NewzIntel.com

Category: United States of America

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Applauds SBA Rollback of Irresponsible Biden-Era Lending Changes

    US Senate News:

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

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship Chair Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) released the following statement after Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator Kelly Loeffler paused the Biden-era Community Advantage Small Business Lending Company (SBLC) program that was designed to provide taxpayer-backed 7(a) loans with riskier underwriting through non-profit mission-based lenders.
    The Community Advantage program generated a 7% default rate over the last 12 months – more than double that of the overall 7(a) loan portfolio.
    “SBA lending programs should be purely based on economic viability,” said Ernst. “The Biden SBA enabled risky lending practices while putting millions of worthy small businesses on the back burner. I am relieved to see Administrator Loeffler continue to restore fiscal responsibility to the agency’s flagship 7(a) lending program to ensure that taxpayers are not forced to foot the bill.”
    The conversion of Community Advantage lenders to Small Business Lending Companies is another example of the irresponsible management of the SBA’s loan programs by the Biden administration. This change was intended to make the Community Advantage Pilot Program permanent without Congressional authorization.
    Background:
    Ernst discussed undoing the damage of the Biden administration and fixing the financial integrity of the 7(a) loan program with Administrator Kelly Loeffler during her confirmation hearing.
    During a hearing earlier this year, Ernst detailed how the Biden administration’s loosening of rules and reckless expansion of the program increased the risk for American taxpayers. She went on to describe how the Trump SBA could fix the 7(a) program.
    In a letter to President Trump on his first day in office, Ernst highlighted Biden’s mismanagement of the program that threatened to force taxpayers to foot the bill.
    Ernst repeatedly raised concerns that the Biden administration’s rapid expansion of the 7(a) lending program was leaving taxpayers on the hook for risky lending practices by non-bank lenders.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Statement on Release of Joseph St. Clair

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    05.20.25

    Cantwell Statement on Release of Joseph St. Clair

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) released this statement regarding the release of Joseph St. Clair, a Washingtonian who was being wrongfully detained in Venezuela.

    “I’m thrilled Joe has been released and will be reunited with his family. His parents were relentless advocates for their son. I thank the Trump administration for working to secure his release.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy Grills Secretary Of State Marco Rubio On Trump Meme Coin Dinner, USAID, Corrupt Deals With Foreign Governments

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    [embedded content]

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, on Tuesday questioned U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio at a hearing on President Trump’s fiscal year 2026 budget request for the U.S. Department of State. Murphy challenged Rubio on the administration’s misleading foreign aid claims and raised serious concerns about Trump’s ongoing business ties with foreign governments, warning they undermine U.S. national security.

    Murphy called out Rubio for downplaying the harm caused by shutting down USAID and misrepresenting key facts in his opening statement: “It would certainly shock Americans to hear that only 12% of our foreign aid reaches needy recipients on the ground – the people who need the help. That is not actually an accurate number. That is the amount of our aid that goes directly to local groups on the ground, but as you know, most of our aid runs through bigger international organizations, like Save the Children. Those entities are [giving] somewhere around 80%, 85% of the aid we give them directly to recipients on the ground. So I think that what you have done to shutter USAID is illegal, but I also think it is bad policy, and I do think it is important for us to all be operating with the same set of facts. The fact is not that only 12% of taxpayer dollars are ending up in the hands of the people who really need it on the ground.”

    Murphy condemned Trump for abandoning his pledge to keep family business separate from foreign deals, warning the reversal creates dangerous conflicts between national security and personal profit: “During his first term, [Trump] made the decision to not enter into any new business deals during his presidency – that Trump-affiliated businesses would not enter into any foreign business arrangements. And that made sense, because obviously it can be confusing for foreign governments to know how to try to win favor with the U.S. government if they have one route – making concessions that are good for U.S. national security – and they also have another route – which is perhaps helping the President’s business interests. The President obviously changed that policy, and in this administration, his business interests are announcing new agreements and new investments into those business interests by foreign governments. And I think it stands to reason that that creates a real problem for foreign policy. It creates a problem for foreign governments in which they don’t exactly know what the best way is to try to get on good terms with the U.S. government and with the White House. Is it to do what’s right for American national security, or might it also be to do a business deal with the President of the United States and the entities he controls?”

    After Rubio denied knowing about Trump’s upcoming meme coin dinner, a closed-door gala promising exclusive access to the President in exchange for anonymous multi-million dollar investments in Trump’s meme coin, Murphy concluded: “I think that represents a real problem for this Committee, because there is clearly a way around the State Department for foreign individuals of significant influence and wealth, to be able to directly lobby the President of the United States. And so, if your answer is that you don’t know this is happening, that in and of itself is a problem. These are individuals who just bought their way into a meeting with the President. I think you should endeavor to get your hands on the list to make sure that there aren’t individuals there who are perhaps contravening national security interests that the Department of State is prioritizing.”

    A full transcript of Murphy’s exchange with Rubio can be found below:

    MURPHY: “Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. Thank you, Mr. Secretary, for being here. 

    “Before I ask my questions, I just ask that after this hearing you go back and reconsider a claim that you made in your opening statement. It would certainly shock Americans to hear that only 12% of our foreign aid reaches needy recipients on the ground– the people who need the help. That is not actually an accurate number. That is the amount of our aid that goes directly to local groups on the ground, but as you know, most of our aid runs through bigger international organizations, like Save the Children. Those entities are getting somewhere around 80%, 85% of the aid we give them directly to recipients on the ground. So I think that what you have done to shutter USAID is illegal, but I also think it is bad policy, and I do think it is important for us to all be operating with the same set of facts. The fact is not that only 12% of taxpayer dollars are ending up in the hands of the people who really need it on the ground.

    “Mr. Secretary, I wanted to talk to you about the President’s personal business interests. During his first term he made the decision to not enter into any new business deals during his presidency– that Trump-affiliated businesses would not enter into any foreign business arrangements. And that made sense, because obviously it can be confusing for foreign governments to know how to try to win favor with the U.S. government if they have one route – making concessions that are good for U.S. national security – and they also have another route – which is perhaps helping the President’s business interests. The President obviously changed that policy, and in this administration, his business interests are announcing new agreements and new investments into those business interests by foreign governments. And I think it stands to reason that that creates a real problem for foreign policy. It creates a problem for foreign governments in which they don’t exactly know what the best way is to try to get on good terms with the U.S. government and with the White House. Is it to do what’s right for American national security, or might it also be to do a business deal with the President of the United States and the entities he controls? Just to clarify, when the President’s businesses are engaged in negotiations, for instance with the UAE on their stable-coin business – there was this big investment announced recently – you are not part of those negotiations. Those are being done by the President’s family or those representing the President’s businesses?”

    RUBIO: “I am not aware the President is involved in managing any business, other than the presidency of the United States. His family is allowed to make business deals. They continue to operate the enterprises that his family ran. I also don’t accept the notion that these deals – for example in Saudi Arabia, or the UAE or Qatar – had anything to do with the President. For example, Qatar bought $200 billion worth of airplanes from Boeing. The President’s not – as far as I know– a shareholder of Boeing. He certainly does not own Boeing. The overwhelming – if you look at the deals that were structured, they were involved with investments in the United States, that’s the deals he signed, and/or investments in, for example, the UAE or Saudi Arabia, involving artificial intelligence.”

    MURPHY: “UAE did announce a massive investment in World Liberty Financial, and World Liberty Financial is controlled by the President. And the President does actively engage in these businesses. He uses his social media to market the businesses that are being run by his family. I mean, just go on to his social media feed and you will see him marketing his meme coin. That is the President of the United States, that is not his sons doing it.”

    RUBIO: “But just to be clear, that was not an announcement as part of this trade visit that was conducted into the Middle East.”

    MURPHY: “Well, whether or not it was made during the time the President was there, there are obviously business deals being done between Trump entities and these countries.

    “Let me ask you about the one that is probably most confusing to this Committee, which is the planned gift of a plane to either the United States government or the President. Is it your understanding that this luxury plane that Qatar has offered the President – and the President has announced he is willing to accept – is a gift to the United States government? Or is it a gift, ultimately, to the President himself that he can use in his library?”

    RUBIO: “Well you would have to talk to the Department of Defense because this is a replacement, or at least a temporary bridge plane, for Air Force One – the new Air Force One – which is way off of its delivery schedule. And so that would have to be with the Air Force. They operate Air Force One. My understanding of it basically has been from the very beginning that this is a plane that was identified after talking to Boeing about what other planes around the world would fit the bill – that are out there, that could be used now – they identified the ones the Qataris had as an opportunity for one, and the ones the UAE had as an opportunity for one, and that’s how that–“

    MURPHY: “And it’s not your understanding that the plane ultimately will belong to the President, or to the President’s library, after?”

    RUBIO: “I’m not involved at that level of it. I’ve never heard that before. What I’ve heard is that that plane will replace Air Force One which is an Air Force plane.”

    MURPHY: “Let me ask you about the dinner that’s happening this Thursday night. The President has offered access to him to the 200 top purchasers of his meme coin. Reports are that maybe about half or more of those individuals, who will be meeting with him, many in a VIP reception, are foreigners. Do you have a list of those foreign individuals who will be meeting with the President?”

    RUBIO: “I don’t. I don’t know anything about it. I didn’t even know there was a dinner on Thursday night, so I’m not sure what you’re referring to.”

    MURPHY: “So you don’t know whether any of the foreign individuals who are going to be meeting with the President this Thursday night, for instance, are on our list of sanctioned individuals, or whether any of those individuals have connections to, let’s say, terrorist organizations abroad?”

    RUBIO: “Well I think if they had terrorist links the Department of Homeland Security probably would not have allowed them into the country. But, again, I don’t even know there is a dinner on Thursday. You’re asking me about something I don’t know about.”

    MURPHY: “Listen, this is a dinner that the President is having. It is likely going to involve some very significant foreign interests. You have to be pretty wealthy in order to be able to get inside this dinner. Isn’t that a relevant question for the Secretary of State–”

    RUBIO: “I’m not the Social Secretary.”

    MURPHY: “–which foreign interests are going to be speaking to the President?”

    RUBIO: “No.”

    MURPHY: “I mean, it’s kind of naive to believe they aren’t going to be in that room talking about national security matters.”

    RUBIO: “I don’t think that that’s the case at all, because I would be aware if it was the case. The truth of the matter is I interact with government officials and others in governments of other countries. You’re asking about a dinner I don’t know anything about. I can’t answer you because I don’t know anything about this dinner. It’s the first I heard of it. Like I said, I don’t keep the President’s social schedule. It’s not on my phone. It’s not in my pocket. I can’t comment on a dinner I know nothing about.”

    MURPHY: “I think that represents a real problem for this Committee, because there is clearly a way around the State Department for foreign individuals of significant influence and wealth, to be able to directly lobby the President of the United States. And so if your answer is that you don’t know this is happening, that in and of itself is a problem.”

    RUBIO: “I don’t think that’s fair. I don’t know that there’s a dinner, and I don’t know what the guest list is, but I can tell you I’ve run into the President of FIFA from the World Cup. He’s here all the time. I see him. He’s a private individual, it’s not a government entity, and he’s met with the President and is friendly with the President. He doesn’t have to go through me to meet with the President. The President has relationships and friends and people he’s known for a long time. Some of them are foreigners. That’s not unusual. But you’re asking me about a specific dinner and implying nefarious impact. I can’t comment on a dinner.”

    MURPHY: “Yeah, but those are people that he’s known for a long time. These are individuals who just bought their way into a meeting with the President. I think you should probably endeavor to get your hands on the list to make sure that there aren’t individuals there who are perhaps contravening national security interests that the Department of State is prioritizing.”

    RUBIO: “I don’t have any concern about that. I don’t have any concern that the President having dinner with someone is going to contravene the national security of the United States.”

    MURPHY: “Thank you, Mr. Chairman.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 1450, OFAC Licensure for Investigators Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 1450 would require the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) to establish a pilot program under which it could license private firms to conduct small financial transactions with sanctioned entities in order to collect data and intelligence on those entities. Those transactions might otherwise be prohibited because some parties to the transactions are subject to sanctions. The bill would require OFAC to report to the Congress on its implementation of that program. The authority to issue licenses and the reporting requirement would expire five years after OFAC begins issuing those licenses.

    Based on information from OFAC, CBO expects the office would need five employees to implement and administer the pilot program starting in fiscal year 2026. CBO estimates the compensation and operating expenses for those employees and the cost of the reporting requirements would amount to $5 million over the 2025-2035 period. Such spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Emma Uebelhor. The estimate was reviewed by Christina Hawley Anthony, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Calls on Trump Administration to Strengthen American Critical Mineral Supply Chain

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) submitted a letter to the U.S. Department of Commerce in response to their Section 232 National Security Investigation of Imports of Processed Critical Minerals and their Derivative Products calling on the Trump Administration to take strategic action to protect, invest in, and strengthen America’s critical mineral supply chain. The Senator also expressed concern that the Administration’s recent tariff policy has undermined our economic and national security.
    “First, critical minerals are deeply important to the economy of Nevada,” the Senator wrote. “It is not an understatement to say that the actions taken in this investigation could impact Nevada more than any other state in the country. Therefore, I encourage you to proceed in a cautious and consultative manner to ensure that any actions taken do not adversely impact my constituents and businesses. Second, I am concerned that President Trump’s trade actions to date work counter to U.S. economic and national security. Blanket tariffs on allies and the chaotic uncertainty of the administration’s trade policy undermine our ability to attract greater U.S. investment and strengthen U.S. critical mineral supply chains.”
    Within Nevada is the “lithium loop” – a region within 250 miles of Reno where critical minerals are mined, extracted, and processed; electric vehicles and batteries are produced; and lithium batteries and other materials are recycled. The state has 19 times more lithium deposits than the next highest state, and Nevada is home to Albemarle’s Silver Peak facilities – the only facility with commercial-scale lithium production in the U.S.
    “Instead of indiscriminate tariffs on allies, we should be imposing strategic tariffs on adversaries,” the Senator continued. “Instead of eliminating tax credits that catalyze investment and growth, we should be expanding tax credits to ensure America dominates the industries of the future. I stand ready to work with you and the administration on any policies that help Nevadans, particularly in these sectors and supply chains which are so key to my state’s economy.”
    Read the full letter here.
    Senator Cortez Masto has led efforts in Congress to strengthen our national security and supply chains. Earlier this year, the Senator demanded Secretary of Defense Hegseth and Secretary of the Treasury Bessent provide answers on the national security impacts of President Trump’s tariffs on Canadian goods. She has consistently blocked burdensome taxes on mining and wrote important provisions of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to bolster Nevada’s critical mineral supply chain. She’s also introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen the domestic supply chain for rare-earth magnets, which are critical components of cell phones, computers, defense systems, and electric vehicles, but are almost exclusively made in China.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Joins Fox Business to Discuss the ‘One Big, Beautiful Bill’ and Potential Coverup of Biden’s Health

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) joined Maria Bartiromo on Fox Business this morning to discuss Joe Biden’s cancer announcement and the questions surrounding the timing of these revelations and the need to quickly pass President Donald Trump’s ‘One Big, Beautiful Bill.’

    You may click HERE or above to watch Senator Marshall’s full interview on Fox Business.
    President Trump commented on Senator Marshall’s interview on Truth Social:

    Highlights from the interview include:
    On the next great cover-up from Joe Biden’s Administration:
    Senator Marshall: “What we do know is that, typically, this type of cancer takes at least two years to spread to the bones, at least two years, typically five years. It’s inconceivable to me that they weren’t doing PSA tests. If they were doing them, show them to us. If they weren’t, then show us that as well. All they have to do to dispel this rumor is show us the data. Show us the President’s records.
    “But the big issue here, to me is, what about six months from now when. Let’s just assume that Joe Biden will be completely mentally incapacitated in six months now they’re going to go back and say, Oh, these are metastases from the prostate, the cancer that caused this, not the Alzheimer’s that we’ve been seeing or the Parkinson’s, whichever it is, if not both of them, that’s been affecting his mental capacity now for several years.”
    On how this is seemingly yet another cover-up by the Biden Administration:
    Senator Marshall: “And they’ll continue the lie. The legacy media is complicit in all this, the White House, his White House, surrounding him, is complicit in this. Look, they’ve lied to us about Russia, Russia, Russia. They lied to us about the Hunter Biden laptop. They lied to us about all things COVID, and now there is one more cover-up.
    “Joe Biden has been out of office now for, what, not even six months a year, and there’s one more cover-up here. The great great cover-up is upon us. So coincidental, right after the Hur testimony comes out, that recording, which was way worse than I would have thought it would have been. Joe Biden had tangential thought processes going on. There is a classic sign of Alzheimer’s disease, as we know that he couldn’t complete sentences, really. He didn’t have any memory recollection beyond 2015 if you listen to that tape.”
    On how the cover-up put America and the world at risk:
    Senator Marshall: “Is there any doubt why Putin was not afraid to invade Ukraine? Is there any doubt why President Xi in China was going to walk all over us on trade agreements? All this points to we had a very weak leader. And again, who was running the country? And you’ve said this on your show so many times, who was running the country, who was signing those executive orders, who was signing the bills into law, all the people that he pardoned. Did you really know the story of who they were pardoning, but it was not the person that America elected.”
    On what’s next for the ‘One Big, Beautiful Bill’:
    Senator Marshall: “So I do have confidence, I have all the confidence in the world in Speaker Johnson, all the confidence world in leader, soon, if this is a ball game, we’d be in the third inning. The starting pitchers have both been knocked out. We’re into our middle relief, but we had the greatest closer of all time in Donald Trump. I mean, I think about Mario Rivera and his cutter fastball. That’s what President Trump has. I’m very confident. The big difference, I think, is this, the Republican Senate is more conservative than the House Republican caucus right now. We don’t have Senators from a SALT state.
    “Look, they’re probably trying to cut about one and a half trillion dollars. We think we need to cut at least a minimum of $2 trillion that’s probably the biggest difference between the two bills. The SALT is a great example. We don’t have a senator from a SALT state. What they’re talking about doing is going to cost American taxpayers a trillion dollars over the next 10 years. So, people from Kansas look like we’re supplementing folks from California, from Illinois, from New York, on this SALT deduction tax to the tune of a trillion dollars. We don’t think that that’s fair. So, they’ll get something across the finish line. Give it to us. We’ll make it better. We’ll work with President Trump and get him this One Big, Beautiful Bill.”
    On the importance of getting the ‘One Big, Beautiful Bill’ across the finish line:
    Senator Marshall: “We don’t have any choice. We have to get this bill across the finish line, or we’re going to see the largest tax increase in American history, a $4 trillion tax increase. We have to get it across the finish line. President Trump says we need to take care of this ceiling, of this debt ceiling… To your point, if we don’t, then the Democrats will weaponize it against us. So, we have to take care of it now, and that’s going to allow us to work towards a balanced budget as we go forward. We need to get last year behind us, focus on the future, and start working towards a balanced budget.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Releases Statement After Kansas Prisoner Review Board Reverses Decision to Grant Cop Killer Parole

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) today released the following statement after the Kansas Prisoner Review Board reversed its decision to parole Jimmie Nelms, convicted of the 1978 murder of Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Conroy O’Brien.
    “I applaud the Kansas Prisoner Review Board for reversing its misguided decision to grant parole to cop killer Jimmie Nelms,” Senator Marshall said. “While nothing will ever bring back Trooper Conroy O’Brien or erase the pain from this horrific act of evil, this decision upholds justice by keeping a dangerous murderer behind bars, honoring the memory of a fallen hero, and prioritizing public safety.”
    To read Senator Marshall’s initial statement in response to the Kansas Prisoner Review Board’s decision before reversing, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sens. Scott, Bennet Celebrate National Charter Schools Week

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) led a resolution to celebrate National Charter Schools Week and recognize charter schools’ contributions to the academic landscape. Charter schools continue to expand across the nation. According to the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools, approximately 250,000 teachers educate more than 3.7 million students at over 8,000 charter schools nationwide.

    “During National Charter Schools Week, we celebrate the incredible innovation that charter school families, teachers, and leaders bring to our education system,” said Senator Scott. “I look forward to supporting these vital institutions as they continue to empower students, expand learning opportunities, and provide options ensuring every child has a chance to succeed.”

    “All students deserve a high-quality education that prepares them for success in college and career. Across Colorado, charter schools improve student achievement and provide students with the flexibility and innovative teaching they need,” said Senator Bennet.“National Charter Schools Week is an opportunity to recognize educators and school leaders for their outstanding work and dedication to their students and communities.”

    Sens. Scott and Bennet were joined on the resolution by Sens. Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Margaret Hassan (D-N.H.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Thomas Tillis (R-N.C.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), and Jon Husted (R-Ohio). 

    Read the resolution in full here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CWA Blasts Treasury Report on SHBP, Slams Gross Mismanagement by the State and Efforts To Take Away Healthcare from Working People

    Source: Communications Workers of America

    TRENTON, N.J. ‒ The Communications Workers of America (CWA) union strongly rejects the New Jersey Department of Treasury’s attempt to wash its hands of the deepening crisis in the State Health Benefits Program (SHBP), threatening healthcare for hundreds of thousands of public sector workers.

    In a newly released report, the Treasury Department declares that the SHBP has reached a breaking point, becoming unsalvageable due to shrinking enrollment, governance concerns, and increasing costs. While CWA agrees the SHBP needs massive overhaul, the report is nothing more than a deflection of blame by the very entity that has mismanaged the system for over a decade and a refusal to address the real drivers of increasing costs and long-term instability: profit-driven healthcare.

    “Let’s be clear: the SHBP is in serious trouble, and immediate, bold reforms are necessary,” said Dennis G. Trainor, Vice President of CWA District 1. “Treasury’s answer to this crisis is to scapegoat public sector workers—the very people who keep our communities running—instead of taking on the powerful corporate interests that are bleeding the system dry and overcharging taxpayers by millions of dollars every year.”

    CWA has repeatedly pushed back against the administration’s attempt to shift costs onto workers and reduce the quality of care. Just last year, CWA and other public worker unions gave the Administration nine proposals that could have saved well over $200 million. The State rejected all of them and continued to prioritize the price hikes set by insurance companies.

    CWA has fought for common-sense cost control and solutions like claims auditing, enforcing existing contracts with insurance carriers, and fair pricing that would rein in the costs of care overall, generating enormous savings for the State, local governments, and workers. Instead, Treasury has sidelined labor voices, shut down opportunities for meaningful reform, and allowed hospital CEOs to pad their margins at the expense of public workers and local governments.

    CWA is calling on State leadership to reject false narratives and embrace real solutions that rebuild a health benefits system that delivers on its original promise: high-quality, affordable care where the State uses its size and bargaining power to set prices and control costs.

    Public sector unions, including CWA, AFSCME NJ, the NJ AFL-CIO, AAUP-AFT, AFT New Jersey, The Council of New Jersey State Colleges, URA-AFT, HPAE, IFPTE Local 195, IFPTE Local 194, IFPTE Local 196, and IFPTE Local 196-12 are calling on the State legislature to pass a comprehensive healthcare reform bill that will address affordability and rapidly rising costs, and increase governance and transparency in the State health plan.

    “Our members didn’t create this mess—but we’re the ones being asked to pay for it,” Trainor added. “Based on the poor track record of mismanagement by the State, it’s not surprising that this report sides with the insurance carriers and hospitals charging unsustainable prices rather than the workers and local governments paying the bills. We need bold leadership and serious partnership to fix the SHBP. That starts with honesty, accountability, and a seat at the table for the workers who have the most at stake.”

    Since 2022, healthcare premiums for State workers have increased by 40%, while local government workers have seen a 59% compounded increase. The unions representing State and Local government employees say that these drastic increases are untenable for the workers and are a core driver of the affordability crisis facing New Jersey’s public sector working families.

    “CWA and other unions continue to offer real solutions, including measures other states have used to negotiate better prices with insurance carriers, control year-over-year increases, and provide high-quality healthcare to thousands of working families,” said Rebecca Miller, Legislative Director, CWA District 1. There is enormous potential to reduce costs through partnership instead of playing the blame game.”

    Controlling costs and making healthcare more affordable for tens of thousands of workers will reduce costs for taxpayers, save State and Local government money, and ensure that New Jerseyans who have dedicated their careers to supporting the State have access to the affordable, high-quality healthcare that they deserve.

    ###

    About CWA: The Communications Workers of America represents working people in telecommunications, customer service, media, airlines, health care, public service and education, manufacturing, tech, and other fields.

    cwa-union.org @cwaunion

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 21 illegal aliens arrested in Bay, Leon County targeted operation

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    PANAMA CITY, Fla. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement joined the Bay County Sheriff’s Office and other agencies held a joint press conference May 16 to announce the results of a two-day joint-agency operation that resulted in the arrest of 21 illegal aliens.

    The operation with BCSO, ICE Homeland Security Investigations Panama City, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Miami-Tallahassee field office, the U.S. Department of Justice, the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the Panama City Beach Police Department, the Florida Highway Patrol, the Panama City Police Department, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, mainly targeted those who overstayed a visa. During the operation, 18 were arrested in Bay County, and three in Leon County, Florida. Those arrested were from India, Venezuela, Nicaragua, Mexico, Guatemala, and Jamaica. Most illegal aliens arrested overstayed temporary visas for tourism and recreation.

    “These people came on legit visas and abused that, which takes away from other people trying to obtain these visas. It’s also a federal crime to enter illegally, and a federal crime to overstay and set up residence when these visas expire,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Tallahassee Assistant Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno. “You can see a group of great people here that have gotten together to meet Sheriff Ford’s priorities, to meet the (Florida) governor’s priorities, and to meet the White House priorities.”

    “Our partnership with ICE strengthens our efforts to keep Bay County safe,” said Sheriff Tommy Ford. “By working alongside federal, state, and local agencies, we’re better equipped to address illegal immigration tied to criminal activity. We look forward to expanding this cooperation through the 287(g) Task Force and Warrant Service Officer programs, giving us more tools to protect our community”

    Four of the illegal aliens arrested entered the United States without inspection by a U.S. immigration official and one has been charged with felony illegal reentry after being previously removed. Sixteen of the illegal aliens arrested entered the county legally under a work, travel, or other visa program with a date assigned to leave the country, but they remained after the expiration date, violating the terms of their visa. Overstaying a visa is an abuse of the immigration system and a violation of federal law.

    Ingegno pointed out the importance of removing people who abused the visa system by reminding everyone, “if you remember, a majority of the hijackers on 9/11 were visa overstays. This means the United States let them into the country and they did not leave when they were supposed to. Then they murdered 3,000 Americans.”

    According to Ford, since Jan. 1, 2025, 178 illegal aliens have been arrested by Bay County law enforcement and had ICE detainers placed on them.

    ICE officials have continually emphasized the agency’s continued focus to identifying public safety and national security threats. Individuals unlawfully present in the United States who are encountered during enforcement operations may be taken into custody and processed for removal in accordance with federal law.

    Members of the public with information about suspected immigration violations or related criminal activity are encouraged to contact the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or submit information online via the ICE Tip Form.

    For more information about ICE HSI Tampa and ICE ERO Miami and their efforts to enhance public safety in Florida, follow them on X at @HSITampa and ERO Miami.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Joint operation nabs 255 in human trafficking sting; ICE lodges 30 detainers

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement joined the Polk County Sheriff’s Office for a nine-day multiagency undercover human trafficking operation starting May 2, where 255 arrests were made for illegal acts related to soliciting prostitutes, prostitution, involved in aiding or abetting prostitution, and child exploitation.

    Throughout this operation, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Miami – Tampa sub-office interviewed over 50 foreign-born individuals, leading to over 30 ICE detainers placed with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. These individuals — originally from Venezuela, Cuba, Honduras, Mexico, Haiti, Colombia, Guatemala, and Brazil — will be taken into ICE custody once their criminal cases are resolved. Their criminal charges range from solicitation of prostitution to soliciting a minor for sex.

    “ICE is in a unique position to enforce immigration law in the interior of the U.S. with its broad investigatory authorities and law enforcement capabilities,” said ICE ERO Assistant Field Office Director David Gritte. “Our congressionally mandated mission is to preserve public safety and national security by keeping dangerous criminal aliens out of our communities. We prioritize public safety over politics. Brave officers are on the streets every day, risking their lives to locate, arrest and remove the most egregious criminal aliens in line with the president’s policy of ‘worst first.’”

    “We are committed to our partnerships in these efforts to identity and combat predators engaged in human trafficking and child exploitation,” he said.

    An ICE Homeland Security Investigations Tampa task force officer joined the ranks of the operation providing investigative support to both the human trafficking and child sexual predator missions of the operation. The TFO and a forensic interview specialist participated in undercover chatting with the suspects arrested for attempting to engage in sexual encounters with minors, also known as travelers. Upon arrests, the interview specialist conducted interviews to identify potential victims trafficked for commercial sex. The HSI TFO was responsible for six of the 10 traveler arrests during the operation.

    “It is extremely disturbing when we encounter nasty child predators like these who are very eager to have sex with children,” said Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd. “This is why we conduct these types of undercover operations. Keeping children safe is our number one priority, and we appreciate our partnering agencies, without whom we would not be as successful in apprehending these dangerous offenders.”

    Upon the conclusion of their criminal charges, ICE will take custody of the criminal illegal aliens and process them for removal. The charges range from solicitation of prostitution to soliciting a minor for sex.

    ICE officials have continually emphasized the agency’s continued focus to identifying public safety and national security threats. Individuals unlawfully present in the United States who are encountered during enforcement operations may be taken into custody and processed for removal in accordance with federal law.

    Members of the public with information about suspected immigration violations or related criminal activity are encouraged to contact the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or submit information online via the ICE Tip Form.

    For more information about ICE HSI Tampa and ICE ERO Miami and their efforts to enhance public safety in Florida, follow them on X at @HSITampa and ERO Miami.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Launches Onshoring Portal to Advance America’s Economic Comeback

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    WASHINGTON — Today, Kelly Loeffler, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), announced the launch of the Make Onshoring Great Again Portal, a free tool designed to help small businesses identify U.S. manufacturers and producers. With a database of more than 1 million American suppliers, the searchable portal will empower job creators to source domestic suppliers to support their operations – which will in turn support American jobs, reconnect our supply chain with U.S-based production, and end our nation’s concentrated dependence on foreign suppliers and adversaries like the Chinese Communist Party.

    “The SBA is proud to support President Donald J. Trump’s mission to restore America’s economic resurgence by empowering small businesses with the resources to supercharge the return of Made in America,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “The Make Onshoring Great Again Portal will give job creators a direct line to more than one million domestic suppliers – replacing foreign dependence with access to American-made solutions. It’s a decisive step toward rebuilding our nation’s strength through stronger supply chains, better products, and a renewed commitment to American industry, small business, and workers.”

    The SBA is working with several private-sector cosponsors to provide public access to three free databases representing more than 1 million U.S. based manufacturers, producers, and suppliers. Not only will the portal enable small businesses to support American industry and workers – it will also benefit job creators by helping them source domestic supply chains that will deliver shortened lead times, improved quality control, and reduced exposure to overseas disruptions.

    The Made in America Onshoring Portal builds on the SBA’s ongoing commitment to revitalizing American industry. Earlier this year, the agency launched the Made in America Manufacturing Initiative, which is aimed at expanding access to capital for U.S. manufacturers, promoting a skilled workforce, and cutting $100 billion in red tape. The agency has also endorsed recent bipartisan, bicameral legislation to double the SBA loan cap for small manufacturers in the effort to supercharge the return of American manufacturing dominance.

    For more information, please visit the Make Onshoring Great Again Portal at: www.sba.gov/priorities/american-manufacturers/make-onshoring-great-again-portal

    # # #

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of entrepreneurship. As the leading voice for small businesses within the federal government, the SBA empowers job creators with the resources and support they need to start, grow, and 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 Security: A Family Tradition

    Source: US Marshals Service

    The United States Marshals Service (USMS) has a long history of families standing up to serve. While the bond formed by the Agency’s Deputy United States Marshals (DUSM) creates family units, there are also blood connections running throughout the service as well.

    The most recent Basic Deputy United States Marshal Integrated (BDUSMI) graduating class made those connections stronger with multiple new DUSMs extending the legacy of their individual families when they graduated April 17, 2025.

    Forty-six DUSMs graduated from the grueling 18-week course and received the badge they’d earned after months of work. As part of the graduation ceremony, new DUSMs receive the USMS badge just as all the DUSMs who graduated before them. It is a longstanding tradition that current and retired DUSMs who have close relatives graduating as DUSMs be allowed to present the new DUSM with their credentials.  

    For DUSM Trey Heffner, it was the ultimate honor to have his father, United States Marshal (USM) Brendan Heffner, USM of the Central District of Illinois, present him the badge.

    “I have been able to be there for all of my father’s endless accomplishments, so for him to be there for my greatest and be able to hand me my badge meant the absolute world,” DUSM Heffner said. “The moment left me speechless because of the deep personal connection to the legacy I was stepping into. I would not have gotten to where I am today without my father and family continuing to support and love through this long journey.”

    USM Heffner has served 37 years in law enforcement, including 7 years as the USM for the Central District of Illinois. He said the ability to present the badge to his son, who chose this career field for himself, was so special. He offered some words of advice to his son.

    “I advised Trey that this isn’t an easy job and that he will see and experience some terrible things. However, he will also see many good things,” USM Heffner said. “There’s nothing more satisfying than keeping our citizens safe and knowing that everyone can’t do this job. I also told him to perform his job with integrity as that’s vital for him and law enforcement in general.”

    USM Heffner also mentioned how special USMS ceremonies are and how proud he was for their family to continue service with the Agency. 

    Another family with a long history of service, retired DUSM Greg Hite, District of North Dakota, proudly served for more than 25 years and also presented his son, DUSM George Hite, the badge at the recent graduation. 

    “Being able to present George with his badge at graduation was one of the proudest moments of my life,” Hite Sr. said. “Thinking of him continuing on with his service to our country makes me so proud.”

    DUSM Hite, who is now assigned to the Northern District of Iowa, continues a long line of law enforcement service as the third generation in his family to serve and is proud to become a deputy with the USMS. 

    “Being able to be a part of this historic agency is something state and local LEO’s dream of, and I can finally say I am a part of it,” DUSM Hite said. “What this means to me is, I am now representing the USMS every time I put my badge on. I have pride in doing so and am ready to accept the responsibilities that come with the badge.”

    DUSM Jadniel Pimentel, District of New Jersey, joined the USMS in 2018 and had the privilege of presenting America’s star to his brother, DUSM Noel Pimentel, at the graduation. 

    “It felt great presenting the badge to my brother because I know he earned it. He now knows that this badge is earned and not given,” DUSM Jadniel said. “Seeing him graduate brought back memories from my academy and how hard every DUSM works to earn America’s Star and carry the tradition.” 

    Both brothers are honored to serve and appreciate the way they were able to incorporate their family ties into the ceremony. Noel, who will serve in the District of New Jersey, had a long journey and overcame challenges to get to the finish line. 

    “It felt great graduating the BDUSMI Academy. I have attended numerous law enforcement academies in the past, and this one was by far the most challenging, mentally, and physically,” Noel said. “The badge means a lot to me and it’s difficult to put into words.” 

    While this story highlights the unique stories within the USMS family, each and every DUSM who has earned their badge forges their own new story within the Agency, serving the people of the United States with justice, integrity, and service.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Biden is getting prostate cancer treatment, but that’s not the best choice for all men − a cancer researcher describes how she helped her father decide

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Luisel Ricks-Santi, Senior Associate Vice President Community Health, Education and Training, Old Dominion University; Associate Professor of Pharmacy, University of Florida

    Joe Biden’s Cancer Moonshot initiative had funded hundreds of cancer research projects across the country. AP Photo/Gerald Herbert

    “Me encontraron càncer en la pròstata,” my father told me. “They found cancer in my prostate.”

    As a cancer researcher who knows very well about the high incidence and decreased survival rates of prostate cancer in the Caribbean, I anguished over these words. Even though I study cancer in my day job, I struggled to take in this news. At the time, all I could muster in response was, “What did the doctor say?”

    “The urologist wants me to see the radiation oncologist to discuss ‘semillas’ (seeds),” he said. “They are recommending treatment.” Many men, including former President Joe Biden, whose case is advanced, do choose with their doctors to treat prostate cancer.

    However, I understood from my work that not undergoing treatment was also an option. In some cases, that is the better choice.

    So I took it upon myself to educate my father on his disease and assist him with the life-changing decisions he would need to make. Our journey can give you a preview of what a cancer diagnosis can be like.

    Prostate cancer diagnosis

    Prostate cancer was not a new topic for my father and me. His battle with his prostate health started over 10 years ago with an initial diagnosis of benign prostate hyperplasia, or BPH.

    The prostate gets bigger with age for a number of reasons, including changing hormone levels, infection or inflammation. Two of the most frequent symptoms of BPH are difficulty urinating and a sudden, urgent need to urinate, both of which my father experienced.

    Although research suggests that the factors that contribute to BPH similarly contribute to prostate cancer, there is no evidence that an enlarged prostate will necessarily develop into cancer.

    Prostate cancer diagnoses have risen in the U.S. in recent years.

    Upon my father’s initial BPH diagnosis, I asked about his PSA levels, the amount of prostate-specific antigens in his blood. PSA is a protein that both normal and cancerous prostate cells produce, and elevated amounts are considered red flags for prostate cancer. When combined with a digital rectal exam, a PSA test can allow doctors to more accurately predict a person’s risk of having prostate cancer.

    My father said his PSA levels were elevated but that the doctors would begin active surveillance, what he called “watchful waiting,” and monitor his PSA every six months to see if it rose.

    After several years of monitoring his PSA, doctors found my father’s PSA level had doubled. He then got a biopsy that indicated he had intermediate-risk prostate cancer.

    Cancer risk categorization

    After his diagnosis, my father was faced with the decision of how to proceed with treatment. I explained that categorizing how aggressive the cancer is and how far it has spread can help determine the best course of treatment.

    Prostate cancer can be grouped into four stages. Stages 1 and 2, when the tumor is still confined to the prostate, are considered early-stage or intermediate risk. Stages 3 and 4, when the tumor has spread beyond the borders of the prostate, are considered more advanced and high risk.

    Some patients with early-stage or intermediate-risk prostate cancer undergo additional treatment, including surgery, radiation or radioactive seed implants called brachytherapy. Patients with late-stage prostate cancer typically undergo hormone therapy along with surgery or radiation, or chemotherapy with or without radiation.

    Although I was not surprised by my father’s diagnosis, given his advanced age and his battle with prostate disease over the past decade, I still struggled emotionally. I struggled with our conversations about what “curing” his cancer meant and how to explain his treatment options to him. I wanted to ensure he would have the best outcome and could still live his best life.

    Our initial inclination was to undergo active surveillance. That meant we would monitor his PSA every six months instead of immediately starting treatment. That is appropriate for patients with early-stage and less aggressive tumors.

    Prostate cancer screening problems

    My father was leaning on me to help him decide how to proceed. I felt overwhelming anxiety because I did not want to fail him or my family. Even with all my expertise studying cancer genetics and working with cancer patients, I couldn’t help second-guessing our decisions, and I sometimes questioned our decision not to immediately treat his cancer.

    Some people diagnosed with prostate cancer don’t immediately start treatment, because many of the tumors found through PSA testing grow so slowly that they are unlikely to be life-threatening. Detecting these slow-growing tumors is considered overdiagnosis, because the cancer ultimately will not harm the patient during their lifetime. Nearly half of all patients with prostate cancer are overdiagnosed, often leading to overtreatment.

    Research suggests that many prostate cancer patients undergo unnecessarily aggressive treatments, which are often associated with significant harms, like urinary and bowel incontinence, sexual impotence and, in some cases, death. Several studies in the U.S. have shown that patients with early-stage prostate cancer generally have a good prognosis, and the cancer rarely progresses further. With careful observation, most will never need treatment and can be spared the burdens of unnecessary therapy until there are clear signs of progression.

    The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommended personalized PSA-based screening in 2018 to avoid overdiagnosis and overtreatment.

    Overdiagnosis and overtreatment of prostate cancer led the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force to recommend against PSA-based screening in 2012, with caveats for high-risk groups including African American men and those with a family history of prostate cancer. The recommendation was updated in 2018 to make screening a personal choice after discussion with a clinician.

    Those recommendations have resulted in reduced screening and increased prostate cancer diagnoses. Given that Black men are more likely to see the cancer progress to aggressive forms of the disease after initial diagnosis, this may worsen existing health disparities.

    Developing tests that better identify patients at risk of dying from prostate cancer can decrease overtreatment. In the meantime, educating patients can help them decide if screening is appropriate for them. For underserved and marginalized communities, community outreach can help improve health literacy and enhance awareness and screening.

    When I looked through my father’s stack of medical records, I found a beacon of light that eased my apprehension. His doctor had ordered a genetic test that estimates how aggressive a tumor may be by measuring the activity of specific genes in cancer cells. An increase in gene activity linked to cancer would indicate that it is likely to grow fast and spread.

    The test predicted that my father’s risk of dying from the disease in the next five years was less than 5%. Based on these results, we both understood that he had adequate time to make a decision and seek additional guidance.

    My father ultimately decided to continue active surveillance and forgo immediate treatment.

    Because of disparities in access to screening and treatment, African American men are more likely to be diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer.
    FG Trade/E+ via Getty Images

    Surviving prostate cancer

    I still worry about my father’s diagnosis, because his cancer is at risk for progression. So every six months, I inquire about his PSA levels. His doctors are monitoring his PSA levels as part of his survivorship plan, which is a record of information about his cancer diagnosis, treatment history and potential follow-up tests.

    My father’s decision to undergo active surveillance was controversial among our friends and family. Many were under the impression that prostate cancer required immediate treatment. Several shared successful treatment stories, sometimes followed by stories of adverse treatment-related side effects.

    To date, my father believes that active surveillance was the best decision for him and understands that this may not be the same for someone else. Talk to your doctor to see what the best options are for you or your loved ones.

    This is an updated version of an article originally published on Aug. 8, 2023.

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

    – ref. Biden is getting prostate cancer treatment, but that’s not the best choice for all men − a cancer researcher describes how she helped her father decide – https://theconversation.com/biden-is-getting-prostate-cancer-treatment-but-thats-not-the-best-choice-for-all-men-a-cancer-researcher-describes-how-she-helped-her-father-decide-257071

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Republican Governors Issue Joint Letter to Senate Leadership Supporting Repeal of California’s Radical Electric Vehicles Rules

    Source: US Republican Governors Association

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Republican governors sent a joint letter to Senate Majority Leader John Thune thanking him for his support of the Senate’s work to roll back burdensome regulations through the Congressional Review Act (CRA) and to encourage the use of the CRA to stop the radical unelected bureaucrats in California from dictating rules that negatively affect the quality of life, jobs, and commerce in states across the nation.

    In part, the governors wrote:

    “Toward the end of the Biden administration, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a rule approving California’s ban on gas-powered cars by 2035. This approval impacts all our states as the EPA has historically acknowledged the nationwide effect of California’s regulations.

    “However, our nation’s capital is in Washington, D.C., not Sacramento, California. Our states have enough regulatory pressure coming from Washington. We do not need California to regulate us as well.

    “Thankfully, the House of Representatives voted in early May to withdraw California’s waiver and stop the ban on gasoline-only vehicles. In a bipartisan vote, with 35 Democrats joining 211 Republicans, the House used the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to block California’s plan.”

    Read the full letter here.

    Signatories to the letter include: Governor Kay Ivey (AL), Governor Sarah Sanders (AR), Governor Brian Kemp (GA), Governor Brad Little (ID), Governor Mike Braun (IN), Governor Kim Reynolds (IA), Governor Jeff Landry (LA), Governor Mike Kehoe (MO), Governor Greg Gianforte (MT), Governor Jim Pillen (NE), Governor Joe Lombardo (NV), Governor Kelly Armstrong (ND), Governor Henry McMaster (SC), Governor Bill Lee (TN), Governor Greg Abbott (TX), Governor Spencer Cox (UT), Governor Glenn Youngkin (VA), Governor Patrick Morrisey (WV), Governor Mark Gordon (WY), and Governor Jenniffer González-Colón (PR).

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Revitalizing Long Island Downtowns

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced awards for a total of 23 transformational projects on Long Island as part of two economic development programs: the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward. Eight projects were announced for Smithtown-Kings Park, the Round 7 winner of a $10 million DRI award; eight projects were announced for Brookhaven-North Bellport, a Round 2 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award; and seven projects were announced for Mineola, also a Round 2 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award.

    “Long Island’s towns and villages represent the best of our state, and I’m investing in 23 transformation projects so they can continue to be the hubs of industry and culture we cherish,” Governor Hochul said. “These projects will make our communities stronger for generations of residents and businesses while honoring the historic character that makes New York special.”

    New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “When we invest in our downtowns, we’re investing in the heart of our communities. Through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward program, we’re not just funding projects – we’re fostering vibrant, walkable neighborhoods that spur economic growth, enhance quality of life for residents and preserve the unique character of each municipality and region. These signature programs exemplify our commitment to ensuring that every New Yorker, in every corner of our State, has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.” 

    Town of Smithtown – Kings Park

    The Town of Smithtown has already taken significant steps toward revitalizing Kings Park with aggressive housing and economic development goals to catalyze future transformation through the DRI. The DRI projects will help to support the Town’s vision to create a walkable, mixed-use business district centered around the Long Island Rail Road station with access to restaurants, commercial development, community space and new diverse housing opportunities.

    The 8 Smithtown DRI projects, totaling $9.7 million, include:

    • Implement Main Street and Pedestrian Improvements ($4,500,000): Implement streetscape and pedestrian improvements to increase walkability and safety for both pedestrians and drivers along Main Street. Improvements may include utility line relocation on Main Street, bulb-outs, reduced curb cuts, widened sidewalks, accessible pedestrian ramps and high-visibility crosswalks. The streetscape improvements would also provide a reconfigured parking lot near 75 Main Street.
    • Install Town Green and Library Outdoor Learning Area with Connections to Local Trails ($1,435,000): Convert an underutilized municipal parking lot and parts of the library’s open space into a new park. The new, expanded park will feature a gazebo/stage, a multi-functional outdoor learning area, a new playground community garden and seating. The park will have expanded pathway connections to the Hike and Bike Trailhead.
    • Transform 26-34 Main Street into Mixed-Use Development ($900,000): Construct a three-story mixed-use development at the heart of Main Street with new retail and community facility spaces and approximately 16 apartments. Building will be further set back from Main Street to widen sidewalks and improve pedestrian experience by Russ Savatt Park.
    • Rehabilitate the Historic Mixed-Use Building at 4 Main Street ($850,000): Renovate the restaurant, apartments and outdoor seating areas of a historic building on Main Street’s most prominent corner. Exterior renovations include lighting, signage, landscaping, windows and insulation. Interior renovations include upgrades to HVAC, flooring, ceilings and equipment.
    • Restore the VFW Building for Community Events at 40 Church Street ($728,000): Complete restorations to enable community facility usage and events including roof, sidings, foundation sealing, windows, sewer connection, new signage and an awning. Interior work includes electrical, HVAC, flooring, painting, plumbing, generator and fire safety.
    • Establish a Small Project Grant Program to Support Capital Improvements ($600,000): Create a small grant fund that will help small businesses and property owners improve exteriors and interiors including signage and awnings, windows, entrances, patios, doors and sidings.
    • Implement Branding, Marketing and Signage Strategy for Kings Park ($400,000): Utilize marketing services to attract businesses and create a cohesive visual identity. This includes the re-design and installation of wayfinding signage, a new web and media presence and new programing strategies.
    • Create a Pedestrian Pathway from LIRR Main Street and Russ Savatt Park ($287,000): Create a pedestrian walkway from the LIRR Station to Main Street via Russ Savatt Park to guide pedestrians and visitors. The walkway will be improved with landscaping, crosswalks and lighting.

    Town of Brookhaven-North Bellport

    The Town of Brookhaven will use public/private partnerships to overcome inequities and strengthen the community. Through the development of NY Forward projects the Town will foster new affordable housing close and accessible to the LIRR station; a mixed-use business district; upgrade public amenities; building façade improvements; and streetscape enhancements to improve pedestrian safety.

    The 8 North Bellport NY Forward Projects, totaling $4.5 Million, include:

    • Implement Sidewalks and Lighting Improvements ($1,300,000): Implement new sidewalks on Atlantic Ave from Provost to Station Rd and Post Ave from Patchogue to Montauk Hwy. Install lighting on Atlantic Ave from Station Rd to North Dunton Ave, Post Ave and Montauk Hwy.
    • Develop Affordable Homeownership on Ecke Avenue ($1,250,000): Construct 32 homes with 32 Accessory Apartments (ADU) (64 total units) on vacant land.
    • Create Storefronts and Office Space at 1700-1742 Montauk Highway ($786,855): Commercial development with first floor retail and second floor office and community space.
    • Renovate a School Annex at 1415 Montauk Highway ($446,000): Renovate a school annex for Pre-K to second grade classes. Space will host events and programs open to the public.
    • Upgrade Robert Rowley Park ($345,152): Park improvements including upgraded playground equipment and surfacing, landscaping, new benches, upgraded and increased lighting, pickleball courts, basketball court improvements and upgraded fencing and paving.
    • Enhance Bellport Station ($200,000): Improvements to Bellport Station including cleaned up vegetation and new landscaping.
    • Improve Outdoor Space at the Boys and Girls Club ($96,993): Improvements include backyard and playground upgrades, basketball court construction, parking lot lighting and a meditation garden.
    • Upgrade the Facade at 1414 Montauk Highway ($75,000): Reface the exterior of the building and add new lighting, store signage and a sidewalk complex sign.

    Village of Mineola

    The Village of Mineola has engaged in thoughtful planning and supportive zoning changes to attract new businesses and people to the downtown, which has helped create over 1,400 housing units during the last decade. The NY Forward projects will build on these important prior efforts by creating more public spaces in the downtown; developing vacant parcels into mixed-use buildings; and completing placemaking and pedestrian improvements.

    The 7 Mineola NY Forward Projects, totaling $4.5 Million, include:

    • Redevelop Second and Main Street to Strengthen the Downtown Core ($1,300,000): Expand sidewalks on the north side of Second Street and east side of Main Street, install automatic bollards for temporary road closures, remove utility poles and bury power lines, and enhance streetscapes with landscaping and amenities.
    • Redevelop 199 Jericho Turnpike into a Mixed-Use Building that Preserves the Historic Façade ($1,000,000): Redevelop 199 Jericho Turnpike with a 40,000-square-foot mixed-use building featuring 30 residential apartments, including 15 affordable units and a 2,685-square-foot retail space, while preserving the historic bank façade and adding sidewalk pavers, street trees and parking.
    • Strengthen Pedestrian Streetscapes With a Focus on Lighting the Downtown Core and Installing Area-Wide Wayfinding ($850,000): Install wayfinding and gateway signage to promote Village identity and guide visitors to key destinations, while enhancing streetscapes with trees, planters, seating and the removal of cluttered poles.
    • Install a Public Mural on the Pavilion Garage and Activate Surrounding Public Space ($505,000): Install a large-scale mural on the north-facing wall of The Pavilion Parking Garage and transform the ground area into a flexible space with landscaping, lighting, seating and public amenities to create an inviting environment for events, commuters and residents.
    • Activate and Improve Connection from Station Plaza to Second Street Passageway ($417,000): Enhance pedestrian connectivity between the train station and Downtown Mineola by upgrading the Mineola Boulevard Bridge underpasses and Morgan Parc alleyway with improved lighting, public art and aesthetic enhancements.
    • Establish a Small Project Fund to Support Local Businesses and Improve the Public Realm ($300,000): Establish a fund to support property improvements within the NYF Area, offering grants for façade enhancements, signage, building renovations, accessibility upgrades, sustainability projects and public art, with tailored guidelines for private and non-profit applicants.
    • Renovate Facade of the St. James to Promote a More Vibrant Second Street ($128,000): Renovate the St. James façade to modernize its appearance with French sliding doors, updated lighting, new signage, an upgraded entryway and enhanced surface treatments to enhance customer experience and align with Second Street’s revitalization.

    In the FY25 Enacted Budget, Governor Hochul made the “Pro-Housing Community” designation a requirement for cities, towns and villages to access up to $650 million in State discretionary programs, including the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and New York Forward. To date, more than 300 municipalities across the State have become certified. To further support localities that are doing their part to address the housing crisis, Governor Hochul secured $100 million in the FY26 Enacted Budget to create a Pro-Housing Supply fund to assist certified Pro-Housing Communities with critical infrastructure projects necessary to create new housing, such as sewer and water infrastructure upgrades.

    Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are transforming communities across New York State by turning local visions into bold investments to generate place-based economic development. These projects will create new opportunities for businesses, support vibrant public spaces, and attract residents and visitors alike – laying the foundation for sustainable growth and stronger regional economies.” 

    New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “All across this State, the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are strategically prioritizing communities, growing economies with targeted awards, creating more housing opportunities that improve affordability for New Yorkers where it is most needed, and building on the diverse character of our neighborhoods. By working with local and municipal partners, these awards continue Governor Hochul’s commitment to developing the full potential of our downtowns as economic drivers and attractive places to live.”

     Empire State Development Board Chair Kevin Law said, “As a Long Islander, I’m especially proud to see these transformative investments in Kings Park, North Bellport, and Mineola. These awards demonstrate how targeted funding can reinvigorate commercial centers while preserving their distinct identities. These projects address critical needs—enhancing accessibility around transit hubs, diversifying residential options, and modernizing infrastructure—that will position these localities for long-term prosperity and fuel regional economic growth that will benefit Long Islanders for generations.”

    LIREDC Co-Chairs Linda Armyn and Dr. Kimberly R. Cline said, “From creating a walkable, transit-connected downtown in Kings Park to advancing affordable housing and public amenities in North Bellport, and mixed-use revitalization in Mineola, these projects are reshaping Long Island’s economic landscape. Through DRI and NY Forward, we’re delivering smart, community-driven investments that support small businesses, strengthen infrastructure, and foster vibrant, inclusive downtowns where residents and visitors alike can thrive.”

    State Senator Siela A. Bynoe said, “The seven NY Forward Projects planned in the Village of Mineola are a welcome investment in the future of the village and its residents. These grants stand as a testament to the forward-thinking work the Village of Mineola has engaged in to attract business and increase housing. It is an exciting opportunity for the village to now expand on that work with beautified streetscapes, improved lighting, support for local businesses, and increased walkability. I extend my gratitude to Governor Hochul for recognizing the transformational effect of investing in our downtowns.”

    Town of Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim said, “I’m incredibly proud and grateful to see Kings Park’s vision come to life through the $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative. From Main Street beautification, which includes the prospect for the highly sought-after utility line relocation, to the new Town Green, Library Outdoor Learning Area, trail access and pedestrian connections to the LIRR and Russ Savatt Park, these projects will give our downtown the vibrant facelift it truly deserves—right where our community gathers every day. This milestone reflects the hard work of a talented team of planners, environmental experts, consultants, and our partners in government. I want to sincerely thank Governor Kathy Hochul, Empire State Development, the Regional Economic Development Council, and especially the Kings Park community for their continued input and commitment throughout this incredible process.”

    Town of Brookhaven Supervisor Daniel J. Panico said, “The people and community of North Bellport have been and continue to be a priority of mine since being elected Supervisor of Brookhaven Town. This investment continues the positive momentum forward toward brighter days. I have long believed that people believe more of what they see with their eyes compared to what they hear with their ears. Accordingly, this investment will deliver tangible improvements and will enable us to continue our work in the North Bellport community. I thank the Governor, her staff, and all those who see the value in partnering with and investing in Brookhaven Town.”

    Village of Mineola Mayor Paul Pereira said, “The Village of Mineola is excited to get these transformational projects started. The NY Forward Program will help the village achieve its goals of revitalizing the downtown into the premier destination on Long Island that it deserves to be. The local planning committee worked tirelessly with the community and the state planners to present the most transformative projects possible. As these projects get under way, along with the projects that have already been approved locally, our residents can see the positive change that is happening. Thank you to the governor and her team for their continued support of our great community. We are excited to get to work.”

    DRI and NY Forward communities developed Strategic Implementation Plans (SIPs), which create a vision for the future of their downtown and identify and recommend a slate of complementary, transformative and implementable projects that support that vision. The SIPs are guided by a Local Planning Committee (LPC) comprised of local and regional leaders, stakeholders and community representatives, with the assistance of an assigned consultant and DOS staff, all of whom conduct extensive community outreach and engagement when determining projects. The projects selected for funding from the SIP were identified as having the greatest potential to jumpstart revitalization and generate new opportunities for long-term growth.

     About the Downtown Revitalization Initiative

    The Downtown Revitalization Initiative was created in 2016 to accelerate and expand the revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods in all ten regions of the state to serve as centers of activity and catalysts for investment. Led by the Department of State with assistance from Empire State Development, Homes and Community Renewal and NYSERDA, the DRI represents an unprecedented and innovative “plan-then-act” strategy that couples strategic planning with immediate implementation and results in compact, walkable downtowns that are a key ingredient to helping New York State strengthen its economy, as well as to achieving the State’s bold climate goals by promoting the use of public transit and reducing dependence on private vehicles. Through nine rounds, the DRI has awarded a total of $900 million to 91 communities across every region of the State.

    About the NY Forward Program

    First announced as part of the 2022 Budget, Governor Hochul created the NY Forward program to build on the momentum created by the DRI. The program works in concert with the DRI to accelerate and expand the revitalization of smaller and rural downtowns throughout the State so that all communities can benefit from the State’s revitalization efforts, regardless of size, character, needs and challenges.

    NY Forward communities are supported by a professional planning consultant and team of State agency experts led by DOS to develop a Strategic Investment Plan that includes a slate of transformative, complementary and readily implementable projects. NY Forward projects are appropriately scaled to the size of each community; projects may include building renovation and redevelopment, new construction or creation of new or improved public spaces and other projects that enhance specific cultural and historical qualities that define and distinguish the small-town charm that defines these municipalities. Through three rounds, the NY Forward program has awarded a total of $300 million to 60 communities across every region of the State.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Rubio: “Your regret for voting for me confirms I’m doing a good job.” 🔥🔥

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zJx5GgHFj3E

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI—Hagerty Joins Varney & Co. on Fox Business to Discuss Trump’s Capitol Hill Meeting on Reconciliation, GENIUS Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty

    WASHINGTON—Today, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Appropriations, Banking, and Foreign Relations Committees and former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, joined Varney & Co. on Fox Business to discuss President Donald Trump’s meeting on Capitol Hill on the budget reconciliation package, along with the GENIUS Act.

    *Click the photo above or here to watch*

    Partial Transcript

    Hagerty on Trump’s meeting on Capitol Hill: “We’re watching what the president had to say coming out of the meeting. We’re very focused on this bill, making certain that it happens. But I’ll say this: a lot of the projections, a lot of the prognosticators are pointing to a growth in the deficit, revenue shortfalls, etc. I’ll take us back to 2017. If you think about what the Congressional Budget Office was saying, they were looking at a revenue decrease from President Trump’s 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. What happened? We actually had a revenue increase. They don’t capture the dynamics, as was mentioned before, tariff revenues, cost savings coming from the DOGE efforts and a lot of effort that’s going on within the agencies beyond DOGE. I think there’s a lot more to be captured here and the Senate is looking forward to getting our teams on this and looking for even more significant cuts than the House has delivered so far.”

    Hagerty on moving forward on the GENIUS Act in the Senate:     “I think we have broad agreement from a policy standpoint between Democrats and Republicans. We had a good evening last night, and I think there are actually a number of other folks that aren’t on the bill just yet that will become supportive of it. So, I feel very good about where we’re going. The momentum is very positive right now. All the feedback I’ve had since last night has been extremely positive. So, we’re going to be working at pace this week—we might even get it done this week—that would be great if we could.”

    Hagerty on the GENIUS Act’s impact on the financial system: “It puts our financial system and our payment system more specifically into the modern times. What we rely upon today was designed in the seventies and eighties. This is a chance to completely modernize our payment system to make sure that the innovation that’s happening around the entire industry stays here in America. And importantly, the stablecoin is dollar-denominated, that will perpetuate the dollar’s position, dollar’s dominance as the reserve currency of the world. And it will also increase demand for treasury bills here in America, which is a good thing as well […] The stablecoin legislation requires that each dollar stablecoin be backed fully by either a dollar in cash or short-term treasuries. To do that, the stablecoin issuer has to go and purchase short-term treasuries. Already, stablecoin issuers are large owners of treasuries, and by 2030, Citi projects that stablecoin issuers will be the largest owner of U.S. treasuries in the world.”

    Hagerty on the ability to buy stablecoins:     “You’ll be able to [purchase stablecoins] almost instantaneously. And again, the payment system is there. We just need to give a legal framework for it to thrive here in America. Otherwise, we’ll see what’s been happening. It’s going to keep moving offshore. This is a better way for us to protect consumers, and it’s certainly a better way for us to make certain that America remains the hotbed of competition and innovation in this space […] If you think about it, this is great for dollar dominance as well. We’ve seen a slight erosion, but this is going to make certain that the dollar is the currency of choice around the world, because that’s where all the digital trading is going to go. And again, enhancing the demand for treasuries helps us, particularly at a time when we’re trying to work this deficit down.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: With the Law in Front of Him, Trump IRS Nominee Refuses to Say It’s Illegal for the President to Weaponize the IRS Against His Political Enemies

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    May 20, 2025

    Warren questioned Long on Trump’s threats to revoke Harvard’s non-profit status

    Warren: “It’s clear the statute makes it illegal…And the fact that you want to sit there and dance around about this tells me that you shouldn’t be within 1000 miles…of the IRS.” 

    Video of Exchange (YouTube)

    Washington, D.C. — At a hearing of the Senate Finance Committee, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) questioned IRS Commissioner nominee Billy Long about the legality of President Trump’s threats to revoke Harvard’s non-profit status—and any other efforts by the President to use the IRS to target individual taxpayers. 

    In early May, President Trump threatened to revoke Harvard University’s tax-exempt status after the university refused to cave to his demands. 

    Despite Senator Warren walking him through the law and giving him over a dozen opportunities to answer, Mr. Long refused to say whether it is illegal for the President of the United States to instruct the IRS to remove a taxpayer’s non-profit status. 

    Federal law states that “[i]t shall be unlawful for [the President] to request, directly or indirectly, any officer or employee of the Internal Revenue Service to conduct or terminate an audit or other investigation of any particular taxpayer.” In a meeting three weeks ago, Senator Warren asked Mr. Long whether it would be unlawful for the President to direct the IRS to revoke the nonprofit status of a taxpayer and sent Mr. Long a copy of the relevant statute after the meeting to review with counsel. Despite this, Mr. Long was still unable to answer the question. 

    “[Y]ou’d have a lot more credibility if you would just say yes. It’s clear the statute makes it illegal for the President to direct the IRS vis-à-vis any particular taxpayer. And the fact that you want to sit there and dance around about this tells me that you shouldn’t be within 1000 miles of the directorship of the IRS,” concluded Senator Warren. 

    Transcript: Hearing to Consider the Nomination of William Long, of Missouri, to be Commissioner of Internal Revenue for the remainder of the term expiring November 12, 2027
    Senate Finance Committee
    May 20, 2025 

    Senator Elizabeth Warren: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. So the IRS collects nearly all federal revenue and that means that behind every road we build, every Social Security check that we pay is the IRS, making sure everyone pays what the law says they owe. No politics. But Donald Trump has a different idea. He wants to use the IRS to punish his enemies.

    On May 2, Trump said, “We are going to be taking away Harvard’s Tax Exempt Status.” Harvard wouldn’t cave in to other demands Trump made, so Trump said he would hurt them using the IRS. Now, this is about more than Harvard. It is a threat to anyone who might displease the President, including the people or organizations that can’t afford to have an expensive legal battle if Trump sets the IRS on them.

    So, Mr. Long, when you and I met, I asked you whether it was illegal for the President to tell the IRS to revoke a taxpayer’s non-profit status. And you said in our meeting that you weren’t sure, but you would take a look and consult with lawyers. I sent you the statute, you’ve had three weeks to talk to the lawyers about it, so let’s jump in.

    Mr. Long, is it illegal for the President to direct the IRS to revoke a taxpayer’s non-profit status?

    Mr. Billy Long, nominee for Commissioner of the IRS: In the first place, he wouldn’t do that —

    Senator Warren: That’s not my question Mr. Long. Please don’t start down this. 

    Mr. Long: Are we on Section 7212 or 7217? 

    Senator Warren: I’m at 26 U.S.C. 7217. Do I need to read it to you? 

    Mr. Long: “Prohibits any member of the executive branch to request the IRS to conduct or terminate an audit on a taxpayer.” 

    Senator Warren: Alrighty. So is it illegal—

    Mr. Long: I’m going to follow the law. And if that’s the law, yes. 

    Senator Warren: Okay, but I want you—that is the law. So I just want to be clear: is it illegal for the President of the United States to instruct the IRS to remove a taxpayer’s non-profit status? 

    Mr. Long: “Prohibits any member of the executive branch to request the IRS to conduct or terminate an audit of a taxpayer.” 

    Senator Warren: Is that a yes? 

    Mr. Long: I’d have to go to the lawyers at the IRS to tell me. 

    Senator Warren: No. Come on. You just read it. 

    Mr. Long: I know, but I don’t see the instance that you’re speaking about in there. Correct me if I’m wrong but I don’t see—

    Senator Warren: Look, it says “it shall be unlawful for any applicable person,” which in this case includes the President, “to request, directly or indirectly, any officer or employee of the Internal Revenue Service to conduct or terminate an audit or other investigation of any particular taxpayer.” 

    Is it illegal for the President to instruct the IRS to remove non-profit status from a taxpayer? 

    Mr. Long: I’m not going to have the answer you need, and I apologize but like I said—

    Senator Warren: Why are you not having the answer? You’ve had three weeks to consult with lawyers, the statute is about as clear as plain English makes possible—

    Mr. Long: Well, if I say I’m going to follow the law, why would you need to ask me the question? 

    Senator Warren: Well, because I want to make sure that you understand what the law says. If you think ‘follow the law’ means you just get to make it up on the spot, then bud, you don’t get to be the IRS Commissioner. The point here is to follow the law as it is written and I’m asking what I think is a pretty simple question: can the President of the United States legally tell the IRS to change someone’s nonprofit status?

    Mr. Long: I’m not able to answer—

    Senator Warren: You can’t read these words and tell what those words say?

    Mr. Long: I can read the statute and I did but—

    Senator Warren: Alright, then tell me what they mean. What does it mean to say that ‘a person, an applicable person’ here—that’s the President, right?

    Mr. Long: Yes. 

    Senator Warren: Alright, ‘cannot directly or indirectly,’ right? 

    Mr. Long: (silence)

    Senator Warren: ‘Tell any officer or employee,’ that would be you, ‘of the Internal Revenue Service to conduct or terminate an audit or other investigation of any particular taxpayer.’ What part do you not understand here? 

    Mr. Long: It seems to be a non-profit—I don’t see exactly what it refers to—

    Senator Warren: Any taxpayer. To start an investigation of any taxpayer. 

    Mr. Long: If it’s illegal, I’m not going to allow it to happen at my IRS. 

    Senator Warren: Is it illegal? That’s the question. 

    Mr. Long: Me and you will be friends then. I want to be your friend anyway but we will be on the same page. I’m going to follow the law, and if that’s point blank the law—

    Senator Warren: What do you understand the law to be saying about the President telling the IRS in his dealings with any particular taxpayer? What do you understand this law to be saying? 

    Mr. Long: I think it sounds like it’s saying what you are saying, but I don’t—I’ve got a little bit of a section here, and I looked at it, I talked to an attorney that used to be at the IRS and now is going to maybe be back at the IRS and I’m sorry if I don’t have the answer.

    Senator Warren: What? You mean the lawyers told you that they couldn’t understand this?

    Mr. Long: The what? 

    Senator Warren: The lawyers told you they couldn’t understand this? 

    Mr. Long: I didn’t say that. 

    Senator Warren: Well, then tell me, what part do you not understand? It says ‘no person,’ and you’ve said that includes the President, ‘cannot instruct any officer,’ that would be you, ‘of the IRS to conduct or terminate an audit or other investigation for any particular taxpayer.’

    Mr. Long: I don’t intend to let anyone direct me to start an audit for a political reason or any type of reason. 

    Senator Warren: Does that include the President of the United States? 

    Mr. Long: Anyone. 

    Senator Warren: Can you say yes? That the President of the United States cannot tell the IRS what to do.  

    Mr. Long: I can tell them they’re not going to tell me what to do. I can’t speak for if there’s other agents at the IRS that you’re talking about, but I’m telling you what I don’t want to have happen at my IRS. 

    Senator Warren: You know, Mr. Long, you’d have a lot more credibility if you would just say yes. It’s clear the statute makes it illegal for the President to direct the IRS vis-à-vis any particular taxpayer. And the fact that you want to sit there and dance around about this tells me that you shouldn’t be within 1000 miles of the directorship of the IRS. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Beyer, Fitzpatrick Introduce Barriers to Suicide Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Don Beyer (D-VA)

    U.S. Representatives Don Beyer (D-VA) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), bipartisan leaders on mental health and suicide prevention, today introduced the Barriers to Suicide Act. This legislation would create grants to help state and local governments fund nets and barriers that have been shown to reduce suicide on bridges and other high-risk infrastructure.

    “Research has shown that means restriction is one of the most effective strategies for reducing suicides, the eleventh leading cause of death in the United States. Our Barriers to Suicide Act is commonsense, bipartisan legislation that would strengthen America’s response to the epidemic of suicide and save lives,” said Rep. Beyer. “Congress can help state and local governments by stepping up to provide critical funding to build life-saving infrastructure in communities across the country. I urge my colleagues to support this bill and will continue to pursue legislative solutions to prevent suicide, including through my work as co-Chair of the Congressional Mental Health Caucus and its Suicide Prevention Task Force.”

    “More than 1,000 lives are lost to suicide on our railways each year. In our community, that crisis recently took three of our own—one to suicide, and two more in a brave attempt to save him. It was a devastating loss that shook us to our core,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick. “We can’t accept tragedy as the cost of inaction—not when solutions exist. That’s why Representative Beyer and I are introducing the Barriers to Suicide Act. As Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Mental Health Task Force, I’m working to equip communities with funding for proven, life-saving barriers at rail stations and other high-risk sites. We can’t bring back those we lost—but we can act in their memory, and we can save lives with the tools we know work.”

    “The Barriers to Suicide Act meets a critical need to prevent suicide by investing in proven strategies to make public spaces safer for people in crisis,” said Hannah Wesolowski, Chief Advocacy Officer at the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). “By funding evidence-based design and infrastructure improvements in high-risk settings, this legislation takes a proactive approach to suicide prevention. NAMI thanks Reps. Beyer and Fitzpatrick for their leadership and supports this important legislation.”

    “In 2023, more than 49,300 lives were lost to suicide in the United States, including 1,297 deaths by falling. Research shows that these deaths are preventable by reducing access to lethal means,” said Laurel Stine, J.D., M.A., Executive Vice President and Chief Policy and Advocacy Officer at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (ASFP). “Bridge barriers deter suicide and give individuals time to seek care and support. We commend Representative Beyer and Representative Fitzpatrick for championing this lifesaving legislation.”

    “Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the U.S., and too many occur at predictable, preventable locations. Research shows that physical barriers on bridges and high structures can reduce suicide deaths at those sites by up to 90%,” said Erich Mische, CEO at the Suicide Awareness Voices of Education (SAVE). “Congressmen Don Beyer and Brian Fitzpatrick are showing the bipartisan leadership this crisis demands through the Barriers to Suicide Act of 2025. There should be no trade-off between saving money and saving lives. It’s time we apply the same safety standards to suicide prevention that we already expect in our public infrastructure—to protect the people we love.”

    The Barriers to Suicide Act would establish a competitive grant program for states and localities to apply for federal funding to install nets and barriers on bridges, buildings, parking garages, and at rail stations. Project funding would be made eligible under the National Highway Performance Program. This bill would also authorize a study to identify additional strategies to reduce jumping deaths.

    Over 49,000 Americans died by suicide in 2023, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Falling deaths are a common cause of suicide, and restricting access to lethal means allows time for a feeling of crisis to pass, allowing people experiencing suicidal thoughts to seek help. Studies show that installing physical barriers and nets on bridges commonly used for suicide, for instance San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, can save lives. Suicide prevention advocates have worked to raise awareness of suicide prevention barriers in the National Capital Region in recent years.

    The Barriers to Suicide Act is cosponsored by Reps. Andre Carson, Sharice Davids, Marcy Kaptur Betty McCollum, Gwen Moore, Seth Moulton, Jamie Raskin, Shri Thanedar, Lori Trahan, and Bonnie Watson Coleman.

    It is endorsed by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (ASFP), the Suicide Awareness Voices of Education (SAVE), the American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists (AAPP), the Kennedy Forum, and the National Association of Social Workers.

    Text of the Barriers to Suicide Act is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Ranking Member Pingree Blasts Interior Budget as a Blueprint for Destruction

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (1st District of Maine)

    Today, during the House Appropriations Interior and Environment Subcommittee hearing for the Fiscal Year 2026 budget request with Secretary Burgum, Ranking Member Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) laid out how the Trump Administration is dismantling the Department of the Interior—abandoning its core mission to protect our environment, preserve our public lands, and help steward our natural resources in order to pay for tax cuts for billionaires. 
    [embedded content]
    Click here to watch Pingree’s opening remarks; Watch the full hearing here.

    Pingree’s remarks as prepared for delivery:

    Secretary Burgum, we appreciate your being here today. This is my first chance to meet you, and I want to thank you for bringing your many skills as a former governor and businessman to this very important position.

    The Department of the Interior is tasked with protecting and managing our natural resources and cultural heritage, providing scientific information about those resources, and honoring our treaty and trust responsibilities.

    I will warn you, I am deeply, deeply concerned with the state of the Department of the Interior. In just four months, the Department has been destabilized, and there has been a stunning decline in its ability to meet this mission. Given your extensive executive experience, I am stunned and disappointed that you would allow this to happen.

     In partnership with Elon Musk’s rogue “agency” DOGE, you illegally canceled grants for conservation, for ecosystem restoration, and other important work. Over 1,700 probationary employees have been recklessly fired and 7,600 (or 11%) of the Interior workforce have been pushed to resign. These are not just numbers—those people are experts and dedicated public servants with decades of programmatic and institutional knowledge that is critically needed to ensure the Department fulfills its mission as a guardian of our public lands.

    To make matters worse, you instituted a hiring freeze and are considering even further reductions-in-force. I don’t see this ending well for this precious agency that this committee is dedicated to overseeing. And that this committee has devoted hundreds of hours to nurturing.

    Further, due to the policies you have instituted, employees are hamstrung from accomplishing everyday tasks by absurdly limiting credit card expenditures to $1. This is no way to efficiently run an organization. In fact, these actions seem to be designed to obstruct employees from doing their job.

    Even the National Park Service is under attack: Ahead of peak season, you have gutted staff—leaving national parks like Acadia, in my home state of Maine, understaffed and without the resources needed to keep summer visitors safe, and our parks pristine and protected.

    Your Fiscal Year 2026 budget is equally devastating, with a proposed cut to the Department of 30%.

    The budget eviscerates the U.S. Geological Survey with a proposed $564 million cut, targeting scientific research on natural hazards, ecosystems, water, and Earth mapping. These programs help us monitor and provide real-time earthquake and hazard information, they strengthen our assessment of groundwater and surface water systems, and they help ensure our national safety by informing the management of our mineral and energy resources.

    Without these programs, our communities will be left vulnerable to natural disasters and deprived of the scientific data that guides responsible land management.

    The budget shamefully abandons our trust and treaty obligations to Native Americans, slashing the Bureau of Indian Affairs public safety and justice programs by 19% when we are already only meeting a fraction of the need. You’ve also chosen to eliminate funding for desperately needed school construction, leaving a $1 billion repair backlog untouched.

    Secretary Burgum, the document we are here to discuss today is more than just a budget. It is a blueprint for dismantling the very mission of the Department of the Interior, making it impossible to protect our natural resources and iconic national parks or uphold our commitments to Tribal communities now and for future generations.

    As Ranking Member of this subcommittee, I wholeheartedly oppose these harmful cuts, and I will not stand by while you attempt to hollow out this agency.

    Thank you again for being here this morning. I hope you are prepared to give a rationale for your decisions or work with us to reverse them.

    I yield back.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 304

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL4

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 304
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    145 PM CDT Tue May 20 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Central Illinois
    West Central Indiana

    * Effective this Tuesday afternoon and evening from 145 PM until
    800 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A few tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail likely with isolated very large hail events
    to 2 inches in diameter possible
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible

    SUMMARY…A few strong to severe thunderstorms will track
    northeastward across the watch area. Large hail and a few tornadoes
    appear to be the main threats.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 65 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 55 miles north northeast of Peoria IL
    to 15 miles south southeast of Mattoon IL. For a complete depiction
    of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS
    WOU4).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 302…WW 303…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 2 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 450. Mean
    storm motion vector 24030.

    …Hart

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW4
    WW 304 TORNADO IL IN 201845Z – 210100Z
    AXIS..65 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    55NNE PIA/PEORIA IL/ – 15SSE MTO/MATTOON IL/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 55NM E/W /20NE BDF – 43SE AXC/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..2 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 450. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 24030.

    LAT…LON 41408802 39258696 39258939 41409053

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU4.

    Watch 304 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (50%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Low (20%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Mod (40%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Low (20%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (60%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (30%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (90%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hurricane Helene Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) Ending May 31

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Hurricane Helene Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) Ending May 31

    Hurricane Helene Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) Ending May 31
    jawerner

    The Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP), launched in response to Hurricane Helene, will officially end on May 31, 2025. The U.S. Health and Human Services program has provided temporary, no-cost access to prescription medications and vaccines as well as certain medical supplies and forms of equipment for uninsured individuals impacted by the storm.

    “This federal emergency assistance program provided life-saving resources for our residents who needed it most,” said State Pharmacist Amanda Fuller Moore, PharmD. “While this program is temporary, our commitment to supporting western North Carolina in their continued recovery is not.”

    Uninsured residents located in counties affected by Helene were able to request medications and medical supplies at any EPAP-participating pharmacy. Since its activation on October 4, 2024, more than 11,700 EPAP claims have been processed for more than 800 individuals residing in the 20 impacted counties across the western region. These claims covered prescription medications, medical equipment like crutches and walkers, and even diabetic supplies.

    This no-cost resource assistance program was possible through partnership with HHS, FEMA, North Carolina Emergency Management, and local pharmacies and health care providers. A memo has been sent to all EPAP stakeholders to notify them of the program’s upcoming end date. 

    As western North Carolina continues to recover from the devastation of Hurricane Helene, NCDHHS remains committed to providing the resources necessary to improve the health and safety of all North Carolinians. Residents who have relied on the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program and need continued prescription and medical supply assistance should consider the following resources: 

    • Apply for health care coverage through NC Medicaid
    • Access free or low-cost medications at participating free and charitable clinics, community health centers, and rural health centers through the NC Medication Assistance Program
    • Access the NC MedAssist Free Pharmacy Program, which provides free prescription medications to North Carolina residents who are uninsured and fall at or below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level
    • Visit the federal Health Insurance Marketplace to apply for coverage

     Additional Hurricane Helene recovery resources are available online at ncdhhs.gov/helene.

    El Programa de asistencia de emergencia para medicamentos recetados (EPAP), lanzado en respuesta al huracán Helene, finalizará oficialmente el 31 de mayo de 2025. El programa del Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de los Estados Unidos ha proporcionado acceso temporal sin costo a medicamentos recetados y a vacunas, así como a ciertos suministros médicos y aparatos para las personas sin seguro afectadas por la tormenta.

    “Este programa federal de asistencia de emergencia proporcionó recursos para salvar vidas a nuestros residentes que más lo necesitaban”, dijo la farmacéutica estatal Amanda Fuller Moore, PharmD. “Si bien este programa es temporal, nuestro compromiso de apoyar al oeste de Carolina del Norte en su recuperación continua no lo es”.

    Los residentes sin seguro ubicados en los condados afectados por Helene pudieron solicitar medicamentos y suministros médicos en cualquier farmacia participante en EPAP. Desde su activación el 4 de octubre de 2024, se han procesado más de 11,700 reembolsos de EPAP para más de 800 personas que residen en los 20 condados afectados de la región occidental. Estas reclamaciones cubrían medicamentos recetados, equipos médicos como muletas y andadores, e incluso suministros para diabéticos.

    Este programa de asistencia de recursos sin costo fue posible a través de la colaboración con Salud y Servicios Humanos (HHS), Agencia Federal para el Manejo de Emergencias (FEMA, por sus siglas en inglés), Departamento de Gestión de Emergencias de Carolina del Norte (North Carolina Emergency Management), farmacias y proveedores de atención médica locales. Se ha enviado un memorando a todas las partes interesadas del EPAP para notificarles la próxima fecha de finalización del programa.

    A medida que el oeste de Carolina del Norte continúa recuperándose de la devastación del huracán Helene, el Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte (NCDHHS, por sus siglas en inglés) sigue comprometido a proporcionar los recursos necesarios para mejorar la salud y la seguridad de todos los habitantes de Carolina del Norte. Los habitantes que han confiado en el Programa de Asistencia de Recetas de Emergencia y necesitan asistencia continua con recetas y suministros médicos deben considerar los siguientes recursos: 

    • Solicite cobertura de atención médica a través de NC Medicaid
    • Acceda a medicamentos gratuitos o de bajo costo en clínicas gratuitas y caritativas participantes, centros de salud comunitarios y centros de salud rurales a través del Programa de Asistencia de Medicamentos de NC
    • Acceda al Programa de Farmacia Gratuita NC MedAssist, que proporciona medicamentos recetados gratuitos a los habitantes de Carolina del Norte que no tienen seguro y se encuentran en o por debajo del 300% del Nivel Federal de Pobreza
    • Visite el sitio web: Mercado de seguros médicos federal para solicitar cobertura

    Los recursos adicionales de recuperación del huracán Helene están disponibles en línea en el sitio web: ncdhhs.gov/helene.

    May 20, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Issues Statement on Court Decision Granting a Preliminary Injunction Against TVUSD’s Curriculum Resolution

    Source: US State of California

    Tuesday, May 20, 2025

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today issued the following statement in response to the California Fourth District Court of Appeal’s decision to reverse in part the Riverside County Superior Court’s order denying a preliminary injunction against the Forced Outing Policy and Curriculum Resolution enacted by the Temecula Valley School District (TVUSD) Board of Trustees, with instructions to enter a preliminary injunction as to the Curriculum Resolution. The Court found that the Curriculum Resolution, which widely restricted curricular content as well as discussions of history and current events, was unconstitutionally vague, because “the Resolution’s language is ambiguous, lacks clear definitions, is unclear in scope, is seemingly irreconcilable with state-mandated educational requirements, and contains no enforcement guidelines.” As the appellate decision recognizes, the Curriculum Resolution was dramatically overbroad, including provisions that could be construed to bar lessons about discriminatory Jim Crow laws, segregation, racial inequalities in the criminal justice system, and the civil rights movement. The Court also found that the challenge against TVUSD’s Forced Outing Policy was moot because the Board rescinded the Policy in December, and AB 1955, which prohibits forced outing policies like TVUSD’s, is now in effect. In so doing, the Court clearly stated its expectation that “the Board will act in good faith and follow the law.”

    In October 2024, Attorney General Bonta filed an amicus brief urging the Court to reverse the order denying a preliminary injunction, arguing that (1) the Forced Disclosure Policy violates California’s Equal Protection Clause and (2) the Curriculum Resolution violates students’ right to receive information under the free speech provision of the California Constitution.

    “Every student deserves the right to feel seen, valued, and welcome in their learning environment. This decision reinforces the principle that all students should have access to inclusive, affirming curricula that reflects the diversity of their communities and the richness of our shared history. And it reaffirms that California law protects the rights of transgender students to live authentically and without fear. In California, we recognize the importance of curricula that reflect the full scope of the human experience and all our communities — including through instruction on history, racial and socioeconomic inequality, and other subjects — and equip students with the tools to work towards a more just society. Education is meant to empower students to think critically, challenge injustice, and see themselves, as well as one another, in the narratives that shape our society. Schools have a responsibility in providing environments where all students can thrive. Policies that ban inclusive curricula or forcibly out transgender and gender-nonconforming students not only target some of our most vulnerable youth, but also inflict real harm, undermining students’ well-being and academic success. That’s why at the California Department of Justice, we remain committed to protecting the rights of all students and ensuring that schools remain a welcoming and inclusive place for all.”

    A copy of the decision can be found here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Warner, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Combat DOGE’s Unsafe Retention of Personal Information

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)
    Legislation Would Increase Penalties for Improper Maintenance or Release of Personally Identifiable Information (“PII”) by the Government
    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) joined U.S. Senator Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and five Senate colleagues in introducing the Defending Our Government’s Electronic data: Bolstering Responsible Oversight & Safeguards (DOGE BROS) Act, legislation to hold Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) accountable for their continued efforts to improperly access, and retain, individuals’ personally identifiable information (PII) including names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, Social Security numbers, and other financial information.
    “From day one, Elon Musk’s DOGE has taken a wrecking ball to the federal government and critical services for the American people, all while carelessly pursuing their sensitive personal data,” said Senator Luján. “Congress must do more to protect that information and keep it out of the wrong hands. That’s why I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing legislation to strengthen our privacy laws and put Americans’ privacy first.”
    “As unvetted and unqualified DOGE employees continue to recklessly access the sensitive personal information of millions of Americans, it’s important that we take steps to better protect this data,” said Senator Warner. “For too long, our privacy laws have sat outdated, barely serving as a deterrent for improper handling or potential release of information. This legislation would enforce that privacy must be a priority when handling the data of the American public.”
    “Elon Musk and his ‘Department of Government Efficiency’ are wreaking havoc across the government and gaining access to Americans’ sensitive information without proper authorization, which poses significant privacy and national security concerns,” said Senator Kaine. “That’s why I’m introducing this bill to increase the penalties for violating privacy laws and help safeguard Americans’ personal information.”
    “Elon Musk and his DOGE cronies have been illegally ransacking federal agencies to gain access to troves of Americans’ sensitive personal data – from Social Security numbers to medical records to bank account information. Strengthening penalties for the theft of this data will help further deter these illegal abuses and keep Americans’ private information safe,” said Senator Van Hollen.
    “The American people do not want Elon Musk knowing their Social Security numbers and sifting through their financial information. Musk and his team of wildly unqualified DOGE employees have gone too far – and we are sick of it. The Senate needs to prove we care more about those we serve than Elon Musk. Let’s immediately pass this legislation to protect the data and privacy of the American people,” said Senator Alsobrooks.
    “Elon Musk’s so-called ‘Department of Government Efficiency’ and his DOGE agents are wreaking havoc on the federal government and the programs millions of Americans rely on. There’s no reason DOGE should gain access to Vermonters’ personal information, and I’m working with my colleagues to hold DOGE accountable and protect peoples’ privacy and data,” said Senator Welch. 
    Joining Senators Luján and Warner in introducing the DOGE BROS Act are U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and Peter Welch (D-VT).
    The United States has existing laws that are designed to protect personal information held by the government. However, the penalties established in these various laws have not been properly adjusted or increased to account for inflation, making them far less impactful today. The DOGE BROS Act would increase five penalties for violation of federal privacy laws to better protect the sensitive information that DOGE is accessing in their reckless purge of the federal government. Specifically, the DOGE BROS Act would increase the following existing penalties for the unauthorized release of the following information:
    Individually Identifiable Information Contained Within Any Agency Record  
    Code Section: 5 U.S.C. §552a(i)(i, ii, iii)
    Current Penalty: up to $5,000
    Proposed Penalty: up to $30,000
    Information from Any Department or Agency of the United States Obtained Using a Computer Without Authorization
    Code Section: 18 U.S.C. 1030(a)(2)(B)
    Current Penalty: up to $250,000
    Proposed Penalty: up to $750,000
    Social Security and Medicare Data
    Code Sections: 42 U.S.C. §1306
    Current Penalty: up to $10,000
    Proposed Penalty: up to $25,000
    Tax Return Information
    Code Section: 26 U.S.C. §7213
    Current Penalty: up to $5,000
    Proposed Penalty: up to $25,000
    Census Data
    Code Section: 13 U.S.C. §214
    Current Penalty: up to $5,000
    Proposed Penalty: up to $25,000
    Full bill text is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Union Calls for Immediate Release of Wrongfully Detained Member in Washington State

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    The IAM Union has confirmed that an IAM Union Local 695 (District 160) member and lawful U.S. permanent resident, Maximo Londonio, is being held in custody by U.S. Customs and Border Protection at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.

    Londonio has been detained since May 15 after returning home from a trip with his wife and young daughter to celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary and see family in the Philippines. Londonio is a lead fork lift driver at Crown Cork & Seal, an IAM-represented manufacturing facility in Lacey, Wash., where he has worked since 2017. Coworkers describe him as a well-liked and dedicated to his job.

    The IAM Union is currently working with the employer to maintain Londonio’s job, as well as allied organizations to secure his release.

    “Like so many across our country, our IAM Union Brother Maximo is simply trying to be the best husband and father he can be and provide for his family,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “To our knowledge, there has been no evidence to support the U.S. government’s continued detention of Maximo. We call for his immediate release.”

    “Our union is a family – and we will speak up any time we see the human rights of our members are violated,” said IAM Union Western Territory General Vice President Robert “Bobby” Martinez. “We will continue to call for his release until Maximo is free and united with his family.” 

    The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across the United States and Canada.

    goIAM.org | @IAM_Union

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  • MIL-OSI USA: NIH researchers develop biomarker score for predicting diets high in ultra-processed foods

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 2

    News Release
    Tuesday, May 20, 2025

    Poly-metabolite scores could reduce reliance on self-reported dietary data in large population studies.
    For the first time, researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) identified patterns of metabolites in blood and urine that can be used as an objective measure of an individual’s consumption of energy from ultra-processed foods. Metabolites are left after the body converts food into energy, a process known as metabolism. Scientists used these data to develop a score based on multiple metabolites, known as a poly-metabolite score, that has the potential to reduce the reliance on, or complement the use of, self-reported dietary data in large population studies. The findings appeared May 20, 2025, in PLOS Medicine.   
    “Limitations of self-reported diet are well known. Metabolomics provides an exciting opportunity to not only improve our methods for objectively measuring complex exposures like diet and intake of ultra-processed foods, but also to understand the mechanisms by which diet might be impacting health,” said lead investigator Erikka Loftfield, Ph.D., M.P.H., of NIH’s National Cancer Institute.
    Diets high in ultra-processed foods, which are defined as ready-to-eat or ready-to-heat, industrially manufactured products, typically high in calories and low in essential nutrients, have been linked to increased risk of obesity and related chronic diseases, including some types of cancer. Large population studies quantifying the health effects of ultraprocessed foods typically rely on self-reported data from dietary questionnaires. Such measures may be subject to differences in reporting and may not account for changes in the food supply over time. As a result of this study, researchers now have an objective measure of ultra-processed food intake to help advance the study of associations between ultra-processed foods and health outcomes.
    In the new study, the researchers used data from several existing studies to identify metabolites and patterns of metabolites in blood and urine that were related to ultra-processed food intake. Observational data came from 718 older adults who provided biospecimens and dietary information over a 12-month study period. Experimental data came from a small clinical trial of 20 adults at the NIH Clinical Center who consumed a diet high in ultraprocessed foods (80% of energy) and a diet comprised of no ultraprocessed food (0% of energy) for two weeks each in random order.
    The researchers found hundreds of metabolites that correlated with the percentage of energy from ultra-processed foods in the diet. Using machine learning, researchers identified metabolic patterns associated with high intake of ultra-processed foods and calculated poly-metabolite scores for blood and urine separately. Additional tests found that these scores could accurately differentiate within trial subjects between the highly processed diet phase and the unprocessed diet phase.
    Study participants were older U.S. adults whose diets may vary from other populations, as a result, findings will need to be replicated in other age groups. Researchers recommended that these poly-metabolite scores be evaluated and improved in populations with different diets and a wide range of ultra-processed food intake. Additionally, future research should examine the association of these poly-metabolite scores and the risk of diseases such as cancer and type 2 diabetes.
    About the National Cancer Institute (NCI): NCI leads the National Cancer Program and NIH’s efforts to dramatically reduce the prevalence of cancer and improve the lives of people with cancer. NCI supports a wide range of cancer research and training extramurally through grants and contracts. NCI’s intramural research program conducts innovative, transdisciplinary basic, translational, clinical, and epidemiological research on the causes of cancer, avenues for prevention, risk prediction, early detection, and treatment, including research at the NIH Clinical Center—the world’s largest research hospital. Learn more about the intramural research done in NCI’s Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics. For more information about cancer, please visit the NCI website at cancer.gov or call NCI’s Cancer Information Service, at 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237).
    About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH, the nation’s medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit www.nih.gov.
    NIH…Turning Discovery Into Health®

    References
    Abar L, Steele EM, Lee SK, Kahle L, Moore SC, Watts E, et al. (2025) Identification and validation of poly-metabolite scores for diets high in ultra-processed food: An observational study and post-hoc randomized controlled crossover-feeding trial. PLoS Med 22(5): https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmed.1004560

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 303

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL3

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 303
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    110 PM CDT Tue May 20 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Eastern Arkansas
    Southern Illinois
    Western Kentucky
    Southeast Missouri
    Northern Mississippi
    West Tennessee

    * Effective this Tuesday afternoon and evening from 110 PM until
    800 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A few tornadoes likely with a couple intense tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2.5
    inches in diameter likely
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely

    SUMMARY…Thunderstorms will intensify across the watch area this
    afternoon in a very moist and unstable air mass. A few supercells
    are expected, capable of large hail, damaging winds, and a few
    tornadoes.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 110 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 60 miles east northeast of Poplar Bluff
    MO to 35 miles south of Greenville MS. For a complete depiction of
    the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS
    WOU3).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 302…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 2.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 24030.

    …Hart

    SEL3

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 303
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    110 PM CDT Tue May 20 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Eastern Arkansas
    Southern Illinois
    Western Kentucky
    Southeast Missouri
    Northern Mississippi
    West Tennessee

    * Effective this Tuesday afternoon and evening from 110 PM until
    800 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A few tornadoes likely with a couple intense tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail and isolated very large hail events to 2.5
    inches in diameter likely
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely

    SUMMARY…Thunderstorms will intensify across the watch area this
    afternoon in a very moist and unstable air mass. A few supercells
    are expected, capable of large hail, damaging winds, and a few
    tornadoes.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 110 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 60 miles east northeast of Poplar Bluff
    MO to 35 miles south of Greenville MS. For a complete depiction of
    the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS
    WOU3).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

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

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 302…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 2.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
    storm motion vector 24030.

    …Hart

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW3
    WW 303 TORNADO AR IL KY MO MS TN 201810Z – 210100Z
    AXIS..110 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    60ENE POF/POPLAR BLUFF MO/ – 35S GLH/GREENVILLE MS/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 95NM E/W /50SE FAM – 46SW SQS/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..2.5 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 24030.

    LAT…LON 37088747 32958908 32959288 37089146

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU3.

    Watch 303 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (60%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Mod (40%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Mod (60%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Low (20%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    High (70%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (60%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (>95%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NFFE-IAM, IAM Union Welcomes MBDA Workers Back To Work After Court Injunction  

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    WASHINGTON, May 20, 2025—The National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM) and the IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) gathered outside the Department of Commerce today to welcome back the 35 employees at the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) who had been placed on administrative leave and faced a Reduction in Force (RIF) threat under a Trump administration Executive Order. 

    WATCH: NFFE-IAM, IAM Union Welcomes Minority Business Development Agency Employees Back to Work  

    VIEW PHOTOS FROM THE EVENT  

    NFFE-IAM members at the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) were able to return to work today after the Rhode Island U.S. District Court issued a preliminary injunction on May 7, 2025,  that protects the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) from an executive order calling for its dismantling. The court stated that the executive order violates the Administrative Procedures Act, separation of powers principles, and the Take Care clause of the U.S. Constitution.

    “I’m proud to stand here today on behalf of NFFE Local 2 to welcome our colleagues back to work,” said Angela Washington, Shop Steward for NFFE-IAM Local 2. “For two years, I’ve served as a steward for these employees, and I’ve seen firsthand their critical work. MBDA is one of 13 bureaus within the Department of Commerce, and it plays a vital role in supporting socially and economically disadvantaged communities by providing access to capital, contracts, and technical assistance. The return of these employees means a return to serving businesses that help create more than 14,000 jobs annually and over $2 billion in access to capital. This is a win for equity, workers, and the communities we serve.”

    The MBDA is the only federal agency solely dedicated to the growth and global competitiveness of minority business enterprises (MBEs). It achieves this mission by funding a national network of business centers and providing technical assistance, access to capital, and market development services.

    “We are happy to welcome back NFFE-IAM members employed by MBDA,” said NFFE-IAM National President Randy Erwin. “Now they can return to their mission of fostering the growth and competitiveness of minority-owned businesses. We will continue to ensure they are treated with dignity and respect in the workplace.” 

    The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries. 

    goIAM.org | @IAM_Union

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  • MIL-OSI USA: READING – Shapiro Administration to Highlight Women’s Health Month, Launch Survey to Help Administration Better Understand Barriers to Women’s Health Care

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    May 21, 2025 – Reading, PA

    ADVISORY – READING – Shapiro Administration to Highlight Women’s Health Month, Launch Survey to Help Administration Better Understand Barriers to Women’s Health Care

    The Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID), along with the Department of Health (DOH), the Department of Human Services (DHS), and the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP), will highlight Women’s Health Month by reminding Pennsylvania women about the importance of no-cost preventative health services available through their insurance. PID will also launch a new survey to help the Department better understand barriers to women’s health coverage.

    Since taking office, Governor Josh Shapiro has prioritized addressing maternal and women’s health. That’s why the Governor’s 2025-2026 budget proposal includes $5 million to fund maternal health initiatives including universal postpartum screenings. In the 2023-24 budget, the Governor worked to secure the first-ever investment in addressing maternal mortality with $2.3 million to expand maternal health programming and for the implementation of prevention strategies to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity. Governor Shapiro built on that success by securing a $2.6 million increase in the 2024-25 budget for maternal mortality prevention, managed through the Department of Health.

    WHO:
    Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner Michael Humphreys
    Tara Trego, DOH Director, Bureau of Family Health
    Sally Kozak, DHS Deputy Secretary, Office of Medical Assistance Programs
    Kelly Primus, DDAP Deputy Secretary
    Ashley Walkowiak, Executive Director, Advisory Commission on Women

    WHEN:
    Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at 2:00 PM

    WHERE:
    Berks Community Health Center
    1110 Rockland St.
    Reading, PA 19604

    RSVP:
    Press who are interested in attending must RSVP to ra-in-press@pa.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –