NewzIntel.com

Category: United States of America

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement of Senate Intel Vice Chair Warner on DNI Gabbard’s sham claims about a “treasonous conspiracy” at the highest levels of government

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner

    WASHINGTON – Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Vice Chairman Mark R. Warner (D-VA) issued the following statement on DNI Gabbard’s unfounded claims of a coup: 

    “It seems DNI Gabbard is unaware that the years-long Russia investigation carried out by the Senate Intelligence Committee reaffirmed that ‘the Russian government directed extensive activity against U.S. election infrastructure’ ahead of the 2016 election, and that it ‘used social media to conduct an information warfare campaign’ in order to benefit Donald Trump. This conclusion was supported on a unanimous basis by every single Democrat and Republican on the committee. 

    “It is sadly not surprising that DNI Gabbard, who promised to depoliticize the intelligence community, is once again weaponizing her position to amplify the president’s election conspiracy theories. It is appalling to hear DNI Gabbard accuse her own IC workforce of committing a ‘treasonous conspiracy’ when she was unwilling to label Edward Snowden a traitor.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal Welcomes Home Americans, While Condemning Trump Administration’s Unlawful Removals

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

    SEATTLE, W.A. — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Immigration, Integrity, Security, and Enforcement, issued the following statement regarding the reported deal between the United States, El Salvador, and Venezuela:

    “I am grateful that United States citizens held by the oppressive Maduro regime are finally able to come home and be reunited with their loved ones. Many of these Americans had been unjustly detained for years.

    “At the same time, I am outraged that President Trump and his administration continue to lie to the American people. For months, the Trump administration had been telling U.S. courts. They claimed that the individuals he had shipped off to El Salvador with no due process were under the complete control of the El Salvadoran government, and the administration had no ability to bring them back to the United States for their fair day in court.  Today’s announcement shows that it was false.

    “I am also devastated for the many Venezuelans who came to the U.S., who never committed a crime, and many of whom were fleeing persecution from the Maduro regime, are now being sent back into the hands of their persecutors.  These individuals, like Andry Hernandez Romero, were never able to present their asylum claim and were sent out of this country in violation of our constitution and our laws.

    “We will hold this administration accountable for its continued lawlessness.”

    ###

    Issues: Civil Rights, Immigration

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pressley, McGovern, Project Bread Sound Alarm on Republicans’ Devastating Food Assistance Cuts, Harm to Massachusetts Families

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

    Massachusetts Families Fear Worsening Hunger Crisis Amid Trump’s Cuts to SNAP in Big, Ugly Bill

    Photos (DropBox)

    EAST BOSTON – Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) and Congressman James P. McGovern (MA-02) convened a listening session in East Boston with Project Bread, the leading statewide food security organization in Massachusetts, to highlight the devastating impacts that Trump’s Big, Ugly Bill will have on Massachusetts families who rely on federal food assistance.

    “No one in Massachusetts – no child, student, parent, or senior – should go hungry.,” said Rep. Ayanna Pressley. “Trump and Republicans’ Big, Ugly Bill is a shameful betrayal of our shared humanity and will make communities in the Massachusetts 7th and across the country hungrier, poorer, and sicker. SNAP is a lifeline, especially for families facing other insecurities, and for Black, brown, and LGBTQ+ households that face the highest rates of food insecurity. Listening to families directly impacted by this crisis is essential as we chart a path forward, and I’m grateful to fight alongside Rep. McGovern, Project Bread, state and local leaders, and critical food assistance, nutrition, and farming advocates to ensure food justice for all.”

    “Federal nutrition assistance programs put food on the table for families across Massachusetts. Today, we heard directly from some of those families about how the Trump’s Big Ugly Bill and DOGE cuts will make families more hungry and less healthy. Forty-two million people – the vast majority of which are working people, kids, seniors, and people with disabilities – will see their SNAP benefits cut and families with teenagers, older adults, veterans, former foster youth, and homeless people could lose their benefits altogether,” said Rep. James P. McGovern, Ranking Member of the House Rules Committee and a senior member of the House Agriculture Committee. “Kids will have less nutritious food at school and families utilizing food pantries will have less access to fruits and vegetables. I can’t think of anything more cruel than taking food away from hungry families all to fund tax breaks for billionaires.” 

    “Project Bread hears from over 25,000 families every year just how critical food assistance programs are. People experiencing hunger share how they are working hard to provide for their families, navigating work challenges, health crises, family concerns, and much more, and it is important that we listen and uplift the real stories of food insecurity in Massachusetts,” said Erin McAleer, President and CEO of Project Bread. “We invest in building connections with those directly experiencing hunger because that lived expertise is central to how we develop and implement sustainable community solutions. Hunger is a policy choice. In Massachusetts, we are lucky to have powerful congressional and community leaders ready to listen, learn, and lead in the fight to ensure everyone can put food on the table.”

    Congresswoman Pressley, Congressman McGovern, and Project Bread discussed the stories of people with lived experience in the Massachusetts 7th, as well as partners and advocates, including Ricardo Henry, Community Leader of Neighborhood Food Action Collaborative; Sandra Nijjar, Founder of East Boston Community Soup Kitchen; Carlos Morales, Food Access Manager of La Colaborativa; Michelle Doyle, Meals Program Director of Prospect Hill Academy Charter School; Alexandra Mello, Project Bread Council of Experts; Janin Otero, Project Bread Council of Experts, and others. Also joining them were state and local officials, including State Representative Adrian Madaro, State Senator Lydia Edwards, State Senator Sal DiDomenico, Councilor Gabriela Coletta Zapata; Jeffrey McCue, Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance; Julianne Stelmaszyk, Director of the Division of Food Security at the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources; Allison Bovell-Ammon, Assistant Undersecretary for Children and Family Services at the MA Executive Office of Health and Human Services; and Aliza Wasserman, Director of the City of Boston Mayor’s Office of Food Justice.

    Photo from the listening session are available here.

    Throughout her time in Congress, Rep. Pressley has been a champion for food security and justice and ensuring families have the essential food assistance they deserve. She has been an outspoken critic of the Big, Ugly Bill since its inception and Republicans’ harmful cuts to SNAP and other government service programs.

    • Rep. Pressley joined colleagues at a press conference imploring the House to reject the cruel and harmful legislation.
    • Rep. Pressley joined the Congressional Black Caucus and over 100 colleagues in stalling a vote on the Big, Ugly Bill.  
    • Rep. Pressley issued a statement condemning the Senate’s passage of the Big, Ugly Bill and vowing to continue fighting it using every tool available.
    • Rep. Pressley rallied with advocates from Caring Across Generations, Care Can’t Wait, and partner organizations to protest Trump’s and Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill that proposes disastrous cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, and other essential programs and would leave communities sicker, poorer, and more vulnerable.
    • Ahead of the House’s vote on the bill, Rep. Pressley delivered an impassioned speech on the House floor in which she made a direct appeal to her Republican colleagues to oppose this cruel and harmful bill.
    • Rep. Pressley delivered a floor speech in which she slammed the bill’s proposed Medicaid cuts, which would decimate reproductive healthcare in America and worsen maternal health outcomes.
    • Rep. Pressley co-hosted a press conference with Color of Change to oppose the Republicans’ cruel and harmful budget reconciliation package, which would gut critical programs like Medicaid and SNAP.
    • In the House Oversight Committee’s markup of the Republican reconciliation bill, Rep. Pressley demanded Republicans answer to the families who would go hungry by way of this reconciliation bill – and she was met with silence.
    • In an impassioned speech on the House floor, Rep. Pressley slammed Republicans’ cruel and callous budget resolution that would slash Medicaid, SNAP, and other critical government services to pay for trillions of dollars in tax giveaways for Donald Trump’s billionaire donors.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Oregon State Treasury Announces Hiring of New Director of Private Market Investments

    Source: US State of Oregon

    he Oregon State Treasury announced today the hiring of Tad Fergusson, CFA, as Director of Private Market investments. Fergusson will start at Treasury in his new role on July 28.

    Fergusson joins Treasury with nearly three decades of experience in institutional investing and portfolio management. In his position, he will play a key leadership role in overseeing Oregon’s private markets investments on behalf of the Oregon Public Employees Retirement Fund (OPERF) and other state trust funds.

    Oregon State Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner said, “Private market investments are an important part of Oregon’s portfolio. Tad brings his experience and expertise to Treasury at a time when global economic uncertainty makes our investment decisions more complex. I welcome Tad to Treasury and look forward to working with him.”

    Prior to joining Treasury, Fergusson has served as Managing Principal at Meketa Investment Group since 2019, where he advised some of the largest public pension plans in the country across private equity, private credit, and real assets. Previously, he spent more than two decades at Pension Consulting Alliance, leading private equity consulting efforts and guiding strategy for major public pension plans. Fergusson holds an MBA and a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Oregon and is a Chartered Financial Analyst.

    “I’m honored to join the Oregon State Treasury as Director of Private Markets and am grateful for the opportunity to lead this team,” said Tad Fergusson. “As a lifelong Oregonian, I look forward to building strong relationships with our partners and stakeholders as we work together to deliver long-term, sustainable value for Oregon and our state’s public employees.”

    In his new role, Fergusson will oversee Treasury’s private market investments, which has historically been one of the best performing asset classes within OPERF. Over the last 10 years, private equity investments have returned 12.69%, the highest rate of return for any asset class within the retirement fund’s portfolio. With approximately 26% of the portfolio currently allocated to private equity, these investments play a key role in helping to deliver long-term, risk-adjusted returns for Oregon’s public retirees.

    As Director of Private Market Investments, Fergusson will report to Chief Investment Officer Rex Kim. He will join a team of investment professionals responsible for managing Oregon’s globally diversified portfolio on behalf of public entities and beneficiaries of the state retirement system.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Releases Report, Finds Firearm Microstamping Technology Viable

    Source: US State of California

    Friday, July 18, 2025

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

    OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today released a report finding that firearm microstamping technology is technologically viable when imprinting a unique microscopic array of characters, referred to as a microstamp, on spent cartridge cases discharged by a firearm into which a microstamped firing pin has been installed. This report follows recent amendments to the Unsafe Handgun Act, including requiring that new semiautomatic pistols must have microstamping capabilities that allow law enforcement to trace a shell casing to the pistol that fired it. The California Department of Justice’s (DOJ) investigation found that microstamping components installed in semiautomatic pistols regularly produce microstamps on spent cartridge cases discharged by these firearms, including after sustained or repeat firing. The investigation was led by DOJ’s Bureau of Forensic Services, performed in consultation with relevant legal and subject matter experts, and included input from stakeholders, who were invited to provide written comments relevant to DOJ’s technological viability investigation.

    “My office’s investigation into the technological viability of microstamping components has found that this technology is viable,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Microstamping technology could help law enforcement match cartridges found at crime scenes directly to the firearms they came from. Today, my office released a report outlining the findings of our investigation in an effort to provide appropriate transparency as to the basis of our determination.”

    Microstamping technology causes a firearm to imprint a unique microscopic code onto ammunition cartridge cases when a firearm is fired that identifies the firearm’s make, model, and serial number, helping law enforcement match cartridges found at crime scenes directly to the firearms they came from.  

    In 2023, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 452, authored by Senator Catherine Blakespear (D-Encinitas), which amended California’s Unsafe Handgun Act and added separate Penal Code provisions that adopted new requirements concerning microstamping components in semiautomatic pistols sold or transferred in the state. California Penal Code section 27532 required DOJ to investigate the technological viability of microstamping components. Beginning January 1st, 2028, the Unsafe Handgun Act will mandate that all semiautomatic handguns sold by licensed dealers must be verified as microstamping enabled. 

    In the report, DOJ outlines the findings of the investigation, including:

    • Engraved firing pins consistently leave legible microstamps on spent cartridge cases.
    • In many tested firearms and ammunition types, microstamping components can reliably imprint all data needed to identify the firearm. 
    • Even incomplete microstamps can yield useful leads for solving and prosecuting gun crimes.
    • Using partial microstamps is equivalent to using partial fingerprints, license plates, or firearm serial numbers as investigative leads. 

    This fall, DOJ will work to provide written guidance on performance standards for entities engaged in the business of producing microstamping components. Starting early next year, DOJ will start accepting applications for licensure of entities to engage in the business of producing microstamping components that meet these performance standards. 

    A full copy of the report can be found here. 

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: First National Bank Alaska named one of top banks in the nation by Bank Director magazine

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ANCHORAGE, Alaska, July 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bank Director, a leading resource for the financial industry, named First National (OTCQX:FBAK) as the tenth best bank in the United States on its Top 25 Banks list and the third best bank on its Top Banks with Less than $5 Billion in Total Assets list. Bank Director uses four metrics to assess performance: return on equity, return on assets, asset quality and capital adequacy.

    “I’m especially pleased Bank Director recognized the high quality of the bank’s loans, maintained through our philosophy that all loans must not only make sense for the bank, but also be beneficial for the borrower,” said Betsy Lawer, First National Chair and CEO/President. “These accolades are a powerful testament to the leadership, vision, and dedication of First National’s Board of Directors and executive management team, as well as the 621 employees who bring that vision to life every day.”

    Alaska’s community bank since 1922, First National Bank Alaska proudly meets the financial needs of Alaskans with ATMs and 28 locations in 19 communities throughout the state, and by providing banking services to meet their needs across the nation and around the world.

    In 2025, Alaska Business readers voted First National “Best of Alaska Business” in the Best Place to Work category for the 10th year in a row, Best Bank/Credit Union for the fifth time, and Best Customer Service for the second year in a row. That year, Forbes also selected First National as the sixth best bank on their America’s Best Banks list and one of the top two Banks in the State, and Newsweek recognized the bank as one of the nation’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions. The bank was also voted “Best of Alaska” in 2024 in the Anchorage Daily News awards, ranking as one of the top three in the Bank/Financial category for the sixth year in a row. American Banker again recognized First National as a “Best Bank to Work For” in 2024, for the seventh consecutive year.

    For more than a century, the bank has been committed to supporting the communities it serves. In 2024, for the eighth consecutive reporting period, over a span of twenty-four years, First National received an Outstanding Community Reinvestment Act performance rating from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency.

    First National Bank Alaska is a Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender, and recognized as a Minority Depository Institution by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, as it is majority-owned by women.

    Contact:
    Corporate Communications
    907-777-3409

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Presses Trump Administration to Release Federal Funding to Fight Fentanyl Overdoses

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) released a statement following reports that the Trump Administration is withholding $140 million to combat the fentanyl crisis, jeopardizing critical funding for programs aimed at saving lives and reducing opioid overdoses across 49 states, including Nevada. The Overdose Data to Action Program through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides funding for the Southern Nevada Health District and the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services to help fight drug overdoses. 
    “It’s incomprehensible that the Trump Administration is withholding critical federal funding to fight the fentanyl crisis in Nevada and all across the nation. This is a dangerous move that puts lives and communities at risk,” said Senator Rosen. “Instead of fighting the fentanyl epidemic, Donald Trump is undermining public health efforts and abandoning the very people who are working on the front lines to stop overdoses. I call on the Trump Administration to release these funds immediately.”
    Senator Rosen has consistently worked across party lines to fight the fentanyl crisis and combat fentanyl trafficking into the U.S. Senator Rosen introduced the Stop Smuggling Illicit Synthetic Drugs on U.S. Transportation Networks Act to establish a national strategy and deploy detection technologies at ports of entry to intercept fentanyl coming across the border. Her bipartisan FEND Off Fentanyl Act, which sanctions international fentanyl trafficking networks—including Mexican cartels and chemical suppliers in China—was signed into law last year. Senator Rosen has also helped introduce the bipartisan END FENTANYL Act, which mandates that U.S. Customs and Border Protection update its drug interdiction policies every three years to stay ahead of evolving smuggling tactics. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Introduces Resolution Opposing Reckless Trump Funding Cuts to Social Security, Medicare, Other Critical Programs and Departments

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) introduced a resolution in the Senate opposing the Trump Administration’s funding cuts and freezes to critical programs all while Republicans push to give more tax cuts to the ultra-wealthy. These cuts have affected programs like Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, making it harder for Nevadans to access much-needed services. The cuts have also dismantled federal agencies and resulted in the firing of experienced federal staff, causing immediate and widespread harm to communities in Nevada and across the United States.
    “Donald Trump’s reckless funding freeze and cuts to programs that American families rely on have dire consequences,” said Senator Rosen. “These wrongheaded actions are hurting Nevadans who rely on Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, the VA, and so many other critical programs. I’ll keep pushing back on Donald Trump’s efforts to harm our communities.”
    The full text of the resolution can be found HERE.
    Senator Rosen has repeatedly pushed back against President Trump’s federal funding freeze, hiring freeze, and terminations in Nevada. She demanded answers from the Acting Social Security Administration Commissioner on the planned relocation of a Social Security office in Las Vegas. She also voted against Trump’s reconciliation bill that cut both food assistance and medical care, and his rescissions bill that cut public broadcasting. This week, she demanded that the Trump administration release $7 billion in K-12 education funding.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen, Cortez Masto Push for Upholding Bipartisan EXPLORE Act to Benefit Lake Tahoe Basin

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Nevada Senators Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) joined California Senators Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and Alex Padilla (D-CA) in a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins and U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) Secretary Doug Burgum requesting that they make sure the Lake Tahoe Basin benefits from the bipartisan Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act, which was signed into law last Congress. Their letter comes in advance of the 29th Lake Tahoe Summit, which will take place on August 6, 2025.
    “Lake Tahoe is a beautiful, unique environment that both our states cherish and enjoy for its plentiful outdoor recreation opportunities and its precious natural resource value,” the Senators wrote. “We follow a line of previous California and Nevada Senators who have worked with numerous administrations across decades to preserve and protect Lake Tahoe for Californians, Nevadans, and the millions of people from beyond our states who visit Tahoe every year.” 
    In the letter, the lawmakers urge the agencies to take action on the opportunities presented by the EXPLORE Act, which includes improving outdoor recreation access on U.S. public lands, supporting gateway communities, strengthening conservation efforts, and boosting the outdoor recreation economy. The Senators request that USDA and DOI utilize the EXPLORE Act to implement the following in the Tahoe region:
    Select Tahoe’s long-distance bike trails for official designation and create a new unpaved trail that circumnavigates the region.  
    Account for the unique needs of Tahoe’s gateway community in terms of housing, municipal infrastructure, visitation, and expansion of visitation on federal land.  
    Direct a USDA pilot program with a pay-for-performance finance model for recreation projects on or benefiting Forest Service lands.  
    Affirm that Tahoe qualifies as a participant in the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program, making it eligible for grants to improve recreational opportunities. 
    Read the full letter HERE.
    Senators Rosen and Cortez Masto are champions for Nevada’s great outdoor spaces and public lands. They passed critical legislation to permanently fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), which protects public lands in Nevada and across the U.S. They passed bipartisan, bicameral legislation to reauthorize the Lake Tahoe Restoration Act.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Rosen Introduces Bill to Declare Extreme Heat a Major Disaster

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) introduced the Extreme Heat Emergency Act. The bill would explicitly authorize extreme heat as eligible for a Major Disaster Declaration by the President under the Stafford Act, which recognizes fires, floods, explosions, hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes as eligible disasters. This would help communities like those in Nevada access federal resources and funding to respond to these disasters and prepare for future extreme heat waves. On Monday, Las Vegas had the hottest day recorded so far this year, and the death toll of heat-related deaths has already risen to 29 people in Southern Nevada.
    CBS News: The June heat dome broke records. Lawmakers are now trying to classify extreme heat as a disaster
    There have been 27 major disaster declarations issued by President Trump so far in 2025. The disasters range in size and scope, from the L.A. wildfires to Midwest tornadoes and the Texas flooding as well as several winter storms. Many of them have resulted in fatalities and billions of dollars in damage to property and businesses, but one major deadly weather event that occurred in June hasn’t been declared: an extreme heat wave.
    But there’s no disaster declaration for the event listed on the FEMA website.
    That’s because extreme heat is not considered a “disaster” that is eligible for federal funding, according to the Stafford Act, which is the guiding law that outlines when and how the president can declare disasters and direct the Federal Emergency Management Agency to provide assistance to state and local governments. 
    Now, three Democratic lawmakers are attempting to change that. Senators Jacky Rosen of Nevada and Ruben Gallego of Arizona, along with Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia of Texas, have proposed legislation to classify extreme heat as a disaster, which would allow federal funding to flow into areas where hotter temperatures cause significant physical and economic distress.
    Las Vegas Review-Journal: Nevada senator wants federal funding for extreme heat emergencies
    Sen. Jacky Rosen introduced legislation today to designate extreme heat as a major disaster, which would allow communities to receive federal aid during heat-related emergencies.
    The Extreme Heat Emergency Act, co-sponsored by Rosen, Sen. Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz. and Rep. Sylvia Garcia, D-Texas, would help Nevada and other states respond to extreme heat events and prevent future disasters, according to a Wednesday press release.
    “Last year, more than 500 people died in one single county in Nevada from heat-related illnesses,” Rosen wrote in the press release. “Current federal policy ignores the physical and health risks that such extremely high temperatures have on our communities, which is why I’m introducing a bill to change that.”
    The release cites heat-related deaths and critical infrastructure damage as severe effects of extreme temperature. Extreme heat is the leading cause of weather-related death in the U.S., according to the release.
    KOH Reno: Nevada Sen. Moves to Declare Extreme Heat a ‘Major Disaster’
    Nevada Senator Jacky Rosen is introducing legislation to declare extreme heat a major disaster.
    If passed and signed into law, the Extreme Heat Emergency Act would add extreme temperatures to a list of disasters eligible to receive federal aid.
    Currently, the president has the authority to declare disasters for fires, floods, hurricanes and other natural catastrophes.
    Twenty-nine Clark County residents have died from heat-related illnesses this summer. Last year, the county saw more than 500 heat-related deaths.
    KLAS Las Vegas: After Las Vegas’ hottest summer ever, Rosen seeks to classify extreme heat as major disaster
    Anchor: “A Nevada Senator wants more federal money available during extreme heat. Democrat Jacky Rosen [is] introducing a bill to have extreme heat listed as a major federal disaster. She cited the hundreds of fatalities in Clark County, where heat is listed as a related cause. That bill would unlock disaster funding available for things like hurricanes and tornadoes.”
    KSNV Las Vegas: Nevada’s Rosen joins push to add extreme heat to major disaster declarations
    Anchor: “Speaking of the extreme heat, Nevada Senator Jacky Rosen is pushing to add that to the list of natural disasters that are eligible for federal aid, joined by representatives from Arizona and Texas. The bill would allow communities experiencing heat waves access to federal resources and funding. Last year, there were more than 500 heat-related deaths in Clark County alone. Senator Rosen argues current federal policy ignores the dangers and health risks posed by heat, adding that classifying heat as a major disaster will help the community respond and prepare for future heat events.”
    KOLO Reno: Rosen helps introduce bill to declare extreme heat a major disaster 
    Anchor: “Senator Jacky Rosen is helping to introduce a bill focused on the dangers of heat and getting federal funding to prepare for extreme heat events. The Extreme Heat Emergency Act would explicitly authorize extreme heat as being eligible for a “major disaster declaration” by the president under the Stafford Act. Rosen says the bill would help communities across our state access federal resources and money to prepare for future heat waves.”
    KTVN Reno: Lawmakers push for federal disaster declaration on extreme heat 
    Anchor: “Nevada Senator Jacky Rosen and Arizona Senator Ruben Gallego introduced the Extreme Heat Emergency Act to add extreme heat to the list of disasters eligible for a major disaster declaration under the Stafford Act. This designation would allow local governments to request federal aid similar to what is available for hurricanes, floods, and wildfires.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, Rosen Push for Upholding Bipartisan EXPLORE Act to Benefit Lake Tahoe Basin

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
    Washington, D.C. – Today, Nevada Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) joined California Senators Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) in a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins and U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) Secretary Doug Burgum requesting that they make sure the Lake Tahoe Basin benefits from the bipartisan Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act, which was signed into law last Congress. Their letter comes in advance of the 29th Lake Tahoe Summit, which will take place on August 6, 2025.
    “Lake Tahoe is a beautiful, unique environment that both our states cherish and enjoy for its plentiful outdoor recreation opportunities and its precious natural resource value,” the Senators wrote. “We follow a line of previous California and Nevada Senators who have worked with numerous administrations across decades to preserve and protect Lake Tahoe for Californians, Nevadans, and the millions of people from beyond our states who visit Tahoe every year.” 
    In the letter, the lawmakers urge the agencies to take action on the opportunities presented by the EXPLORE Act, which includes improving outdoor recreation access on U.S. public lands, supporting gateway communities, strengthening conservation efforts, and boosting the outdoor recreation economy. The Senators request that USDA and DOI utilize the EXPLORE Act to implement the following in the Tahoe region:
    Select Tahoe’s long-distance bike trails for official designation and create a new unpaved trail that circumnavigates the region.  
    Account for the unique needs of Tahoe’s gateway community in terms of housing, municipal infrastructure, visitation, and expansion of visitation on federal land.  
    Direct a USDA pilot program with a pay-for-performance finance model for recreation projects on or benefiting Forest Service lands.  
    Affirm that Tahoe qualifies as a participant in the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program, making it eligible for grants to improve recreational opportunities. 
    Read the full letter here.
    Senators Cortez Masto and Rosen are champions for Nevada’s great outdoor spaces and public lands. They passed critical legislation to permanently fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), which protects public lands in Nevada and across the U.S. They passed bipartisan, bicameral legislation to reauthorize the Lake Tahoe Restoration Act, and they delivered critical funding to protect Lake Tahoe in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Cortez Masto has introduced legislation to ban oil and gas development in Nevada’s beautiful and pristine Ruby Mountains.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murkowski Helps Advance First Four Spending Bills with Alaska Wins

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alaska Lisa Murkowski
    07.18.25
    Washington, DC – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, voted to advance four bills for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) that contain significant investments for Alaska. The four appropriations bills that passed committee are for Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies (AG); Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon); Commerce, Justice, and Science and Related Agencies (CJS); and Legislative Branch (LEG). All were approved in committee, and will now advance to the Senate floor for consideration.
    “With crucial investments in affordable housing, infrastructure, public safety, and fisheries, we are addressing some of the most pressing challenges faced by Alaskans, and helping the sustainability and future of not only our communities, but our way of life. I am proud to fight for Alaskan priorities and ensure that our state’s needs are met,” said Senator Murkowski.
    HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE COMMERCE, JUSTICE, AND SCIENCE (CJS) APPROPRIATIONS BILL
    Supporting NOAA’s Mission in Alaska
    The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is a vital partner for the state of Alaska, leveraging partnerships at federal, state, local, and Tribal levels. NOAA provides everything from real time weather forecasts to fisheries monitoring, so that our communities are safe and our way of life is sustainable. To that end, Senator Murkowski prioritized ensuring the agency had programmatic support from the CJS Appropriations Bill to further advance their core missions in Alaska.
    One of the largest wins included $75 million for NOAA to recapitalize vessels, so that the fleet can continue to provide state-of-the-art weather forecasts and fisheries monitoring. The budget also included a $1 million increase for the Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) Regional Observations, which directly supports Alaska’s Ocean Observing System.
    Wins for NOAA Fisheries that will support sustainable seafood harvesting and conserving habitat:
    $10 million increase for Fisheries Surveys to support the historical levels of Alaska trawl surveys and exploring shifting fish stocks
    $3.125 million for the Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP), an increase of $250,000. This program was established to develop improved fishing practices and gear technologies in the effort of reducing bycatch.
    $4 million for the Fishery Survey Contingency Fund, which was established through the U.S. Treasury to compensate Alaska fishermen for economic losses.
    $5.5 million increase for Salmon Management Activities, which will be used to support the production of 42 million hatchery fish, to help increase the harvest for Tribal, commercial, and recreational fisheries.
    $41.5 million for the Pacific Salmon Treaty, a $500K increase from last fiscal year. This funding will go towards joint United States/Canada management of salmon fishing to prevent over-fishing and provide for optimum harvest
    $58.4 million for Observers and Training, including $2 million for the North Pacific Observer Program. These programs are essential for the conservation and management of fisheries in the Bering Sea, Aleutian Island, and Gulf of Alaska
    Wins for NOAA Weather & Climate Monitoring Systems
    $5 million increase for the National Data Buoy Center (NDBC). The NDBC is a network of monitoring infrastructure that collects and analyzes real-time data to ensure maritime safety.
    $10 million increase for Analyze, Forecast, and Support – includes language supporting tsunami detection and response systems relevant to Alaska.
    Advancing Connectivity in Alaska
    Senator Murkowski has set herself apart with her focus on broadband infrastructure in Alaska, shepherding record investment to the state through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) of 2021. She continues to be a leader in the space, inserting report language in the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program that acknowledges Alaska’s challenges with short construction seasons and logistics, laying the groundwork for future flexibility and support if needed. She also directed the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to consider supplemental funding that would ensure rural and remote Tribal projects are completed.
    Promoting Public Safety in Alaska
    Public safety in Alaska is always foremost on Senator Murkowski’s mind—particularly in our rural communities. She used the CJS bill as a vehicle for direct investment towards advancing that goal. The bill includes an increase in funding for the Tribal Youth Program, which does everything from improvements to the juvenile justice system, invest in alcohol and substance abuse prevention programs, and offer mental health services for Tribal youth. She was able to secure a 5% Tribal Set-Aside in the Crime Victims Fund along with strong report language that supports Tribal flexibility and streamlined access. The Senator also included increased funding for Special Tribal Criminal Jurisdiction, with language supporting Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) efforts and improved Department of Justice (DOJ) grant coordination for Native communities. Additionally, the bill follows up on the Government Accountability Office (GAO) report on MMIW with a directive for immediate reporting.
    Alaska faces some of the highest rates of sexual assault per capita of any state, and Senator Murkowski was intent on using the CJS bill to address this crisis. She approved an almost tripling of the Sexual Assault Forensic Exam Grants funding, which will support training and resources for forensic examination of sexual assault survivors. The Senator also included report language directing the Office for Victims of Crime/Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention to support Alaska-specific Child Advocacy Centers.
    The bill also includes funding increases for Transitional Housing Assistance, Underserved Populations Program, Regional Information Sharing Systems, and Veterans Treatment Courts.
    Investing in Arctic Research
    As the leading expert in Congress on Arctic policy and polar affairs, Senator Murkowski uses her position to advance American priorities in the North. The bill provides $9.1 billion, just $60 million below the last enacted level – preserving support for critical Arctic scientific research despite tight fiscal constraints. Arctic research remains a priority, with the National Science Foundation (NSF) playing a key role in supporting long-term monitoring, infrastructure development, and partnerships with Alaska-based institutions and Indigenous communities.
    In addition to broader programmatic funding to help Alaskans, Murkowski was able to secure investments in this bill that are specific to local 17 Alaska communities or entities, projects that have been requested and prioritized by local governments and organizations:
    Anchorage: $305,000 to support the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force in Alaska so they can further advance their mission of catching child sexual predators
    Anchorage: $1.5 million for the University of Alaska Anchorage to acquire specialty equipment that will help propel the institution to be a leader in biotechnological innovation, leveraging Alaska’s Arctic environment
    Bethel: $70,000 for the purchase and installation of a new security system at the Bethel Police Department’s headquarters
    Cordova: $355,000 to update equipment for climate and ecosystem monitoring as part of a ten-year long study of the region
    Fairbanks: $1.5 million to develop drone-borne maritime lidar to count salmon.
    Statewide: $498,000 for the creation and deployment of a Mobile Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) that will provide coordinated care to survivors of sexual assault in rural communities where traditional, stationary services may not be readily available
    Southeast: $500,000 for Sealaska Heritage Institute to develop and implement a sustainable workforce development program to address growth in fisheries and ocean sciences in Southeast Alaska over the next ten years
    Ketchikan: $3 million to upgrade its radio communication system, which has been identified as an essential public safety need in the after-action plan following recent landslides to improve disaster response and community resilience
    Statewide: $2 million for the Alaska Fisheries Development Foundation to modernize and revitalize Alaska’s seafood industry by investing in processing innovation, workforce development, and infrastructure improvements.
    Statewide: $2.5 million for the North Pacific Research Board to investigate how ecosystem changes in the Northern Bering Sea influence species of commercial, ecological, and subsistence importance to inform local, state, and federal fisheries management
    Statewide: $1 million to help implement Next Generation 911, which will improve location accuracy and system resiliency for emergency call centers
    Statewide: $500,000 for the Bering Sea Fisherman’s Association to enable Tribes and Tribal organizations to participate as Cooperating Agencies in environmental analysis and management decisions made by federal agencies that affect subsistence resources.
    Statewide: $165,000 for the Alaska Ocean Observing System to purchase an Imaging Flow CytoBots (IFCBs) to continue monitoring for harmful algal blooms.
    Statewide: $1 million for Alaska Native Women’s Resource Center to support Tribes in implementing survivor-centered and trauma-informed programs in Tribal justice systems
    Statewide: $3.5 million for the Alaska Network on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (ANDVSA) to support their mission of serving survivors of gender-based violence
    Unalaska: $3.5 million for the Bristol Bay Science and Research Institute to genetically analyze chum salmon from the pollock fishery bycatch in the Bering Sea to determine when and where Western Alaska chum salmon are being caught
    Valdez: $5.5 million to replace obsolete and failed emergency services communication towers and equipment
    HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES (AG) APPROPRIATIONS BILL
    Investments in housing and community development
    Affordable housing remains one of the most pressing challenges facing Alaska and our country. Senator Murkowski was intent on using the AG spending bill to address this challenge, particularly in rural communities where the cost of development remains prohibitively high. She supported $1.715 billion for the Rental Assistance Program, which will help low-income families around the country with for affordable rental housing in rural areas. She was able to secure $25 million for very low-income housing repair grants so that Alaskans can stay in their homes safely.
    Also included in the legislation was $1.25 billion for direct loans to improve critical infrastructure such as public safety buildings and community centers in rural communities.
    Updating Alaska’s clean water and utility infrastructure
    Senator Murkowski has made it her mission to ensure Alaska has the infrastructure to support daily life – no matter what community Alaskans’ call home. She was able to include $65 million for Rural Water and Waste Disposal Grants, and inserted report language that would prioritize Alaska Native communities. She also was able to secure $8 million for the High Energy Cost Grant Program, which assists energy providers in lowering energy costs for families with extremely high per-household energy costs.
    Bolstering food security and agriculture
    Senator Murkowski has been focused on bolstering Alaska’s food security for many years. She was able to secure a number of Alaska-specific wins, including:
    $5 million for Micro-Grants for Food Security, with report language prioritizing eligibility for reindeer herders, greenhouse growers, and hydroponic farmers
    $5 million for Alaska Native-Serving Institutions to promote equal access to education in rural Alaska and provide sustainable food and energy solutions for Alaska Native communities
    $3.5 million for the Geographically Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers Transportation Program, helping offset high freight costs for Alaskan producers
    $3 million for the FDPIR 638 Contracting Authority Pilot, with direction for the USDA to allow direct purchases of traditional foods directly from small indigenous producers
    $888.9 million for the Summer Food Service Program, with report language supporting the continued implementation of non-congregate meal service to ensure low-income students can eat while school is out
    $1.826 billion for Agricultural Research Service, with continued funding for research on cover crops and cereal grains for northern climates and permafrost regions
    In addition, the bill includes $80 million for The Emergency Food Assistance Program’s storage and distribution funding to ensure rural food banks can receive supplies; a $3 billion increase for Child Nutrition programs, including School Breakfast and School Lunch programs, and the Child and Adult Care Food Program, as well as a $603 million increase to fully fund Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). The bill also directs USDA to work with states, tribes, and local stakeholders to use federal nutrition dollars for the direct purchase of foods from local and regional producers for the various food assistance programs.
    In addition to programmatic funding to help Alaskans, Murkowski was able to secure investments in this bill that are specific for 10 Alaska communities, projects that have been requested and prioritized by local governments and organizations:
    Bethel: $605,000 to establish a permanent Food Bank and Pantry in Bethel
    Eagle: $750,000 for the construction of a fire hall/public safety building for the local fire department and Emergency Medical Services team
    Houston: $1.95 million for the construction of Public Works Facility so preventive maintenance can be performed on equipment
    Kenai: $2.045 million for the installation of telecommunications infrastructure to improve emergency response times and enhance public communications
    Nunapitchuk: $55,000 to develop a Preliminary Investigation Feasibility Report whether the Native Village of Nunapitchuk can pursue a community-wide relocation project in the Nunavakanukakslak Lake-Johnson River Watershed
    Petersburg: $225,000 to purchase emergency response equipment for the local fire department
    Statewide: $4.2 million for Alaska Municipal League to purchase heavy equipment for several communities designed to conduct road improvements and maintain infrastructure in rural Alaska
    Statewide: $750,000 to expand veterinary care in rural Alaska to prevent zoonotic disease outbreaks in communities off the road system
    Whittier: $310,000 for the removal and abatement of asbestos hazards in community housing where 85% of the city’s residents live
    Wrangell: $2.438 million to rehabilitate Wrangell’s Public Safety Building and Emergency Operations Center
    HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS AFFAIRS, AND RELATED AGENCIES (MILCON) APPROPRIATIONS BILL
    Ensuring Alaska’s military bases are state-of-the-art facilities
    Senator Murkowski is committed to supporting servicemembers in Alaska to ensure they have access to up-to-date resources as they protect and defend our nation, but also bolster their personal well-being as they adapt to life in Alaska. She secured over $400 million in programmatic funding for a Joint Integrated Testing and Training Center (JITTC) at JBER for the Air Force, a base supply complex at JBER for the Air National Guard, and a barracks at Fort Wainwright for the Army.
    Supporting Alaska’s veterans
    Senator Murkowski was able to secure funding for the construction of State Extended Care Facilities and Veterans Cemeteries. She also secured report language directing the VA to focus on benefits eligibility education for veterans who lack a direct road connection to a VA facility. She also secured her annual bill language to allow for care-sharing agreements between Federally Qualified Health Centers in the State of Alaska and Indian Tribes and Tribal organizations which are party to the Alaska Native Health Compact with the Indian Health Service. She made certain that the VA received full funding for mental health programs, telehealth programs, women veteran gender-specific care programs, homelessness programs, and for the Office of Rural Health.
    In addition to programmatic funding, Murkowski was able to secure investments in this bill that are specific for 3 of Alaska military installations, projects that have been requested and prioritized by the Department of Defense:
    JBER: $45 million to complete the runway extension project for the Air Force.
    Eielson Air Force Base: $6.7 million to finish planning and designing of a new permanent party dormitory for the Air Force.
    Fort Wainwright: $7.7 million to begin the planning and designing of a new dining facility for the Army.
    HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH (LEG) APPROPRIATIONS BILL
    Senator Murkowski inserted report language in the Legislative Branch FY26 Appropriations Act that incentivizes the Senate Dining Room and food-service facilities in the Capitol to source domestic seafood products, including wild-caught Alaska salmon.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: GENIUS Act passed! RICH Miner launches XRP-based mining strategy to increase stable income for Ripple holders

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, Illinois, July 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The United States officially passed the GENIUS Act, and the global cryptocurrency market has reached a critical turning point in compliance and institutionalization.

    The well-known cloud mining platform RICH Miner has launched a liquidity mining strategy based on XRP, providing Ripple holders with an efficient, safe, and low-threshold daily stable income channel.

    The GENIUS Act releases positive news, and the XRP application ecosystem expands:

    The implementation of the GENIUS Act marks the establishment of a regulatory framework for the legal and compliant use of crypto assets by the US government.

    With the implementation of the Act, RICH Miner launched an innovative “liquidity mining” service for XRP, further broadening the use value and profitability of XRP

    Highlights of RICH Miner XRP Liquid Mining Solution:

    ◆No hardware required, easy to participate: users only need to recharge XRP to the platform to participate in liquidity mining, without the need for mining equipment or mining knowledge;

    ◆Earn stable income every day: the system will use XRP for mining operations or as computing power mortgage, and the income will be distributed to the user account every day;

    ◆Real computing power support, transparent and open: RICH Miner uses global mining pool cooperation and transparent computing power data to ensure that the source of income is real and reliable;

    ◆Platform endorsement, compliance first: RICH Miner has simultaneously updated the compliance process to ensure that the strategy is consistent with the spirit of the GENIUS Act.

    Cashing out fast lane for Ripple holders:

    1. Register an account:

    Visit the RICH Miner official website, register an account for free, and get a $15 new user bonus.

    2. Top up XRP:

    Enter the “Top up center”, select XRP, copy the wallet address generated by the system, and complete the transfer from the wallet or exchange.

    3. Select a mining contract:

    Browse different XRP mining plans (short-term/long-term/high-yield plans), select and confirm the purchase according to your personal preferences.

    (New User Experience Contract) Investment amount: $100; Term: 2 days; Daily income: $3; Total income: $100.00 + $6.

    (Canaan Avalon A15XP) Investment amount: $600; Term: 8 days; Daily income: $7.20; Total income: $500.00 + $57.60.

    (Bitdeer SealMiner A2) Investment amount: $1,300; Term: 13 days; Daily income: $17.30; Total income: $1300.00 + $221.39.

    (Bitmain Antminer L7) Investment amount: $3,000; Term: 17 days; Daily income: $42.30; Total income: $3000.00 + $719.10.

    (Bitmain Antminer S21 Immersion) Investment amount: $5600; Term: 24 days; Daily income: $84.00; Total income: $5600.00 + $2016.00.

    (Bitmain Antminer L9) Investment amount: $12,000; Term: 32 days; Daily income: $204.00; Total income: $12,000.00 + $6,528.00.

    → Click here to view more contracts

    4. Enjoy daily income:

    After purchasing the contract, the system automatically calculates and distributes mining income every day, which can be withdrawn or reinvested at any time for continuous appreciation.

    In the era of compliance, RICH Miner takes the lead:

    With the full implementation of the GENIUS Act, the crypto mining industry is gradually moving from the “gray area” to the sunshine of compliance. RICH Miner took the lead in responding to the policy call and launched the XRP solution based on the legal liquidity mining model, which not only meets regulatory requirements, but also provides investors with a full range of asset appreciation tools.

    Conclusion:

    The implementation of the GENIUS Act has injected a shot of adrenaline into the crypto industry, and RICH Miner’s XRP liquidity mining strategy is the perfect combination of compliance and innovation. For Ripple holders, now is a great time to cash out their holdings and realize daily returns.

    Choosing RICH Miner means choosing to be at the forefront of asset appreciation in the new regulatory era.

    Official website: https://richminer.com

    Customer service email: info@richminer.com

    APP download portal: Click here to get the APP

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wasserman Schultz, Díaz-Balart, Gonzales, Espaillat Lead Latino-Jewish Caucus in Marking Anniversary of AMIA Jewish Center Bombing, Demand Accountability

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23)

    “More than three decades after the tragic AMIA Jewish Center bombing, and there’s still no justice for the 85 victims, the hundreds of injured, and countless people who were traumatized by this attack,” said Wasserman Schultz. “With antisemitism skyrocketing around the world, this gruesome attack on Argentina’s thriving Jewish community cannot go unanswered. Congressmen Diaz-Balart, Espaillat, Gonzales, and I are all proud to honor the victims of this attack and keep up the vital pursuit of justice for their loved ones.”

    Washington, D.C. – This week, U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Co-Chair of the Latino-Jewish Caucus, was joined by fellow Co-Chairs, Reps. Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) and Tony Gonzales (TX-23) in sponsoring a resolution to commemorate the 31st anniversary of the 1994 bombing of the AMIA Jewish Community Center in Buenos Aires and demanding justice and accountability for those responsible for the attack.

    “More than three decades after the tragic AMIA Jewish Center bombing, and there’s still no justice for the 85 victims, the hundreds of injured, and countless people who were traumatized by this attack,” said Wasserman Schultz. “With antisemitism skyrocketing around the world, this gruesome attack on Argentina’s thriving Jewish community cannot go unanswered. Congressmen Diaz-Balart, Espaillat, Gonzales, and I are all proud to honor the victims of this attack and keep up the vital pursuit of justice for their loved ones.”

    “Today, we honor and mourn the 85 innocent lives, overwhelmingly members of Argentina’s Jewish community, who were brutally murdered, and the more than 300 injured, in the deadliest antisemitic terrorist attack in Argentina’s history. On July 18, 1994, the Asociación Mutual Israelita Argentina (AMIA) in Buenos Aires was targeted in an act of blatant antisemitism,” said Diaz-Balart. “I remain committed to demanding justice and accountability for the vile perpetrators of this crime, including Iran’s former Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi and other terrorists. We must never forget the victims, and we must continue to condemn the alarming rise of antisemitism wherever it appears and hold accountable those who engage in such heinous acts.”

    “As co-chair of the Latino-Jewish Congressional Caucus, I am proud to join my colleagues to reintroduce this resolution that recognizes the 31st anniversary of the attack on the AMIA in Buenos Aires, which was the deadliest terrorist attack in Argentine history,” said Espaillat. “Today’s bipartisan resolution demonstrates the Caucus’ commitment to ensuring justice for each of the victims as we embrace their families and loved ones. Terrorism and antisemitism have no place in our society, and the reintroduction of this legislation reaffirms our solidarity with the Jewish community in Argentina and around the world.”

    “31 years ago, 85 souls were taken from our world far too soon in the AMIA Jewish Center bombing in Buenos Aires. We will never forget the victims, their families, and all those touched by this horrific tragedy,” said Gonzales. “Now more than ever, America needs steady voices in Congress in the fight to eradicate antisemitism. As leaders of the Latino-Jewish Caucus, this is central to our mission.” 

    “This week, Argentine and Jewish communities worldwide mark the 31st anniversary of the bombing of the Argentine Israelite Mutual Association (AMIA) building in Buenos Aires, the deadliest antisemitic attack since the Holocaust until Hamas’ October 7 terrorist attack on Israel. For over three decades, American Jewish Committee (AJC) has persistently advocated for justice, urging Argentina to hold those responsible accountable. The AMIA bombing, carried out by Hezbollah operatives, is a reminder of the global threat posed by the Iranian regime and its proxies. We commend the co-chairs of the Latino-Jewish Congressional Caucus, Representatives Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), Mario Díaz-Balart (R-FL), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), and Tony Gonzales (R-TX), for their leadership and steadfast commitment to advancing truth and justice, and for sustaining awareness of the Iranian regime’s continuous destabilizing activities around the world. Let this anniversary renew our commitment to ensure the victims are never forgotten, that justice is ultimately served, and that dangerous proxies can no longer sow terror across the globe,” said Dina Siegel Vann, Director, The Arthur and Rochelle Belfer Institute for Latino and Latin American Affairs, AJC.

    First established in 2011 with support from the American Jewish Committee, the bipartisan Latino-Jewish Congressional Caucus has cemented stronger bonds based on Latino and Jewish communities’ shared histories as immigrants and minorities. It has also been vocal in responding to the growing wave of antisemitism across the globe in the U.S. The 25-member Caucus is now led by Reps. Wasserman Schultz, Díaz-Balart, Espaillat, and Tony Gonzales. Last July, Rep. Wasserman Schultz joined a Congressional delegation to Buenos Aires to participate in the formal 30th anniversary commemoration of the AMIA attack.

    The text of House Resolution 597 can be found here and below:

    Condemning the attack on the Argentine Jewish Mutual Association Jewish Community Center in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in July 1994, and encouraging accountability

    for the attack.

    Whereas, 31 years ago, on July 18, 1994, 85 innocent people were killed and more than 300 were injured when the Asociación Mutual Israelita Argentina (AMIA) was bombed in Buenos Aires, Argentina;

    Whereas at that time, the AMIA bombing was the deadliest attack on Jewish people outside Israel since the Holocaust;

    Whereas it is reported that considerable evidence links the attack to the terrorist group Hezbollah, which is based in Lebanon, and sponsored by Iran, a U.S.-designated state

    sponsor of terrorism since 1984;

    Whereas, two years earlier, Hezbollah operatives also blew up the Israeli embassy in Buenos Aires, killing 29 civilians and injuring 242;

    Whereas the 31 years since the bombing have been marred by a failure to bring those responsible, including Iran backed operatives and their Hezbollah proxies, to justice;

    Whereas, in September 2004, ten years after the attack, Alberto Nisman was appointed as the Special Prosecutor in charge of the 1994 AMIA bombing investigation;

    Whereas, in October 2006, Argentine prosecutors Alberto Nisman and Marcelo Martinez Burgos formally accused the Iranian regime of directing the bombing, and the Hezbollah militia of carrying it out;

    Whereas the Argentine prosecutors charged Iranian nationals as suspects in the AMIA bombing, including—

    (1) Ali Fallahijan, Iran’s former intelligence minister;

    (2) Mohsen Rabbani, Iran’s former cultural attache´ in Buenos Aires;

    (3) Ahmad Reza Asghari, a former Iranian diplomat posted to Argentina;

    (4) Ahmad Vahidi, Iran’s former defense minister;

    (5) Ali Akbar Velayati, Iran’s former foreign minister; (6) Mohsen Rezaee, former chief commander of the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps;

    (7) Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, former President of Iran; and

    (8) Hadi Soleimanpour, former Iranian ambassador to Argentina;

    Whereas Ibrahim Hussein Berro, a member of the terrorist group Hezbollah, was identified as the AMIA bomber;

    Whereas, in November 2006, an Argentine judge issued arrest warrants for 8 Iranian nationals, including high ranking regime and military operatives, and one Lebanese national, who were named as suspects in the AMIA bombing;

    Whereas, in November 2007, INTERPOL voted to put the following suspects in the 1994 AMIA attack on its most wanted list—Ali Fallahijan, Mohsen Rabbani, Ahmad Reza Asghari, Ahmad Vahidi, Mohsen Razaee from Iran, and Imad Fayez Moughnieh from Lebanon;

    Whereas INTERPOL currently has three red alerts in place in relation to the AMIA attack ;

    Whereas, on January 13, 2015, prosecutor Alberto Nisman alleged in a complaint that then-Argentinian President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner and then-Minister of Foreign Relations Hector Timerman conspired to cover up Iranian involvement in the 1994 terrorist bombing, and reportedly agreed to negotiate immunity for Iranian suspects and help get their names removed from the INTERPOL list;

    Whereas prosecutor Alberto Nisman was scheduled to present his new findings to the Argentinian Congress on January 19, 2015;

    Whereas prosecutor Alberto Nisman was found shot in the head in his apartment in Buenos Aires on January 18, 2015;

    Whereas the investigation of the AMIA bombing has been marked by judicial misconduct and undue influence;

    Whereas, to date, no one has been brought to justice for the 1992 bombing of the Israeli Embassy in Argentina, the 1994 bombing of the AMIA Jewish Community Center in Buenos Aires, or the death of Argentine prosecutor Alberto Nisman;

    Whereas former Federal judge Juan Jose Galeano and former State Intelligence Secretariat intelligence head Hugo Anzorreguy have both been convicted and sentenced to prison for subverting the investigation and concealing evidence;

    Whereas, in 2019, the Argentine Government declared Hezbollah a terrorist organization, expelled all members of the organization from the country, and froze their assets in Argentina;

    Whereas, in 2020, Argentine President Alberto Fernandez reaffirmed the commitment of the Argentine Republic to bring those responsible for the attack to justice;

    Whereas, on April 12th, 2024, Argentina’s highest criminal court, the Argentine Court of Cassation, broke the extended silence of the justice system by affirming Iran’s responsibility for the deadly bombing and declaring it a ‘‘crime against humanity’’;

    Whereas according to news reports of the ruling, the court identified ‘‘top Iranian officials and paramilitary Revolutionary Guard commanders in its determination that Iran carried out the bombings in response to Argentina scrapping three contracts that would have provided Tehran with nuclear technology in the mid-1980s’’;

    Whereas Argentine President Javier Milei commended the high court’s ruling, noting that the determination was a ‘‘significant step’’ that put an end to decades of ‘‘delays and cover-ups’’;

    Whereas leaders in Argentina’s Jewish community, including AMIA President Amos Linetzky, noted that the historic ruling would finally provide an opportunity for survivors and relatives of victims to seek legal action against Iran;

    Whereas the Foreign Ministry of Argentina responded to the court’s ruling by requesting that INTERPOL issue an immediate international arrest notice for Ahmad Vahidi, who is now the Iranian Interior Minister, ‘‘as one of those responsible for the attack on AMIA’’

    Whereas, in March 2025, Argentina passed Law No. 27.784, which allows trial in absentia, opening the door for prosecuting foreign suspects not present in the country;

    Whereas, in April 2025, AMIA special prosecutor Sebastia´n Basso requested both national and international arrest warrants for Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei under the authority of Law No. 27.784;

    Whereas, on June 26, 2025, Federal Judge Daniel Rafecas ruled that a trial in absentia would be held for the 10 men accused of planning and ordering the terrorist attack on the AMIA; and

    Whereas, today, Argentina is home to more than 250,000 Jewish people, making it the largest home to Jews in Latin America and the 6th largest in the world:

    Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the House of Representatives—

    (1) condemns the 1994 attack on the Asociación Mutual Israelita Argentina (AMIA) in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and remembers the victims of this heinous act;

    (2) honors the memory of the victims and expresses sympathy to their relatives, who have waited for more than 3 decades without justice for the loss of their loved ones;

    (3) underscores the concern of the United States regarding the continuing delay in the proper resolution of this case;

    (4) calls for the perpetrators of this horrific act, including Iranian and Hezbollah operatives, to be held accountable for their crimes;

    (5) commends the Government of Argentina for designating Hezbollah and Hamas as terrorist organizations and urges other United States allies and partners in Latin America and the Caribbean to do the same;

    (6) demands that INTERPOL member countries comply with arrest orders for individuals responsible for the deadly attack on the AMIA Jewish Community Center; and

    (7) stands in solidarity with the Jewish community of Argentina and the broader Latin American and Caribbean Jewish diaspora at a time of surging antisemitism around the world.

    ####

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Relief to Fort Worth Small Businesses, Private Nonprofits and Renters Affected by the Cooper Apartment Complex Fire

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to Fort Worth small businesses, private nonprofits and renters to offset physical and economic losses from the Cooper Apartment Complex Fire occurring June 23. The SBA issued a disaster declaration in response to a request received from Gov. Greg Abbott on July 16.

    The declaration covers the Texas counties of Dallas, Denton, Ellis, Johnson, Parker, Tarrant and Wise.

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

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

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

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

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

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

    “When disasters strike, SBA’s Disaster Loan Outreach Centers play a vital role in helping small businesses and their communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “At these centers, SBA specialists assist business owners and residents with disaster loan applications and provide information on the full range of recovery programs available.”

    Beginning July 21, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the following Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each individual complete their application. Walk-ins are accepted, but you can schedule an in-person appointment in advance at appointment.sba.gov.

    The DLOC hours of operation are listed below:

    TARRANT COUNTY
    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    One Safe Place
    First Floor Community Recovery Center
    1100 Hemphill St.
    Fort Worth, TX  76104

    Opens 12 p.m. Monday, July 21
    Mondays – Fridays, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

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

    The deadline to return physical damage applications is Sept. 15, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is April 17, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker: “Either Bove and the Justice Department are Lying about the Epstein Situation…Or They Are Showing A Dangerous Lack of Transparency”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – As the Senate Judiciary Committee considers advancing EmilBove–who’s been called “Trump’s worst nomination yet”– to be a Third Circuit Judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals, Judiciary Committee member U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) has been calling out Bove for his unethical behavior, professional scandals, and failure to meet the ethical standards essential for a lifetime judicial appointment.

    On MSNBC’s Deadline with Nicolle Wallace, Senator Booker spoke about a letter he sent to Bove requesting information about his involvement in Trump’s Epstein cover up. 

    Senator Booker: “Either Bove and the Justice Department are lying about the Epstein situation…or they are showing a dangerous lack of transparency.”

    See more about Senator Booker’s work to hold Bove accountable:

    • The Hill: Booker seeks Epstein info from Trump judicial nominee Emil Bove
    • The New York Times: Bove Denies Suggesting Justice Dept. Ignore Court Orders
    • NJ.com: Booker slams Trump judicial nominee: ‘Complete disregard for the rule of law’
    • New Jersey Globe: Republicans turn down Booker’s request for extra hearing with Bove whistleblower

    @SenBooker:

    Booker: “I wrote a letter directly to Emil Bove today about his role in withholding the Epstein files from the American people. This is a portion of the letter…

    “Mr. Bove on behalf of myself and the American people I represent, we deserve answers, especially before you’re put on one of the highest courts in the land.”

    THE FACTS ABOUT EMIL BOVE:

    • A corroborated allegation from a whistleblower revealed that Bove directed attorneys to defy a court order.
    • Federal criminal defense lawyers described Bove as a “drunk driver” as a prosecutor.
    • An editorial in the Philadelphia Inquirer stated that Bove is “one person who has no business working in the federal government, let alone receiving a lifetime appointment as a federal judge.”
    • New Jersey’s Tom Moran stated, Bove is “Trump’s worst nomination yet.”
    • Meanwhile The Wall Street Journal’s editorial board wrote, Bove’s reputation “is as a smashmouth partisan who wields the law as a weapon.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker, Padilla, Schiff Announce Bill to Make Access to Equitable Health Care a Protected Civil Right

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Adam Schiff (D-CA) announced the Equal Health Care for All Act, bicameral legislation that would make equal access to medical care a protected civil right to help address the racial inequities and structural failures in America’s health care system that have led to higher mortality rates in communities of color. As President Trump and Republicans gut critical health care funding, the Equal Health Care for All Act would establish a definition for inequitable health care to help ensure that hospitals provide the same high quality health care services to all patients, regardless of race, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, or religion.

    Republicans voted to gut Medicaid by over $900 billion, stripping health care from 17 million Americans.

    “Everyone deserves equal access to comprehensive, high-quality health care, free from discrimination,” said Senator Booker. “However, this is not the reality for most communities across our country, with communities of color, especially women of color, bearing the disproportionate burden of poor health outcomes due to a lack of access to quality medical care. The Equal Health Care for All Act is legislation to combat the stark inequalities that exist in our health care system, and ensure every American has access to affordable, equitable care.”

    “By gutting billions of dollars for hospitals and other essential Medicaid services, the Trump Administration is hurting our patients and their pocketbooks in communities across the country,” said Senator Padilla. “Our bill would treat equitable health care as a civil right to provide every patient with the access to the high-quality care they deserve.”

    “As the Trump administration rolls back access to funding for health care, it is imperative to protect the right to these essential services for all communities. I’m proud to co-lead the Equal Health Care Act for All to continue supporting high quality health care for all, because equal access is a fundamental right, and one that every American should enjoy,” said Senator Schiff.

    The Equal Health Care for All Act aims to remedy structural and systemic failures in America’s health care system that have led to Black, Hispanic, and indigenous individuals disproportionately suffering from a range of illnesses, from asthma to heart disease. Black women are more likely than white women to die from breast cancer and during childbirth. Hispanic individuals suffer from higher rates of chronic diseases, including an 80 percent higher rate of diabetes.

    Specifically, the Equal Health Care for All Act would:

    • Require the Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary to promote regulations requiring health care providers and facilities to disaggregate data on health outcomes by demographic characteristics;
    • Require inclusion of quality measures of equitable health care in hospital value-based purchasing programs;
    • Empower Medicare and Medicaid providers to enforce equitable health care standards;
    • Rename the HHS “Office on Civil Rights” to “Office of Civil Rights and Health Equity;”
    • Prohibit health care providers from providing inequitable health care to patients;
    • Establish a Federal Health Equity Commission; and
    • Authorize grants for hospitals to promote equitable health care outcomes.

    The bill is also cosponsored by U.S. Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and is supported by NAACP, National Urban League, American Diabetes Association, and American Cancer Society.

    To read the full text of the bill, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Stein Surveys Flood Damage in Chapel Hill, Meets with Business Owners and North Carolinians Impacted by Tropical Storm Chantal

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Stein Surveys Flood Damage in Chapel Hill, Meets with Business Owners and North Carolinians Impacted by Tropical Storm Chantal

    Governor Stein Surveys Flood Damage in Chapel Hill, Meets with Business Owners and North Carolinians Impacted by Tropical Storm Chantal
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today Governor Josh Stein visited Chapel Hill to survey storm damage Tropical Storm Chantal caused and met with local officials, business owners, and North Carolinians who were affected by the storm. The Governor visited impacted businesses at Eastgate Crossing and apartments in Camelot Village.

    “As recovery and cleanup efforts continue, I am grateful to the local and state emergency responders for their work to help keep people safe during the flashfloods and in the aftermath of Chantal,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Whether it’s business owners at Eastgate Crossing or residents in Camelot Village, people are working hard to get back on their feet. We must do everything we can to support them and facilitate long-term recovery. And our hearts go out to the families who lost loved ones.”

    Tropical Storm Chantal hit central North Carolina on July 6, with some locations seeing as much as 9 to 12 inches of rain. The Haw River, the Eno River, and Jordan Lake, among others, experienced record or near-record water levels. Flooding impacted critical infrastructure and public and private property. 

    Since July 5, the State Emergency Response Team has been activated and engaged with local emergency managers and first responders, providing information, resources, and support. On July 16, Governor Stein declared a State of Emergency to facilitate state and federal recovery assistance.

    The Division of Emergency Management is working with local officials to assess the scope of damage caused by Tropical Storm Chantal. As the full damage assessment is completed in concert with relevant federal partners, the declaration along with the assessment analysis will determine possible additional support that residents, businesses, and local governments may receive to accelerate the recovery process and support expenses incurred during the response phase of the disaster. 

    Jul 18, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Mfume, Senator Alsobrooks Introduce Jordan McNair Student Athlete Heat Fatality Prevention Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07) introduced the Jordan McNair Student Athlete Heat Fatality Prevention Act in the United States House of Representatives. Senator Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD) simultaneously introduced the companion legislation in the United States Senate, with Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) as an original cosponsor. This legislation will serve as a lifeline for student athletes and requires college and high school athletic programs to implement heat illness emergency action plans (EAPs) in consultation with local emergency responders, including the operation and use of cold-water immersion equipment.

    This legislation honors Jordan McNair, who was a freshman on the University of Maryland football team when he collapsed during practice on May 29, 2018 due to heatstroke. Roughly 90 minutes passed before McNair arrived at a nearby hospital in critical condition. He was then airlifted to the University of Maryland Medical Center Shock Trauma Center to receive an emergency liver transplant, but tragically died 2 weeks later. 

    “Some of my fondest childhood memories were on the field playing football and Little League Baseball. Yet, for too many young athletes, these experiences turn into traumatic ones as they mourn the loss of their teammates—like Jordan McNair,” said Congressman Kweisi Mfume. ”However, these deaths are preventable—and through legislation like the Jordan McNair Student Athlete Heat Fatality Prevention Act, we can ensure that parents and players alike can have the peace of mind that their health is accounted for during their journey in collegiate and high school sports. I am grateful for Senator Alsobrooks’ co-leadership on this legislation, and for her work in the U.S. Senate to help get this done,” he concluded. 

    “It is long past time that we pass the Jordan McNair Act and finally ensure student athletes are protected, and college athletic programs implement heat illness emergency action plans and coordinate with local emergency responders.” said Senator Angela Alsobrooks. “Jordan McNair would be 26 today. We must honor his memory by getting this legislation passed.” she finished. 

    “I fully support the Jordan McNair Student Athlete Heat Fatality Prevention Act, because it’s a critical step toward protecting student-athletes from a 100% preventable tragedy.” said Martin McNair, Jordan’s father. “This legislation will set lifesaving safety standards for both high school and college sports programs. As a father who lost his son to heat stroke, I know firsthand the cost of inaction. It’s time we make athlete safety non-negotiable.” Mr. McNair concluded.

    “Jordan McNair’s death was a heartbreaking and preventable tragedy. In honor of his memory, we’re working with his family to ensure college, university, and high school athletic programs are prepared to effectively recognize and quickly address heat-related illnesses.” said Senator Chris Van Hollen. “While I know the McNair family’s hearts will never fully heal, I am inspired that they have channeled their pain into purpose — together we will keep working to safeguard student athletes’ health and prevent others from facing the same unthinkable loss that they have.” he concluded.

    “The National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) is proud to support the Jordan McNair Student Athlete Heat Fatality Prevention Act and applauds Congressman Kweisi Mfume for his leadership in prioritizing the health and safety of student athletes.” said NATA President AJ Duffy III, MS, ATC, PT.  “As the first line of defense in recognizing and responding to injuries and emergencies, athletic trainers understand the life-threatening risks posed by heat-related illnesses. While not every athlete has access to a certified athletic trainer, the implementation of emergency action plans ensures that critical, lifesaving protocols are in place when every second counts. These plans are essential tools that help protect young athletes and can truly mean the difference between life and death.” he finished. 

    An investigation conducted immediately after Jordan McNair’s death showed the athletic staff did not take aggressive measures to lower his body temperature. 

    The Jordan McNair Student Athlete Heat Fatality Prevention Act will ensure high school and college athletic programs have heat emergency plans in action as well as cold-water immersion equipment so preventable tragedies like Jordan’s and the story of so many other student athletes won’t happen again. The legislation is endorsed by The Jordan McNair Foundation and the National Athletic Trainers’ Association.

    More Information on Jordan McNair

    • Jordan McNair was a freshman offensive lineman on the University of Maryland’s football team in 2018. On May 29, 2018, Jordan was taking a conditioning test that required 10 sets of 110-yard sprints. Jordan appeared to show signs of exhaustion during the sets of sprints. Jordan collapsed and was taken to the hospital before passing away two weeks later due to exertional heatstroke.
    • Jordan was demonstrating signs of an exertional heatstroke before he completed the sprints, but he was not treated with the care required to save his life. An hour passed before a trainer called 911, even after Jordan initially started showing symptoms.
    • Some report that University staff failed to see initial signs that Jordan was suffering from a heat illness and not being treated properly. Those reports also suggest staff did not check his core temperature, did not have proper cooling devices, and did not give emergency responders suitable directions to their location.
    • Dr. Rod Walters, a former college athletic trainer and a sports medicine consultant, led an investigation launched by the University. He concluded there was roughly 1 hour, 39 minutes between when McNair collapsed and the departure of his ambulance from campus.
    • The University of Maryland has taken subsequent steps to prevent and treat heat-related injuries among their student athletes: making cold water immersion tubs available at every practice and game, installing and maintaining readily accessible automatic defibrillators in every venue, increasing the number of doctors and trainers at practices and games, providing more recovery breaks, and increasing the training and reporting structure of athletic trainers, among other reforms in line with the priorities of this legislation.

    Click Here to access the Jordan McNair Student Athlete Heat Fatality Prevention Act bill text.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Bennet, Heinrich, Neguse, Moore Introduce Bill to Expand and Improve Access to Clean Water in Tribal Communities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Hickenlooper – Colorado

    Half of households on Native American reservations lack access to reliable water sources, clean drinking water, or adequate sanitation

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper, Michael Bennet, and Martin Heinrich alongside Representatives Joe Neguse and Gwen Moore recently introduced the Tribal Access to Clean Water Act to dramatically expand access to clean water in Tribal communities by investing in water infrastructure. This bill would increase funding through the Indian Health Service, the United States Department of Agriculture, and the Bureau of Reclamation to support water infrastructure projects in Tribal communities and help provide clean water to Native American households that currently lack access.

    “Clean drinking water is a basic necessity. Yet, so many of our Tribal communities have been left without the infrastructure. It’s unacceptable,” said Hickenlooper. “Let’s cut red tape and invest in modern resources to finally deliver safe, accessible water to every Tribe.”

    “Too many Tribal communities in Colorado and across the country cannot access clean, safe water,” said Bennet. “This legislation builds on our efforts to improve access for Tribes in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. It fulfills the federal government’s promise to provide these communities with the clean water they deserve.”

    “Nearly half of Native American households lack access to clean and reliable water supplies. That is completely unacceptable,” said Heinrich. “By addressing a significant backlog of infrastructure projects and removing barriers to federal programs that provide technical and financial assistance to Tribes, this legislation is an important step toward delivering clean drinking water to all families in Indian Country.”

    “Access to clean water is a basic human right—and yet for far too long, Native American tribes have lacked access to safe and affordable water and reliable wastewater infrastructure. Our tribal communities deserve better,” said Neguse. “That’s why I’m honored to join Senator Bennet in introducing the Tribal Access to Clean Water Act, a bill that takes meaningful steps to close the gap between Native American households and access to clean and reliable water supplies.”

    “An estimated 48 percent of homes on tribal lands lack access to clean drinking water or sanitation services. This is a serious public health issue that demands a federal response. I join my colleagues in supporting this important legislation, which will help tribes improve longstanding water infrastructure challenges and uphold trust and treaty obligations under the Constitution,” said Moore.

    “It is far past time to ensure that Native people have the same level of basic water service most Americans take for granted,” said Manuel Heart, Chairman of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. “This bill’s recognition of the need for technical support and operation and maintenance assistance for Tribal water supply facilities is not only essential to realizing the benefit of investment in water infrastructure, but also a critical step toward increasing Tribal independence and governance capabilities.”

    Lack of access to clean drinking water is a significant barrier for many Native American communities. According to data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Native American households are 19 times more likely than white households to lack indoor plumbing. A 2021 report commissioned by the Colorado River Water and Tribes Initiative documents the different barriers to accessing safe and reliable drinking water among tribes in the Colorado River Basin, along with some of the deficiencies in the federal programs designed to address this problem, and offers recommendations for improvement. Lack of access to drinking water negatively impacts health, education, economic development, and other aspects of daily life.

    Specifically, the bill would:

    • Authorize the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Rural Development, to make grants and loans for technical and financial assistance, as well as for construction;
    • Increase funding authorizations for USDA’s Rural Development Community Facilities Grant and Loan Program by $100 million per year for five years, provide $30 million per year specifically for technical assistance, and ensure that Native communities are treated equitably and appropriately when considered for grants and loans;
    • Increase funding authorizations for existing programs of the Indian Health Service for water and sanitation facilities construction over a five year period, including for community facilities ($2.5 billion), technical assistance ($150 million), and operation and maintenance assistance ($500 million); and
    • Authorize $90 million over five years for the Bureau of Reclamation’s existing Native American Affairs Technical Assistance Program.

    Full text of the bill is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Files Amicus Brief in Support of Skaneateles Central School District’s Policy Safeguarding the Rights and Safety of Transgender and Gender-Nonconforming Students

    Source: US State of California

    Thursday, July 17, 2025

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

    OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta yesterday, as part of a multistate coalition of 13 attorneys general, filed an amicus brief in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit in support of Skaneateles Central School District and its local school district policy safeguarding the privacy and safety of transgender and gender-nonconforming students. The plaintiff in Vitsaxaki v. Skaneateles Central School District a lawsuit challenging the school district’s policy of using a student’s chosen name and gender pronouns in school. The Northern District of New York granted the district’s motion to dismiss the complaint. This decision was subsequentially appealed by the plaintiff to the Second Circuit. In their brief, the attorneys general urge the Second Circuit to affirm the district court’s decision to dismiss the plaintiff’s challenge.

    “School districts have a fundamental responsibility to ensure that all students — including transgender and gender-nonconforming students — have access to education free from discrimination, harassment, and intimidation,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Our amicus brief underscores our commitment to safeguarding the rights and safety of all students regardless of their gender identity.”

    Attorney General Bonta and the multistate coalition have a strong interest in protecting the legal rights, physical safety, and mental health of children in schools, and in protecting them from trauma, harassment, bullying, and exposure to violence and threats of violence. Research shows that protecting a transgender student’s ability to make choices about how and when to inform others is critical to their well-being, as transgender students are exposed to high levels of harassment and mistreatment at school and in their communities.

    In the amicus brief, the coalition urges the Second Circuit Court of Appeals to affirm the district court’s decision, arguing that:

    • The school district’s policy protects against the unnecessary disclosure of a student’s gender identity and provides for disclosure under limited circumstances in a manner that ensures a safe and supportive environment for students.
    • The plaintiffs’ rigid free exercise and due process framework undermines the state’s interest in making schools safe and supportive for students.
    • States have an interest in making schools safe and supportive for all students, including transgender and gender nonconforming students.

    In filing the amicus brief, Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys general of New York, Hawai’i, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, Oregon, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia.

    A copy of the amicus brief is available here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Honduran National Guilty Of Illegal Re-Entry

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Michael M. Simpson announced that MELVIN JOSE TEJADA MORILLO (“MORILLO”), age 35, pled guilty on July 8, 2025, to illegal re-entry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Sections 1326(a) and 1326(b)(2).

    According to the indictment, MORILLO, re-entered the United States after being previously deported on March 21, 2016. At sentencing, MORILLO faces up to two years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to one year of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. However, because MORILLO has a prior felony conviction, MORILLO also faces a sentencing enhancement of up to 20 years’ imprisonment.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson praised the work of the United States Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Tiwana Wright is in charge of the prosecution.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fort Lauderdale Investment Advisor Arrested on Federal Wire Fraud and Money Laundering Charges in Multi-Million-Dollar Ponzi Scheme Targeting Venezuelan Investors

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MIAMI – Federal authorities have arrested Andrew Hamilton Jacobus, 64, of Fort Lauderdale, on charges of wire fraud and money laundering stemming from a years-long scheme that defrauded international investors — primarily Venezuelan nationals — of more than $94 million.

    According to an indictment in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida, Jacobus falsely portrayed himself as a seasoned financial advisor managing legitimate investment portfolios, while instead misappropriating investor funds for personal use and to pay returns to earlier investors — in classic Ponzi fashion.

    Between 2019 and 2023, Jacobus allegedly solicited funds through entities under his control, including Kronus Financial Corporation, and Finser International, promising access to secure investment products and high-yield returns. Federal prosecutors allege Jacobus forged account statements, falsified documentation, and diverted client funds to luxury personal expenditures and unrelated business ventures.

    Jacobus was taken into custody by federal agents without incident in Fort Lauderdale. He made his initial appearance in federal court. If convicted, Jacobus faces up to 20 years in prison for each count of wire fraud and money laundering, in addition to forfeiture of assets and restitution.

    U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida and Special Agent in Charge Emmanuel Gomez of the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Miami Field Office, made the announcement.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert F. Moore.

    You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at www.usdoj.gov/usao/fls.

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 25-cr-20309.

    ###  

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Man Sentenced for Bank Robbery

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced today that CLEMENT LEACH (“LEACH”), age 54, of New Orleans, was sentenced on July 2, 2025 after previously pleading guilty to Bank Robbery, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2113(a).

    United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced LEACH to 80 months of imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release following his release from prison, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. LEACH was also ordered to pay $920 in restitution for robbing Chase Bank on March 2, 2020.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Violent Crime Task Force, and officers of New Orleans Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jon M. Maestri of the General Crimes Unit is handling the prosecution. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Hoyle Statement on Voting “NO” on Partisan Rescissions Package

    Source: US Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)

    July 18, 2025

    For Immediate Release: July 18, 2025 

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last night, U.S. Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04) voted against Congressional Republicans’ rescissions bill that will claw back critical resources for local public broadcasting, foreign aid, and other vital services that was previously Congressionally approved.

    Rep. Hoyle released the following statement about her vote:

    “One of the many reasons I voted no on the rescissions package is because it guts funding for local public broadcasting. Whether it’s KLCC, Jefferson Public Radio, or Oregon Public Broadcasting, communities from the coast to the Cascades count on their reporting for emergency alerts, education, and trusted local news. It’s not just reckless – it sets a precedent of bypassing Congress. Why my Republican colleagues are willing to roll over and hand their constitutional authority and power to the executive branch is beyond me. It’s weak and undemocratic.

    “After adding trillions to the debt with tax cuts for the wealthy, Congressional Republicans are now trying to balance the books by targeting programs that serve the public. They have zero credibility in ever talking about addressing our national debt or the deficit.”

    Background

    The Rescissions Act of 2025 cuts $9 billion dollars of previously approved funding, including $1.1 billion for public broadcasting.

    The vote comes just two weeks after the Trump Administration signed into law a bill that includes massive tax breaks for the rich and explodes the deficit by 3.9 trillion dollars, according to the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office.  

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Sanders Welcomes Relief of $6.5 Million in Summer and Afterschool Funding for Vermont

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders

    BURLINGTON, Vt., July 18 — Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), today welcomed the announcement that Vermont would receive $6.5 million in funding for afterschool programs through the 21st Century Learning Centers program, as a result of his demands that the Trump administration release illegally and unconstitutionally withheld federal funds for public education. Newly-released funding supports nearly 100 afterschool and summer programs in Vermont that serve 11,000 students.

    “Today I spoke with Secretary McMahon about the release of $1.3 billion for summer and afterschool programs, including $6.5 million for Vermont, and urged her to release the remaining funding for critical education programs that is currently being illegally withheld by the Department of Education and the Office of Management and Budget,” Sanders said.

    On June 30, 2025, just one day before states expected to receive the funds, the Education Department sent a three-line email to states informing them that $6.88 billion in education funding would be illegally withheld. This decision received strong opposition from both Democrats and Republicans in Congress — including a letter led by Sanders and Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Patty Murray (D-Wash.) alongside 32 Democratic senators, and a letter from Senator Shelley Moore-Capito (R-W.Va.) and 9 Republican senators demanding the release of the funds.

    As a result of these efforts, today the department announced the release of $1.3 billion for programs across the country, which will support more than 10,000 summer and afterschool programs for 1.4 million students. 

    “Clearly, that is not enough. The Trump administration is still illegally withholding nearly $5.5 billion in funding for the Supporting Effective Instruction State Grants, Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants, Adult Education, English Language Acquisition, and Migrant Education State Grants,” Sanders continued. “Congress clearly and unambiguously passed this education funding and the president signed it into law. The Trump administration has no right to withhold or impound it. Secretary McMahon and Director Vought must immediately release the remaining funds to states, school districts and students.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Sanders Welcomes Relief of $6.5 Million in Summer and Afterschool Funding for Vermont

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders

    BURLINGTON, Vt., July 18 — Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), today welcomed the announcement that Vermont would receive $6.5 million in funding for afterschool programs through the 21st Century Learning Centers program, as a result of his demands that the Trump administration release illegally and unconstitutionally withheld federal funds for public education. Newly-released funding supports nearly 100 afterschool and summer programs in Vermont that serve 11,000 students.

    “Today I spoke with Secretary McMahon about the release of $1.3 billion for summer and afterschool programs, including $6.5 million for Vermont, and urged her to release the remaining funding for critical education programs that is currently being illegally withheld by the Department of Education and the Office of Management and Budget,” Sanders said.

    On June 30, 2025, just one day before states expected to receive the funds, the Education Department sent a three-line email to states informing them that $6.88 billion in education funding would be illegally withheld. This decision received strong opposition from both Democrats and Republicans in Congress — including a letter led by Sanders and Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Patty Murray (D-Wash.) alongside 32 Democratic senators, and a letter from Senator Shelley Moore-Capito (R-W.Va.) and 9 Republican senators demanding the release of the funds.

    As a result of these efforts, today the department announced the release of $1.3 billion for programs across the country, which will support more than 10,000 summer and afterschool programs for 1.4 million students. 

    “Clearly, that is not enough. The Trump administration is still illegally withholding nearly $5.5 billion in funding for the Supporting Effective Instruction State Grants, Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants, Adult Education, English Language Acquisition, and Migrant Education State Grants,” Sanders continued. “Congress clearly and unambiguously passed this education funding and the president signed it into law. The Trump administration has no right to withhold or impound it. Secretary McMahon and Director Vought must immediately release the remaining funds to states, school districts and students.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MEDIA ADVISORY: Sanders to Discuss Trump Administration’s Harm to Vermonters, Outline Next Steps After Passage of ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders

    BURLINGTON, Vt., July 18 — Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) will hold a press conference on Monday to speak directly to Vermonters about the Trump administration’s escalating authoritarianism and the devastating impacts of the recently signed Republican reconciliation bill, which will slash funding for health care, schools and nutrition programs that tens of thousands of Vermonters rely on. 

    “Since his first day in office, President Trump has worked to dismantle democratic institutions, consolidate power, and enrich the billionaire class at the expense of everyone else,” Sanders said. “This bill is a massive transfer of wealth from working families to the top 1%. It is immoral, and for tens of thousands of vulnerable Americans, it is a death sentence.” 

    “Vermonters are already seeing what this administration’s priorities look like — less for schools, less for health care, more for billionaires and multinational corporations,” Sanders continued. “On Monday, I’ll lay out what comes next in the fight against oligarchy and what we must do to build a government and an economy that work for all of us, not just the wealthy few.” 

    In addition to the passage of Trump’s budget bill last week, the Senate took action this week to cancel $9 billion in funding previously authorized by Congress, including $1.1 billion for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which supports Vermont Public. 

    Details:  

    What: Press conference with Sen. Sanders 

    When: Monday, July 21, 10:30 a.m. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: BABIN VOTES TO RESCIND $9.4 BILLION IN WASTEFUL SPENDING

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brian Babin (R-TX)

    Today, the U.S. House of Representatives voted on H.R. 4, the Rescissions Act of 2025, a major step in House Republicans’ ongoing mission to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse from the bloated federal bureaucracy. The bill, based on recommendations from President Trump and the newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), rescinds $9.4 billion in previously appropriated funds deemed unnecessary or wasteful.

    “Americans work hard for their money. They deserve a government that works just as hard to spend it wisely,” said Rep. Babin. “This rescissions package is a critical step in getting our government back on track and putting America First. This bill reflects our commitment to Promises Made, Promises Kept. It’s just the first tranche in our broader strategy—alongside the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and the appropriations process—to restore fiscal sanity in Washington and prioritize the needs of the American people.”

    The rescinded funds span 21 budget line items across numerous agencies, including the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, and the United States Institute of Peace.

    Examples of spending being cut include:

    ·       $5 million to subsidize green energy in Europe.

    ·       $1 million for Voter ID in Haiti, while Democrats block it here at home.

    ·       $18 million for “gender diversity” in the Mexican street lighting industry.

    ·       $3 million to promote abortion in Venezuela.

    ·       $135 million in contributions to the World Health Organization.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mike Levin Reintroduces Bipartisan Bill to Combat Automatic Recurring Campaign Contributions

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Levin (CA-49)

    July 17, 2025

    Washington, D.C.—Today, Reps. Mike Levin (CA-49), Nick LaLota (NY-01), Joe Neguse (CO-02), and Jay Obernolte (CA-08) reintroduced the bipartisan Uncheck the Box Act to prevent political campaigns from using pre-checked boxes to solicit recurring contributions.

    The bipartisan legislation would require political campaigns across the board to receive affirmative consent, without passive action such as failing to uncheck a pre-checked box, for recurring contributions and prohibit a person from soliciting a recurring contribution to a political committee, independent expenditure, or any electioneering communication that does not require the contributor to provide affirmative consent.

    “Politicians can’t claim to protect Americans from fraud and abuse while simultaneously shaking them down with confusing fundraising techniques,” said Rep. Levin. “Preventing scams is not a partisan issue. This bill should be a no-brainer for every member of Congress who cares about the financial security of their constituents. I thank Reps. LaLota, Neguse, and Obernolte for their bipartisan partnership on this bill and look forward to moving it through the legislative process.”

    “No one should be tricked into making recurring donations they didn’t intend to authorize. The Uncheck the Box Act is a common-sense step to protect consumers from deceptive fundraising tactics,” said Rep. Nick LaLota. “As someone who oversaw elections in my previous role as Suffolk County Elections Commissioner, I know how important it is to maintain trust in our political system, and I’m proud to work across the aisle to deliver this important consumer protection.”

    “Americans want a fix to dysfunction in American politics and our broken campaign finance system,” said Congressman Neguse. “The Uncheck the Box Act is a common-sense way to restore integrity and transparency, preventing campaigns from taking advantage of voters engaging in the electoral process. And I’m incredibly proud to join a bipartisan coalition of representatives in working to usher this bill across the finish line.”

    In 2021, the bipartisan Federal Election Commission (FEC) unanimously recommended that Congress ban political campaigns from using prechecked boxes to default donors into making recurring contributions. This deceptive fundraising technique has led a large number of Americans to file complaints with the FEC, which has been unable to assist without statutory authority from Congress.

    The Uncheck the Box Act would also improve transparency between committees and Americans by forcing committees and independent expenditures to provide a receipt disclosing terms of recurring contributions, include the information needed to cancel any contribution on all communications, and immediately cancel all subsequent contributions on request.

    Reps. Levin and LaLota preciously introduced the Uncheck the Box Act in 2024.

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    MIL OSI USA News –