope that this sentence helps her family in the healing process.”

    “This defendant has been justly sentenced to prison for his abhorrent actions, ensuring that society will be safe from his predatory behavior for the remainder of his life,” said Travis Pickard, Special Agent in Charge HSI Dallas. “I applaud the unwavering commitment of the North Texas Trafficking Task Force, and all the law enforcement partners whose persistence led to this outcome.  May today’s judgment provide some solace to the victim’s family, reassuring them that HSI will never relent in our pursuit of sexual predators who aim to exploit and harm unsuspecting victims.”

    According to evidence presented at trial, surveillance video caught Hazzard’s victim, a young woman, entering his semi-truck in Dallas at 9:27 p.m. on Aug. 15, 2024.  Eight days later, her decomposing body was found in a wooded area off Texas Highway 11 in Pittsburg, Texas with a black plastic bag tied around her head.  

    Cell phone records showed that on the evening of Aug. 15, Mr. Hazzard traveled from the pickup location to a nearby parking lot, where he remained for approximately 17 minutes.  Evidence at trial reflected that Hazzard picked up the victim with the expectation of engaging in a sex act.  He then drove over three hours to a wooded area off Highway 11 in Pittsburg, Texas, where he texted his boss that he would be out sick the following day and remained for almost an hour before completing a load for work.

    The next day, he and his wife returned to the scene before going to dinner in Tyler, Texas.

    In the days that followed, Mr. Hazzard switched cell phones and deleted his Google and Life360 location sharing accounts.  He also cleaned the truck with bleach and searched “how many years for first second and third degree murders.”  Meanwhile, his wife searched for “Pittsburg Texas news.”

    On Aug. 23, the same day the victim’s body was recovered, agents found the victim’s cell phone shattered on the side of the road along Mr. Hazzard’s route the night she was killed.  

    “Your Honor, Naasson didn’t just take a life.  He destroyed futures.  He created a ripple effect of suffering that reaches further than he could ever understand,” the victim’s brother told the Court during his impact statement at today’s sentencing hearing.  “I ask you, please don’t see my sister as just a name in a case file.  She was a daughter.  A sister.  A mother.  A light in the lives of everyone who knew her.  Her life mattered.  And her death must mean something.”

    The North Texas Trafficking Task Force conducted the investigation with the assistance of the following agencies: the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office, the Dallas Police Department, the Midlothian Police Department, the Texas Rangers, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Dallas Field Office, the Titus County Sheriff’s Office, the Buda Police Department, the Austin Police Department, the Hayes County Sheriff’s Office, and the Texas Department of Public Safety.  Homeland Security Investigation’s Dallas Field Office leads the Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brandie Wade and Renee Hunter prosecuted the case with the help of appellate liaison AUSA Jonathan Bradshaw.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Joins Local Leaders, Army Corps Of Engineers To Celebrate Progress of Cahokia Heights Sewer Trunkline Project

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    June 13, 2025

    Phase I of the city’s sewer trunkline project was supported by $3.5 million in federal funding Durbin secured through an earmark in the FY23 government funding bill

    CAHOKIA HEIGHTS – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today joined state and local officials and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for a news conference to celebrate the completion of Phase I of the city’s sewer trunkline project, which was supported by $3.5 million in federal funding Durbin secured through Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS)—more commonly known as an earmark—in the Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23) government funding bill, as well as the announcement earlier this year of $10 million in federal Community Development Block Grant Disaster Relief (CDBG-DR) funding for St. Clair County.

    “For far too long, the residents of Cahokia Heights have endured the devastating impact of failing storm and sanitary water infrastructure, facing not only property damage, but also threats to their health and safety,” said Durbin. “The sanitary sewer trunkline project will address the immediate needs of the community while laying the foundation for more secure infrastructure and economic investment for generations to come. While there is still more work to be done, Phase I’s completion and the announcement of Community Development Block Grant Disaster Relief Funding is representative of what federal, state, and local collaboration and cooperation can bring to communities like Cahokia Heights.”

    “This is a transformative moment for our community,” said Mayor Curtis McCall Sr. “Thanks to this funding, we are now able to move forward with meaningful, permanent solutions to problems that have affected our residents for far too long.”

    “Our continued partnership with Cahokia Heights reflects a deep, shared commitment to advancing critical initiatives that benefit the community. By working closely together, we are able to combine federal resources and local expertise to ensure effective, sustainable outcomes. We remain dedicated to supporting this collaboration and look forward to building on the strong foundation we’ve established, driving progress that truly makes a difference,” said COL Andy J. Pannier, Commander St. Louis District, United States Army Corps of Engineers.

    “These needed infrastructure dollars will go a long way to improve the lives of many St. Clair County residents. These problems have long existed and we appreciate the work of Senators Durbin and Duckworth and Representative Budzinski,” said Mark Kern, St. Clair County Chairman.

    Durbin increased the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ (Corps) authorized funding limit for the Metro East in the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2022 and secured language in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 government funding bill supporting the Corps’ expansion of its ongoing study focusing on the Canal 1 Watershed to a broader area of Cahokia Heights and East St. Louis.  After severe storms devastated St. Clair County in July 2022, Durbin led the Illinois Congressional Delegation in a letter to President Biden, supporting Governor Pritzker’s request for federal assistance.  President Biden declared a Presidential Disaster Declaration, unlocking St. Clair County’s eligibility for the CDBG-DR funds now being distributed for the sewer project.

    Durbin also led a December 2023 letter with Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Representative Nikki Budzinski (D-IL13) to the Department of Health and Human Services’ Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) urging the agency to conduct a public health assessment on the impact of decades of flooding in Cahokia Heights.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin, Duckworth Join Padilla, Entire Senate Democratic Caucus In Demanding Trump Remove Military Forces From Los Angeles

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    June 14, 2025

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) and the entire Senate Democratic Caucus in demanding that President Trump immediately withdraw all military forces from Los Angeles and cease all threats to deploy the National Guard or active-duty service members to American cities.

    The letter comes after Trump’s unprecedented move to federalize and deploy the California National Guard without the consent of the California Governor and mobilize U.S. Marine Corps elements, deploying approximately 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 active-duty Marines to Los Angeles amid unrest created by the President’s indiscriminate and intentionally inflammatory immigration enforcement raids across the region. The first 200 Marines arrived at the Los Angeles Federal Building yesterday, marking the first time in more than 30 years that the Marines have been deployed in the United States.

    Trump deployed these military personnel without the request or support of Governor Newsom, manufacturing a crisis and repeatedly escalating the conflict in order to create a spectacle. The federalizing of California’s National Guard marked the first time the Guard had been deployed without a Governor’s consent since 1965.

    “We write to express deep concern over your decision to deploy the National Guard and United States Marine Corps to Los Angeles without consultation or coordination with the Governor and local leaders,” wrote the Senators. “This unilateral action represents an alarming abuse of executive authority, continues to inflame the situation on the ground, and undermines the constitutional balance of power between the federal government and the states. We urge you to immediately withdraw all military personnel that have been deployed to Los Angeles unless their presence is explicitly requested by the Governor and local leaders.”

    The Senators slammed the deployment of military personnel as an abuse of power that undermines state and local leadership, interferes with critical law enforcement operations, and wastes military resources and taxpayer dollars. They also expressed concern for the dangerous precedent Trump’s misguided deployment of military forces could set for mobilizing military personnel to other cities across the country.

    “For the federal government to deploy military forces into American cities without consulting the Governor and local leaders is a dangerous misuse of federal power that has actively disrupted local law enforcement efforts to maintain peace and order,” continued the Senators. “Deploying military personnel should always be a last resort – not a first step – and should only occur when local law enforcement makes a specific request for such federal resources. The decision to use military personnel to create a spectacle has escalated tensions on the ground and created confusion among local law enforcement. Significantly, it also pulls military assets away from other critical missions and is a waste of taxpayer dollars.”

    “We urge you to immediately withdraw all military personnel that have been deployed to Los Angeles in recent days and to cease any further threats of deploying National Guard or active-duty military personnel into American cities absent a request from the Governor,” concluded the Senators. “Respect for our Constitution and for our civilian law enforcement demands nothing less.”

    In addition to Senator Durbin, Duckworth, and Padilla, the letter to President Trump was signed by the entire Senate Democratic Caucus, including Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN.), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

    Full text of the letter is available here and below:

    June 14, 2025

    Dear President Trump,

    We write to express deep concern over your decision to deploy the National Guard and United States Marine Corps to Los Angeles without consultation or coordination with the Governor and local leaders. This unilateral action represents an alarming abuse of executive authority, continues to inflame the situation on the ground, and undermines the constitutional balance of power between the federal government and the states. We urge you to immediately withdraw all military personnel that have been deployed to Los Angeles unless their presence is explicitly requested by the Governor and local leaders.

    For the federal government to deploy military forces into American cities without consulting the Governor and local leaders is a dangerous misuse of federal power that has actively disrupted local law enforcement efforts to maintain peace and order. Deploying military personnel should always be a last resort – not a first step – and should only occur when local law enforcement makes a specific request forsuch federal resources. The decision to use military personnel to create a spectacle has escalated tensions on the ground and created confusion among local law enforcement. Significantly, it also pulls military assets away from other critical missions and is a waste of taxpayer dollars.

    We are particularly concerned by the precedent that this ill-conceived deployment of military personnel to Los Angeles sets for other cities and states. Governors are the Commanders in Chief of their National Guards when operating within state borders. As Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem said last year when serving as Governor of South Dakota, “If Joe Biden federalizes the National Guard, that would be a direct attack on states’ rights.”

    We urge you to immediately withdraw all military personnel that have been deployed to Los Angeles in recent days and to cease any further threats of deploying National Guard or active-duty military personnel into American cities absent a request from the Governor. Respect for our Constitution and for our civilian law enforcement demands nothing less.

    Sincerely,

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Merkley, Daines Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Train Next Generation of Wildland Firefighters

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Hickenlooper – Colorado

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper, Jeff Merkley, and Steve Daines recently introduced the bipartisan Civilian Conservation Center Enhancement Act of 2025, which would create a pipeline for young people to enter into careers fighting fires and caring for public lands.  

    Specifically, this bill directs the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) to offer wildland firefighter training to Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center students. 

    “Colorado’s wildfires are growing more intense. We all agree that we can’t wait to act,” said Hickenlooper. “Our bill sets students on a direct path to stable careers caring for our public lands, and builds a firefighting force that’s ready to meet the urgent threat of climate change.” 

    The Job Corps is the nation’s largest job training and education program for students from 16 to 24 years of age. The U.S. Forest Service operates 24 Civilian Conservation Centers (CCCs) nationwide, including one in Colorado. 

    During the 2024 fire season, CCC youth across the country completed 205,882 hours of work on wildland firefighting efforts and prescribed burns to reduce hazardous fuels and the risk of catastrophic wildfire, and 11,410 hours on other fire management support functions, including providing meals through mobile kitchens.

    The Civilian Conservation Center Enhancement Act would further strengthen the program by setting a goal for both the USDA and the DOI to hire 300 students a year and providing direct hire authority specific to CCC graduates to expedite that process. It would also create a pilot program to use students at CCCs to address the lack of workforce housing for wildland firefighters.

    The full text of the bill is available HERE. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Bennet, Colleagues Demand Trump Administration Resume Processing DACA Applications

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Hickenlooper – Colorado

    The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals recently limited a nationwide injunction giving the Administration the green light to resume processing initial DACA applications

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper, Michael Bennet, and 39 of their Democratic Senate colleagues sent a letter pushing the Trump administration to immediately resume processing applications for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.

    “Noncitizens brought to the United States as children, often known as Dreamers, are American in every way but their immigration status…Americans overwhelmingly support providing Dreamers a path to citizenship, and in December 2024, President Trump stated that he supported protections for Dreamers to remain in the United States,” the senators wrote.

    “Consistent with this statement, we implore you to use your authority at United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to resume processing initial applications for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and provide such protections for Dreamers immediately,” they continued.

    In 2021, U.S. District Court Judge Andrew Hanen halted the DACA program, temporarily preventing USCIS from approving any new DACA applications nationwide. While the program was on pause, USCIS continued to accept and hold initial applications. Then, in 2022, the Department of Homeland Security published the DACA Final Rule, which codified the 2012 memorandum establishing the DACA program into regulation.

    Earlier this year, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals issued a decision limiting Judge Hanen’s injunction to Texas. The ruling gives the Trump administration the green light to resume processing DACA applications until a final decision is made. More than 100,000 initial DACA applications are currently pending with USCIS.

    Senator Hickenlooper has called for a legal pathway for citizenship for DREAMers, as well as TPS recipients, and essential workers, and is a strong supporter of comprehensive immigration reform.

    Full text of the letter available HERE and below: 

    Dear Acting Director Alfonso-Royals:

    Noncitizens brought to the United States as children, often known as Dreamers, are American in every way but their immigration status. Many only know this country as their home, and they contribute every day to this great nation by paying taxes and serving in critical roles, such as police officers, teachers, and nurses. Americans overwhelmingly support providing Dreamers a path to citizenship,1 and in December 2024, President Trump stated that he supported protections for Dreamers to remain in the United States.2 Consistent with this statement, we implore you to use your authority at United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to resume processing initial applications for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and provide such protections for Dreamers immediately.

    In 2001, the Dream Act was introduced on a bipartisan basis to provide a path to citizenship to undocumented immigrants who came to the United States as children but remained vulnerable to deportation. Since that time, the Dream Act has been introduced in every Congress. It has passed both the House of Representatives and the Senate with bipartisan majority votes, but no version has yet to be signed into law.3 In response to bipartisan pressure to protect Dreamers until Congress acted, 4 the Obama Administration implemented DACA through a policy memorandum in 2012.

    Since 2012, more than 825,000 people have received deferred action pursuant to DACA. Many DACA recipients report that deferred action—and the accompanying employment authorization —allowed them to apply for their first job or move to a higher-paying position more commensurate with their skills.7 Since its establishment, DACA recipients have contributed an estimated $140 billion to the U.S. economy in spending power, and $40 billion dollars in combined federal, payroll, state, and local taxes.

    In 2021, U.S. District Court Judge Andrew Hanen halted the DACA program and enjoined USCIS from approving any new DACA applications nationwide. While the program was enjoined, USCIS has continued to accept and hold initial applications, and in 2022, the Department of Homeland Security published the DACA Final Rule, codifying the 2012 memorandum establishing DACA into regulation. Over 100,000 initial DACA applications are pending with USCIS.

    On January 17, 2025, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals issued a decision limiting Judge Hanen’s injunction to Texas. 11 Pursuant to the order, in Texas, DACA must resume as a limited program providing protection from deportation for current DACA recipients, but without access to work authorization or driver’s licenses as part of those renewals. This order went into effect on March 11, giving USCIS the authority to start processing initial DACA applications from states other than Texas. However, three months later, USCIS has not made any public announcement on whether new DACA applications will be processed; nor has the agency begun processing initial applications that have been pending with the agency for years.

    We urge you to begin processing these DACA applications immediately, consistent with the Fifth Circuit decision and existing regulations, and to ensure Dreamers eligible to file initial DACA applications can do so as soon as possible.

    Thank you for your prompt attention to this urgent matter.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jeffries, Morelle Letter to Speaker Johnson on Member Security

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)

    Dear Speaker Johnson:

    We write in the wake of this weekend’s lethal and catastrophic political violence in Minnesota to urge you to fulfill one of your most fundamental obligations as Speaker of the House: ensuring Members of Congress can safely carry out their constitutional duties.

    As you know, on June 14, 2025, Minnesota State Representative and Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, were assassinated in cold blood. State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, were critically injured after being shot 17 times by the same violent gunman.

    These shootings were not isolated incidents. Credible threats and acts of political violence have increased significantly over the last decade. Threats against Members of Congress have grown by nearly 1,000 percent since 2016. These incitements, often posed by lone actors motivated by conspiracy theories and political grievance, are particularly dangerous for Members, their families and staff while at home in their communities and away from the protective measures in place at the Capitol.

    While we differ in many areas related to policy and our vision for America’s future, Member safety must be an area of common ground. Representatives from both sides of the aisle have endured assassination attempts that changed their lives and careers forever. Too many other patriotic public servants have left Congress because they no longer felt safe carrying out their duty as elected officials. We must act to protect each other and preserve this great American institution.

    That responsibility starts with you.

    The Speaker of the House has extensive authority over this institution, both administratively and legislatively. We strongly urge you to immediately direct the Sergeant at Arms to take all necessary steps to protect House members throughout the country. At the same time, it is imperative that we substantially increase the Member Representational Allowance (MRA) to support additional safety and security measures in every single office.

    Thank you for your consideration.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Castor, Huffman, Pallone, Booker, Reed, and Padilla Lead Charge to Block Trump’s Dangerous Offshore Drilling Plan

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Reprepsentative Kathy Castor (FL14)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. House Energy and Commerce Energy Subcommittee Ranking Member Rep. Kathy Castor (D-Fla.), U.S. House Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), U.S. House Energy and Commerce Ranking Member Frank Pallone (D-N.J.), Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), and Senator Jack Reed (D-R.I.) along with 40 Democratic Colleagues in the House and Senate submitted formal comments to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), opposing any new or expanded offshore oil and gas leasing in the Trump administration’s proposed updates to the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) oil and gas leasing program.

    In their letter to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, the lawmakers warned that more offshore drilling would threaten our national security, coastal communities, marine life, and local economies – all while handing more giveaways to an industry already sitting on millions of acres of unused leases. They urged the agency to exclude any new leasing in the final program. 

    “New or expanded oil and gas leasing poses risks to the health and livelihoods of our constituents, jeopardizes our tourism, fishing, and recreational economies, and threatens the marine life that inhabits our coastlines” the members wrote. “New, unnecessary lease sales will lock in decades more of pollution and climate impacts from an industry that already holds more than 2,000 offshore leases covering more than 12 million acres of federal water, of which only 469 leases are currently producing oil and gas. The United States is already the number one producer of oil and gas in the world. There is no need for increased leasing, especially when oil and gas companies continue to impose environmental and climate consequences, public health risks, and billions of dollars in cleanup costs on the American people.”

    Members also reminded the Secretary of the long-standing legal restrictions that prevent the administration from offering lease sales in protected areas.

    “We remind the agency that it cannot offer sales in areas permanently protected under Section 12(a) of OCSLA, including areas off the Atlantic coast, the Pacific off the coast of California, Oregon, and Washington, the Eastern Gulf of Mexico, and portions of the Artic Ocean, including the Beaufort Sea and Chukchi Sea planning areas. In 2017, during his first term, President Trump attempted to reverse President Obama’s Arctic and Atlantic withdrawals, but Judge Sharon Gleason for the District Court of Alaska determined that Section 12(a) does not give the president authority to revoke prior withdrawals. President Trump does not have the authority to reverse the Obama and Biden withdrawals, and his Executive Order of January 2025, which attempts to do so, is unlawful.”

    During his first term, the Trump administration proposed 47 lease sales over five years, covering nearly every U.S. coastline. Fortunately, this program was never finalized due to litigation and strong bipartisan opposition. But now, with the Biden administration’s leasing plan under review and Secretary Burgum signaling that protections may be on the chopping block, lawmakers are raising the alarm once again.

    At a budget hearing last week, Secretary Burgum refused to commit to protecting Florida’s Gulf Coast from new oil and gas leading, saying only that “the administration may be considering opportunities.” This region has long been protected by both bipartisan legislation and administrative withdrawals – protections that are now under threat.

    Read the full letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Oregon State Fire Marshal Mobilizes Resources to Rowena Fire in Wasco County

    Source: US State of Oregon

    he Oregon State Fire Marshal is mobilizing structural firefighters and an incident management team to fight the Rowena Fire burning in Wasco County. The fire was first reported on Wednesday afternoon and quickly spread, prompting level three, Go Now, evacuations by the Wasco County Sheriff. The fire prompted the closure of I-84 between Mosier and The Dalles as firefighters work to stop the fast-moving flames.

    At 4:15 p.m., Wednesday, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act, which allows the state fire marshal to mobilize resources. The agency is currently mobilizing its Green Incident Management Team and six structural task forces. Three task forces will be responding tonight and three more will be arriving early Thursday morning. The Oregon State Fire Marshal Green Incident Management Team will be working in unified command with the Central Oregon Fire Management Service Type 3 Team.

    “This early season conflagration should come as a reminder to Oregonians to be ready for wildfire,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “The predictions for this summer are extremely concerning. I am asking everyone to take that extra minute to mindful of the conditions and remember it takes a single spark to ignite a disaster.”

    The Wasco County Sheriff’s Office is posting the latest evacuation information here. The agency says The Dalles Middle School (1100 E 12th St, The Dalles, OR 97058) is open as a temporary shelter and the Wasco County Fairgrounds (81849 Fairgrounds Rd, Tygh Valley, OR 97063) is open for livestock and horses.

    For information about the I-84 closure, please monitor www.tripcheck.com.

    MIL OSI USA News –