NewzIntel.com

Category: United States of America

  • MIL-OSI USA: P. East Trading Corp Distributors Issues Alert on Uneviscerated ‘Salted Smoked Split Herring’ Due to Potential Clostridium Botulinum Contamination

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    June 10, 2025
    FDA Publish Date:
    June 10, 2025
    Product Type:
    Food & BeveragesFoodborne Illness
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description
    Potential Foodborne Illness – Clostridium Botulinum

    Company Name:
    P. East Trading Corp Distributors
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)
    No Brand

    Product Description:

    Product Description
    Uneviscerated Salted Smoked Split Herring

    Company Announcement
    P. East Trading Corp. of Bronx, NY is recalling Salted Smoked Split Herring because the product was found to be over 5″ in length and uneviscerated, as such having potential to be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium which can cause life-threatening illness or death. Consumers are warned not to use the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled.
    The sale of uneviscerated fish over 5″ in length may contain Clostridium botulinum spores as they are more likely to be concentrated in the viscera than any other portion of the fish. Botulism, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning, can cause the following symptoms: general weakness, dizziness, double-vision and trouble with speaking or swallowing. Difficulty in breathing, weakness of other muscles, abdominal distension and constipation may also be common symptoms. People experiencing these problems should seek immediate medical attention.
    The recalled “Salted Smoked Split Herring” was distributed to retail locations in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut in 18 lbs. wooden boxes with container code Lot 1 PRC5073. The “Salted Smoked Split Herring” is a product of Canada manufactured by Sea Star Seafood Ltd.
    The product was likely to be repacked by these retail locations in deli-style or other retail packaging. Retail packaging and coding will vary based on location of purchase. A list of locations that received and potentially sold the recalled products can be found below.
    The “Salted Smoked Split Herring” was sampled by a New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspector and subsequent analysis of the product by New York State Food Laboratory personnel confirmed the herring was not properly eviscerated prior to processing.
    No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.
    Consumers that have purchased “Salted Smoked Split Herring”, from the following stores below, are advised not to eat it and should return it to the place of purchase for a full a refund. Consumers with questions may contact P. East Trading Corp. at (718) 991-6070 or Email at peastl@gmail.com or contact Jay Hong, Office Manager.
    **Retail Locations:
    PIONNER SUPERMARKET, Newark NJJOE’S MARKET #3, Irvington NJKEYFOOD SUPERMARKET, Laurelton NYHAPPY FRUIT MARKET, Teaneck NJEXTRA SUPER MARKET, East Orange NJSUPER FRESH, Irvington NJFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET, North Bergen NJFOOD WORLD SUPER FRESH, Middlesex NJFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET, Fairview NJTROPICAL SUN SUPERMARKET, East Orange, NJIDEAL FOOD BASKET, Brooklyn NYWILLIAM’S FARM #2, Yonkers NYS & H FRUITS and VEGETABLES, Bronx NYFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET(Myrtle), Brooklyn NYC TOWN SUPERMARKET, Brooklyn NYKEY FOOD SUPERMARKET, Brooklyn NYAMERICAS FOOD BASKET, Brooklyn NYFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET, Westbury NYMK NY FISH & VEGETABLES, Bronx NYTROPICAL DAIRY FARM CORP., Bronx NYFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET(161 ST), Bronx NYVALUE FRESH MARKET INC, Hollis NYIDEAL FOOD BASKET, Brooklyn NYKEY FOOD FRESH, Brooklyn NYLULUCOCO, INC, Spring Valley NYCHOP SHOP FRESH MEAT MARKET, Brooklyn NYMARKET FRESH, Newburgh NYC TOWN SUPERMARKET, Hempstead NYFAMILY BEST FARM, Brooklyn NYROSEDALE FRUIT, Jamaica NYS WON PROVISION INC, Bronx NYFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKEL Hempstead NYSUPER FRESH, Baldwin NYFRUIT TREE FARM, Copiague NYBROTHER’S PRODUCE CO., Bronx NYGOLDEN CITRUS MARKET INC, Brooklyn NYSHOP FAIR SUPERMARKET, Bronx NYY & R FARM INC., Brooklyn NYJOHNS FARM MARKET, Queens NYFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET, New York NYKEY FOOD SUPERMARKET, Far Rockaway NYNEW UTICA FOOD MARKET CORP., Brooklyn NYIDEAL FOOD BASKET, Brooklyn NYJOY BEST FRUIT BROOKLYN NYIDEAL FOOD BASKET SUPERMARKET, BROOKLYN NYZ & H MINI MARKET, BROOKLYN NYYELLOW MARKET, BROOKLYN NYSK FARM EP CORP, BROOKLYN NYK – SUPER MARKET, JAMAICA NYFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET(Mt Vernon), BRONX NYBEST H&H, INC, BRONX NYDK FAMILY PRODUCE, BROOKLYN NYCO CO MARKET INC, BROOKLYN NYMARKET FRESH, MIDDLETOWN NYFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET, BRIDGEPORT CTFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET(JUNIUS), BROOKLYN NYBOGOPA FARMBRIA, QUEENS NYBEST FARM MARKET, BROOKLYN NYGREEN POINT, JAMAICA NYJ & D FARM MARKET CORP., JAMAICA NYFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET(MANHATTAN AVE), BROOKLYN NYMANGO KING FARMERS MARKET, BROOKLYN NYSUPER FRESH SUPERMARKET, BROOKLYN NYGREEN FRUIT – SUTPHIN, JAMAICA NYMERRICK COUNTRY FOODS, QUEENS NYKINGSBRIDGE FARM, BRONX NYASIA SUPERMARKET INC / JD PRODUCE, SYRACUSE NYFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET(57), CORONA NYLIBERTY PRODUCE CORP., RICHMOND HILL NYGOLDEN MANGO FARM, OZONE PARK NYKEY FOOD SUPERMARKET, BROOKLYN NYFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET(163), BRONX NYFOOD BAZAAR SUPERMARKET, TRENTON NJWEST INDIAN FARM MARKET, QUEENS NY

    Company Contact Information

    Consumers:
    P. East Trading Corp, or contact Jay Hong, Office Manager
    (718) 991-6070
    peastl@gmail.com

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Florida Private Nonprofits Affected by Hurricane Helene

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA –The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Florida of the July 7 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by Hurricane Helene occurring Sept. 23-Oct. 7, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the counties in Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Charlotte, Clay, Citrus, Collier, Columbia, Dixie, Duval, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lee, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Manatee, Marion, Nassau Pasco, Pinellas, Putnam, Sarasota, Sumter, Suwannee, Taylor, Wakulla and Union.

    Under this declaration, PNPs providing non-critical services of a governmental nature are eligible to apply for both business physical disaster loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) from the SBA. Examples of eligible non-critical PNP organizations include, but are not limited to, food kitchens, homeless shelters, museums, libraries, community centers, schools, and colleges.

    PNPs may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets. Applicants may also be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes.

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

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

    Interest rates are as low as 3.25%, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

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

    The deadline to return economic injury applications is July 7, 2025.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: First arrest, charges made in connection to MMIWP cold case work

    Source: Washington State News

    SEATTLE – The Attorney General’s Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and People (MMIWP) Cold Case Unit today announced it has charged its first case since the unit was established in 2023.

    On May 21, 2025, Attorney General Nick Brown filed second-degree murder charges against Tina Marie Alcorn for the 2016 death of George David, a resident of Neah Bay and a member of the Clayoquot Indian Band of Vancouver Island, B.C. The Clallam County Superior Court issued a warrant for Alcorn’s arrest based on the charge.

    On June 3, Alcorn was arrested on the warrant in West Helena, Ark., with the assistance of the Phillips County Sheriff’s Office. On Monday, Alcorn arrived in Washington to face charges and appeared in Clallam County Superior Court on Tuesday.

    “I want to commend our cold case team for their work on behalf of victims and families,” Brown said. “This is a milestone on a long path toward accountability. The Legislature funded this work because so many people would not give up the pursuit of justice for their loved ones.”

    The case was initially investigated by the Port Angeles Police Department. David, 65, was found deceased on March 28, 2016, in a Port Angeles apartment where he had been staying temporarily. He had traveled from Neah Bay just days earlier, intending to visit family in British Columbia and attend a funeral.

    Alcorn, who has ties to Clallam County, was identified early in the investigation as the primary suspect. On April 19, 2016, Port Angeles detectives arrested her in Mount Vernon on an outstanding warrant issued by Arkansas authorities. Charges in the David homicide were not filed, and Alcorn was extradited to Arkansas and incarcerated for violating probation on an unrelated felony theft conviction.

    In 2024, Port Angeles police requested the assistance of the new cold case team. Supported by the MMIWP Cold Case Team, the department conducted additional investigation into evidence collected in 2016, including additional DNA analysis performed by the Washington State Patrol Crime Lab.

    At the request of the Port Angeles Police Department and with the support of the Clallam County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, the Attorney General’s Office will be prosecuting the case.

    Alcorn made her first appearance in Clallam County Superior Court this afternoon. The charge in this case is an allegation only and Alcorn is presumed innocent unless proved guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    -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 Economics: Samsung Releases New Refrigerator Software Update To Improve User Convenience

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung Electronics announced today that it has started rolling out a software update to introduce new features for its Bespoke AI Refrigerators with screens,1 which is launching in 2025. Designed to enhance the user experience, the update includes the Voice ID feature provided by Bixby, which was unveiled at Welcome to Bespoke AI global launch event in March.
     
    “Our primary goal for this year is to realize an AI Home that adapts intuitively to the user,” said Jeong Seung Moon, EVP and Head of the R&D Team for Digital Appliances Business at Samsung Electronics. “We aim to enhance the user experience through continuous software upgrades for existing products, taking us one step closer to a true AI Home experience.”
     
     
    New Update: Bixby and Samsung TV Plus
    The Voice ID feature2 is a new multi-voice recognition function provided by Bixby.3 It identifies users’ voices registered either on the refrigerator or a Galaxy mobile device, enabling personalized features based on the recognized user. This allows consumers to personalize shared home appliances for individual use, offering greater convenience and functionality.
     
    For example, Bixby intelligently switches to each user’s Samsung account based on the recognized user. Users can check their registered schedules on the calendar,4 or their photos5 using simple voice commands. Also, they can trigger an alarm on their phone to check its location, even when the device is set to silent mode.6
     
    The Voice ID feature also enables seamless interactions with the refrigerator screen for users who utilize vision enhancements on their Galaxy mobile phones. Even without a request to switch accounts, Bixby automatically switches accounts with general conversations for these users. It then synchronizes the appliance’s display modes with the settings on the user’s mobile phone, such as color inversion or grayscale.7
     

     
    Additionally, Samsung has introduced a new way to activate Bixby on the screen. Previously, users could activate Bixby by clicking the Bixby icon on the screen or through voice commands. When the screen is off, an additional option has been added to activate Bixby by double-tapping the display. Users can make the most of this feature by selecting their preferred method in the settings.
     
    The update is being applied to Bespoke AI Refrigerators with AI Family Hub launching in 2025 first,8 with availability coming after the completion of the latest software update on AI Family Hub screens or SmartThings.
     
    Additionally, Samsung plans to gradually apply this update to the Bespoke AI refrigerators with AI Home9 in the second quarter of 2025. For refrigerators with AI Home, the update expands the service area for Samsung TV Plus, as well. Previously available in only South Korea and the United States, the service will extend to Canada, Brazil, Australia, Mexico and India. Thanks to the update, it is expected that consumers will be able to easily enjoy entertainment features right from their kitchen with Samsung TV Plus.
     
     
    1 Refers to the refrigerators with AI Family Hub, and 9-inch AI Home screens
    2 Each user must register for a Samsung Account on screen appliances in advance. Voice ID should be registered either on the refrigerator, or Galaxy mobile devices and then transferred to the refrigerator. (Limited to Galaxy S24 and subsequent models where Voice ID can be registered.)
    3 Bixby is Samsung’s brand of Internet of Things (IoT) voice assistant. Bixby service availability may vary depending on the country. Bixby recognizes certain accents/dialects of English (US, UK, Indian), Chinese, Korean, French, German, Italian, Spanish (Spain, Latin America) and Portuguese (Brazil). User interface may change and differ by device. Availability of Bixby features and content providers may vary depending on the country/carrier/language/device model/OS version. A Samsung account log-in and network connection (Wi-Fi or data network) are required.
    4 To use calendar feature, users need to either register their schedule directly on the refrigerator or link their mobile phone calendar in advance. Only Google or Microsoft calendars saved under a Google or Microsoft account can be synced with the Bespoke AI Refrigerator with AI Family Hub. (Refrigerators with AI Home support Google Calendar only.)
    5 Gallery feature is supported only for users who have saved photos to OneDrive cloud storage via the Samsung Gallery app on a Samsung mobile phone.
    6 To enable the service, a preset is required in the SmartThings Find.
    7 When a user registers a device through the SmartThings app, a one-time sync notification may appear via a plug-in. If the user signs into their Samsung account on a refrigerator and related settings are stored in the cloud, this data may be transmitted once to the device. Screen settings can be modified at any time, and any changes will be saved and remain in effect unless manually updated.
    8 Timeline may vary depending on the service region or model.
    9 AI Home refers to the 7’’ or 9’’ LCD screen on the product. Does not mean all services available on the AI Home are AI or generate information or outcome using AI. Certain functions accessible through the AI Home utilize AI-based algorithms, which can be updated periodically to improve accuracy. AI-based algorithms may generate incomplete or incorrect information.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Exotic Bird Smuggler Busted at the Border

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN DIEGO – Juandaniel Medina, the third individual in the past several weeks to have been charged with illegal trafficking of protected exotic birds through Ports of Entry in the Southern District of California, appeared in court today. Federal agents detained Medina at the San Ysidro Port of Entry after discovering seven live Amazon parrots in a cardboard box on the passenger floorboard. According to a federal complaint, Medina was the driver and registered owner of a vehicle in which U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials found the birds; he admitted paying $700 cash for the parrots with the intention of breeding and or reselling them in the United States in the future.

     

     

     

    Cardboard box on the passenger floorboard; one of the captive birds peering out from inside the box

    USFWS has identified six of the birds as Red-Lored Amazon Parrots. Fortunately, all seven of the parrots are alive and thriving at a quarantine facility managed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

         

    The seven Amazon parrots seized from GARCIA’s truck

     

    The arrest follows the recent prosecution of another individual caught smuggling Amazon parrots through the same port of entry, highlighting a troubling pattern of illegal wildlife trade through Southern California.

    “The illicit parrot trade reflects a broader crisis in wildlife protection—where profit outweighs preservation.” aid U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon. “Bird smuggling is not a victimless crime. These animals suffer, and the consequences to public health and the environment can be catastrophic. I thank U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, Homeland Security Investigations, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection for their extraordinary coordination and vigilance in protecting both public safety and animal welfare.

    According to U.S.  Fish and Wildlife Services, Amazon parrots are native to Mexico, the West Indies, and northern South America.  There are approximately thirty species of Amazon parrots, and all Amazon parrot species are listed on either Appendix I or Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (“CITES”).

    Illegally imported birds bypass health screening and quarantine, which are required to protect the nation from infectious diseases. Avian influenza (bird flu), for instance, can spread through feathers, droppings, or even airborne particles and has previously caused massive culls of farm birds in the U.S. Bird flu is highly contagious and can cause flu like symptoms, respiratory illness, pneumonia and death in humans and other birds including birds in United States poultry farms.  Many other diseases that can be transmitted from different animals and can have disastrous effects, that is why it is necessary to quarantine animals entering the United States to limit and safeguard against this potential disease transmission.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Evangeline Dech.

    DEFENDANT                                               Case Number 25-mj-3169                            

    Juandaniel Medina                                          Age: 24                                   Lindsay, CA

    SUMMARY OF CHARGES

    Importation Contrary to Law – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 545

    Maximum penalty: 20 years in prison and $250,000 fine

    INVESTIGATING AGENCIES

    U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

    Homeland Security Investigations

    *The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The ASX is shrinking – a plan to get more companies to float does not go far enough

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mark Humphery-Jenner, Associate Professor of Finance, UNSW Sydney

    Whenever a high-profile company lists on the Australian stock market it attracts much excitement. Employees and founders enjoy some financial gains and investors get a chance to invest in a potentially exciting stock.

    For these reasons, fast-food chain Guzman Y Gomez was one of the biggest financial events of 2024. It undertook an initial public offering which meant for the first time, its
    shares were available to the public and started being traded on the stock exchange.

    However, such public offerings have become rare with many companies remaining private instead of listing on the market.

    Indeed, the number of businesses in Australia listed on the stock exchange is declining. This has been described as the worst public offering drought “since the global financial crisis”.

    The number of initial public offerings since 2000

    In response, on Monday, the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) announced measures to encourage more listings by streamlining the initial public offering process.

    How do companies list on the stock exchange?

    Firms undertake an initial public offering by filing documents with ASIC. These includes a “prospectus”, which details the information investors might need to evaluate whether to buy shares.

    ASIC reviews the documentation and then decides if changes are necessary or whether to let the business list.

    Typically, this requires the business to use an investment bank to manage the process and a law firm to prepare the documentation. The business will also engage an underwriter to evaluate the offering and ensure it raises enough capital. All these services cost money.

    When they are trading, the business must comply with additional regulations imposed by ASIC and the Australian Securities Exchange. These include meeting corporate governance, continuous disclosure and other operating requirements.

    Why should a business lists its shares?

    There are many potential gains for a business and the public to list on the stock exchange.

    Companies can encourage employees by paying them with shares in the business. This gives workers buy-in to the company they help to build. This is much easier when it is listed because employees can identify the value of that incentive and sell shares when they choose.

    Being listed can also help raise capital. Having shares listed helps the business raise money to expand. In a direct sense, initial public offerings do this by enabling the firm to sell shares directly to the public rather than being restricted to the subset of investors who can invest in unlisted stocks.

    In an indirect sense, being publicly listed forces businesses to comply with even more stringent disclosure rules. This can give lenders and investors more confidence in the firm.

    Further, because the shares are now readily traded in the market, they can now be more easily used to acquire, or merge with, another company.

    What does ASIC intend to do?

    The commission believes one of the biggest barriers to listing on the market is the initial documentation and administrative requirements. They believe if they can slash red tape there will be more listings.

    The goal is to help them get their documents in order from the beginning, to reduce the potential number of changes that may be needed. ASIC believes it will make the process cheaper and quicker, and enable firms to better time the initial public offerings for periods of strong demand.

    The fast track process would only be open to businesses with a market capitalisation of at least A$100 million and firms that had no ASX escrow requirement.

    An escrow is a financial and legal agreement designed to protect buyers and sellers in a transaction. An independent third party holds payment for a fee, until everyone fulfils their transaction responsibilities.

    What else could ASIC do?

    ASIC’s plan to reduce red tape will help but there are other barriers to businesses listing on the sharemarket. These include:

    • share structures and control: founders are often psychologically invested in their companies and prefer to retain control over the business they built after listing.

    This is part of the reason “dual-class” share structures exist in the United States. These give some shareholders supernormal voting rights, enabling them to retain control. Singapore and Hong Kong also offer dual class structures.

    Australia doesn’t have a dual-class system, but enabling such structures could make the market more attractive

    • disclosure and expense: the initial public offering process is expensive. ASIC’s plan does partly address this, but only for larger businesses, which ironically have greater financial resources to pay the service providers.

    • governance requirements: the ASX imposes corporate governance requirements on businesses that publicly list on the market. These requirements take a one-size-fits-all to factors such as who should be on the board of directors. These requirements appear to cost extra with an unclear financial gain. And the ASX’s rules appear not to be evidence-backed.

    • escrows: ASIC’s fast track process is only available if the firm does not have to satisfy an escrow requirement. An escrow requirement typically applies when an early investor, or a founder, is involved. This is to stop such people from opportunistically selling shares at an inflated process, which then nosedives. It is not clear why ASIC excluded such businesses from fast track review. Smaller companies are some of the most likely to be subject to escrow. So they are the most likely to benefit from reducing the cost-barriers to listing.

    ASIC has tried to reduce red tape for larger businesses, but the changes don’t go far enough and more work is necessary to address the underlying factors that cause firms to stay private for longer.

    Mark Humphery-Jenner does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. The ASX is shrinking – a plan to get more companies to float does not go far enough – https://theconversation.com/the-asx-is-shrinking-a-plan-to-get-more-companies-to-float-does-not-go-far-enough-258557

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Why does the US still have a Level 1 travel advisory warning despite the chaos?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Samuel Cornell, PhD Candidate in Public Health & Community Medicine, School of Population Health, UNSW Sydney

    No travel can be considered completely safe. There are inherent risks from transportation, criminal activity, communicable diseases, injury and natural disasters.

    Still, global travel is booming — for those who can afford it.

    To reduce the chances of things going wrong, governments issue official travel advisories: public warnings meant to help people make informed travel decisions.

    Sometimes these advisories seem puzzling – why, for example, does the US still have the “safest” rating despite the ongoing volatility in Los Angeles?

    How do governments assess where is safe for Australians to travel?

    A brief history of travel advisories

    The United States pioneered travel advisories in 1978, with other countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom and Ireland following.

    Australia started providing travel advisories in 1996 and now runs its system under the Smart Traveller platform.

    To determine the risk level, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) draws on diplomatic reporting, assessments from Australian missions overseas about local security conditions, threat assessments from the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) and advice from Five Eyes intelligence sharing partners (Australia, the US, United Kingdom, New Zealand and Canada).

    The goal is to create “smart, responsible informed travellers”, not to restrict tourism or damage foreign relationships.

    DFAT has stressed its system is not influenced by “commercial or political considerations”.

    Soft power and safety

    In theory, these advisories are meant to inform travellers, keep them safe and reduce the burden on consular services.

    However, they can also subtly reflect politics and alliances.

    While travel advisories are presented as neutral, fact-based risk assessments, they may not always be free from political bias.

    Research shows governments sometimes soften their warnings for countries they are close with and overstate risks in others.

    A detailed analysis of US State Department travel warnings from 2009 to 2016 found only a weak correlation between the number of American deaths in a country and the warnings issued.

    In some cases, destinations with no record of US fatalities received frequent warnings, while places with high death tolls had none.

    In early 2024, Australia issued a string of warnings about rising safety concerns in the US and extremely strict entry conditions even with an appropriate visa.

    Yet, the US kept its Level 1 rating – “exercise normal safety precautions” – the same advice given for places such as Japan or Denmark.

    Meanwhile, Australia’s warning for France was Level 2 — “exercise a high degree of caution” — due to the potential threat of terrorism.

    Experts have also criticised Australia’s travel warnings for being harsher toward developing countries.

    The UK, a country with lower crime rates than the US, also sits at Level 2 — putting it in the same risk level as Saudi Arabia, Nicaragua and South Africa.



    Read more:
    In Trump’s America, the shooting of a journalist is not a one-off. Press freedom itself is under attack

    Inconsistencies and grey areas

    The problem is, the advisory levels themselves are vague: a Level 2 warning can apply to countries with very different risk profiles.

    It’s used for places dealing with terrorism threats like France, or vastly different law and respect for human rights such as Saudi Arabia, or countries recovering from political unrest such as Sri Lanka.

    Until early June 2025, Sweden was also rated Level 2 due to localised gang violence, despite relatively low risks for tourists. Its rating has since been revised down to Level 1.

    Travel advisories often apply a blanket rating to an entire country, even when risks vary widely within its borders.

    For instance, Australia’s Level 1 rating for the US doesn’t distinguish between different regional threats.

    In June 2025, 15 people were injured in Boulder, Colorado after a man attacked a peaceful protest with Molotov cocktails.

    Earlier in 2025, a major measles outbreak in West Texas resulted in more than 700 cases reported in a single county.

    Despite this, Australia continues to classify the entire country as a low-risk destination.

    This can make it harder for travellers to make informed, location-specific decisions.

    Recent travel trends

    Recent data indicate a significant downturn in international travel to the US: in March 2025, overseas visits to the US fell by 11.6% compared to the previous year, with notable declines from Germany (28%), Spain (25%) and the UK (18%).

    Australian visitors to the US decreased by 7.8% compared to the same month in 2024, marking the steepest monthly drop since the COVID pandemic.

    This trend suggests travellers are reassessing risk on their own even when official advisories don’t reflect those concerns.

    The US case shows how politics can affect travel warnings: the country regularly experiences mass casualty incidents, violent protests and recently has been detaining and deporting people from many countries at the border including Australians, Germans and French nationals.

    Yet it remains at Level 1.

    What’s really going on has more to do with political alliances than safety: increasing the US travel risk level could create diplomatic friction.

    What travellers can do now

    If you’re a solo female traveller, identify as LGBTQIA+, are an academic, come from a visible minority or have spoken out online against the country you’re visiting, your experience might be very different from what the advice suggests.

    So, here are some tips to stay safe while travelling:

    • Check multiple sources: don’t rely solely on travel advisories – compare travel advice from other countries

    • Get on-the-ground updates: check local news for coverage of events. If possible, talk to people who’ve recently visited for their experiences

    • For broader safety trends, tools like the Global Peace Index offer data on crime, political stability and healthcare quality. If you’re concerned about how locals or police treat certain groups, consult Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, or country-specific reports from Freedom House

    • Consider identity-specific resources: there are travel guides and safety indexes for LGBTQIA+ travellers like Equaldex, women travellers (Solo Female Travelers Network) and others. These may highlight risks general advisories miss.

    Travel advisories often reflect whom your country trusts, not where you’re actually safe. If you’re relying on them, make sure you understand what they leave out.

    Samuel Cornell receives funding from an Australian Government Research Training Program
    Scholarship.

    Milad Haghani does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Why does the US still have a Level 1 travel advisory warning despite the chaos? – https://theconversation.com/why-does-the-us-still-have-a-level-1-travel-advisory-warning-despite-the-chaos-258182

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: TONIGHT: Governor Newsom to deliver major address

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jun 10, 2025

    LOS ANGELES — Governor Gavin Newsom will address Californians tonight in response to President Trump’s assault on democracy and the President’s illegal militarization of Los Angeles.

    WHEN: Tuesday, June 10 at approximately 6:30 p.m. PT, 9:30 p.m. ET

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

    NOTE: This address will be streamed only.

    Media advisories, Recent news

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Video: Kaine Delivers Opening Remarks at SASC Navy Posture Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    BROADCAST-QUALITY VIDEO OF KAINE’S EXCHANGE IS AVAILABLE HERE.

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), delivered opening remarks at the SASC hearing on U.S. Navy posture. During his remarks, he discussed his concerns about President Trump and Secretary Hegseth activating thousands of National Guard members and 700 Marines in California—over the objections of California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass—in response to immigration protests.

    “I have a lot of experience in dealing with the [National] Guard as a former mayor and governor,” said Kaine. “The genius of the Guard is that it is a partnership between the President and the Governors and Guardsmen and women… The President’s decision to deploy thousands of Guardsmen and women to quell protests in Los Angeles—without a request by the California Governor and in fact, over the objection of the California Governor—is nearly unprecedented.”

    Kaine continued, “We are in very, very dangerous territory. I think my colleagues and I are right to be concerned about this. The American public is concerned about this.”

    “To deploy active duty Marines to quell civilian protests is, in my view, very, very dangerous,” said Kaine. “It’s dangerous beyond the escalatory effects that both the Governor and Mayor of Los Angeles are warning us about. If we screw up the balance of how we use the Guard or how we use the military in the instance of civilian protests that local law enforcement can handle, we will regret that for a very, very long time.”

    “Many Americans are worried now that if they express dissenting voices to policies and the Administration, they’re concerned that the military may be deployed against them,” Kaine continued. “We’re coming up on the commemoration of 250 years of American democracy. It’s on the shoulders of this generation to decide whether the commemoration will be a celebration or a requiem or a wake or a coronation. We need to make it a celebration, and for that, we need brave and patriotic citizens who are willing to, without fear, exercise rights that were guaranteed to them from the very first days of this country.”

    Then, Kaine rebutted comments from his colleague erroneously comparing Trump’s decision to activate the National Guard in California to President Dwight Eisenhower’s activation of the Arkansas National Guard to ensure the integration of Central High School in Little Rock.

    “The issue is not is there lawless behavior that can be controlled by local law enforcement. You either believe in a federal system or you don’t where a Governor requests the National Guard or doesn’t, and you either believe in a civilian military division or you don’t,” Kaine said.

    “Senator Cotton brings up the example of Little Rock. President Eisenhower, Republican President, did federalize the Guard in that instance. Why? Because it was the Governor that was violating federal law. There is no suggestion that Governor Newsom is violating federal law. In fact, he said, arrest me if I’m violating the law—and yesterday, the chief border agent for the United States said there is no cause to arrest you. You are not violating federal law,” said Kaine.

    Kaine continued, “The right balance in this instance is to let a local official—mayor, governor—seek assistance if they need it. If the President decides if more assets are needed, we wouldn’t even be having this discussion if he sent in federal law enforcement—FBI, DEA. We’re having this discussion because the President in an unprecedented way, without a request and over the objection of the local elected leadership decided to send in the United States military.”

    Kaine also raised concerns about the Trump Administration’s failure to submit a full budget request; delays with naval shipbuilding programs, including Virginia-class and Columbia-class submarines and amphibious assault ships; and the lack of the nomination from the Administration for a new Chief of Naval Operations (CNO). He also expressed his commitment to continuing to work with the Department of the Navy and other services on the implementation of provisions from the Brandon Act, which he helped get signed into law to make it easier for servicemembers to access mental health care.

    “The Navy does remain the finest maritime force in the world, but it’s struggled to grow and maintain the fleet… Many vessels—aircraft carriers, multiple destroyers and frigates, and some of the air platforms—are behind schedule,” Kaine said. “In particular, the Virginia-class fast attack subs and Columbia-class ballistic missile submarines, which are so critical and prioritized very highly by all of you, are delayed and face budgetary challenges… We need to do more. I continue to believe that the most significant challenge we have is a workforce challenge.”

    “The Brandon Act was passed by this body a number of years back—named after a young sailor, Brandon Caserta, who died by suicide in Norfolk,” said Kaine. “There were a lot of challenges and problems with, frankly, lack of access to mental health services, and it was a pivotal step toward improving access to mental health services, not just for the Navy, but everybody in the service. The implementations across the Armed Services—we’ve seen fits and starts, but some critical gaps in effectiveness, fragmented implementation, undefined procedures for mental health requests, lack of policies tailored toward the National Guard and Reserves… I would really love your help working to continue to implement this.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s refined tax refund policy fuels inbound consumption

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    China saw a vibrant surge in inbound consumption following the rollout of its refined tax-refund-upon-departure policy, with notable increases in both the number of tax refund stores and the total amount refunded.

    Between April 27 and May 26, the number of departure tax refund transactions processed by the country’s tax authorities jumped 116 percent year on year, and sales at tax refund stores climbed 56 percent, the State Taxation Administration said on Tuesday.

    The country has expanded its refund-upon-purchase service model nationwide, with the number of related transactions increasing 32-fold and sales surging 50-fold year on year, according to data released by the administration.

    Driven by the new policy measures, 1,303 new departure tax refund stores were established across the country during the period, raising the total to 5,196, which was a 40 percent increase from the end of 2024, the data shows.

    This rise in inbound consumption is a result of China’s latest efforts to encourage foreign tourist spending. On April 27, the country introduced a package of measures to optimize its departure tax refund policy, including measures lowering the minimum purchase threshold for refunds, raising the cash refund ceiling, expanding the network of participating stores, and broadening the range of products covered.

    China is also promoting a refund-upon-purchase service model, allowing eligible tourists to receive tax refunds instantly at retail outlets rather than waiting until they leave the country.

    International tourists in China can now claim a tax refund if they spend at least 200 yuan (about 27.84 U.S. dollars) at a single store in a single day and meet other relevant requirements, with refunds payable in multiple forms, including mobile, bank and cash payments. The upper limit for cash refunds has been raised to 20,000 yuan.

    China’s metropolises led this shopping surge. In the month following the policy rollout, Shanghai saw an 86 percent year-on-year increase in sales involving tax refund transactions and a 77 percent rise in the total amount refunded, according to local tax authorities.

    With a raised cash refund ceiling and a lowered minimum purchase threshold for refunds, the new policy allows shoppers from overseas to enjoy benefits across a wide range of products, from high-end goods to everyday items like clothing, said Chen Xiaoling, general manager of Shanghai’s Florentia Village outlet mall. The policy has made shopping in China more convenient and yielded better value for money for international visitors, Chen noted.

    This streamlined refund process has boosted shopping enthusiasm among international tourists.

    At WF Central, which is a luxury mall on Beijing’s popular Wangfujing shopping street, a large banner promoting the refund-upon-purchase tax service hangs prominently in the central atrium. This service is now available at nearly 40 international-brand stores in the mall.

    Alice, a tourist from the United States visiting her family in China, recently purchased a watch and applied for a tax refund immediately after. She presented her passport along with her shopping and departure details at the service counter, and received her refund within minutes. It was her first time purchasing luxury goods in China, and she found the service to be convenient, she said.

    Plaza 66 in Shanghai regards the refund-upon-purchase service as an important engine to boost its market competitiveness and strengthen its international profile. As of May 27, the mall has processed over 280 refund-upon-purchase transactions — already exceeding the whole-year total for 2024.

    China is accelerating development of international consumption center cities to stimulate inbound spending. The country is working to transform five cities — Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Tianjin and Chongqing — into major centers for shopping.

    Also to stimulate inbound consumption, China will increase its number of duty-free stores and expand the range of products eligible for the refund-upon-purchase service, particularly high-tech digital goods such as smartphones, smartwatches and small household appliances, as well as items that are popular among younger consumers, Shi Zeyi, an official of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, said last month.

    China’s Vice Commerce Minister Sheng Qiuping recently stated that China will continue to improve its international consumption environment, increase its supply of high-quality products, and create more diversified consumption scenarios to boost inbound consumption. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. LaMalfa, Matsui, Kim Introduce Bill to Keep Homeownership Costs Down

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Doug LaMalfa 1st District of California

    Washington, D.C.— Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-Richvale), with Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA) and Congresswoman Young Kim (R-CA), introduced the bipartisan Keeping Homeownership Costs Down Act (H.R. 3800) to help reduce housing costs by directing the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to resume issuing exemption letters, while court-mandated Endangered Species Act (ESA) reviews take place, that keep homeowners from having to purchase expensive flood insurance if their properties are unlikely to flood.

    “California families are already struggling with the rising cost of housing and requiring them to purchase expensive flood insurance when their home is unlikely to flood adds another financial burden to homeownership,” said Rep. LaMalfa. “Following a court ruling in 2019, FEMA stopped issuing exemptions while it was forced to conduct additional and duplicative environmental reviews of this practice.  This is ridiculous.  My common sense, bipartisan bill helps make owning a home more affordable by requiring FEMA to restart issuing flood insurance purchase exemptions right away while environmental reviews take place.

    “In Northern California, we have long had to balance lifesaving flood protection measures with our critical need for additional housing,” said Rep. Matsui. “The Keeping Homeownership Costs Down Act is a commonsense fix that restores a tool in building affordable houses in our region. By ensuring FEMA can continue issuing LOMR-Fs, we prevent families from being priced out of homeownership while upholding key environmental protections.”

    Background:

    • CLOMR-F and LOMR-F letters allow FEMA to revise flood maps for properties that have been elevated above flood zones, removing the federal requirement to purchase flood insurance.
    • FEMA stopped issuing these letters in six counties in 2020, expanding the pause to 32 counties in 2023, after a lawsuit required the agency to consult with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service under the ESA on these letters.
    • California builds fewer than 80,000 homes per year despite needing around 180,000 annually to meet demand. Rising construction costs and mandatory flood insurance contribute to high housing prices.
    • Developers already go through ESA compliance when seeking permits to build housing projects. Requiring FEMA to conduct separate ESA reviews for LOMR-F and CLOMR-F letters add regulatory duplication without improving environmental protections.
    • The Keeping Homeownership Costs Down Act directs FEMA to issue the letters, as appropriate, until the ESA consultation process is completed, helping lower housing costs and avoid unnecessary delays.

    Congressman Doug LaMalfa is Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus and a lifelong farmer representing California’s First Congressional District, including Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Shasta, Siskiyou, Sutter, Tehama and Yuba Counties.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: USDA Approves Sanders’ Waiver to Ban Soft Drinks, Unhealthy Drinks, and Candy from Food Stamps Program

    Source: US State of Arkansas

    USDA Approves Sanders’ Waiver to Ban Soft Drinks, Unhealthy Drinks, and Candy from Food Stamps Program

    Arkansas’ plan is a first-of-its-kind model that bans both soft drinks AND candy

    LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins today signed Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ waiver to ban soft drinks and candy from Arkansas’ Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also referred to as food stamps. Governor Sanders submitted her waiver in April. The State will use the GS1 US food categorization system to implement these policy changes.
     
    “This approval sends a clear message: President Trump and his administration are tackling America’s chronic disease epidemic and Arkansas stands with him in that fight,” said Governor Sanders. “I am incredibly grateful for Secretary Rollins’ quick approval of our waiver. Arkansas leads the nation in getting unhealthy, ultra-processed foods off food stamps and helping our most vulnerable citizens lead healthier lives.”
     
    “The Trump Administration is unified in improving the health of our nation. America’s governors have proudly answered the call to innovate by improving nutrition programs, ensuring better choices while respecting the generosity of the American taxpayer,” said Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins. “Each waiver submitted by the states and signed is yet another step closer to fulfilling President Trump’s promise to Make America Healthy Again.”
     
    “The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is about providing nutritious meals to families in need, and for too long we’ve not focused purposefully on that mission and have allowed SNAP dollars to be used for unhealthy items like candy and soda. That approach changes with this waiver, and Arkansas families will benefit by having healthier options on their tables. We are grateful for the support of the U.S. Department of Agriculture in approving our plan and for Gov. Sanders’ leadership in this critical area, and we are excited to now work toward implementing this innovative and beneficial change to the SNAP program,” said Arkansas Secretary of Human Services Kristi Putnam.
      
    Food stamps are a $119 billion federal program designed to supplement the lowest-income Americans’ nutritional needs. However, about 23% of food stamp spending – $27 billion annually – now goes toward soft drinks, unhealthy snacks, candy, and desserts. One-third of Arkansans have diabetes or pre-diabetes. 
     
    Studies have consistently shown the link between the overconsumption of sugary, highly processed foods like soft drinks and candy and chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension. One study from Stanford found that just banning sugary drinks from food stamps could prevent obesity in 141,000 kids and Type 2 diabetes in 240,000 adults.
     
    Earlier this year, Governor Sanders signed SB59 into law, providing every student in Arkansas with free school breakfast. The legislation also repurposes Medical Marijuana tax revenue to ensure both Summer EBT and Arkansas’ free lunch and breakfast programs are fully funded into the future.
     
    Governor Sanders previously announced Arkansas will continue its Summer EBT program this year after serving 260,000 last summer. The Governor previously signed legislation to provide free school lunches for students who previously qualified for reduced-price meals.
     
    Governor Sanders submitted her waiver in April, 2025. She previously announced her intent to pursue this waiver in December, 2024.
     
    A copy of the waiver is here and a copy of the Governor’s letter accompanying the waiver is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: US criticises allies as NZ bans two top far-right Israeli ministers

    RNZ News

    The United States has denounced sanctions by Britain and allies — including New Zealand and Australia — against Israeli far-right ministers, saying they should focus instead on the Palestinian armed group Hamas.

    New Zealand has banned two Israeli politicians from travelling to the country because of comments about the war in Gaza that Foreign Minister Winston Peters says “actively undermine peace and security”.

    New Zealand joins Australia, Canada, the UK and Norway in imposing the sanctions on Israel’s Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

    Peters said they were targeted towards two individuals, rather than the Israeli government.

    “Our action today is not against the Israeli people, who suffered immeasurably on October 7 [2023] and who have continued to suffer through Hamas’ ongoing refusal to release all hostages.

    “Nor is it designed to sanction the wider Israeli government.”

    The two ministers were “using their leadership positions to actively undermine peace and security and remove prospects for a two-state solution”, Peters said.

    ‘Severely and deliberately undermined’ peace
    “Ministers Smotrich and Ben-Gvir have severely and deliberately undermined that by personally advocating for the annexation of Palestinian land and the expansion of illegal settlements, while inciting violence and forced displacement.”

    The sanctions were consistent with New Zealand’s approach to other foreign policy issues, he said.

    Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir (left) and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich . . . sanctioned by Australia, Canada, the UK and Norway because they have “incited extremist violence and serious abuses of Palestinian human rights. These actions are not acceptable,” says British Foreign Minister David Lammy. Image: TRT screenshot APR

    “New Zealand has also targeted travel bans on politicians and military leaders advocating violence or undermining democracy in other countries in the past, including Russia, Belarus and Myanmar.”

    New Zealand had been a long-standing supporter of a two-state solution, Peters said, which the international community was also overwhelmingly in favour of.

    “New Zealand’s consistent and historic position has been that Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories are a violation of international law. Settlements and associated violence undermine the prospects for a viable two-state solution,” he said.

    “The crisis in Gaza has made returning to a meaningful political process all the more urgent. New Zealand will continue to advocate for an end to the current conflict and an urgent restart of the Middle East Peace Process.”

    ‘Outrageous’, says Israel
    Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said the move was “outrageous” and the government would hold a special meeting early next week to decide how to respond to the “unacceptable decision”.

    His comments were made while attending the inauguration of a new Israeli settlement on Palestinian land.

    Peters is currently in Europe for the sixth Pacific-France Summit hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron in Nice.

    US State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce told reporters: “We find that extremely unhelpful. It will do nothing to get us closer to a ceasefire in Gaza.”

    Britain, Canada, Norway, New Zealand and Australia “should focus on the real culprit, which is Hamas”, she said of the sanctions.

    “We remain concerned about any step that would further isolate Israel from the international community.”

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: NZ and Gaza – Peters appearing to do something, when doing nothing

    COMMENTARY: By Steven Cowan, editor of Against The Current

    The New Zealand Foreign Minster’s decision to issue a travel ban against two Israeli far-right politicians is little more than a tokenistic gesture in opposing Israel’s actions.

    It is an attempt to appease growing opposition to Israel’s war, but the fact that Israel has killed more than 54,000 innocent people in Gaza, a third under the age of 18, still leaves the New Zealand government unmoved.

    Foreign Minister Peters gave the game away when he commented that the sanctions were targeted towards two individuals, rather than the Israeli government.

    Issuing travel bans against two Israeli politicians, who are unlikely to visit New Zealand at any stage, is the easy option.

    It appears to be doing something to protest against Israel’s actions when actually doing nothing. And it doesn’t contradict the interests of the United States in the Middle East.

    Under the government of Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, New Zealand has become a vassal state of American imperialism.

    New Zealand has joined four other countries, the United States, Britain, Australia and Norway, in issuing a travel ban. But all four countries continue to supply Israel with arms.

    Unions demand stronger action
    Last week, the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions demanded that the New Zealand government take stronger action against Israel. In a letter to Winston Peters, CTU president Richard Wagstaff wrote:

    “For too long, the international community has allowed the state of Israel to act with impunity. It is now very clearly engaged in genocide and ethnic cleansing in Gaza.

    “All efforts must be made to put diplomatic and economic pressure on Israel to end this murderous campaign.”

    THE CTU has called for a series of sanctions to be imposed on Israel. They include “a ban on all imports of goods made in whole or in part in Israel” and “a rapid review of Crown investments and immediately divest from any financial interests in Israeli companies”.

    The CTU is also calling for the expulsion of the Israeli ambassador.

    This article was first published on Steven Cowan’s website Against The Current. Republished with permission.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Coast Guard interdicts 5 aliens off the coast of Point Loma, Calif.

    Source: United States Coast Guard

     

    06/10/2025 07:51 PM EDT

    A crew aboard a Coast Guard Maritime Safety and Security Team Los Angeles/Long Beach boat interdicted five aliens aboard a 20-foot pleasure craft, approximately 4 miles southwest, of Point Loma, Monday.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hawley, Welch Introduce Legislation to Increase Federal Minimum Wage to $15 Per Hour

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo)

    Tuesday, June 10, 2025

    Today, U.S. Senators Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) introduced the Higher Wages for American Workers Act, which would increase the federal minimum wage to $15 per hour and allow the federal minimum wage to increase with inflation in subsequent years. When adjusted for inflation, the current federal minimum wage is lower than at any point since the 1940s. Meanwhile, the cost of housing, healthcare, and education has skyrocketed, leaving millions of full-time workers struggling to make ends meet.

    “For decades, working Americans have seen their wages flatline. One major culprit of this is the failure of the federal minimum wage to keep up with the economic reality facing hardworking Americans every day. This bipartisan legislation would ensure that workers across America benefit from higher wages,” Senator Hawley said.  

    “We’re in the midst of a severe affordability crisis, with families in red and blue states alike struggling to afford necessities like housing and groceries. A stagnant federal minimum wage only adds fuel to the fire. Every hardworking American deserves a living wage that helps put a roof over their head and food on the table–$7.25 an hour doesn’t even come close,” said Senator Welch. “Times have changed, and working families deserve a wage that reflects today’s financial reality. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan effort to raise the minimum wage nationwide to help more folks make ends meet,” Senator Welch added.
     
    If signed into law this year, the Higher Wages for American Workers Act would:

    • Increase the federal minimum wage to $15 per hour starting in January 2026.
    • Allow the federal minimum wage to increase with inflation in subsequent years.

    Read the full bill text here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Leads New Hampshire Delegation in Announcing 14th Experience New Hampshire Reception in Washington, DC

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) led Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and U.S. Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Maggie Goodlander (NH-02) in announcing that the New Hampshire State Society Event, “Experience New Hampshire,” will return to Capitol Hill on Wednesday, June 11, 2025. The New Hampshire Congressional delegation and other members of Congress will attend the event, which exhibits Granite State businesses and their first-class products in the U.S. Capitol. This year’s event marks the New Hampshire State Society’s 14th year hosting the reception.
    “From our world-famous maple syrup to tourism in the White Mountains, Experience New Hampshire showcases the businesses, institutions and entrepreneurs that make the Granite State a uniquely wonderful place,” said Senator Shaheen. “By allowing businesses to share their products and services and to connect with industry leaders and policymakers, the reception puts New Hampshire on the map. I’m thankful to the New Hampshire State Society for their work year after year to make this event possible.”
    “Experience NH provides an opportunity to showcase some of the many small businesses, vendors, foods, and artists that make our state so great,” said Senator Hassan. “I look forward to Experience NH every year and I appreciate all those who are joining for this year’s celebration and helping bring our Granite State spirit to Washington.”
    “By highlighting our state’s small businesses and their unique products and services, Experience New Hampshire brings Granite State culture to our nation’s capital,” said Congressman Pappas. “In New Hampshire, small businesses are the fabric of our communities, economy, and way of life. I am once again thrilled to join our federal delegation in welcoming guests to this popular event, and I look forward to seeing fellow Granite Staters and their small businesses in D.C.”
    “New Hampshire is home to the best of America,” said Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander. “I’m proud to partner with New Hampshire’s federal delegation and the New Hampshire State Society to help bring a taste of the Granite State to Congress and connect New Hampshire businesses and innovators with legislators and leaders in our nation’s Capitol.”
    Some participating businesses this year will include Echo Farm Puddings, Contoocook Creamery, Shire’s Naturals, Concord Regional Technical Center, the New Hampshire Maple Producers, SkiNH, The Spicy Shark and more.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: East Asia and Pacific Subcommittee Chairwoman Kim Delivers Opening Remarks at Hearing on Strengthening U.S.-ASEAN Ties

    Source: US House Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Media Contact 202-321-9747

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Foreign Affairs East Asia and Pacific Subcommittee Chairwoman Young Kim delivered opening remarks at a hearing titled, “Building Bridges, Countering Rivals: Strengthening U.S.-ASEAN Ties to Combat Chinese Influence.”

    Watch Here

    -Remarks-

    This hearing presents an opportunity for us to examine China’s growing footprint in ASEAN and to discuss ways the US can counter it by strengthening cooperation across economic security, diplomatic and law enforcement sectors.

    China has long prioritized Southeast Asia in its foreign policy, using diplomacy, infrastructure investment and trade to entrench its influence. In contrast, US economic engagement has stumbled. Initiatives like the Trans-Pacific Partnership and the Indo-Pacific Economic framework for prosperity aimed high but failed to deliver meaningful market access or address trade imbalances. Despite our inability to engage economically, we continue to build robust relationships with countries like the Philippines, Vietnam, and Singapore, but we too often underestimate ASEAN’s collective weight in our own Indo-Pacific strategy.

    We need to ensure the United States has a genuinely responsive and effective strategy to remain the partner of choice in ASEAN and ask ourselves: Where have our past strategies in Southeast Asia fallen short? What legislative tools can strengthen our regional position? Are our frameworks aligned with ASEAN partners priorities? Despite China’s reach, the United States is the preferred long-term partner of choice for many ASEAN countries. In the 2025 State of Southeast Asia Survey, 52.3% favored the United States over China, recognizing our leadership and investment, security, innovation, and shared values.

    On security, the United States has made real strides expanding maritime security with the Philippines and partnering with other South Asia, South China Sea nations on law enforcement, maritime safety, and capacity building training, enhancing disaster response and maritime governance capabilities.

    Economically, however, we are under leveraged. While China remains ASEAN’s top trading partner, the region is a $4 trillion market with enormous potential, especially in critical minerals, regional trade and development financing. The threat of Chinese dominance isn’t going away. China is aggressively pursuing deals. Over 100 secured just this April with Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia. These efforts reflect Beijing’s recognition of growing US engagement and its desire to blunt it.

    We must show ASEAN partners that China’s promises rarely deliver lasting benefits. We also need a bold whole of government strategy. One that affirms our leadership, reinforces our alliances and oppose the sovereignty and rules-based order that underpins a free and open Indo-Pacific.

    I look forward to hearing from our witnesses today. Your expertise will guide us in crafting stronger, smarter US policy in South Asia.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MANHEIM – Shapiro Administration to Announce Investment to Increase Agricultural Product Sales and Exports

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    June 11, 2026 – Manheim, PA

    ADVISORY – MANHEIM – Shapiro Administration to Announce Investment to Increase Agricultural Product Sales and Exports

    Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding will tour sixth-generation Waltz Estate Winery and Family Farm to announce another Shapiro Administration investment to support the growth and success of family businesses in agriculture.

    The event will highlight Pennsylvania’s 4th in the nation wine industry and vibrant agriculture-based tourism industry – both connecting visitors to made-in-PA culinary adventures and Great American Getaways through the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s PA Preferred® program and the Department of Community and Economic Development’s Tourism Office.

    Governor Josh Shapiro’s 2025-26 budget proposes an increase of $13 million to the historic Agricultural Innovation Grant program to help family farms across Pennsylvania compete and succeed, building on a full menu of PA Farm Bill investments, record conservation funding to help farms improve and protect soil and water, and millions in research dollars to keep Pennsylvania agriculture on the cutting edge of technology.

    WHO:
    Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding
    Pennsylvania Wine Association President Mark Rozum
    Pennsylvania Wine Association Vice President Zach Waltz
    State Senator James Malone

    WHEN:
    Wednesday, June 11 at 1 p.m.
    Tour of winemaking operation, grounds, and tasting room to follow announcement

    WHERE:
    1599 Old Line Road
    Manheim, PA 17545

    RSVP:
    Press attending should RSVP with news outlet and photographer and reporter names to aginfo@pa.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Brownley, Carbajal Condemn Cruel and Reckless ICE Activities in Ventura County

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

    Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (CA-26) and Congressman Salud Carbajal (CA-24) released the following statement regarding reports of recent U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations throughout Ventura County, California. These operations follow a wave of escalated enforcement in neighboring Los Angeles County and are spreading fear, chaos, and distress across the region.

    “We have received disturbing reports of ICE enforcement actions in Ventura County, including in Oxnard, Port Hueneme, and Camarillo, where agents have reportedly stopped vehicles, loitered near schools, and attempted to enter agricultural properties and facilities in the Oxnard Plain. These actions are completely unjustified, deeply harmful, and raise serious questions about the agency’s tactics and its respect for due process.

    “Let us be clear: these raids are not about public safety. They are about stoking fear. These are not criminals being targeted. They are hardworking people and families who are an essential part of Ventura County. Our local economy, like much of California’s and the country’s as a whole, depends on undocumented labor. These men and women are the backbone of our farms, our fields, our construction and service industries, and our communities.

    “We are outraged by the cruelty and recklessness of this campaign. It is unconscionable. The Trump administration is deliberately inflicting harm on immigrant families and doing so without transparency, accountability, or even basic communication with Congress. Neither we nor our colleagues have received any notification or briefing from ICE about these activities. Our inquiries to the administration have gone unanswered. This total lack of transparency is unacceptable.

    “The Trump administration continues to use immigration enforcement as a political weapon, targeting vulnerable families to score political points. This is not how you keep people safe. In fact, this kind of chaos only makes our communities more insecure. And as these actions continue to traumatize families and tear communities apart, they are also tearing at the fabric of our humanity and who we are as a country.

    “ICE should be focused on individuals who pose real threats to public safety, not terrorizing entire communities with broad, unjust sweeps. These actions are a misuse of limited resources and a betrayal of the values that define us as Americans.

    “We will continue working closely with state and local officials to protect our community and ensure that all Ventura County families, regardless of immigration status, feel safe. We can and we must enforce our immigration laws while upholding the rule of law and respecting due process. The Trump administration must be held accountable for these deeply damaging and politically motivated actions. We remain committed to protecting the rights, safety, and well-being of every resident of Ventura County.”

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    Issues: 119th Congress, Immigration, Local Issues

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Miller, Veasey, Graves, and Carter Reintroduce the Community Training, Education, and Access for Medical Students Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV), and Congressmen Marc Veasey (D-TX), Sam Graves (R-MO), and Troy Carter (D-LA), reintroduced the Community Training, Education, and Access for Medical Students (TEAMS) Act. The Community TEAMS Act creates a Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) grant program which would provide community-based training for medical students in rural and medically underserved communities. 
     
    “Americans in rural communities deserve the same quality of health care treatment as patients in more populated areas. The Community TEAMS Act gives medical students the ability to adapt to medical challenges that may arise while serving in rural communities and provides them with opportunities to practice medicine in the rural workforce. By training medical students in underserved areas of our country, we are laying the foundation for better health care in the U.S.,” said Congresswoman Miller.

     “In communities across the DFW area and throughout Texas, where many families rely on Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) for essential care, we need more medical professionals who are trained and ready to meet the needs of underserved populations. I am proud to help introduce the Community TEAMS Act, which will ensure that medical students gain the community-based training they need to serve communities like ours. By expanding medical training opportunities, we can improve health outcomes and make sure every patient, regardless of ZIP code or income, has access to high-quality care,” said Congressman Veasey.

    “Being a doctor in a rural area provides a unique set of challenges. That’s why it’s critical our medical students have access to rural clinical settings, so they get the on the job training necessary to provide exceptional care to rural Americans. The Community Training, Education, Access for Medical Students Act does exactly that and I’m proud help introduce it,” said Congressman Graves.

    “I’m proud to reintroduce the bipartisan Community TEAMS Act because I’m committed to strengthening our healthcare workforce and ensuring access to quality care for every community. This bill will expand clinical training in rural and underserved areas—where care is essential and where students can make the greatest impact. By forging partnerships between medical schools and community-based clinics, we are addressing provider shortages and investing in a healthcare system that reflects the people it serves. This is how we build a stronger, more equitable future in healthcare,” said Congressman Carter 

    The Community TEAMS Act is supported by the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM), the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine (WVSOM), the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), and the National Rural Health Association (NRHA): 

    “The American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine applauds Representatives Miller, Veasey, Graves and Carter for reintroducing the Community TEAMS Act. We need more medical school rotations in rural communities, as students who train in these areas are nearly three times more likely to return and serve them as physicians. With 64 percent of colleges of osteopathic medicine requiring clinical rotations in rural and underserved areas, this bill is a vital step toward expanding rural training opportunities, strengthening the physician workforce and improving healthcare access in communities that need it most,” said Robert A. Cain, DO, President and CEO of AACOM.

    “On behalf of the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine (WVSOM) and the osteopathic medical community, I applaud Representatives Carol Miller, Marc Veasey, Sam Graves, and Troy Carter, for championing the Community TEAMS Act. A long-time champion of WVSOM, osteopathic medicine and rural health care, Rep. Carol Miller recognizes the importance of providing medical students with clinical training in community-based settings to ensure they understand the unique healthcare needs of rural and underserved populations. Rep. Miller knows this training also addresses our physician workforce shortage by increasing the probability these students will practice in the communities after graduation. Rep. Miller is a Congressional leader who understands the needs of her constituents and rural regions of this country. WVSOM and our students thank her for working to advance this critical legislation and support medical education,” said James W. Nemitz, Ph.D., President of the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine.

    “The AAMC proudly supports the Community TEAMS Act, which takes a vital step toward strengthening the physician workforce by expanding clinical training in rural and underserved areas. This emphasis on the workforce is important and necessary now more than ever. We thank Representatives Carol Miller, Marc Veasey, Sam Graves, and Troy Carter for their leadership on this critical legislation that will help ensure future physicians are prepared to serve communities where they are needed most,” said Danielle Turnipseed, JD, MHSA, MPP, Chief Public Policy Officer, Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC).

    “The National Rural Health Association thanks Representatives Miller, Veasey, Graves, and Carter for their introduction of the Community TEAMS Act. We know that where medical students rotate and train influences their decision of where they ultimately practice, making exposure to rural community-based settings key to recruiting and retaining a robust physician workforce. We applaud the Representatives for creating new opportunities for medical students to gain valuable rural outpatient experience during their academic careers,” said Alan Morgan, Chief Executive Officer, NRHA.

    Click HERE for bill text.

    Background:

    • The HRSA grant program under the Community TEAMS Act will fund medical school clinical rotations in rural and underserved areas.
    • 75% of medical schools report concerns of having only a few training sites in rural communities across the country.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Hoyle Statement on House Republicans’ Overreach into D.C. Home Rule

    Source: US Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)

    June 10, 2025

    For Immediate Release: June 10, 2025 

    WASHINGTON, D.C.  – This week, U.S. Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04) will vote ‘No’ on three bills that would overturn the will of Washington, D.C. residents.

    Ahead of the vote, Representative Hoyle released the following statement:

    “I believe in Home Rule, and I wouldn’t want Washington, D.C. telling Eugene and Roseburg how to run their cities. Whether or not I agree with D.C. law is irrelevant, that is up to the people of D.C. I came here to represent the Central and South Coast of Oregon which is why I will vote no on every single bill that overrides the decisions of Washington, D.C.’s elected officials.” 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Passes Garbarino Bill to Support D.C. Police and Restore Public Safety

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Andrew Garbarino (R-NY)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. House of Representatives today passed H.R. 2096, the Protecting Our Nation’s Capital Emergency Act, by a bipartisan vote of 235–178–1. The bill, sponsored by Congressman Andrew Garbarino (R-NY-02), restores due process rights for Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers and addresses crime in Washington, D.C.

    Officer recruitment and retention remain at historic lows. MPD currently employs just over 3,100 sworn officers, down from 3,650 in 2020 and nearly 900 short of Mayor Bowser’s stated goal of expanding the force to 4,000 officers. Hundreds of fewer officers on the streets have emboldened criminals, eroding public safety as well as officer morale. The District of Columbia was rated the fifth deadliest city in America in recent years. Last month alone, 20 people were shot and killed in D.C. 

    “The House’s passage of my bill, the Protecting Our Nation’s Capital Emergency Act, is a critical step toward restoring law and order in Washington, D.C. The Metropolitan Police Department is facing a public safety crisis brought on by reckless policies that have stripped officers of basic protections and left the force dangerously understaffed,” said Rep. Garbarino. “This legislation helps right that wrong by giving MPD the tools and support they need to recruit, retain, and protect. Congress has a duty to ensure our nation’s capital is safe, and today’s vote sends a clear message: we back the badge, and we refuse to let violent crime take over D.C.”

    “The 3,000 members of the DC Police Union wholeheartedly endorse H.R. 2096, the Protecting Our Nation’s Capital Emergency Act of 2025. This critical legislation restores essential collective bargaining rights and fair disciplinary protocols for our brave Metropolitan Police Department officers. By empowering our law enforcement professionals, H.R. 2096 strengthens their ability to combat rising violent crime in Washington, D.C., ensuring the safety of our residents, visitors, and workers. We urge Congress to pass this bill swiftly to support our officers and secure our nation’s capital,” said Gregg Pemberton, Chairman of the DC Police Union.

    Cosponsors of the Protecting Our Nation’s Capital Emergency Act include RepresentativesPete Stauber (R-MN-08), Andy Biggs (R-AZ-05), and John Rutherford (R-FL-05). The bill now goes to the Senate for consideration. 

    The full bill text can be found here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Pfluger, Arrington Urge Senate to Pass the One Big Beautiful Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

    ICYMI: Pfluger, Arrington Urge Senate to Pass the One Big Beautiful Bill

    Washington, June 10, 2025

    WASHINGTON, DC — In Case You Missed It (ICYMI): Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11), Chairman of the Republican Study Committee, and Congressman Jodey Arrington (TX-19), Chairman of the House Budget Committee, called on the Senate to quickly pass the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

    “The most important thing right now is to continue with an aggressive timeline to get this done. The American people want results—promises made, promises kept, and we need to pass this bill. We know it’s not perfect, but it’s an incredible bill where Republicans united, and we are delivering for American families. We are delivering for our safety and security, and we need the Senate to pass this bill. We need to take this step to deliver for the American people. Let’s get this done,” said Rep. Pfluger.

    The West Texas Chairman released the following video from the steps of the United States Capitol. Watch it HERE or by clicking the image below.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy announces $2.4 million for flood mitigation in Jefferson, Bossier Parishes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)
    WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $2,390,437 in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grants for Louisiana flood mitigation.
    “Floods have brought untold pain and suffering to the people of Louisiana, and our communities are working hard to avert future flooding. This $2.4 million will help Jefferson and Bossier Parishes floodproof their communities and prevent costly damage in the years ahead,” said Kennedy.
    The FEMA aid will fund the following:
    $1,202,160 to Jefferson Parish for the elevation of four flood-prone structures. 
    $1,128,189 for Bossier Parish to reduce flooding in the Lucky Estates subdivision by improving drainage with new culverts, storm drainpipes and barriers, along with road work, excavation and landscaping. 
    $60,088 to Jefferson Parish for management costs associated with structure elevation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Applauds Marine Corps for Audit Success and Recruiting Wins

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    Published: June 10, 2025
    WASHINGTON – During today’s Senate Armed Services Committee hearing, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), a combat veteran and long-time advocate for financial accountability within the Department of Defense, commended the United States Marine Corps for successfully passing its audit for the second consecutive year.
    Watch Senator Ernst’s full remarks here.
    “I got my start in public service as a county auditor, so this is really exciting stuff for me. The Marine Corps has achieved a clean audit – not once but twice – which is very, very good. It proves really that success is possible when you have really good leadership that prioritizes it,” said Ernst.
    Ernst also highlighted how the Navy and Marine Corps met their recruiting goals for Fiscal Year 2024 and touted her SERVE Act, which would help strengthen the pipeline for young Americans to enter military service.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WTAS: Small Businesses Support Ernst’s Work to Fuel Innovation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA)
    WASHINGTON – As part of her River to River tour across Iowa, U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) met with small businesses in Iowa City to discuss how her INNOVATE Act will help usher in a Golden Age in America by reforming the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs to fuel innovation and supply vital technology to the industrial base.
    Ernst spoke with the group about how her bill will expand opportunities in the heartland and ensure that truly small businesses and startups are able to bolster America’s competitiveness and technological leadership.
    Download more pictures here.
    After the event, the INNOVATE Act earned high praise from attendees:
    “Senator Ernst understands the importance of the SBIR/STTR program to Iowa’s biotech entrepreneurs and to the long-term economic growth of our state,” said Jessica Hyland, Executive Director, Iowa Biotechnology Association. “The SBIR/STTR program plays a critical role in growing Iowa’s biotech ecosystem. The funding helps to grow and scale companies developing new cures, better crops, new energy sources, innovative materials and foods, while creating new jobs for Iowans. The reauthorization of these vital programs produce an outsized return on investment to the economy and provides crucial capital to these early-stage companies. We applaud Senator Ernst for her leadership, her vision and her commitment to ensuring that Iowa and America leads the world in innovative biotechnology breakthroughs.”
    “On behalf of America’s Cultivation Corridor, I would like to thank Senator Ernst for hosting today’s INNOVATE Act roundtable,” said Billi Hunt, Executive Director, America’s Cultivation Corridor. “It was an important opportunity to hear directly from innovators here in her own backyard about the value programs like SBIR bring to our innovation ecosystem. I am proud to support the INNOVATE Act to ensure SBIR is focused on America’s best innovators and well-defined deliverables. Iowa has long been a leader in innovation, with strengths in agriculture, advanced manufacturing, and financial services. These sectors give us a unique perspective on how innovations can successfully reach commercialization.”
    The INNOVATE Act has already earned widespread support and continues to earn additional high marks.
    “The INNOVATE Act represents a powerful framework for how the US government can stimulate impact-oriented innovation,” said Will Dickson, Chief Commercial Officer, Canopy Aerospace. “It’s no secret the small businesses move more quickly and take more risks than established businesses; harnessing this capability is critical to maintaining US global technological competitiveness in the coming decades. As a next-gen materials development company that is hyper-focused on ensuring that our innovations cross the valley of death, we believe reforming SBIR to focus on outcomes versus ‘neat research’ is the best use of the authority.”
    “The INNOVATE Act of 2025 represents a committed Congressional focus to streamlining investment in domestic innovation, ensuring that defense-application small businesses, such as Ursa Major, are enabled and empowered to apply impactful technological advances to further national security priorities,” said Ben Nicholson, Chief Business Officer, Ursa Major.
    “Vita has benefited greatly from the SBIR program, and passing Sen. Ernst’s INNOVATE Act will create meaningful improvements to “America’s seed fund” and will make sure it is viable for years to come,” said Caleb Carr, President and CEO, Vita Inclinata Technologies.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tillis, Shaheen Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Establish Senate NATO Observer Group

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), co-chairs of the Senate NATO Observer Group (SNOG), recently introduced bipartisan legislation to establish the Senate NATO Observer Group as a new body within the Senate dedicated to addressing and advising on matters related to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). This initiative underscores the Senators’ commitment to strengthening the vital transatlantic alliance and ensuring robust Congressional oversight and engagement on NATO-related issues.
    The Senate NATO Observer Group will serve as a crucial forum for addressing NATO matters that span the jurisdictions of multiple Senate committees. Its core functions will include advising the Senate on issues related to NATO, particularly concerning NATO enlargement. The group will also facilitate close interactions between the executive branch, the Senate, NATO, member countries, and candidate countries during negotiations on NATO enlargement.
    “As the global landscape continues to evolve, the importance of NATO to American security and global stability cannot be overstated,” said Senator Tillis. “Establishing the Senate NATO Observer Group will enhance our ability to proactively engage with our allies, address challenges, and ensure that the U.S. remains a strong and reliable partner within the alliance.” 
    “Now more than ever, it’s imperative that the United States work closely with NATO to respond to global threats, including Russia’s unprovoked war in Ukraine,” said Senator Shaheen. “This legislation to make the Senate NATO Observer Group permanent will enshrine bipartisan focus and support for NATO within the Senate. I am pleased to support this effort and make the Senate NATO Observer Group a permanent convener for conversation between the Senate and NATO Allies to strengthen transatlantic bonds.”
    Senators Tillis and Shaheen re-established the Senate NATO Observer Group in 2018 and have led bipartisan efforts in the Senate in support of the transatlantic Alliance. The group aims to monitor various aspects of the NATO alliance, including defense spending, military capabilities, counter-terrorism efforts, enlargement, and the ability to address unconventional warfare threats. 
    During the 119th Congress, the Senate NATO Observer Group will operate as established by the Majority and Minority Leaders in the Congressional Record. This bipartisan legislation would require that, beginning with the 120th Congress, the Majority and Minority Leaders will each appoint no more than seven Senators to the Group within 60 days of the first session convening. Each leader will also appoint one co-chairperson from their respective appointees. 
    The bill also authorizes co-chairs and one designated staff member to engage in foreign travel for official purposes, provided such travel is authorized by the other co-chair. The Office of Interparliamentary Services of the Senate will provide administrative support and protocol functions to the Group. 
    The Senate NATO Observer Group will be required to submit an annual report to the Majority and Minority Leaders of the Senate and the Chairperson and Ranking Member of the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate. This report will detail the Group’s activities during the preceding fiscal year, including travel, legislative efforts, and public diplomacy initiatives. 
    Read the bill HERE. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Leads Legislation to Protect Idahoans from Payment Scams

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo
    Washington, D.C.–Citing more than $63 million in reported losses in Idaho to payment scams in 2024, U.S. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and U.S. Senator Mark Warner (D-Virginia) introduced the bipartisan Task Force for Recognizing and Averting Payments Scams (TRAPS) Act, which would create a task force to combat the growing issue of payment scams.  The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported losses to fraud have soared 25 percent over the last year to $12.5 billion nationwide.
    U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kansas) and Raphael Warnock (D-Georgia) are co-sponsors of the legislation.
    “Criminals continue to target vulnerable Americans through creative ways to trick them out of their hard-earned money,” said Senator Crapo.  “We can–and should–better equip law enforcement and regulators with the tools to go after scammers and prevent scams before they happen.”
    “The evolving sophistication of financial scams emphasizes the urgent need for unified and proactive defense,” said Senator Warner.  “The TRAPS Act will bridge the gap between law enforcement, regulators and the financial industry in order to better protect Americans’ financial welfare and hold those who prey on hard-working individuals accountable.”
    “Combatting the global rise in fraud starts with making certain federal regulators and law enforcement agencies are coordinating effectively to address these threats,” said Senator Moran.  “Establishing a task force to promote inter-agency cooperation on preventing payment scams and other fraud is yet another step in protecting the financial security of Kansans.”
    “Scams and financial schemes continue to debilitate Americans’ pocketbooks and funds, especially our seniors who work hard their entire lives to build savings,” said Senator Reverend Warnock.  “The Task Force for Recognizing and Averting Payments Scams (TRAPS) Act better equips law enforcement and regulators to fight back and provide much-needed protection for fraud victims, and helps prevent scams before they happen.”
    “Fighting cyber and financial crime is a priority for the Idaho Department of Finance, and Sen. Crapo’s TRAPS Act is an important step for creating strategies to address the growing threat electronic payment scams pose to Idahoans and Americans,” said Idaho Department of Finance Director Patti Perkins.
    Payment scams occur when a scammer induces a victim, usually under false pretenses of romance or investments, to voluntarily send them money.  Crapo’s legislation would bring together industry, law enforcement, financial regulators and telecommunication regulators to decide best practices for identifying and preventing future scams.
    Specifically, the TRAPS Act would:
    Create a task force, chaired by the U.S. Department of the Treasury and composed of the prudential regulators, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, the Federal Communications Commission, Federal Trade Commission, U.S. Department of Justice and representatives from industry. 
    Direct the task force to examine the payments landscape and compile a report to recommend legislative and regulatory changes, including best practices to coordinate state, local and federal efforts.
    Require the task force to update the report annually for three years.
    The TRAPS Act is supported by AARP, Early Warning Services, Electronic Transactions Association, GoWest Credit Union Association, American Bankers Association, Consumer Bankers Association, National Bankers Association, the Defense Credit Union Council and America’s Credit Unions.
    “Scams don’t originate on payment platforms, and this legislation is a critical step in protecting consumers and preventing scams by bringing together regulators, law enforcement, industry leaders and consumer advocates to help strengthen our nation’s scam prevention infrastructure,” said Cameron Fowler, CEO, Early Warning Services, the company behind Zelle.  “Protecting consumers, small businesses and community financial institutions is essential to preserving trust in our financial system.  Early Warning thanks Senators Mike Crapo, Mark Warner, Jerry Moran and Raphael Warnock for their leadership in introducing and sponsoring this proposal.  Criminals are constantly evolving how they scam American consumers, small businesses and financial institutions.  Combating these criminals demands a united front from government, law enforcement and the private sector.”
    “Consumer Bankers Association deeply appreciates Sen. Crapo’s leadership to address the growing fraud and scams crisis.  A whole-of-government approach is critically important to make a meaningful difference toward protecting the hardworking Americans we’re all working to serve,” said Consumer Bankers Association President and CEO Lindsey Johnson.  “This legislation would convene a comprehensive group of financial regulators along with multiple industry sectors to get the root of the problem and propose solutions.”
    “We thank Senator Crapo and the bill’s co-sponsors for their leadership and commitment, not just to credit union members, but to all consumers and the long-term integrity of our financial system,” said Troy Stang, President and CEO, GoWest Credit Union Association.  “The TRAPS Act reflects the credit union movement’s deep-rooted priority: protecting the safety and security of our members and communities.  This legislation is a smart, holistic approach to identifying and seeking solutions to actively combat and put a stop to the fraud that is eroding the financial security of Americans.”
    “Fighting fraud and scams is a priority shared by the payments industry, policymakers and law enforcement,” said Jodie Kelley, CEO, Electronic Transactions Association.  “We applaud Sen. Crapo’s TRAPS Act as it brings together the key players needed to help address this common goal.”
    Bill text is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Hochul on “The Kelly Clarkson Show”

    Source: US State of New York

    arlier today, Governor Kathy Hochul was a guest on “The Kelly Clarkson Show.” The Governor spoke with Kelly Clarkson about the distraction-free schools policy she championed in the FY 2026 Executive Budget. The statewide bell-to-bell cellphone ban is set to take effect this fall for the 2025-26 academic year, making New York the largest state in the nation to ban smartphones in K-12 public schools — additional details can be found here.

    AUDIO: The Governor’s remarks are available in audio form here.

    A rush transcript of the Governor’s remarks is available below:

    Kelly Clarkson: We are at the end of the hour, but before we say goodbye, we have one more important story — this is, “ What I’m Liking.” As the parent of two elementary kiddos, one of my toughest issues is screen time. I know I’m not alone — just about every family struggles with this problem. It’s hard to know the balance and each family is different, but I think one place where we all agree that kids need to put their phones down is school. It’s funny you even have to say that, but apparently we do.

    Fortunately, a lot of states, though, are stepping up and Florida’s cell phone use is now restricted during instructional time. This year, Utah actually passed a similar law and many other states are exploring their own legislation. Here in New York — where my kids go to school — Governor Kathy Hochul recently signed one of the toughest cell phone bans in the country. She joins us, dialed in from New York City. Please welcome Governor Hochul. Welcome to the show.

    Governor Hochul: Hi Kelly, how are you?

    Kelly Clarkson: Oh, thank you so much for joining us. You actually say this legislation came from the students, right?

    Governor Hochul: Well, what I did as Governor, I traveled the state for about a year because I also knew, as New York’s first Mom Governor, that kids should not be on their cell phones during the classroom hours. So I went around — I convened students, high school kids, younger kids, parents, superintendents of schools, principals — and I started having conversations about what it’s like in the classroom, what it’s like in the cafeteria, and you know what I heard, Kelly? Is that there’s silence — the kids aren’t even talking to each other anymore.

    They’re not developing interpersonal skills, they’re not making friends in person. They’re so addicted to just staring at their hand all day during a time when they should still be children.

    Kelly Clarkson: Yeah.

    Governor Hochul: The kids should be able to come to school — a distraction-free environment, which is what we are guaranteeing in New York now as a result of this law— and this is a tough law. I’m not just talking about during instruction time — you cannot have your cell phone from bell-to-bell the second that school day starts until it ends, and we’re the largest state in the nation to go that far, because I heard from kids that they’re making friends again — the ones who have this ban in place already, and a few school districts do, they’re totally changed.

    There’s less pressure on them, they’re more liberated and teachers can finally teach again — 74 percent of teachers across our country were surveyed. They said, “We’re tired of competing. The kids aren’t even paying attention to us. They’re watching TikTok dance videos and not listening to their instructions.”

    So there’s a thousand reasons why this is a good idea. I sincerely hope that every other state will adopt this because this is for our children’s mental health, your little ones, but also as they grow into teenagers and a lot of distractions, a lot of pressures. But, let’s help them get through this tough time in their lives and just let them be kids again.

    Kelly Clarkson: Oh, absolutely. So what does the legislation do?

    Governor Hochul: Every school can set up their own system, they can have their own discipline, but we don’t want children suspended if they’re in violation of this policy. We want our kids in school, we want them learning —

    Kelly Clarkson: Yeah.

    Governor Hochul: — but I’ll leave that up to the districts. But basically, from bell-to-bell, every second of that day, they’ll have their hands away from that device: smart watches, earbuds, cell phones — it’s all over starting in the fall. So parents, start having phone-free times at home so your kids are not having shock or withdrawal pains when they get to school. But I will tell you, you will not recognize your children — after a few months, they’ll be more alive, they’ll be more engaged, they’ll feel like kids again —

    Kelly Clarkson: More creative.

    Governor Hochul: — and we owe that to them. So that’s what a Mom Governor does, and I’m really proud. It was tough to get done; a lot of opposition to this. For every state to do this, we have to start thinking of our children first.

    Kelly Clarkson: Absolutely. I can’t even believe there’s opposition, seems like a no-brainer, but that’s from a kid who obviously — we didn’t have cell phones in school, so. But it seems like a no-brainer to do. It is really important. Thank you so much, Governor Hochul. I’m liking your post right now.

    MIL OSI USA News –