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Category: United States of America

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mann Celebrates National Police Week

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tracey Mann (Kansas, 1)

    [embedded content]

    CLICK HERE to download Rep. Mann’s floor speech.

    CLICK HERE to watch Rep. Mann’s floor speech on YouTube.

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) spoke on the U.S. House floor to honor the service of the nation’s law enforcement officials. To celebrate National Police Week, Rep. Mann joined his Republican colleagues in passing multiple bills, including the LEOSA Reform Act, the BELO’s Act, and H.Con.Res.30. Rep. Mann also participated in a vigil for fallen police officers in the U.S. Capitol. 

    Rep. Mann’s Remarks as Prepared:

    Mr. Speaker, this week the nation has come together to celebrate National Police Week—a time to honor the brave men and women who wear the badge and put their lives on the line every single day to protect our families and communities.

    In the Big First and across the country, law enforcement officers run toward danger when the rest of us run away. They wake up every day with a calling to uphold the rule of law, serve their neighbors, and keep their communities safe. And yet, too often, they are met with hostility and policies from Washington that make their job harder and put their safety at risk. 

    Let me be clear: I unapologetically stand with the men and women in blue. I will always oppose any effort to defund, demoralize, or dismantle the law enforcement agencies that keep our streets safe. These men and women put their lives on the line every day to make our communities stronger, safer, and more secure, and we should all be grateful. 

    I express my deepest gratitude to the police officers, Customs and Border patrol agents, detectives, state troopers, sheriffs, investigators, correction officers, drug enforcement agents, and U.S. marshals who have dedicated their careers to serving their communities. Today and every day, we recognize your sacrifice and honor all that you do to serve our great nation. 

    America is grateful for all you do.

    ###

     

    For more information about Representative Mann, visit: www.mann.house.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Salesman Who Defrauded Women and Older Adults Denied Bankruptcy Discharge

    Source: US State of Vermont

    The U.S. Trustee Program (USTP) recently obtained a judgment denying a bankruptcy discharge to a door-to-door salesman who concealed his business interests and lied in his bankruptcy case to evade his creditors, including women and older adults whom he defrauded.

    On April 18, the Bankruptcy Court for the District of Oregon entered a default judgment denying a discharge to chapter 7 debtor Jason Gillis. Gillis — who sold vacuums, air filters, and related products — crafted fraudulent schemes generally targeting women he pursued as romantic partners and their elderly parents. In one such scheme, he solicited investments in his businesses but used the money primarily for personal expenses. His victims included a 79-year-old woman recovering from a stroke. In addition to running up debts using the identities of the woman and her daughter without their knowledge or consent, Gillis arranged for the older woman to take out a mortgage on her home, purportedly under duress. In total, he persuaded her to transfer more than $100,000 to a business bank account that he controlled, then diverted a significant amount of the funds to pay for personal expenses.

    Gillis also used some of those funds to lease a recreational vehicle valued at about $150,000 from another woman in her seventies, whose daughter he briefly dated. After taking possession of the RV, which he then lived in, Gillis stopped making lease payments and refused to disclose the vehicle’s location.

    Gillis filed a chapter 7 bankruptcy petition in August 2024 amid several lawsuits and judgments based on claims of breach of contract, fraud, and theft by deception. An investigation by the USTP’s Portland office revealed that to avoid collection efforts, Gillis concealed his interests in several businesses by transferring nominal ownership to victims while he retained full control and by forging signatures on forms filed with the Oregon Secretary of State. He also made several false statements in his bankruptcy case about his assets and financial affairs, including his multiple business interests; the transfers of nominal ownership; deposits to undisclosed financial accounts; and a wrongful death settlement related to his mother’s estate.

    Gillis did not respond to or defend against the USTP’s complaint to deny his bankruptcy discharge, leading to a default judgment in the USTP’s favor. As a result, Gillis remains personally liable for his debts — including more than $1.7 million in unsecured debts listed in his bankruptcy schedules — and creditors may continue collections on claims against him.

    “Bankruptcy is not a safe haven for fraudsters,” said Acting U.S. Trustee Jonas V. Anderson for Region 18, which includes the District of Oregon. “The U.S. Trustee Program, as the watchdog of the bankruptcy system, is committed to rooting out deceptive schemes that harm innocent victims.”

    One of the USTP’s core functions is to combat bankruptcy fraud and abuse through civil enforcement actions against debtors who engage in fraud or otherwise abuse the bankruptcy system. When circumstances warrant, the USTP takes action to deny those debtors a discharge. Generally, under the Bankruptcy Code, debtors are not entitled to a discharge if they conceal property with intent to hinder, delay or defraud a creditor or an officer of the bankruptcy estate, such as the private trustee administering the estate. The Code also prevents a discharge if the debtor knowingly and fraudulently made a false oath or account in or in connection with the bankruptcy case.

    The USTP’s mission is to promote the integrity and efficiency of the bankruptcy system for the benefit of all stakeholders — debtors, creditors and the public. The USTP consists of 21 regions with 89 field offices nationwide and an Executive Office in Washington, D.C. Learn more about the USTP at www.justice.gov/ust. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Israel to Take Control of Entire Gaza Strip – B. Netanyahu

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    JERUSALEM, May 19 (Xinhua) — Israel will take control of the entire Gaza Strip, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday, speaking about the recently launched large-scale operation by Israeli troops.

    In his video message published on the Telegram messenger, B. Netanyahu stated: “We are going to take control of the entire territory of the enclave – that is exactly what we are going to do.”

    Speaking a day after announcing a partial resumption of humanitarian aid deliveries to the Gaza Strip, he stressed that Israel would allow only “minimal and basic” aid for a limited period, without specifying when deliveries would resume.

    The Israeli prime minister explained that the mechanism for distributing food and medicine would be replaced “in the coming days” by a new scheme being developed jointly with the United States. The new system would include distribution points in a “sterile zone under the control of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF),” where aid would be delivered by American companies, thus excluding the Palestinian Hamas movement from accessing supplies.

    “Ultimately, we will reach a situation where the entire territory will be under IDF control and all the civilian population of Gaza will be able to reach these points and receive aid, while Hamas will receive nothing,” added B. Netanyahu. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Joint statement from the leaders of Canada, the United Kingdom and France on the situation in Gaza and the West Bank

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    “We strongly oppose the expansion of Israel’s military operations in Gaza. The level of human suffering in Gaza is intolerable. Yesterday’s announcement that Israel will allow a basic quantity of food into Gaza is wholly inadequate. We call on the Israeli Government to stop its military operations in Gaza and immediately allow humanitarian aid to enter Gaza. This must include engaging with the UN to ensure a return to delivery of aid in line with humanitarian principles. We call on Hamas to release immediately the remaining hostages they have so cruelly held since 7 October 2023.

    The Israeli Government’s denial of essential humanitarian assistance to the civilian population is unacceptable and risks breaching International Humanitarian Law. We condemn the abhorrent language used recently by members of the Israeli Government, threatening that, in their despair at the destruction of Gaza, civilians will start to relocate. Permanent forced displacement is a breach of international humanitarian law. 

    Israel suffered a heinous attack on October 7. We have always supported Israel’s right to defend Israelis against terrorism. But this escalation is wholly disproportionate.

    We will not stand by while the Netanyahu Government pursues these egregious actions. If Israel does not cease the renewed military offensive and lift its restrictions on humanitarian aid, we will take further concrete actions in response.

    We oppose any attempt to expand settlements in the West Bank. Israel must halt settlements which are illegal and undermine the viability of a Palestinian state and the security of both Israelis and Palestinians.  We will not hesitate to take further action, including targeted sanctions. 

    We strongly support the efforts led by the United States, Qatar and Egypt to secure an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. It is a ceasefire, the release of all remaining hostages and a long-term political solution that offer the best hope of ending the agony of the hostages and their families, alleviating the suffering of civilians in Gaza, ending Hamas’ control of Gaza and achieving a pathway to a two-state solution, consistent with the goals of the 18 June conference in New York co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France. These negotiations need to succeed, and we must all work towards the implementation of a two-state solution, which is the only way to bring long-lasting peace and security that both Israelis and Palestinians deserve and ensure long-term stability in the region.

    We will continue to work with the Palestinian Authority, regional partners, Israel and the United States to finalize consensus on arrangements for Gaza’s future, building on the Arab plan. We affirm the important role of the High-level Two-State Solution Conference at the UN in June in building international consensus around this aim. And we are committed to recognizing a Palestinian state as a contribution to achieving a two-state solution and are prepared to work with others to this end.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Joint statement from the leaders of the United Kingdom, France and Canada on the situation in Gaza and the West Bank

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Joint statement from the leaders of the United Kingdom, France and Canada on the situation in Gaza and the West Bank

    Joint statement from the leaders of the United Kingdom, France and Canada on the situation in Gaza and the West Bank.

    We strongly oppose the expansion of Israel’s military operations in Gaza. The level of human suffering in Gaza is intolerable. Yesterday’s announcement that Israel will allow a basic quantity of food into Gaza is wholly inadequate. We call on the Israeli Government to stop its military operations in Gaza and immediately allow humanitarian aid to enter Gaza. This must include engaging with the UN to ensure a return to delivery of aid in line with humanitarian principles. We call on Hamas to release immediately the remaining hostages they have so cruelly held since 7 October 2023.

    The Israeli Government’s denial of essential humanitarian assistance to the civilian population is unacceptable and risks breaching International Humanitarian Law. We condemn the abhorrent language used recently by members of the Israeli Government, threatening that, in their despair at the destruction of Gaza, civilians will start to relocate. Permanent forced displacement is a breach of international humanitarian law. 

    Israel suffered a heinous attack on October 7. We have always supported Israel’s right to defend Israelis against terrorism. But this escalation is wholly disproportionate.

    We will not stand by while the Netanyahu Government pursues these egregious actions. If Israel does not cease the renewed military offensive and lift its restrictions on humanitarian aid, we will take further concrete actions in response.

    We oppose any attempt to expand settlements in the West Bank. Israel must halt settlements which are illegal and undermine the viability of a Palestinian state and the security of both Israelis and Palestinians.  We will not hesitate to take further action, including targeted sanctions. 

    We strongly support the efforts led by the United States, Qatar and Egypt to secure an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. It is a ceasefire, the release of all remaining hostages and a long-term political solution that offer the best hope of ending the agony of the hostages and their families, alleviating the suffering of civilians in Gaza, ending Hamas’ control of Gaza and achieving a pathway to a two-state solution, consistent with the goals of the 18 June conference in New York co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France. These negotiations need to succeed, and we must all work towards the implementation of a two-state solution, which is the only way to bring long-lasting peace and security that both Israelis and Palestinians deserve, and ensure long-term stability in the region.

    We will continue to work with the Palestinian Authority, regional partners, Israel and the United States to finalise consensus on arrangements for Gaza’s future, building on the Arab plan. We affirm the important role of the High-level Two-State Solution Conference at the UN in June in building international consensus around this aim. And we are committed to recognising a Palestinian state as a contribution to achieving a two-state solution and are prepared to work with others to this end.

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    Published 19 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Stefanik Demands Transparency from Harvard Over Alarming Ties to Chinese Communist Party, Iran

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (21st District of New York)

    Stefanik Demands Transparency from Harvard Over Alarming Ties to Chinese Communist Party, Iran | Press Releases | Congresswoman Elise Stefanik

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    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Estes Votes to Advance One Big, Beautiful Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas)

    Last night, Rep. Ron Estes (R-Kansas) voted to advance the full budget reconciliation bill in the House Budget Committee – which passed the committee 17 – 16. He delivered remarks in support of the One Big, Beautiful Bill Act last Friday in the Budget Committee markup.
     
    “The bill we’re marking up here today is the culmination of years of work to extend the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, secure our borders and rein in wasteful Washington spending,” said Rep. Estes. “It’s a bill that meets the mandate provided to this Congress by the American people last November. It’s a bill for the American people, and my friends on the left have only empty talking points to try and paint this legislation as something that it’s not.”

    Watch video of Rep. Estes’ remarks  
    Thank you, Mr. Chairman. It’s good to be here with you and our colleagues as we work to advance the America First policies that are embedded in this One Big, Beautiful Bill.
     
    The bill we’re marking up here today is the culmination of years of work to extend the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, secure our borders and rein in wasteful Washington spending.
     
    It’s a bill that meets the mandate provided to this Congress by the American people last November. It’s a bill for the American people, and my friends on the left have only empty talking points to try and paint this legislation as something that it’s not.
     
    Today, I want to take a brief moment and refute some of the lies with some of the facts.
     
    First, let’s look at the historic Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. While nearly half of my Republican and Democrat colleagues were not here in 2017, I remember the quote “crumbs” Nancy Pelosi claimed the middle class Americans would be receiving because of the Trump Tax Cuts. The reality is those “crumbs” were really thousands of dollars in lower taxes, increased wages, and stronger economic opportunities for Americans at all economic levels.
     
    On Tax Day of this year, I wrote an op-ed about the left’s deceit on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Mr. Chairman, I’d like to submit that op-ed for the record.
     
    In it, I said, “The New York Times noted in 2019 that most Americans received a tax cut from the 2017 tax reform but simply didn’t believe it. “Their quote was: “To a large degree, the gap between perception and reality on the tax cuts appears to flow from a sustained—and misleading—effort by liberal opponents of the law to brand it as a broad middle-class tax increase,” the paper wrote. 
     
    “And in 2021, then-House Democratic Caucus Chair Hakeem Jeffries told MSNBC, “83% of the benefits went to the wealthiest 1%, and they saddled us with approximately $2 trillion in debt to subsidize the lifestyle of the rich and shameless.”
     
    “The statement was so bad, The Washington Post upgraded its fact check from two “Pinocchios” to three and called it a “zombie claim.” That’s because Jeffries and Democrats were relying on projections of what would happen after significant provisions in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act expired—the same provisions Republicans are trying to save and Democrats are trying to stop.”
     
    In the op-ed, I went on to say that the flow of misinformation has convinced a broad swath of Americans that they didn’t receive a tax cut – which they did – and the same cast of deceivers is trying to dupe Americans by promoting the extension of the law as a tax giveaway for millionaires and billionaires – which it isn’t. The Joint Committee on Taxation says that Americans making between 30,000 and 80,000 dollars would pay 15 percent less in taxes in 2027 under our bill, a nearly double higher percentage than those making over 1 million dollars.
     
    Nevertheless, we’re already seeing success in our physical and financial security.
     
    This week we learned the annual inflation rate is the lowest it’s been since Joe Biden first took office more than four years ago. Let me clear – prices are too high, and the impact of inflation is still hurting Americans and hurting Kansans, but we’re finally turning the page.
     
    Mr. Chairman, this bill – particularly the pro-family, pro-worker, pro-growth provisions – is critical to preventing a massive tax increase for everyday Americans, to give our economy a boost, secure our border and bend the curve on decades of Washington’s waste, fraud and abuse spending. I urge my colleagues to support this One Big, Beautiful Bill.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: HERO’s Mission: An Elevator Part Could Bolster Marine Energy Technologies

    Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

    Latest HERO WEC Mission Status Update Examines How a Polyurethane Belt Could Improve Reliability of Wave Energy Converters

    The HERO WEC’s original wire rope runs from the WEC to the floor, where it’s anchored beneath the large-amplitude motion platform. Photo by Taylor Mankle, NREL

    The National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s (NREL’s) wave-powered desalination research is charting new waters by improving the robustness, reliability, and deployability of the hydraulic and electric reverse osmosis wave energy converter—or HERO WEC.

    To do this, the team will modify different components on the device and test the revised design. Researchers have already started with the winch line, swapping the original wire rope with an upgraded polyurethane flat belt, which overperformed in initial lab testing.

    The HERO WEC, which is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Water Power Technologies Office (WPTO), can operate using either a hydraulic or an electrical configuration to pump seawater through an onshore reverse osmosis system and produce fresh drinking water (a process called desalination). NREL researchers began designing the HERO WEC in 2020, and after hundreds of hours of testing, which consisted of three in-lab programs and five ocean installations, the team is retiring version one and drawing on lessons learned to design version two.

    But why start with the winch system? Because the research team knew it was the HERO WEC’s weakest link.

    The wire rope used in the original winch system, which ran from the raft-like WEC to an anchor on the seafloor, did serve its intended purpose by acting as a mooring line to prevent the device from drifting while allowing it to move up and down with the motion of the waves. But a wire rope can only take so much force before it wears, frays, and breaks—especially as it moves through pulleys in the harsh ocean environment, where corrosion and storm resistance can be a significant challenge.

    That is why the team replaced it with a polyurethane flat belt (something that is typically used for elevator pulleys). These sturdy belts are made of tiny strands of wire rope encased in polyurethane. This configuration helps evenly distribute force, alleviating stress on the belt and allowing it to withstand the large anchor loads. The polyurethane coating, a durable and affordable synthetic material that is also waterproof, helps to mitigate wear and corrosion.

    The photo shows the new polyurethane belt that will replace the HERO WEC’s original wire rope. Photo by Taylor Mankle, NREL

    The team tested the new belt on NREL’s large-amplitude motion platform, running it for about 30,000 wave cycles (approximately how many wave cycles it would face during a typical two- to four-week ocean deployment). Even after thousands of test cycles, the belt still showed no visible signs of wear, indicating a much longer lifespan. Based on the team’s models and motion platform data, the team predicts that this type of belt should last one or two years in the ocean before needing to be replaced

    Researchers also tested the belt under a range of stressful (simulated) ocean conditions, pushing the belt to see if it would slip, fold, or wind/unwind faster than it should. They found that the belt showed no sign of slippage or tangling, confirming that the belt is a promising upgrade to the HERO WEC’s design. Because of its durability, a belt like this could significantly enhance reliability, allow for longer deployments, reduce maintenance, and ultimately increase freshwater production.

    If the polyurethane belt performs well during ocean testing, these preliminary research findings will not only prove promising for NREL’s wave-powered desalination research but also advance the reliability of marine energy technologies across the board. Results from the HERO WEC belt testing are available to other researchers and developers. These initial findings could serve as a stepping stone for marine energy developers looking to both de-risk and enhance their existing WEC designs.

    Because the belt has proven to be so robust, the research team is using it as a cornerstone for designing HERO WEC V2. Building on this durable winch system, researchers will now focus on other HERO WEC components to further improve its reliability.

    Stay tuned for more HERO WEC design updates, test results, and project milestones.

    Learn more about NREL’s research in marine energy and the HERO WEC device and its open-source data. Then, subscribe to The Current—NREL’s water power newsletter—to stay up to date on the latest research.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC MD 875

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Mesoscale Discussion 0875
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1112 AM CDT Mon May 19 2025

    Areas affected…central Oklahoma into south central Kansas

    Concerning…Severe potential…Watch likely

    Valid 191612Z – 191845Z

    Probability of Watch Issuance…95 percent

    SUMMARY…A few rapidly developing and intensifying supercells
    appear possible as early as 1-3 PM CDT, accompanied by a risk for
    large to giant hail and a strong tornado or two.

    DISCUSSION…Convergence along the dryline appears at least
    initially weak, and it is not clear how much this will change as it
    gradually mixes eastward toward the Interstate 35 corridor through
    18-20Z. However, deepening convection is evident to the south and
    southeast of Chickasha OK, which appears rooted within a corridor of
    stronger warm advection around the 850 mb level.

    It appears that this may persist and perhaps develop northward into
    early/mid afternoon, along the western periphery of a 30-40 kt
    southerly 850 mb jet. At the same time, it appears that at least
    modest mid-level height falls will begin to overspread the I-35
    corridor, coincident with continuing insolation and warming of a
    seasonably moist boundary layer. A corridor along and east of the
    dryline is forecast to become characterized by large CAPE on the
    order of 2000-4000+ J/kg.

    As the initially elevated convection begins to acquire increasing
    updraft inflow emanating from the unstable boundary-layer, and
    inhibition weakens, rapid thunderstorm intensification appears
    possible. In the presence of west-southwesterly deep-layer shear,
    this probably will include at least a couple of evolving supercells
    with potential to produce large to giant hail, along with a risk for
    a strong tornado.

    ..Kerr/Hart.. 05/19/2025

    …Please see www.spc.noaa.gov for graphic product…

    ATTN…WFO…TSA…ICT…FWD…OUN…

    LAT…LON 36709756 37379681 37459587 36529514 35419585 34209680
    33899724 34159790 35359788 36709756

    MOST PROBABLE PEAK TORNADO INTENSITY…120-150 MPH
    MOST PROBABLE PEAK WIND GUST…55-70 MPH
    MOST PROBABLE PEAK HAIL SIZE…4.00+ IN

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 292 Status Reports

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

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    Watch 292 Status Reports

    Watch 292 Status Message has not been issued yet.

    Top/Watch Issuance Text for Watch 292/All Current Watches/Forecast Products/Home

    Weather Topics:Watches, Mesoscale Discussions, Outlooks, Fire Weather, All Products, Contact Us

    NOAA / National Weather ServiceNational Centers for Environmental PredictionStorm Prediction Center120 David L. Boren Blvd.Norman, OK 73072 U.S.A.spc.feedback@noaa.govPage last modified: May 19, 2025
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    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 292

    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.
    SEL2

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 292
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1205 PM CDT Mon May 19 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Northwest Arkansas
    Central and Eastern Oklahoma

    * Effective this Monday afternoon and evening from 1205 PM until
    700 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Several tornadoes and a couple intense tornadoes likely
    Widespread large hail and scattered very large hail events to 4
    inches in diameter likely
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely

    SUMMARY…Multiple clusters of intense thunderstorms will develop
    through the afternoon across central and eastern Oklahoma, spreading
    into northwest Arkansas by early evening. Supercells capable of
    strong tornadoes, very large hail, and damaging winds are possible.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 115 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 20 miles north northeast of
    Bartlesville OK to 10 miles southwest of Durant OK. For a complete
    depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
    (WOUS64 KWNS WOU2).

    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.

    &&

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 4 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 550. Mean
    storm motion vector 24035.

    …Hart

    SEL2

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 292
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    1205 PM CDT Mon May 19 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Northwest Arkansas
    Central and Eastern Oklahoma

    * Effective this Monday afternoon and evening from 1205 PM until
    700 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Several tornadoes and a couple intense tornadoes likely
    Widespread large hail and scattered very large hail events to 4
    inches in diameter likely
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph likely

    SUMMARY…Multiple clusters of intense thunderstorms will develop
    through the afternoon across central and eastern Oklahoma, spreading
    into northwest Arkansas by early evening. Supercells capable of
    strong tornadoes, very large hail, and damaging winds are possible.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 115 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 20 miles north northeast of
    Bartlesville OK to 10 miles southwest of Durant OK. For a complete
    depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline update
    (WOUS64 KWNS WOU2).

    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.

    &&

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 4 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 550. Mean
    storm motion vector 24035.

    …Hart

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW2
    WW 292 TORNADO AR OK 191705Z – 200000Z
    AXIS..115 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    20NNE BVO/BARTLESVILLE OK/ – 10SW DUA/DURANT OK/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 100NM E/W /33WSW OSW – 39SE ADM/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..4 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 550. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 24035.

    LAT…LON 37029380 33839452 33839853 37029797

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU2.

    Watch 292 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    High (80%)

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

    Mod (60%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    High (70%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Low (10%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    High (80%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    High (80%)

    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 –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: USDA seeks feedback from producers about 2025 crops, stocks, inventories, and values

    Source: US National Agricultural Statistics Service

    WASHINGTON, May 19, 2025 – Over the next several weeks, USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) will conduct the June Agricultural Survey. The agency will contact nearly 92,000 producers across the nation to determine crop acreage and stock levels as of June 1, 2025.

    “The June Agricultural Survey is one of the most important and well-known surveys NASS conducts,” said Joseph L. Parsons, USDA NASS Administrator. “When producers respond to the survey, they provide essential information that helps determine the expected acreage and supply of major commodities in the United States for the 2025 crop year. The results are used by farmers and ranchers, USDA, exporters, researchers, economists, policymakers, and others to inform a wide range of decisions.”

    Producers can respond to the June Agricultural Survey online at agcounts.usda.gov, by phone, or mail. They will be asked to provide information on planted and harvested acreage, including acreage for biotech crops and grain stocks.

    “NASS safeguards the privacy of respondents by keeping all individual information confidential and publishing the data in aggregate form only to ensure that no operation or producer can be identified,” said Parsons. “We recognize that this is a busy time for farmers, but the information they provide helps U.S. agriculture remain viable and capable. I urge them to respond to these surveys and thank them for their participation.”

    NASS will publish the data in a series of USDA reports, including the annual Acreage and quarterly Grain Stocks reports on June 30, 2025. This data also contributes to NASS monthly and annual Crop Production reports, the annual Small Grains Summary, the annual Farms and Land in Farms report, the Land Values report, various livestock reports, including Cattle, Sheep and Goats, Hogs and Pigs, and USDA’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.

    All NASS reports are available online at nass.usda.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Convicts Kansas City Man in Murder-for-Hire Conspiracy

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was convicted in federal court today for his role in a conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire.

    Thomas D. Clegg, 42, was found guilty by a jury of participating in a conspiracy to commit murder for hire.

    Clegg and others conspired from Aug. 19, 2021, to June 13, 2022, to murder a victim identified as “J.C.” and his family members for payment in cash and marijuana.

    The conspiracy included two occasions when Clegg shot J.C. On Aug. 19, 2021, Clegg shot J.C. in the leg and back in the parking lot of Ugly Joe’s bar in Kansas City, Mo.  On May 25, 2022, Clegg shot J.C. in the back in the parking lot of a strip mall located at 4010 Sterling Avenue, Kansas City, Mo.  The businesses in and near the strip mall included an accounting firm, daycare, and fitness center.  One witness had just picked two of her children up from the daycare when her vehicle was struck by the gunfire.  One of her windows was shot out, but no one in her vehicle was injured.

    Investigators seized Clegg’s cell phone when he was arrested. Investigators also obtained search warrants for Clegg’s cell phone.  Text messages between Clegg and co-conspirators indicated that Clegg was hired to murder J.C.

    Following the presentation of evidence, the jury in the U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Mo., deliberated for approximately two and a half hours before returning guilty verdicts to U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips, ending a trial that began Monday, May 12.

    Clegg pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm utilized in the May 2022 shooting on Tuesday, May 6.

    Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition.  Clegg has two prior felony convictions for possession of a controlled substance, as well as prior felony convictions for unlawful use of a weapon, trafficking in drugs, voluntary manslaughter, discharging a firearm from a motor vehicle, assault, armed criminal action, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

    Under federal statutes, Clegg is subject to a sentence of up to 30 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ashleigh A. Ragner and Heather Siegele.  It was investigated by the FBI, the Kansas City, Mo. Police Department, the Independence, Mo. Police Department, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

    Project Safe Neighborhoods

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Akani Simbine continues with winning streak

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    South African sprinter, Akani Simbine, continued his dominance in the United States when he surged to victory in the 100m at the Atlanta City Games, stopping the clock in 9.86 seconds.

    The time won’t be recognised as the fastest of the year, given that it was wind-aided, but that won’t matter to the star South African. 

    “After winning both 100m Diamond League events this season, winning a medal at the World Indoors and anchoring Team SA to gold in the 4x100m World Relays, Simbine is unquestionably the fastest man on the planet right now,” the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) said on its website.

    Simbine competed in the Atlanta City Games on Saturday afternoon.

    Reacting to the victory, Simbine said: “It’s no pressure. I get to come enjoy something that is no stress; just run and have fun. I wasn’t expecting that [time] at all. Crazy.”

    He was expecting, however, the reigning Olympic champion, Noah Lyles, to be lining up alongside him, but the American scratched from the race, withdrawing due to a “tight ankle” that has impacted him in the last two weeks.

    “Simbine’s 9.90 from the Botswanan Golden Grand Prix last month remains as the official world lead for 2025, though his performance on Saturday clearly pleased him, too. He started a bit slow, but hit his stride at the 50-metre mark well ahead of Nigerian Udodi Onwuzurike, who was second with a 10.05,” SASCOC said.

    Also in action was men’s 400m world record holder, Wayde van Niekerk, who was making his seasonal debut. He placed a creditable third in the 200m in 20.03. –SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Rosen Lead Colleagues in Demanding President Trump Lift Hold on High-Speed Internet Funding for New Mexico

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Telecommunications and Media Subcommittee, and U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) led 1o Senate colleagues in a letter demanding that the Trump administration release funding for states under the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. This program connects families in the hardest-to-serve communities to high-speed internet. Senator Luján successfully helped pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that created the BEAD Program. New Mexico has been approved to receive $675 million in funding through the BEAD Program, but the Trump administration’s pause on this critical program is indefinitely delaying New Mexico’s ability to connect New Mexicans to high-speed internet.

    “We write with concern regarding the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) recent announcement that it is delaying the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program,” wrote the senators. “This unprecedented move by the NTIA will further delay our communities from having the connectivity they need to grow and thrive. To unlock the full strength of the U.S. economy, every community must have access to the vast opportunities enabled by broadband, and this can be achieved by your Administration following the law as outlined in the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (P.L. 117-58).”

    “Currently, there are multiple states ready for broadband providers to put shovels in the ground tomorrow,” the senators continued. “NTIA must act swiftly to release BEAD funding to states that have already been approved and expeditiously work to approve the remaining eligible applications. Time is of the essence, and our rural and tribal communities cannot afford more delays.”

    In addition to Senators Luján and Rosen, the letter was signed by Senators Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Mark Warner (D-VA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Gary Peters (D-MI), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Angus King (I-ME).

    As Ranking Member of the Commerce Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Media, Senator Luján is a strong champion for 100% broadband connectivity. In the 118th Congress, Senator Luján introduced the bipartisan Tribal Connect Act to make it easier for Tribes to secure high-speed internet access at Tribal Essential Community-Serving Institutions through the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Universal Service Fund (USF) Schools and Libraries Program, or E-Rate program. In the 117th Congress, Senator Luján introduced legislation to help close the homework gap by equipping school buses with Wi-Fi technology and improving financing options for broadband deployment.

    The full letter can be found here or below:

    Dear President Trump:

    We write with concern regarding the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) recent announcement that it is delaying the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. This unprecedented move by the NTIA will further delay our communities from having the connectivity they need to grow and thrive. To unlock the full strength of the U.S. economy, every community must have access to the vast opportunities enabled by broadband, and this can be achieved by your Administration following the law as outlined in the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (P.L. 117-58).

    The intent of Congress when it created and appropriated over $42 billion for the bipartisan BEAD program was to connect the hardest-to-serve Americans to high-speed internet and finally close the digital divide. Congress explicitly shaped this program to give deference to states, so they could address the unique challenges their states face reaching the goals of the program Congress mandated.

    Currently, there are multiple states ready for broadband providers to put shovels in the ground tomorrow. Forty-two states have begun or completed their BEAD application process. Three states have even had their applications fully approved and yet are waiting on funds to be released by your Administration. Many states have applications that are tech-neutral and dramatically more cost-effective than previous projects funded by federal broadband programs, all while fulfilling the program’s mission to bring high-speed, reliable broadband to all unserved communities in their state. The attempts by NTIA to revise the state application process at this late stage will cause further delays to the program and leave rural and tribal communities behind in an increasingly connected economy. NTIA must act swiftly to release BEAD funding to states that have already been approved and expeditiously work to approve the remaining eligible applications. Time is of the essence, and our rural and tribal communities cannot afford more delays.

    It is imperative to follow the law, deliver on the promise of access to affordable high-speed internet, and ensure that every American, regardless of where they live, has the tools to succeed in the modern economy.

    Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy on Meet The Press: Republican Tax Plan is Greatest Transfer of Wealth from the Poor and Middle Class to the Rich in the History of the Country

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    May 18, 2025

    [embedded content]

    WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Sunday joined NBC’s Meet the Press with Kristen Welker to discuss the Trump administration and congressional Republicans’ plan to give the ultra-wealthy a giant tax break paid for by slashing Medicaid and programs millions of Americans rely on, and President Trump’s corruption of U.S. foreign policy.

    Murphy slammed the disastrous Republican tax plan: “Well, what we’re standing in the way of is the most massive transfer of wealth from the poor and the middle class to the rich in the history of the country. This budget bill is an absolute disaster. It is going to kick over 10 million people off of their health care — Medicaid covers about a quarter of all Americans — in order to pass along a new trillion-dollar tax cut for the richest 1%. Nobody in this country is asking for that…These guys are running the economy recklessly because all they care about is the health of the Mar-a-Lago billionaire class. They only care about their corporate friends. They’re going to destroy this economy, they’re going to throw millions of people off of health care, just so that they can pass along a benefit to a small handful of very rich Americans.”

    Murphy pushed back on claims by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent that the growing deficit is due to Democratic policies: “I think it’s important to remember that some of the most important legislative achievements during Joe Biden’s presidency were done in a way that reduced the deficit. In fact, the Inflation Reduction Act – which made massive investments in renewable energy, reduced prescription drug costs – was done in a way that drove down the deficit, not driving the deficit up. Most of the deficit was added under Joe Biden’s presidency was in those early days when we were still recovering from the pandemic. But there’s just no doubt that it was Donald Trump who added more to the deficit than any president in the history of the country, and he is on pace to do it for a second time. It’s going to crater the economy. And listen, it won’t have an impact on his billionaire friends. His Mar-a-Lago crowd will come out all right, but it will impact the regular people I represent in New Britain, Bristol and Bridgeport, Connecticut.”

    On Trump’s corrupt trip to the Middle East, Murphy said: “So why did he choose these three countries to go to for his first major foreign trip? It’s not because these are our most important allies, are the most important countries in the world. It’s because these are the three countries willing to pay him off. Every single one of these countries is giving Trump money — the plane from Qatar and investment in his cryptocurrency scam from the UAE, and they are asking for national security concessions in return. This is the definition of corruption. Foreign governments putting money in the President’s pocket and in the United States, giving them national concerning concessions that hurt our own security.”

    He continued: “By the way, the plane is not a gift to the American people, as the Secretary said. It is going directly to Donald Trump. That library will take a decade to build, and so once he leaves the White House until the library is built, he gets to use that plane to fly around all of his billionaire friends while his policies result in millions of Americans losing their health care and having to pay higher costs. That is the definition of corruption.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaptur, Murray Call for Energy Department to Reverse New, Expanded Caps on Indirect Research Costs

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

    ICYMI: Kaptur, Murray call for reversal of arbitrary cap on DOE-funded research — a policy already blocked in federal court for university grants

    Washington, DC — Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, and Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, sent a letter to Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Chris Wright expressing deep concern about the Department’s recently announced caps on indirect costs for DOE research for a variety of recipients. The new caps, which follow the Department’s previously announced arbitrary cap on indirect costs for research at universities, will jeopardize critical research and innovation — and Kaptur and Murray call for the immediate reversal of the policy.

    “We write in response to the Department of Energy’s (DOE) decision to impose sweeping new caps on indirect cost rates across a wide spectrum of its funding recipients — including state and local governments, non-profit organizations, and for-profit partners,” write Kaptur and Murray. “Capping indirect cost rates far below their current values compounds the detrimental policy you have already announced cutting funding for university-led research, and these proposed cuts put energy innovation and economic development in communities across the country at serious risk.”

    The lawmakers note the policy will disproportionately hurt smaller research institutions: “Ultimately, this policy threatens to prevent smaller, under-resourced organizations from getting the support they need to conduct cutting-edge research, which will stifle innovation in regions that need investment the most.”

    “If left to stand, the consequences of these cuts will be severe: multi-sector collaboration will be chilled, community-led innovation efforts across the US will be disrupted, and thousands of jobs supporting energy and infrastructure will be at risk. This abrupt policy change will undercut the very institutions — state and local governments, non-profits, and research organizations — that drive energy innovation, workforce development, and clean energy solutions in local communities,” Kaptur and Murray write.

    They conclude by calling for an immediate reversal of the policies and demanding answers on how the Department determined the caps, whether it consulted with stakeholders, and whether it considered the economic consequences.

    The full letter is available HERE and below:

    The Honorable Christopher Wright
    Secretary of Energy
    U.S. Department of Energy
    1000 Independence Avenue, SW
    Washington, DC 20585

    Dear Secretary Wright,

    We write in response to the Department of Energy’s (DOE) decision to impose sweeping new caps on indirect cost rates across a wide spectrum of its funding recipients — including state and local governments, non-profit organizations, and for-profit partners. While direct costs support salaries, supplies, and equipment, indirect costs provide essential support for general operations and infrastructure. Capping indirect cost rates far below their current values compounds the detrimental policy you have already announced cutting funding for university-led research, and these proposed cuts put energy innovation and economic development in communities across the country at serious risk. Like so many actions your Department has already taken, these new cuts will also raise energy costs for American families and businesses.

    By imposing an arbitrary, inflexible cap of 10 or 15% on indirect costs — regardless of organizational type, mission, or financial structure — the Department is undermining the ability of its grantees and partners to deliver on DOE’s core priorities. Ultimately, this policy threatens to prevent smaller, under-resourced organizations from getting the support they need to conduct cutting-edge research, which will stifle innovation in regions that need investment the most. These indirect cost caps disregard the essential infrastructure required to administer safe, scalable, and high-impact projects.

    Local governments and non-profits, already stretched thin, now face arbitrary limitations that will squash efforts to fortify electricity grids to be robust to storms and other disruptions, initiatives to ensure all community members can access affordable and reliable energy, and emerging technology deployment at the local level.

    If left to stand, the consequences of these cuts will be severe: multi-sector collaboration will be chilled, community-led innovation efforts across the US will be disrupted, and thousands of jobs supporting energy and infrastructure will be at risk. This abrupt policy change will undercut the very institutions — state and local governments, non-profits, and research organizations — that drive energy innovation, workforce development, and clean energy solutions in local communities. America’s energy future must be built on strong partnerships — not policies that penalize those on the front lines of progress.

    These abrupt changes have been announced without the transparency you have promised, without public engagement, and without any meaningful justification. Worse, they appear to ignore the diverse cost structures and compliance burdens that entities must absorb to responsibly manage federal funds. These are not “wasteful” administrative expenses — they are essential costs of conducting federally sponsored research that benefits the American people.

    We reiterate our call to immediately reverse these harmful caps, urge you to engage stakeholders and experts in crafting any future reforms, and request written responses to the following questions by no later than May 30:

    1. What will happen to existing (conditional and nonconditional) awards if they do not meet the new terms and conditions in this policy?
    2. What data and models did DOE use to conclude that a uniform 10 or 15% cap would be sufficient and sustainable across such varied institutional types (e.g., local governments, non-profits, for-profits)? Will DOE release this analysis publicly?
    3. How does DOE justify this cap given that many organizations and governments currently operate with indirect cost rates significantly higher than the new proposed cap?
    4. How does DOE reconcile these cost caps with existing negotiated indirect cost rates under OMB Circulars and 2 CFR 200, particularly where they exceed the new ceilings?
    5. What outreach or consultation — if any — did DOE undertake with non-profit, municipal, or private-sector stakeholders prior to issuing these policy changes?
    6. What specific exemptions, waivers, or appeal mechanisms will DOE make available for awards where capped indirect costs would result in program delays, layoffs, or funding shortfalls?
    7. Has DOE assessed the potential regional economic and workforce consequences of capping indirect costs on state, local, and non-profit implementation partners? If so, will DOE release that analysis publicly?

    We look forward to your responses and attention to this critical issue.

    Sincerely,  

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaptur Statement Following Budget Committee Hearing Held In Dark Of Night

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

    Washington, DC – Tonight, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) released the following statement after House Republicans reconvened a Budget Committee hearing at 10 pm on Sunday evening. While most Americans are preparing for the work week and not tuned in, The GOP has failed to advance its legislation to kick 13.7 million Americans off their health care, and make middle-class families suffer in order to fund Trillions in tax giveaways to Millionaires, Billionaires, and wealthy corporate donors.

    “This bill that is being rammed through the Budget Committee in the dead of night on a weekend is a betrayal to the American people. It is just another bonanza for Billionaires,” said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). “Don’t they have enough yet? Now the GOP Majority is making it harder for struggling people on Medicaid, by pushing legislation that would kick 13.7 million Americans off their health care. They are voting to reduce food to the hungry, by cutting back $300 Billion in SNAP funding for those struggling just to get by.”

    “Our nation is the richest nation on Earth. Surely we can and must do better than this cruel, damaging and harmful legislation. When a handful of top Billionaires in our nation hold half the wealth of our nation, that is too much to few,” continued Congresswoman Kaptur. “The Billionaire class owns as much as the 160 million American and families in the bottom half of our population in the middle-class and working-class. Such a radical financial stratification of our nation’s population is dangerous. It must not be perpetuated. As the late President John F. Kennedy said, ‘if a free society cannot help the many who are poor, it cannot save the few who are rich.’”

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Announces Extradition of Fugitive Miguel Angel Urbano-Vazquez

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    Special Agent in Charge (SAC) W. Mike Herrington of the Seattle Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) announced today that Miguel Angel Urbano-Vazquez was extradited to the United States. He had been arrested without incident in Chimalhuacan, Estado de Mexico, Mexico, on Tuesday, March 14, 2023.

    Urbano-Vazquez was wanted for his alleged involvement in the homicide and rape of Sharon Van Gilder in Pierce County, Washington, in 2002. Additionally, he has been charged for the rapes of three other individuals in 2002. Between 2002 and 2012, the rape cases and the murder case were unsolved, but in 2012 the cases were linked by DNA evidence to Urbano-Vazquez, who was identified as the suspect in all four. 

    Urbano-Vazquez was charged with murder and three separate rapes in the Superior Court of Washington for Pierce County, Washington, and a local arrest warrant was issued for him in October 2012.

    In 2018, the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office requested assistance from the FBI in locating and apprehending Urbano-Vazquez, as the investigation determined he had been deported to Mexico. 

    “This extradition should send a message to those who commit violence in our communities: you can run, but you can’t hide. Thanks to strong international partnerships, Mr. Urbano-Vazquez has learned that lesson first-hand and now will face justice here in the State of Washington for his horrific actions threatening our community,” said SAC Herrington.

    The FBI Seattle Field Office credits the FBI’s Legal Attaché office in Mexico City, Mexico, Unidad Especializada de Combate al Secuestro (UECS), Fiscalia General de Justicia del Estado de México, Agencia de Investigación Criminal (AIC) Fiscalía General de la República, and the Western District of Washington’s U.S. Attorney’s Office in coordinating the arrest of Urbano-Vazquez, who was deported to the U.S. where he will be tried in the Pierce County, Washington, Superior Court.

    The public is reminded that indictments contain only allegations of criminal misconduct and that defendants are presumed to be innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

    FBI Seattle is one of the 55 FBI field offices located in the United States. The mission of the FBI is to protect the American people and uphold the Constitution of the United States. For more information, visit www.fbi.gov or www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/seattle.

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Central African Republic Implements the Enhanced General Data Dissemination System (e-GDDS)

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    WASHINGTON D.C., United States of America, May 19, 2025/APO Group/ —

    With the successful launch of the new data portal—the National Summary Data Page (NSDP) — the Central African Republic has implemented a key recommendation of the IMF’s Enhanced General Data Dissemination System (e-GDDS) to publish essential macroeconomic and financial data. The e-GDDS is the first tier of the IMF Data Standards Initiatives that promote transparency as a global public good and encourage countries to voluntarily publish timely data that is essential for monitoring and analyzing economic performance.

    The launch of the NSDP is a testament to the Central African Republic’s commitment to data transparency. It serves as a one-stop portal for disseminating various macroeconomic data compiled by multiple statistical agencies. The published data include statistics on national accounts, prices, government operations, debt, the monetary and financial sector, and the external sector.

    The launch of the NSDP was supported by an IMF technical assistance mission, financed by the Government of Japan through the Japan Administered Account for Selected Fund Activities (JSA), and conducted in collaboration with the African Development Bank (AfDB) from May 12 to 16, 2025. The mission was hosted by “Institut Centrafricain de Statistique et des Études Économiques et Sociales,” in close collaboration with the Bank of Central African States (BEAC) and the Ministry of Finance and Budget.

    With this reform, the Central African Republic will join 75 countries worldwide and 33 countries in Africa using the e-GDDS to disseminate standardized data.  

    Mr. Bert Kroese, Chief Statistician and Data Officer, and Director of the IMF’s Statistics Department, welcomed this as a major milestone in the Central African Republic’s statistical development. He went on to express that the country would benefit from the improvement in data transparency and that the IMF stood ready to “continue supporting the authorities in further developing their statistical systems.”

    MIL OSI Africa –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI—Hagerty Joins Squawk Box on CNBC to Discuss GENIUS Act, Budget Reconciliation, Tariffs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty
    NEW YORK CITY—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 Squawk Box on CNBC live in-studio to discuss the GENIUS Act vote in the Senate, the budget reconciliation package, and President Donald Trump’s ongoing trade negotiations.

    *Click the photo above or here to watch*
    Partial Transcript
    Hagerty on the GENIUS Act: “It’s actually born from a great deal of frustration. We started working on the bill in earnest back in the fall, but we’ve watched what’s happened with the absence of any type of regulatory framework here in America. And what we see is this type of innovative technology moving offshore. The last thing I want to see is that I don’t want to see innovation leaving America. It’s all happening here right now. But what we saw was a lack of regulatory framework, which means a lack of certainty. And if you’re using enforcement actions from the [Securities and Exchange Commission], which was what has been happening for the past four years, to regulate the markets, it creates massive amounts of uncertainty. This will fix it […] It basically establishes a legal and regulatory framework to issue stablecoins here in America. Stablecoin is stable, meaning it’s backed by a certain currency. In this case it’s tied to the U.S dollar, but also, it’s backed either by cash or by short-term U.S. treasury securities. So, it’s entirely safe having that type of regulatory framework and disclosure around it so we know exactly what’s backing up these digital dollars, if you will, is going to be great.”
    Hagerty on the difference between stablecoins and typical cryptocurrency:“This is a payment mechanism, and not to be confused with Bitcoin or something that has a speculative component. This puts us into a digital payment framework. The fastest rails available, much better than the system developed in the seventies and eighties, which is slow. It takes days to clear […] It’s not going to be [backed by] equities. It’s going to be high quality, short-term assets, either short-term U.S. treasuries or cash. I think the majority of it’ll be U.S. treasuries. In fact, what this will do, and the projections are by 2030, this is according to Citibank, stablecoin issuers will be the largest holders of U.S. treasuries in the world.”
    Hagerty on opposition to the GENIUS Act: “No one in the industry is [opposing this legislation] and has to do with my colleagues. And basically, it’s gotten to be a question; we’ll find out tonight. We have broad policy agreement, Democrats and Republicans. The question is, can we get past the partisan politics and allow us to actually have a victory? I would enjoy having a bipartisan victory […] It’s politicians that want to see centralized control. And centralized control, if you want that, buy the digital yuan. I don’t want to see that happen here in America. I think it would be devastating for the dollar’s value as the reserve currency. This will actually perpetuate the dollar’s value as a reserve currency. It will extend that momentum. It’s going to extend demand for U.S. treasuries. There’s a lot to like about this.”
    Hagerty on Moody’s U.S. credit downgrade highlighting the need to pass the budget reconciliation package: “I think it puts more pressure on us as well, over the next couple of weeks, to get this reconciliation bill done in a way that’s responsible and shows real progress against the deficit […] I’d certainly like to see [the bill passed] sooner, and so would my colleagues in the Senate […] [Treasury Secretary] Scott [Bessent’s] perspective on the market is born from his experience. I’ll just say the immediate impact is real, but I think the market’s going to digest this. The other rating agencies [have] already put us at this place, but what I want to see is the reconciliation package come through stimulation of capital investment. That capital investment will be at more jobs, more economic activity, that’s going to be good for revenue growth […] My colleagues in the Senate want to see significant cuts.”
    Hagerty on the ongoing trade negotiations: “I think it’s coming much more clear. What we have is a system that’s a result of—you go back to the post World War II era, we put in place very favorable terms of trade. Countries like those in Europe, Japan, their economies were devastated. But we should have put a GDP-per-capita or a time limit on those. We didn’t. So, we wind up with these gross imbalances. For example, you build a car here in America, sell to Europe, ten percent tariff. They build one there, sell to us, two and a half percent. We’d never do that deal today. So, this sort of reciprocity is sorting itself out. We’ve had a deal struck with the UK; we’re in a good place with China.”
    Hagerty on tariff impacts: “To the extent there is an increase, you’ve got the producer, you’ve got the shipper, you’ve got the middleman, the retailer, and you’ve got the consumer. All of them may bear some of that. But it’s not certain to me at all, that that’s where we’re going to head. We could head to lower tariffs around the board […] The president’s been working very hard with China to make sure we get this thing addressed as quickly as possible.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Passes Peters, Ernst Bipartisan Resolution Designating May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters
    Published: 05.19.2025
    Resolution Promotes Safe Roadway Practices for Motorcyclists & Motorists

    WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Senate passed a bipartisan resolution introduced by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Joni Ernst (R-IA), co-chairs of the Senate Motorcycle Caucus, to designate May as “Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.” The resolution promotes safe practices for the millions of motorcycle riders across America. 
    “I’ve always said there’s no better way to get from point A to point B than on a motorcycle. But we must ensure that our roads are safe for both drivers and riders,” said Senator Peters. “With summer around the corner and more riders hitting the open road, I’m proud the Senate has once again passed this bipartisan resolution to promote best practices that will keep folks safe and informed.”
    “From delivering messages as a young girl to my dad while he was working out in the fields to riding through the rolling hills of Northeast Iowa with family and friends, some of my most cherished memories include motorcycles so I’m proud to designate May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month,” said Senator Ernst. “As the weather warms up and folks hit the road, I’m excited to share my love of riding while highlighting safety and rider education.”
    “Senators Peters and Ernst have long been champions of the motorcycle industry and we thank them for highlighting Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month by authoring this resolution,” said Scott Schloegel, Senior Vice President of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, and the Motorcycle Industry Council. “As riders themselves, the Senators have surely encountered instances of car & truck drivers encroaching on motorcycles when changing lanes or vehicles turning in front of motorcyclists due to a lack of attention. May is a time when many riders are returning to the roads after the winter season and it is the perfect time to remind all road users to lookout for motorcycles as we share the roads.”

    According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 6,335 motorcyclists were killed in 2023, accounting for 15 percent of all traffic fatalities. This is the highest number of motorcyclist fatalities on record since the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) began data collection in 1975. Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month aims to address these safety concerns by promoting roadway education, safety training opportunities, and the use of proper gear for motorcycle operation. 
    The text of the resolution can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: In 14-Page Letter, Warren Demands IRS Nominee Explain Record of Corruption and Fraud, Support for Tax Policies that Hurt Working Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    May 19, 2025
    Warren asks former Congressman Billy Long to commit to resisting Trump’s attempts to politicize agency
    “I am deeply concerned about your ability to lead an agency as critical as the IRS and ensure that the wealthy pay their fair share, hardworking Americans can file their taxes and claim refunds, and the agency protects taxpayer privacy and retains its independence and non-partisan integrity.”
    Text of Letter (PDF)
    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, wrote to Billy Long, nominee for Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), with concerns over his record of supporting regressive tax policies, his acceptance of “campaign donations” from tax-dodging companies, his work promoting fraudulent tax credits, and more. Long will face senators, including Warren, at his hearing before the Senate Finance Committee on May 20, 2025. 
    Long served as a Missouri congressman from 2011 through 2023. His time in Congress ended after an unsuccessful campaign for the U.S. Senate in 2022. He was nominated by President Trump to lead the IRS in December 2024, despite his lack of tax policy experience, and his conflicts of interest. 
    Senator Warren concerns include: 
    Long’s potential politicization of the IRS, given President Trump’s promise to use the agency against his political opponents, including, most recently, Harvard University, after the university refused to cave to the Administration’s demands to change their hiring and other practices. Senator Warren asked Long to commit to preserving the agency’s independence and non-partisan stance. 
    “[T]he IRS is a non-political and non-partisan institution, created to meet the needs of the American public, not the political whims of the President…If confirmed, you will be responsible for maintaining that independence…However, I have serious doubts that you will do so,” said Senator Warren. 
    Long’s slim tax policy experience and record of supporting regressive tax policies. Long’s record in Congress includes supporting the abolition of the IRS itself, along with the Fair Tax Act, which would overhaul the entire tax system and replace it with a regressive, 30 percent sales tax. The bill would have also slashed taxes for the rich and increased taxes for lower and middle-income taxpayers.
    “As head of the IRS, you will play an integral role in writing and enforcing tax rules, directly affecting who pays their fair share…I am concerned that your lack of experience in a role directly related to administering the tax code, paired with your focus on cutting taxes for the wealthy as a U.S. Representative, make you a dangerous pick for this position,” wrote Senator Warren. 
    Long accepting donations from tax-dodging companies, posing major ethical concerns and calling into question his fitness for the role of IRS Commissioner. Following his nomination to lead the IRS, companies, including ones tied to an allegedly fraudulent tax credit scheme referred to the IRS for criminal investigation by Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Wyden, donated to Long’s failed 2022 Senate campaign. All of these companies donated to Long more than two years after he had lost the election, and the donations were enough to cover Long’s outstanding personal campaign debt of $130,000. In May 2025, Senator Warren demanded answers from these companies for these donations to Long. 
    “It is implausible to suggest that those were legitimate contributions to an ongoing campaign—one cannot run in the 2022 election more than two years later. Instead, these companies appear to be attempting to earn your indulgence and cash in on those contributions, if you are confirmed, in the form of favorable treatment and regulatory decision-making from the IRS,” said Senator Warren. 
    Long’s record of promoting the fraud-ridden Employee-Retention Tax Credit. After leaving Congress in 2023, Billy Long worked as a tax consultant, repeatedly pushing businesses to file for the ERTC, a refundable tax credit designed to support businesses that struggled as a result of COVID-19 pandemic. Long bragged about securing a $3 million faulty refund, and falsely claimed “everybody qualifies” for the credit. In January 2025, Senator Warren pressed Long to explain his involvement in this scheme.  
    “Given the widespread issues caused by ERTC mills and your role in their questionable practices, taxpayers deserve a better understanding of your work promoting these credits,” wrote Senator Warren. 
    Long’s promotion of fake “Tribal Tax Credits.” The Treasury Department and the IRS have confirmed that “tribal tax credits” do not exist. Long is affiliated with firms promoting selling these fake credits, which donated to Long’s failed Senate campaign. 
    Senator Warren asked Long to explain his role in the allegedly fraudulent tax scheme, and whether he would recuse himself from matters related to these fake tax credits. 
    Long’s potential continuation of cuts to the IRS’s Workforce. Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) have repeatedly targeted the IRS through mass firings at the agency. The firings have disproportionately targeted people working in collections, despite the IRS collecting 96 percent of federal revenue and the agency already being understaffed. 
    “This presents a serious problem that, if confirmed, you will have to address. A functional IRS is the backbone of a strong federal government,” said Senator Warren. 
    Senator Warren asked Long to be prepared to answer her questions at his hearing before the Senate Finance Committee on May 20, 2025. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren, Baldwin, Lawmakers Challenge Trump to Close Carried Interest Loophole

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    May 19, 2025
    Democratic lawmakers agree with Trump goal to close loophole, press Trump to demand Congressional Republicans eliminate it in tax bill
    “You were an avid supporter of closing the carried interest loophole throughout your first campaign and during the first few months of your first administration…So, Mr. President, will you get it done?”
    Text of Letter (PDF)
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) led colleagues in sending a letter to President Donald Trump, challenging him to eliminate the carried interest loophole. Sens. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Bernie Sanders (D-Vt.) joined in signing the letter.
    “During your first campaign, you claimed that the carried interest loophole was ‘ridiculous’ and ‘unfair to American workers’ and that the individuals reaping the benefits from the loophole were ‘getting away with murder.’ We agree,” wrote the lawmakers. “We write to ask that you follow through on your promise to eliminate the carried interest loophole and demand that Congressional Republicans eliminate it in any tax bill they send to your desk.”
    When private equity managers oversee an investment fund, they receive a 20% share of the profits earned from the funds’ investments, called “carried interest.” This interest is not subject to the ordinary income tax rate of 37%, and is instead taxed at the 20% capital gains rate as long as the investments are held for at least three years. As a result, private equity fund managers who routinely make hundreds of millions of dollars are subject to a tax rate lower than that of an average blue-collar worker.
    “Despite the extraordinary profits that private equity funds are raking in each year, the carried interest loophole allows private equity managers to avoid paying their fair share of taxes, often paying tax rates that are lower than middle-class workers,” wrote the lawmakers.
    Although he was an avid supporter of closing the carried interest loophole during his first term, President  Trump failed to get it done. Now, he has another opportunity.
    “You have once again confirmed your desire to end the loophole, and we understand that last week you asked Speaker Johnson to close the carried interest loophole. Notably, the House Ways and Means Committee defied your wishes and chose to advance legislation that does not eliminate the carried interest loophole,” wrote the lawmakers. “So, Mr. President, will you get it done?”
    The massive loophole costs the federal government tens of billions of dollars in tax revenue, and the private equity industry regularly donates significant sums to politicians sympathetic to their cause in order to make sure the loophole remains open for their profit. The industry has donated almost $600 million to political campaigns over the last decade to maintain a loophole worth upwards of $63 billion over the next 10 years.
    “It is clear that the private equity industry has fought hard to retain these extraordinary tax giveaways. What is less clear is whether you will allow your party to deviate from your commitments, bow to industry demands, and fail to close the loophole for a second time,” the lawmakers wrote to President  Trump.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: CWA Statement on Proposed Merger of Charter and Cox

    Source: Communications Workers of America

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Communications Workers of America (CWA) union released the following statement responding to the proposed merger of Charter and Cox:

    While Charter’s CEO claims this deal will be “good for America” and “return jobs from overseas,” Charter has a record of anti-union actions that keep wages low and workers disempowered. When Charter workers went on strike in New York City, the company sought to decertify the union, and ultimately those workers lost union representation after five years on strike. US antitrust regulators have acknowledged that labor markets are anticompetitive today because employers hold disproportionate power over workers. Without collective bargaining rights for workers, a deal like this one will further entrench the power of cable giant Charter to squeeze workers harder. Today, workers are coming together in the telecom industry to raise wages and improve conditions by organizing unions. Regulators and elected officials should carefully scrutinize this merger and, if it is allowed to move forward, require conditions to protect the public interest and workers’ rights.

    ###

    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 –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: CWA Statement on FCC Approval of Verizon’s Acquisition of Frontier

    Source: Communications Workers of America

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Communications Workers of America (CWA) union released the following statement responding to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approval of Verizon’s acquisition of Frontier:

    With the acquisition of Frontier by Verizon, workers at Frontier have a more stable outlook for their jobs after years of inadequate investment and mismanagement. Verizon has committed to significant investment in fiber upgrades across the Frontier footprint. CWA has also negotiated significant improvements to bring work in-house from contractors in some areas, with hopes to make more progress insourcing work to support union jobs. While FCC Chair Carr sought to distract from substantive merger review by making Verizon’s diversity, equity, and inclusion policies a rhetorical target, CWA members know that a union contract is always the strongest and most enforceable protection for workers. CWA will continue to engage directly with Verizon to ensure workers’ rights, dignity, and equality of opportunity are protected.

    ###

    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 –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Files Amicus Brief Challenging the Closure of Three DHS Oversight Offices

    Source: US State of California

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today, as part of a coalition of 21 attorneys general, filed an amicus brief in Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights v. U.S. Department of Homeland Security in support of a challenge to the closure of three oversight offices at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). These congressionally mandated oversight offices are built into DHS as safeguards to ensure that the public has avenues for raising concerns about invasions of privacy, racial profiling, and human rights abuses committed in the name of protecting the homeland. In their brief, the attorneys general urge the district court to issue a preliminary injunction halting the closure of these offices and restoring staffing and funding. 

    “The Trump Administration does not have the authority to unilaterally dissolve congressionally mandated oversight offices that provide vital, sometimes life-saving channels for individuals and communities to interact with DHS,” said Attorney General Bonta. “The closure of these offices is a devastating loss for California residents who rely on these offices to resolve problems with immigration benefits, address unsafe conditions in detention facilities, and investigate civil liberties violations and human rights abuses by DHS employees. I respectfully urge the court to issue a preliminary injunction and re-open these offices.”

    On March 21, 2025, DHS and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem shut down the Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (CRCL), the Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS) Ombudsman’s Office, and the Office of the Immigration Detention Ombudsman (OIDO). These three oversight offices were created by Congress to exercise oversight of various DHS programs and operations; to prevent and address civil rights violations by agency employees; and to provide direct case assistance to noncitizens, their employers, and their families who interact with DHS. Prior to the closure of these offices, DHS began removing investigative records and other documents about these offices from its website. DHS subsequently announced plans to terminate virtually all their employees, while directing them to immediately cease investigating complaints and performing other statutorily required work. Additionally, DHS publicly acknowledged that it intended to dissolve these offices completely, explaining that it did so because the offices had “obstructed immigration enforcement by adding bureaucratic hurdles.”

    In the amicus brief, Attorney General Bonta and the coalition urges the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to grant a preliminary injunction halting the closure of these offices, arguing that:

    • DHS exceeded its statutory and constitutional authority in unilaterally shutting down congressionally mandated offices.
    • The elimination of CIS Ombudsman’s Office will harm residents seeking legal immigration benefits such as work and student visas, work authorizations, and green cards.
    • The dismantling of OIDO will harm individuals detained in immigration facilities who rely on OIDO to examine and take action to protect individuals from unsanitary, inhumane, and dangerous conditions of immigration detention.
    • The closure of CRCL will harm states’ residents, eliminating vital oversight and transparency, eroding protections previously implemented by CRCL such as language access, accessibility for disabled individuals, and confidentiality protections for victims of trafficking and family violence.

    In filing the amicus brief, Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys generals of New York, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia.

    A copy of the brief can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Provides Update on May 16 Severe Storms and Tornadoes

    Source: US State of Missouri

    MAY 19, 2025

    Jefferson City — JEFFERSON CITY – Today, Governor Mike Kehoe provided an update on the recovery efforts following the devastating severe storms and tornadoes that struck on May 16, leaving widespread destruction in St. Louis and the southeast Missouri region. Governor Kehoe and state officials spent Saturday with local officials in St. Louis surveying some of the hardest-hit areas. All levels of government are fully engaged, and recovery efforts continue across the region.

    Ahead of the storm, Governor Kehoe extended the Missouri State of Emergency declaration, which has allowed first responders, road crews, and emergency management officials to move quickly. The Missouri State Emergency Operations Plan remains in effect.

    • Damage Assessments and Local Support: State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) regional coordinators continue working swiftly with local emergency managers to make initial damage assessments in preparation for a federal major disaster declaration request. SEMA staff are coordinating resource requests from local emergency managers for needed supplies, materials, and support services with sheltering, debris clearance, damage assessments, and other needs. For more information on the federal disaster declaration process, visit this link.
    • White House Coordination and Federal Support: Governor Kehoe has been in direct contact with President Donald Trump, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Acting Administrator David Richardson, and Missouri’s Congressional delegation on the situation and discussed state efforts and federal assistance.

    Today, Governor Mike Kehoe also took two actions to expedite federal assistance to Missouri following the severe storms and tornadoes that struck the state on May 16, causing seven deaths and widespread damage in the St. Louis region and areas of southeast Missouri:

    • Governor Kehoe requested that President Donald Trump issue a federal Emergency Declaration for the State of Missouri in response to the May 16 tornadoes and severe storms, which, if approved, would authorize Direct Federal Assistance (DFA) and up to $5 million in immediate funding to the state to support emergency protective measures and debris removal.
    • The Governor also requested that FEMA participate in joint Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDA) of damage to homes and personal property in the City of St. Louis and St. Louis County along with Cape Girardeau, Iron, New Madrid, Scott, Stoddard, and Wayne counties in southeast Missouri, in preparation for a request by the Governor for a federal Major Disaster Declaration for these areas.

    “Friday’s severe storms and tornadoes caused devastation in the St. Louis region and areas of southeast Missouri, took the lives of seven people, resulted in thousands of homes, businesses, and public infrastructure being damaged or destroyed, and left tens of thousands without power,” Governor Kehoe said. “Local first responders, officials, businesses, and volunteer groups are working around the clock to recover, but the task before us is tremendously large and recovery will not be easy. A federal Emergency Declaration will provide an immediate infusion of needed funds while the joint preliminary damage assessments will allow the normal federal Major Disaster Declaration process to move forward. We appreciate President Trump, Secretary Noem, FEMA Acting Administrator Richardson, and Trump Administration officials for their quick communication and responsiveness to the situation.”

    A federal Emergency Declaration provides federal resources to support state response operations to protect lives, safeguard public health and provide for public safety. It does not delay or affect the process of pursuing a federal Major Disaster Declaration, which would provide Individual Assistance to help homeowners and renters, and Public Assistance, which would reimburse local governments for emergency response costs, debris removal, and repair and replacement of damaged roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure. Individual Assistance and Public Assistance require joint preliminary damage assessments by teams made up of representatives from FEMA, SEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and local emergency management officials, extensive documentation, and a federal review process that can take weeks to complete.

    Beginning Wednesday, May 21, six teams will survey and verify documented damage in Cape Girardeau, Iron, New Madrid, St. Louis, Scott, Stoddard, and Wayne counties and the City of St. Louis to determine if Individual Assistance can be requested through FEMA. Individual Assistance allows eligible residents to seek federal assistance for temporary housing, housing repairs, replacement of damaged belongings, vehicles, and other qualifying expenses. Initial damage assessments for roads, bridges and other public infrastructure are ongoing, potentially resulting in a request for PDAs for Public Assistance in the future.

    SEMA continues to coordinate with local officials and volunteer and faith-based partners to identify needs and assist impacted families and individuals. Missourians with unmet needs are encouraged to contact United Way by dialing 2-1-1 or www.211helps.org or the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767.

    For additional resources and information about disaster recovery in Missouri, including general clean-up information, housing assistance, and mental health services, visit recovery.mo.gov.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Capito, Barrasso Introduce Growing America’s Small Businesses and Manufacturing Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) recently introduced pro-growth legislation to boost investment in American manufacturing and help small businesses, farmers, and ranchers purchase the equipment and supplies they need to build their operations and support their employees.
    The Growing America’s Small Businesses and Manufacturing Act will reduce tax bills for business owners looking to purchase equipment—including machinery, farming equipment, energy infrastructure, building upgrades, commercial vehicles, mining equipment, and more. This will free up resources to go toward employee salaries, materials, and other critical business expenditures.
    “West Virginia’s manufacturers and small business owners are the backbone of our economy,” Senator Capito said. “The Growing America’s Small Businesses and Manufacturing Act will give them the tools they need to compete, grow, and hire. By allowing greater investment in equipment and operations, this bill strengthens our global competitiveness and supports the hardworking Americans driving innovation and economic growth across the country.”
    “Wyoming’s small businesses are what keeps our economy going strong. We want to make sure they have every opportunity to succeed,” Senator Barrasso said. “Right now, they face an uphill battle with high prices and a mountain of new regulations. The Growing America’s Small Businesses and Manufacturing Act will go a long way in helping Wyoming’s farmers, ranchers and small businesses expand their operations, better compete and hire more workers.” 
    “Manufacturers are driving the economy by investing in job-creating projects and cutting-edge equipment and machinery. The Growing America’s Small Businesses and Manufacturing Act would incentivize and support these important investments by reducing the cost of capital equipment purchases and the debt financing that makes them possible. Manufacturers commend Sens. Barrasso and Capito for their leadership in introducing this bill, and we encourage Congress to include these policies in comprehensive legislation that preserves and extends pro-manufacturing tax provisions from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act,” Charles Crain, Managing Vice President of Policy, National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), said.
    “Doubling the small business expensing threshold (Section 179) will be a huge win for small employers. This will allow small businesses to make significant capital investments which will help to grow the Main Street economy. NFIB applauds Senators Barrasso and Capito for introducing this important legislation,” Jeff Brabant, Vice President, Federal Government Relations, National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), said.
    “America’s economic security relies on a strong manufacturing sector and small business growth. The “Restore American Investment Now” (RAIN) Coalition applauds Senators John Barrasso (R-WY) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) for introducing the Growing America’s Small Businesses and Manufacturing Act, which restores the EBITDA standard for business interest deductibility. Restoring the EBITDA standard will help businesses to invest, grow, and create jobs. We thank the Senators championing this pro-growth legislation to strengthen American manufacturing, support small business expansion, and create more opportunity for American workers,” Michael O’Rielly, Spokesman, RAIN Coalition, said.
    “Tax policy plays a critical role in the restaurant industry’s success. Pro-growth policies ensure that restaurant owners can continue investing in their businesses – upgrading equipment, expanding dining rooms, and creating jobs. With economic uncertainty beginning to slow spending, restoration of the critical interest expense deductions and small-business expensing are top priorities for our members. We appreciate Sens. Barrasso and Capito’s continued support of restaurant operators and small business owners and hope that Congress will include these important policies in any tax package they pass this year,” Sean Kennedy, Executive Vice President, National Restaurant Association, said.
    BACKGROUND:
    The Growing America’s Small Businesses and Manufacturing Act delivers two pro-growth tax proposals that will boost investment in capital-intensive industries like manufacturing, energy production, and agriculture.
    Expanded Business Interest Deduction:
    The bill revises the limitation from 30% of a business’s Earnings Before Interest and Taxes (EBIT), back to 30% of Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, Amortization, and depletion (EBITDA).
    This protects businesses from being punished for investments in machinery, capital equipment, mining, drilling, and research and development (R&D).
    Enhanced Small Business Expensing:
    The second provision expands Section 179, which allows taxpayers to deduct the cost of certain business assets in the year they are purchased rather than depreciating them over time.
    Under the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the maximum deduction amount was increased to $1 million from $500,000, helping small businesses acquire the equipment needed to expand operations.
    The bill builds on this success by lifting the deduction cap to $2.5 million, accelerating small businesses’ access to capital.
    The provision covers a wide range of eligible expenses, including machinery, mining tools, farming implements, energy production equipment, commercial vehicles, building upgrades, and other critical investments.
    Full text of the legislation can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Van Orden Introduces Bill to Streamline CNA Training Requirements

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Derrick Van Orden (Wisconsin 3rd)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) introduced legislation to address the nationwide shortage of Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) by expanding the number of qualified supervisors for CNA training programs. The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Workforce Improvement Act will allow Registered Nurses (RN) with a minimum of two years of nursing experience to supervise CNA training, regardless of whether their experience comes from working in a long-term care facility or another healthcare facility.

    CNA staff shortages are a growing concern across the country, especially in rural communities with limited access to healthcare facilities and providers. By eliminating the long-term care requirement, more nurses will be available to supervise the training of CNAs, ultimately accelerating workforce recruitment and helping alleviate the CNA shortage.

    “I have heard from countless healthcare providers who are in desperate need of more CNAs,” said Rep. Van Orden. “In rural Wisconsin, folks depend on these critical workers to receive timely and quality care, and when facilities are short-staffed, entire communities feel the impact. This bill removes the bureaucratic red tape and gets more boots on the ground to ensure patients are receiving the care they need.”

    “Opening pathways to crucial health care careers takes creative solutions. This legislation is a step toward building the CNA workforce to aid better patient care and to train future health care professionals. We’re grateful Rep. Van Orden is prioritizing this issue, and we look forward to advocating with him for its passage,” said Heather Schimmers, MBA, RN, Gundersen Region President, Emplify Health. 

    To read the full bill text, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 20, 2025
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