NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: “I call for an immediate ceasefire between Lebanese Hizballah and Israel.”: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Statement by Foreign Secretary David Lammy at the UN Security Council meeting on the situation in Lebanon.

    Location:
    United Nations, New York
    Delivered on:
    (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

    This is a moment of maximum danger.

    We are on the brink. The precipice. At a few minutes to midnight.

    We talk of the risk of full-scale regional war but the truth is we are already witnessing conflict on multiple fronts.

    In Gaza. In the West Bank. In Lebanon. And the Red Sea.

    The strikes in recent days have taken 550 lives in Lebanon. 

    The death of civilians, women and children. 

    The UN workers killed. 

    The Hizballah rockets that have killed Israelis are just the latest in the cycle of pain, anguish and loss.

    President, 

    As we face the abyss, this Council has a duty to speak with one voice.

     And we must say that the rockets must stop now. The air strikes must stop now. Talks must start now. With an immediate ceasefire on both sides now.

    It is time to pull back from the brink.

    President,

    A full-blown war is not in the interests of the Israeli or the Lebanese people.

     And that is why within hours of last week’s strikes I called for an immediate ceasefire between Lebanese Hizballah and Israel. 

    Since then, we’ve worked closely with the US and France to formalise a wider demand for the ceasefire and a political plan to implement it.

    And at the UN in New York, the Prime Minister and I have been urging our G7 and other partners to do the same.

    Our priority must be a political solution in line with Resolution 1701. It is our duty to do all we can to exert maximum diplomatic pressure so Israeli and Lebanese civilians can return to their homes. So lives can be saved. So security can return to Northern Israel and Southern Lebanon. So that daily life can begin to return.

    Now let me be clear.

    The United Kingdom condemns Hizballah’s attacks on Israel over the last 11 months, which have driven more than 60,000 people from their homes.

    There was no justification for these attacks.

    They have brought misery to ordinary people in Lebanon and Israel.

    And they have done nothing to end the conflict in Gaza or secure Palestinian statehood.

    And Iran, nothing justifies supplying weapons to terror groups in defiance of this Council. 

    We call on Tehran to use its influence and urge Hizballah to agree a ceasefire.

    President,

    For the people of Israel and for the people of Lebanon, a brilliant, multicultural and tolerant nation taken captive by an armed militia that puts itself before the Lebanese people, we must come together to bring this conflict to an end.

    In 2006, this Council acted in the interests of peace and security. All parties need to embody that same spirit today.

    By coming together, act now to bring this conflict to an end.

    To stop the cycle of destruction. 

    To stop the loss of yet more innocent lives. 

    And to stop this conflict from exploding into full-blown war and open a path to peace. 

    That is what we need.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Tokuda Votes to Prevent Government Shutdown

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jill Tokuda (Hawaii – 2nd District)

    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Jill Tokuda (HI-02) issued the following statement after voting yes on the House bill to prevent a government shutdown.

    “Our communities can’t afford to lose critical services, but House Republicans have yet again been unable to write or pass legislation to keep the government operating. A shutdown would hurt working families in Hawaiʻi who are already struggling to make ends meet and that’s why I voted today to send this stopgap funding bill to the Senate to ensure our government remains open through December. It is frustrating that while we kept government running, we are continuing to fail our disaster stricken communities like Maui by not passing critical funding or the Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act. This is a rare bipartisan opportunity to help Americans across the country recover, rebuild and heal, and I will keep fighting to bring home the relief Maui needs.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Van Orden Statement on Continuing Resolution

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) released the following statement after voting against today’s Continuing Resolution (CR):

    “I voted against the CR to save American agriculture. Instead of cherry-picking Democrat programs from the committee’s farm bill to extend in the CR and playing politics with hungry children and production agriculture, we should be providing our farmers with the resources and certainty they need to do their jobs. We cannot keep kicking the can down the road on a bill that our farmers needed authorized a year ago. I am unwilling to risk everything they have and continue to work for.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Rosendale Rejects D.C. Cartel Extension of Biden-Harris Spending

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Matt Rosendale (Montana)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Matt Rosendale (MT-02) voted against H.R. 9747 – Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025. He released the following statement after rejecting the most recent continuation of Biden’s runaway spending:   

    “Instead of following the law and passing the appropriations bills and funding the government properly and transparently, Congress spent the last 100 days negotiating a Continuing Resolution to fund government through December 20th of this year,” said Rep. Rosendale. “I am tired of the Uniparty joining hands and bypassing house rules so Biden and Harris can continue their radical policies and obligate Americans for trillions of dollars we just don’t have. Today is another bad day for America as the GOP has rubber stamped this administrations’ agenda on one of the last opportunities they will have to fight it this Congress.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Manchin Votes To Avert Government Shutdown, Calls For Regular Order

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Joe Manchin
    September 25, 2024
    Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (I-WV), member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, voted for a continuing resolution to prevent a government shutdown, fund the federal government through December 20, 2024, and allow work on appropriations bills to continue.
    “The federal government’s fiscal year ends every year on September 30th and, despite this fact, Congress once again had to pass a stopgap spending bill. While I am relieved that we were able to come together in a bipartisan fashion to keep the government open, we must bring back regular order in the appropriations process to get our nation on a path to fiscal stability. Our reliance on continuing resolutions wastes taxpayer dollars, weakens our military’s capabilities and limits our economic growth. Hardworking West Virginians and Americans across our country go to work, pay their bills, and live within their means and the federal government should do the same. I stand ready to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to deliver on this essential responsibility of Congress.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Deluzio Introduce Bill to Protect Voters and Election Workers at Election Centers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla, Deluzio Introduce Bill to Protect Voters and Election Workers at Election Centers

    WATCH: Padilla champions the right to vote free from intimidation or violenceWASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), a member of the Senate Rules and Administration Committee and California’s former Secretary of State, and Representative Chris Deluzio (D-Pa.-17) joined election security advocates to introduce bicameral legislation to protect voters and election workers from intimidation and threats of violence at the ballot box. The Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act would help ensure that every voter and election worker has the right to cast their ballot and conduct their official duties free from fear and intimidation.
    The bill would update existing anti-intimidation provisions of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to limit the presence of visible firearms at locations where voters cast their ballot or election workers perform their official duties, empowering poll workers and election officials to continue safely administering elections. U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) are cosponsoring the bill in the Senate, and Representative Raul Ruiz (D-Calif.-25) is cosponsoring the bill in the House of Representatives.
    The right to vote is a central pillar of American democracy, but rising political violence against voters and poll workers threatens election security. False allegations of widespread voter fraud have further increased tensions at election centers. 38 percent of election workers have reported experiencing threats, harassment, or abuse as of May 2024.
    “In no corner of America should the fear of violence prevent voters from casting their ballot or keep elections workers from showing up to work,” said Senator Padilla. “Unfortunately, we have a long, dark history of voter suppression and intimidation in America, reignited by partisan rhetoric and false narratives about election fraud. That’s why our bicameral bill would keep visible firearms out of election centers to ensure election workers can do their jobs and all Americans feel safe exercising their right to vote.”
    “The right to vote is foundational to our democracy, and to protect that right we must keep polling places and official ballot drop sites free from intimidation,” said Representative Deluzio. “With the rising risk of political violence and ongoing attacks on our democracy, it’s clear that we need action to strengthen the sanctity of our elections. The Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act of 2024 would help protect the rights of America’s voters and election workers so that they can vote and perform their official duties free from intentional intimidation and threats of violence. I’m proud to introduce this bill today alongside fellow election security advocates.”   
    “The presence of firearms at polling places isn’t just dangerous—it’s a direct threat to our democratic process. As armed extremists fueled by rumors and conspiracy theories increasingly show up at the polls to bully voters and election workers, our message is clear: intimidation has no place at the ballot box. This legislation would take important steps to ensure every American feels safe to make their voice heard on election day,” said Senator Murphy.
    “Americans should be able to cast their votes without the threat of intimidation and harassment. That is why I introduced the Vote Without Fear Act,” said Representative Ruiz. “I am excited to help lead the Freedom from Intimidations Act to continue to build on the progress we’ve made working towards a future where polling places are safer for workers and voters.” 
    Specifically, the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act would:
    Amend Section 11(b) of the Voting Rights Act to establish a rebuttable presumption that a person carrying a visible firearm while engaging in election-related activities is engaging in voter intimidation.
    Provide civil remedies for individuals who experience this type of intimidation, including an emergency injunction that would allow the voter or election official to carry out their duties in peace.
    Recognize an exception for law enforcement officers acting within their official duties. 
    Yesterday, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill into law to create these critical protections in California.
    The Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act is endorsed by organizations including the Brennan Center for Justice at NYU Law, GIFFORDS, Newtown Action Alliance, Brady: United Against Gun Violence, Everytown for Gun Safety, March for Our Lives, Institute for Responsive Government, League of Conservation Voters, Center for American Progress, End Citizens United Action Fund, Common Cause, Defend the Vote Action Fund, Fair Elections Center, Democracy SENTRY, League of Women Voters, Public Citizen, Faith in Public Life Action, Sierra Club, and Voto Latino.
    “Congress must pass the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act. We are grateful to Representative Deluzio, Senator Padilla, and other members of Congress for their work to keep our elections safe for everyone involved in the process. This legislation would bolster federal protections that empower voters, election officials, and election workers to seek legal recourse if they are intimidated. The bill would help protect our democracy by keeping intimidation and violence out of voting,” said Sean Morales-Doyle, Director of the Voting Rights Program, Brennan Center for Justice at NYU Law.
    “Over the last four years, election officials have faced unprecedented threats and challenges. Immediately following the 2020 election, there was a deliberate effort to intimidate and terrorize election officials,” said Kathy Boockvar, former Pennsylvania Secretary of the Commonwealth and President of Athena Strategies LLC. “This has got to stop. This bill is a critical part of the solution. The Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act aims to protect voters and election workers by ensuring that voters can cast their ballots — and election workers can do their jobs – free of intimidation, during all stages of the election process from vote casting to canvassing to certification.”
    “All of our rights, including our rights to breathe clean air and drink clean water, depend on voters’ freedom to vote, which includes freedom from violence, intimidation, and fear while they make their voices heard,” said Doug Lindner, Senior Director of Judiciary & Democracy at the League of Conservation Voters. “LCV is proud to stand with Representative Chris Deluzio and Senator Alex Padilla in support of the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act to ensure every eligible voter can safely register, vote, and have their vote counted.” 
    “It’s paramount for the health of our democracy that election officials can peacefully administer free and fair elections and Americans are able to exercise their constitutional right to vote without fear or intimidation,” said Center for American Progress Associate Director of Democracy Policy Greta Bedekovics. “Threats towards election officials have continued to persist while federal law enforcement have warned about the possibility of election-related violence. Congressional action like passing the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act is desperately needed to protect American democracy and ensure that elections reflect the will of the people. Congress must fulfill its duty to protect the Constitution and that means protecting elections.” 
    “Intimidation has no place in our democracy,” Michelle Kanter Cohen, Policy Director and Senior Counsel at Fair Elections Center. “We need changes in our laws that make sure every American voter—no matter what state they live in—can vote safely and freely. We need the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act to help make sure that the election workers who keep our democracy going can serve without fear, and that voters can safely have their voices heard.”
    “The League of Women Voters of the United States is proud to support the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act, which will enshrine in law that every voter should have the right to cast their ballot free from fear and intimidation,” said Jessica Jones Capparell, Interim Senior Director of Advocacy and Litigation at the League of Women Voters of the United States. “This legislation reflects a growing recognition that the integrity of our elections must be preserved in the face of increasing threats. The chilling reality of armed protesters gathering outside ballot-counting facilities and the armed surveillance of drop boxes during the 2020 election has highlighted the urgent need for stronger legislation and safeguards in this bill. The League of Women Voters stands firmly in support of this bill to ensure that every voter can participate without fear.”
    “Passage of the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act will help protect the dedicated Americans who keep our elections running,” said Sam Oliker-Friedland, Executive Director, Institute for Responsive Government. “The current threat environment means that election officials are devoting scarce resources to bullet proof glass, metal detectors, and security guards. Effectively protecting election officials from intimidation, which this bill will help to do, will ensure that election officials can allocate money towards core tasks like cybersecurity upgrades and increasing accessibility for eligible voters. We already know elections are severely underfunded, but Congress has the power to make a significant difference for election officials across the nation by supporting the Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act. It’s high time Congress puts those who safeguard our democracy above radical weapons of coercion by supporting this bill.” 
    Senator Padilla is a champion for more robust voting rights, bipartisan election administration reforms, and increased funding to modernize and secure our elections. Last month, Padilla called on the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Civil Rights Division to investigate the recent targeted raids of several Latino voting rights organizers, officials, and candidates by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s election integrity unit. He also joined 21 of his colleagues in urging DOJ to take further action to counter threats targeting election workers ahead of the upcoming election. Additionally, Padilla recently introduced legislation to address the significant impact that election administration-related disinformation, made more pervasive with the use of Artificial Intelligence, has on communities of color. He is a staunch supporter of the Freedom to Vote Act, legislation he and Senate Democrats introduced to improve access to the ballot for Americans, advance commonsense federal election standards and campaign finance reforms, and protect our democracy.
    Photos and clips from the press conference are available here. 
    A one-pager on the bill is available here.
    Full text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 09.25.2024 ICYMI: Cruz-Kelly Chips Permitting Reform Bill Passed Congress with Widespread Bipartisan Support

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz
    WASHINGTON, D.C. –– In case you missed it, earlier this week, U.S. Senate Commerce Committee Ranking Member Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Sen. Mark Kelly’s (D-Ariz.) semiconductor plant permitting reform bill cleared the House after unanimously passing the Senate last December. The bill, S.2228 as replaced by the Kelly-Cruz full substitute amendment, is now headed to the President’s desk to be signed into law. The legislation would expedite the process to construct semiconductor manufacturing plants by removing burdensome environmental reviews and permits for microchip projects.
    The Kelly-Cruz chips permitting reform bill received widespread bipartisan support, including from Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. The legislation is a critical step in decreasing dependency on China and creating more jobs and incentives for investment in Texas.
    Watch the interview and read more about the legislation below.
    Local News Live: Congress passes bill to streamline federal process for chip manufacturing projects in America
    CLICK HERE TO WATCH
    “Congress passed a bill this week that will streamline federal reviews for some microchip manufacturing projects in America.
    “The Building Chips in America Act passed in the House on Monday and is now on its way to President Joe Biden’s desk.
    “The bill streamlines the environmental review process for semiconductor manufacturing facilities that were incentivized by the CHIPS and Science Act.
    “Several projects are in the works but supporters of the bill have said that they have been delayed because of government red tape.
    “The bipartisan bill was authored in the Senate by Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Sen. Mark Kelly (D-AZ).
    “Cruz said that the passage of the bill will benefit communities across the country where the projects are happening like his home state of Texas.
    “‘What this is going to mean is new manufacturing plants will be built in Texas much faster. It will mean billions more dollars invested in the economy in Texas, and it will mean thousands more high-paying jobs in Texas. It’s a great victory for jobs in Texas,” said Sen. Cruz.
    “The senator also said the bill will also make America safer by manufacturing the chips domestically.”
    The Texas: U.S. House Passes ‘Kelly-Cruz Amendment’ to CHIPS Act, Sent to Biden’s Desk
    “The U.S. House of Representatives approved a bill on Monday aimed at streamlining permitting laws to facilitate the domestic construction of semiconductor factories.
    “The bipartisan legislation passed by a vote of 257 to 125, with 49 members not voting, and now moves to the president’s desk for approval.
    “The bill passed the Senate last year, and was passed in the House of Representatives this week as the “Kelly-Cruz substitute amendment.”
    “Sens. Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) submitted the amended text of their Senate bill in December 2023.
    “When a bill passes as a “substitute amendment” in Congress, the original text is entirely replaced with new content. This new version of the bill, offered as an amendment, becomes the text that is voted on and passed.
    “It aims to accelerate the construction of U.S. semiconductor facilities, as the Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors (CHIPS) and Science Act of 2022 has made over $50 billion available to promote domestic production and innovation.
    “It will also streamline federal permitting by designating the Department of Commerce as the lead agency for National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) reviews, exempting certain projects from NEPA, providing the Secretary of Commerce with greater authority to expedite reviews in coordination with state and local governments, and limiting court challenge timelines.
    “Cruz and Kelly celebrated the amendment’s passage in a joint statement after the House passed it this week.
    “‘My number one priority in the Senate is delivering jobs for Texans. When soon signed into law, the Kelly-Cruz legislation will mean tens of thousands of good-paying jobs and hundreds of billions in new investments for the Lone Star State,” wrote Cruz.
    “‘I’m proud to have led this effort with Senator Mark Kelly to streamline environmental permitting for semiconductor factories, a crucial step in onshoring jobs and making our country less dependent on China for semiconductors critical to national defense.”
    “Cruz continued to exchange jabs with Rep. Colin Allred (D-TX-32), who voted to pass the most recent act, over the past year regarding Cruz’s “no” vote on related legislation last year.
    “At the time, Cruz supported one portion of the CHIPS Act but disagreed with another.
    “Cruz explained in 2023 that the CHIPS Act consisted of two key parts: the Facilitating American-Built Semiconductors (FABS) Act, offering a tax credit to boost domestic semiconductor manufacturing investment, and the CHIPS Act itself, providing billions in direct subsidies to companies. While Cruz co-sponsored the FABS Act, he voted against the CHIPS Act due to his opposition to direct subsidies, favoring the more indirect incentive of the tax credit.
    “Following this week’s passage of the Building Chips in America Act, Samsung celebrated by saying that the bill is “ensuring U.S. innovation continues to surge!”
    “Texas has seen businesses flocking to the state over the past few years, and semiconductor manufacturers have already started construction on facilities in towns like Taylor and Sherman.
    “The ongoing battle for semiconductor supremacy between China and the U.S. is intensifying as both nations invest heavily in domestic chip production and innovation, with the global semiconductor industry projected to reach a value of approximately $1 trillion by 2030.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Heinrich Secure Hermit’s Peak Claims Office Extension in Continuing Resolution

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) issued the following statement after securing an extension to the period that victims may file claims with the Hermit’s Peak Claims Office as part of the Continuing Resolution:
    “Today, we voted for a Continuing Resolution to keep the government open and avoid a costly shutdown for millions of Americans. As part of this Continuing Resolution, the period to file claims with the Hermit’s Peak Claims Office has been extended to December 20, 2024, which will give victims of the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire additional time to apply for relief.
    “But make no mistake, the job is not over yet. We will continue to work with our colleagues to deliver a long-term federal funding solution for the American people and keep the Hermit’s Peak Claims Office open longer. We continue to encourage New Mexicans to apply for assistance as soon as possible.”
    The extension will run the length of the Continuing Resolution to December 20, 2024. In October 2023, Luján, Heinrich, and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández introduced the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Extension Act, legislation that would extend the period a victim can file a claim with the Hermit’s Peak Claims Office. Since the devastating wildfire, Luján, Heinrich, and the N.M. Delegation has delivered a total of $3.95 billion in federal funding for the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire recovery.
    New Mexicans can apply for assistance through the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Assistance Act here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: World Maritime Day 2024

    Source: Australian Ministers for Regional Development

    Australia is proud to join with the International Maritime Organization today in celebrating World Maritime Day 2024.

    This year’s theme, ‘Navigating the Future: Safety First!’, highlights the vital role of new technology and innovation in enhancing safety, security and environmental protection in the global maritime sector.

    With 99% of our international trade transported by sea, Australia is one of the countries most reliant on shipping.

    This year marks the 50th anniversary of the 1974 Safety of Life at Sea Convention. 

    The anniversary of this important set of safety standards highlights that our collective end goal is always safety.

    I am delighted to share that Australia has selected this significant day to announce its candidacy for re-election to Category B of the IMO Council for the 2026-27 biennium.

    Australia remains committed to working at the International Maritime Organization to develop and implement the highest safety standards, support a competitive and efficient global shipping industry and minimize the environmental impact of shipping on our precious marine ecosystems.

    In celebration of World Maritime Day, the IMO invites nations to illuminate prominent landmarks in blue. This evening, Australia House in London and lighthouses along our coastline will be lit in blue to mark the occasion.

    Learn more about Australia’s role on the Category b council.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Arrington Statement on Government Funding Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jodey Arrington (TX-19)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, House Budget Committee Chairman Jodey Arrington (TX-19) issued the following statement in response to House passage of H.R. 9747, which funds the government until December 20th:

    “The American people gave us a Republican majority in the House with the expectation we would use the power of the purse to hold Democrats accountable and change the trajectory of our country by addressing the imminent threats of our wide-open border, unbridled spending, and unchecked election fraud. It is deeply disappointing to have missed these important opportunities and fallen short on our commitments.  

    “After a final effort to pair the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act with government funding – pressuring Senate Democrats to prevent illegal immigrants from voting or at least put them on record for refusing to do so – the measure failed with only three Democrats in support and fourteen Republicans in opposition. 

    “Now, we are forced to make a choice. We can either allow a government shutdown with nothing to show for it, which will undoubtedly be blamed on Republicans, adversely affect President Trump’s electoral success, and open us up to being jammed by the Senate with a bigger spending package; or, we can freeze spending and push back the final funding decision to December when President-elect Trump gives us a better chance to secure the border, safeguard our elections, and stop the reckless spending.  

    “That’s why I’m choosing to provide President Trump with the runway he needs over the next 40 days to secure victory in November, help us get a much better deal in December, and fight to Make America Great Again over the next four years.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Castor, House Democrats Prevent FOURTH MAGA Republican Shutdown Threat Since Start of GOP Majority

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) released the following statement after voting to pass legislation to avoid a MAGA government shutdown and extend current government funding through December 20, 2024:

    “Today, House Democrats stepped in to provide the votes needed to avoid a government shutdown after extreme MAGA Republicans in Congress refused to pass a budget.

    “This is no way to govern, but the last thing Florida families need is a government shutdown as Floridians prepare for Hurricane Helene and its difficult aftermath. I’m disappointed that 11 of my Republican colleagues from Florida were among the 82 Republicans who voted against the government in the face of a natural disaster. MAGA Republicans have exploited each funding deadline to play political games and force their radical Project 2025 policies on Americans while American families’ livelihoods hang in the balance.

    “House Democrats stand ready to work with Republicans to pass appropriations bills that reflect the bipartisan framework they committed to, and that lower costs, grow the middle class and protect our freedoms.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Ami Bera Votes for Bipartisan Continuing Resolution to Avert Government Shutdown, Fund Federal Government Through December 20

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ami Bera (D-CA)

    Today, U.S. Representative Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06) released a statement after voting to pass a bipartisan continuing resolution to avoid a government shutdown and fund the government through December 20th. The legislation passed by a vote of 341-82 on the House floor.

    “This afternoon, I joined a strong bipartisan majority of my colleagues to ensure that our government remains open to serve the American people.

    “While today’s vote provides critical funding to the Secret Service, ensuring the agency has the necessary resources to safeguard our political process, and supports veterans’ programs and other essential services, governing from continuing resolution to continuing resolution is no way to operate Congress.

    “Despite dysfunctional House Republican leadership, I will continue working with responsible lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to pass a full budget that addresses our nation’s most-pressing challenges and provides stability for families, businesses, and communities.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Womack Votes to Avoid a Costly Government Shutdown and Bolster Secret Service Protective Operations

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3)

    Womack Votes to Avoid a Costly Government Shutdown and Bolster Secret Service Protective Operations

    Washington, September 25, 2024

    Washington, D.C.—September 25, 2024…Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) released the following statement after voting for the continuing resolution (CR), H.R. 9747, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives today:

    Congressman Womack said, “Continuing resolutions are the sad reality of our broken budget process, something I’ve worked tirelessly to reform throughout my time in Congress. However, they’re better than the alternative – a government shutdown. Our national security is at grave risk when the government ceases operations. Hardworking taxpayers would pay the steep price, and programs Americans desperately rely on would come to a screeching halt. Further perpetuating dysfunction in the legislative process is the last thing the American people need. When Congress returns to Washington in November, we must get our act together and fulfill our most fundamental duty of passing fiscally responsible full-year appropriations.”

    Bill Summary:

    • Continues government funding at current levels through December 20, 2024, or the enactment of an applicable full-year appropriations act, whichever occurs first.
    • Allows for necessary payments to the District of Columbia for planning and security for the 2025 Presidential Inauguration, to the General Services Administration for support of the presidential transition, to the National Archives and Records Administration for record keeping of the presidential transition, and to the National Park Service for planning and security for the 2025 Presidential Inauguration.
    • Provides an additional $231 million for the Secret Service for protective operations for presidential and vice-presidential nominees in the 2024 campaign and activities related to National Special Security Events and provides the agency with flexibility to quickly obligate funds for protective operations. This additional money will be subject to existing funding caps, rejecting Democrats’ efforts to designate it as emergency spending.
    • Extends the National Flood Insurance Program through the duration of the CR.
    • Allows the Department of Health and Human Services to continue providing Temporary Assistance for Needy Families benefits during the duration of the CR.
    • Extends programs at the Department of Veterans Affairs to ensure our veterans continue to receive the care and benefits they have earned.
    • Extends expiring health care programs, including priority review vouchers for rare pediatric diseases, autism support activities, and Medicaid funding for the Northern Mariana Islands. The package is fully offset with a one-year delay to a scheduled change in Medicare payments to clinical laboratories.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Statement from President Joe  Biden on Passage of the Continuing  Resolution

    Source: The White House

    Tonight, bipartisan majorities in both chambers of Congress passed a continuing resolution to keep the government open through mid-December. I want to thank both houses of Congress—especially Senators Murray and Collins and Representatives Cole and DeLauro—for this bipartisan agreement and for avoiding a costly government shutdown. The passage of this bill gives Congress more time to pass full-year funding bills by the end of this year. My Administration will work with Congress to ensure these bills deliver for America’s national defense, veterans, seniors, children, and working families, and address urgent needs for the American people, including communities recovering from disasters. And while the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has the resources it currently needs to continue its successful efforts to ensure that the wealthy and large corporations pay the taxes they owe, my Administration will oppose any cuts or restrictions that would increase the deficit by limiting the IRS’s ability to crack down on wealthy tax cheats.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Deluzio Statement on Democrats Funding the Government, Avoiding Shutdown

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA-17) released the following statement after he joined with all House Democrats and 132 Republicans in voting to pass a Continuing Resolution to fund the government through December 20, 2024. 

    “Today, House Democrats once again stood united above the fray and showed the country that we are the party of governance in the House of Representatives. I’m proud today that I voted to keep our troops paid, critical safety inspections on schedule, federal agencies running, and so much else through the end of the year. The Republican majority never should have taken us—yet again—to the brink of government shutdown. 

    “Funding the government is one of Congress’ basic tasks, and it is disappointing (but not at all surprising) to see 82 of my Republican colleagues shirk their duty in favor of playing political games with our government. 

    “I will always put the people of Western Pennsylvania and our country first.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Finstad Releases Statement Regarding Opposition to Continuing Resolution

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) released the following statement after today’s vote on H.R. 9747, Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025:

    “Today, I voted against the continuing resolution because it is past time that we bring an end to this pattern of out-of-control government spending,” said Rep. Finstad. “This short-term extension is irresponsible and does not represent what the American people sent us here to do.”

    “Though the government will remain functioning for the time being, the only way to ensure long-term stability is through an appropriations process that returns fiscal sanity to Washington. We owe it to the American people to stop kicking the can down the road and get this reckless spending under control.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bice Votes in Favor of Continuing Resolution to Avoid a Government Shutdown

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Stephanie Bice (OK-05)

    September 25, 2024

    Washington, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a Continuing Resolution (CR) to fund the government through December 20th

    Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement:

    “While this CR is imperfect and not what I preferred, it was the only option left. I could not in good conscience vote to shut the government down, which would have damaging effects on our community, our military, and our border patrol agents.

    “The true disservice is that Senator Schumer and Senate Democrats refuse to bring any meaningful piece of legislation for a vote. The House has passed numerous appropriations bills, encompassing over 70% of government funding, while also working to secure our border and our elections. The Senate has done nothing but Judicial nominations.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman McCaul’s Resolution Brings Accountability for Failures During Afghanistan Withdrawal

    Source: US House Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Media Contact 202-226-8467

    Washington, D.C. – Today, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul delivered remarks on the House floor to ensure that 15 Biden-Harris administration officials are held accountable for their dereliction of duty resulting in the deadly Afghanistan withdrawal. This historic condemnation passed the House of Representatives with bipartisan support – including ten Democrats – in a vote of 219 to 194.

    WATCH HERE

    – Remarks as Delivered –

    Mr. Speaker, I want to say to my good friend I have tremendous respect [for you], we work together on many things, [we are] bipartisan. And when we don’t agree, we do so civilly. However, I cannot disagree more with you than I do today.

    One of the byproducts of Bagram [Airbase] falling, 7,000 ISIS [terrorists] were released from the Bagram prisons. Some of those have found their way into the United States.

    What happened in Afghanistan is a tragedy. And one of the worst foreign policy failures in our nation’s history.

    Who could ever forget the harrowing images of Afghans falling off the plans and babies being flung over barbed wire in a desperate attempt by mothers to save their children and escape Afghanistan under Taliban rule?

    The women, that Mr. Wilson referred to, [were] left behind along with American citizens.

    Women [are] now under slavery under the Taliban’s Sharia Law.

    We are the United States of America. You can’t tell me we couldn’t have safely evacuated U.S. personnel, Americans, and our brave Afghan allies.

    My report shows the administration had the information and opportunity to do so. But at every step of the way, they chose political optics over the safety of Americans.

    Their deadly and chaotic withdrawal started a chain of events that have led to a world on fire.

    We are witnessing the largest land invasion in Europe since WWII with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The CCP has become emboldened and more belligerent in their aggression towards Taiwan. And there is a war raging in the Middle East, Mr. Speaker, with the Ayatollah now rearing his ugly head. That didn’t happen by accident. It happened by design with the fall of Afghanistan.

    When you project weakness on the world stage, this is what you get: a world on fire, inviting aggression from our adversaries.

    Our U.S. national security is degraded, America’s credibility on the world stage is damaged, and the moral injury to the American veterans and servicemembers is a stain, an ugly stain on this administration’s legacy.

    I want to close, Mr. Speaker, with a reminder of the consequences of the actions of those named in this resolution. And it is the 13 heroic U.S. servicemembers who made the ultimate sacrifice. I’ve met with their loved ones, and they live [in] pain every single day, and they wake up to it every single day.

    These servicemembers who paid with their lives because of this administration’s failure on August 26, 2021. And I for one, in this chamber, in this House say I’m sorry for what your government did to you. And in their honor, I want to read their names.

    • Marine Lance Corporal David Lee Espinoza
    • Marine Sergeant Nicole Gee
    • Marine Staff Sergeant Taylor Hoover
    • Army Staff Sergeant Ryan Christian Knauss
    • Marine Corporal Hunter Lopez
    • Marine Lance Corporal Rylee J. McCollum
    • Marine Lance Corporal Dylan R. Merola
    • Marine Lance Corporal Kareem M. Nikoui
    • Marine Sergeant Johanny Rosario Pichardo
    • Marine Corporal Humberto Sanchez
    • Marine Lance Corporal Jared Schmitz
    • Navy Corpsman Maxton W. Soviak
    • Marine Corporal Daegan William-Tyeler Page

    Nothing will bring their lives back. Nothing will bring [the] children of these parents back, but we can hold those responsible, and accountable and that’s what this resolution does.

    And I urge my colleagues to support it. I yield the balance of my time.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: World Vision – New report reveals ‘distress migration’ on the rise as children and families in Southeast Asia leave their homes due to climate change

    Source: World Vision

    • ‘Distress migration’ is becoming more common as children and families flee their homes due to climate change
    • There are up to 2.5 million migrant children in Thailand living without domestic legal status
    • Migrating children, especially girls, are at risk of exploitation and abuse
    • Climate change has been identified as the root cause of issues facing migrants including hunger, missing school, and anxiety over mounting debts
    • Northern Viet Nam identified as a likely climate out-migration “hotspot” by 2050.

    A new report from World Vision reveals how the escalating climate crisis is disproportionately affecting children across Southeast Asia and causing children and families to flee their homes.
     
    The report, Climate Change, Vulnerability, and Migration: Impacts on Children and Youth in Southeast Asia, paints a harrowing picture of climate-induced migration and its impact on the region’s most at-risk children.
     
    Drawing on nearly 100 first-hand accounts from child migrants, children who stayed behind, parents, and caregivers, along with insights from local leaders and experts, the report documents the severe repercussions of climate change.
     
    Dr. Olivia Yates, World Vision’s Advocacy Policy & Research Advisor, International Partnerships, says the report highlights the urgent need to protect the rights and interests of young migrants in Southeast Asia.
     
    “The climate crisis is one of the greatest forces shaping our world – both present and future. None of us are immune to this fact, however, the reality is most acutely felt by those families already living precariously close to the edge, just one drought or flood away from the tipping point.
     
    “As climate change worsens, driving increasing migration, it’s vital that we safeguard the rights of children who are particularly at risk. Their health, education, livelihoods and economic prospects are all at stake. We must support these children and do what we can to help prevent their exposure to exploitation and abuse.”
     
    The findings of the report offer a stark portrayal of the way in which climate change is deepening poverty, deprivation, and debt that force families to leave their homes. Daily struggles include hunger due to low crop yields or crop failures, missed schooling as children face increased responsibilities, and mounting anxiety over financial instability caused by a lack of stable work.
     
    Many parents view migration as a long-term investment in their children’s future. Other economically insecure households are selling their land to pay off debts and even cover the costs of migration.
     
    Every year in Southeast Asia, countless families choose to migrate with their children, and many children also migrate on their own.
     
    According to the latest figures, there were about 1.27 million international child migrants in the region as of 2020 – about 40% in Thailand. However, given the high prevalence of irregular migration, the number of migrant children in Thailand living without domestic legal status has been estimated be between 1 – 2.5 million.
     
    Terry Ferrari, World Vision International’s Regional Leader for East Asia says the emotional impact of forced migration on children is huge.
     
    “Children told us they feel sad, isolated and miss their family and friends. Moreover, the disruption to their education, exposure to hazardous working conditions, and other factors could have long-term consequences for children’s personal development and future opportunities,” Ferrari says.
     
    Ferarri adds that many children are also left behind when their parents migrate because many migration settings that focus on employment do not allow migrants to bring their dependents.
     
    The interviews revealed profound emotional impacts on children left behind, particularly when the mother migrated. Caregivers were often overwhelmed, and some grandparents felt that they could not provide the support children needed. Many households struggled financially, and some children did not have enough to eat. In some cases, the absence of parents was associated with worse educational outcomes and school dropouts.
     
    Ferrari says if families want to take their children with them, they can be forced to migrate through irregular channels, which can be dangerous. Irregular migrants also remain vulnerable at their destination and must hide from the authorities.
     
    The report finds that for many migrant parents, whether they stayed in their country or crossed the border,  the financial benefits fell short of their expectations. Often, they could not send as much money as they wished – or send it consistently.
     
    With the UN estimating 10.6 million international migrants in Southeast Asia as of 2020, the urgency for targeted, effective action is clear. The report calls on national governments, donors, and international organisations to prioritise the needs and rights of children in the face of a rapidly changing climate. The report provides a series of detailed recommendations aimed at mitigating climate-related impacts, including enhancing community resilience through infrastructure and disaster preparedness, supporting sustainable livelihoods, protecting migrating families, caring for caregivers and children who stay behind, and empowering youth to build a brighter future.
     
    World Vision’s report also underscores the need for child-responsive and mobility-sensitive climate finance. With climate finance set to be the focus of talks at COP29 climate summit, this is a critical opportunity for the New Zealand Government to stand with children and advocate for effective climate finance that meets the scale of need in lower-income countries, ensuring children and their families need not turn to migration to meet their basic needs.
     
    Terry Ferrari, World Vision International’s Regional Leader for East Asia, says: “Urgent steps need to be taken to address the root causes of climate-related migration and protect the future of these young lives. We want all nations to commit to supporting safe, orderly and dignified migration that upholds the rights, well-being and opportunities of migrants, particularly vulnerable children.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: First ever UK-hosted meeting of AUKUS Defence Ministers as UK-Australia set to commence defence treaty negotiations

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A landmark AUKUS meeting will be held in the UK today as the Defence Secretary John Healey hosts counterparts from the US and Australia in London.

    • Landmark meeting as Defence Ministers from AUKUS partners meet outside the US for first time.
    • Negotiations set to commence on UK-Australia treaty to define defence relationship for decades.
    • Billions of pounds of UK exports expected to support Australian submarine build, with AUKUS to support over 21,000 UK jobs and helping to grow the economy.

    The meeting will be the first trilateral Defence Ministers AUKUS meeting to be held outside of the United States. Healey will host US Secretary of Defense Lloyd James Austin III and Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles to discuss the importance of the AUKUS partnership.

    It comes as the UK and Australia have agreed plans to commence negotiations on a bilateral AUKUS treaty between the UK and Australia. The treaty will establish the strategic and operational framework for bilateral cooperation under AUKUS with a focus on the core elements of the delivery of SSN-AUKUS.

    Given the importance of accelerating the design, build and delivery of SSN-AUKUS, Australia and the UK agreed these negotiations should occur at pace and with high priority.

    This first-of-its-kind treaty between the two countries could create a major UK trade boost – it is estimated that facilitating the SSN-AUKUS build in Australia will see billions of pounds of submarine components exported from the UK through our defence industry supply chains. The treaty will lay out the nations’ relationship on submarine co-operation, as work progresses on future conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered attack submarines for the UK and Australia. 

    The three-year anniversary of the landmark AUKUS partnership was marked this month, following shortly after a historic breakthrough in defence trade was reached between the UK, US, and Australia.

    The significant reduction in red tape will cover up to £500 million of UK defence exports each year, and billions of dollars of trade across all three nations, helping boost UK economic growth.

    In a further boost for the UK economy, it is estimated at its peak the future AUKUS attack submarine programme will have more than 21,000 people working on it at UK sites, with the work generating an additional 7,000 skilled roles.

    UK Defence Secretary, John Healey said:

    I’m proud to be the first UK Defence Secretary to host a meeting of AUKUS Defence Ministers in Britain.

    As AUKUS partners, we stand shoulder-to-shoulder in an increasingly unstable world. This is a partnership that will boost jobs, growth and prosperity across our three nations, as well as strengthening our collective security.

    I’m delighted that we will soon be commencing negotiations on a bilateral AUKUS treaty with Australia, which will help create a more secure and stable Indo-Pacific for decades to come.

    The treaty work comes off the back of a UK-Australia Defence and Security Cooperation Agreement being signed earlier this year, helping make it easier for our Armed Forces to operate together in each other’s countries and facilitate UK submarine crews visiting Australia as part of the AUKUS partnership.

    Since the AUKUS launch, nearly £10 billion of investment has been allocated towards UK nuclear work and infrastructure:

    • £4 billion to progress SSN-AUKUS UK submarines through design, prototyping and initial purchases.
    • £3 billion for new advanced manufacturing capabilities in Barrow-in-Furness and Derby.
    • £2.4 billion over ten years from Australia to boost Rolls-Royce infrastructure and to share costs on SSN-AUKUS submarine design.

    Through AUKUS Pillar 2, Australia, the UK and the US are pooling the talents of their defence sectors to develop at pace the delivery of advanced capabilities. Four UK companies have been selected by the UK’s Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) to receive a share of £2 million of funding to develop solutions in electromagnetic targeting and protection.

    The competition was run to find low cost, disposable, high volume and highly autonomous electromagnetic technology that can detect enemy actions or protect against them.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £1bn investment secures over 300 jobs in North Wales

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The UK and Welsh Government have announced £1 billion of investment into Shotton Mill in North Wales.

    • Major joint investment in Deeside will safeguard 147 jobs and create a further 220.
    • Shotton Mill will become UK’s largest recycled paper manufacturer helping the UK’s transition to net zero and creating jobs in green industries of the future.
    • Stronger relationship between UK and Welsh Government delivers boost to local economy.
    • Announcement comes ahead of Investment Summit which will bring together international business leaders to boost growth.

    A major investment of over £1 billion in the redevelopment of Shotton Mill in Deeside, North Wales, will safeguard 147 jobs and create a further 220 when fully commissioned, the UK and Welsh governments have confirmed today [Thursday 26 September].

    Cabinet ministers from both the UK and Welsh government will visit the historic industrial centre of Wales to meet with members of Eren Holdings, who acquired Shotton Mill in 2021. There, they will hear more about the site’s transformation, which will turn the area into the UK’s largest paper manufacturing site.

    The announcement comes ahead of the Investment Summit next month which will make clear that the UK is “open for business” as the UK government resets relations with trading partners around the globe and creates a pro-business environment that supports innovation and high-quality jobs at home and supports our mission to deliver growth.

    The Welsh Government has provided nearly £13 million in funding alongside £136 million in support from UK Export Finance (UKEF), the UK government’s export credit agency.

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    This is a massive vote of confidence in the Welsh economy and this government’s plans to make Britain the destination of choice for investments in the industries of tomorrow. This transformative investment will not only support local skilled jobs but raise living standards in the community.

    The deal being announced today is testament to what can be achieved when the Welsh and UK governments work hand in hand. 

    We’re also proud to celebrate National Manufacturing Day, where we recognise the tremendous innovations taking place right across the sector, not least here in Shotton Mill.

    Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said:

    Deeside has a long and proud history as one of Wales’ key industrial centres and this significant investment from our two governments will secure jobs and help bring a prosperous future for the area.

    We have reset the relationship between the UK and Welsh Government. Working together in close partnership we are delivering growth and good jobs to people across Wales.

    Economy, Energy and Planning Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Evans said:

    This is excellent news for Deeside and the wider Welsh economy and is a prime example of how, through our commitment to a prosperous, green economy we are able to attract investment, and create good, sustainable jobs whilst reducing waste.

    Once fully operational, instead of transporting paper waste many hundreds or thousands of miles overseas to be processed it will be turned into recycled packaging here in Wales. This, alongside the nature of the technology, means a net reduction in carbon emissions equivalent to emissions from 190,000 homes a year.

    Our £13million support will help ensure this is delivered whilst safeguarding and creating local jobs and ensuring that the community is at the heart of the business’ success for many years to come.

    Eren Holding is a leading containerboard and corrugated cardboard manufacturer from Turkey and ranks among the leading producers in Europe. Their plans will see Shotton Mill become the UK’s largest paper-manufacturing campus, boosting UK paper production by recycling wastepaper which would otherwise go overseas or into landfill.

    The plant will produce nearly 100% recycled paper and will have an environmentally friendly production model as it purifies its own wastewater, recycles and reuses it in the system, helping to create good, highly paid jobs in the green industries of the future.

    UKEF supported by issuing a guarantee which allows HSBC and UBS to arrange debt financing for the project. 

    The Eren investment is expected to boost Welsh and UK exports in paper, with UKEF support offered on the understanding that Shotton Mill will export 10% of its turnover within 5 years. This is also expected to reduce UK reliance on imports of paper.

    Hamdullah Eren, Senior board member of the Eren Holding Group said:

    “Production at our new plant at Shotton Mill will be based on state-of-the-art technology, making this the most advanced paper campus in Europe. Our custom-built plant will deliver sophisticated and sustainable manufacturing solutions well into the 21st century. This is the first major Eren Holding cap ex project outside Türkiye and we are delighted to have chosen Deeside as an ideal location to meet our ambitions for growth. We are putting down deep roots on a site of historic industrial significance. We believe this new plant will bring prosperity, leadership in our industry, and long-term employment prospects that will be the pride of Deeside, Wales and Türkiye.”

    Northeast Wales is a key industrial centre, with Deeside being one of the largest industrial parks in Europe. Shotton steelworks once operated on site, with industrial activity at the Mill dating back over 100 years.

    The investment represents a new lease of life for the site and will support economic stability in Deeside and the North Wales area as both governments look to deliver long-term, sustainable, growth right across the UK.

    The announcement also falls on National Manufacturing Day as the government celebrates the nation’s first-class manufacturing industry. The UK government’s upcoming modern industrial strategy will back workers and give international investors the confidence they need to invest in Britain, creating jobs and growth across the UK.

    The UK remains an attractive destination for green investment and this announcement will help create jobs, grow the economy and export high-quality, sustainable goods around the world.

    Notes to Editors

    • More information on the UK’s trading relationship with Turkey can be found here: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/66e937f47f20ecc7ec3aa226/turkey-trade-and-investment-factsheet-2024-09-20.pdf

    • UK Export Finance (UKEF) is a government department which provides loans, guarantees, and insurance to help UK exporters access international trading opportunities. It is the UK’s export credit agency and works closely with the Department of Business and Trade.

    • UKEF’s support has come in the form of a financing guarantee issued under its Export Development Guarantee (EDG) product, which helps UK exporters to access high-value debt facilities.
    • A financial guarantee is an arrangement which can help a borrower to access debt financing such as loans and lines of credit. It involves a guarantor agreeing to ensure that the lender is repaid if the borrower defaults.
    • In this case, UKEF has provided an 80% guarantee worth £136 million covering a £170 million financing facility being made available by other institutions to Shotton Mill, with HSBC and UBS acting as arranging banks.
    • This is the second time that UK has used its EDG product to support an overseas business looking to increase its UK exporting capacity through an ‘invest-to-export’ arrangement.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New support for semiconductor firms to grow, powering growth in £10 billion UK industry

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Support for semiconductor scale-ups announced as Lord Vallance kicks off a stakeholder forum ahead of the G7 Semiconductors Points of Contact group in Cambridge.

    16 semiconductor scale up projects backed to advance innovative tech

    • Science Minister Lord Vallance unveils new support for UK semiconductor scale-ups to advance innovations, from phone screens to medical tech
    • Support to help businesses grow unveiled as Minister welcomes leading tech nations to a stakeholder forum preceding the G7 Semiconductors Points of Contact group in Cambridge
    • Comes as new report finds rapidly growing UK semiconductor industry valued at nearly £10 billion and expected to rise this decade

    UK semiconductor firms producing vital technology from phone screens to surgical lasers are being backed in their efforts to scale up into large businesses and drive economic growth.

    The science Minister Lord Patrick Vallance has announced the 16 projects that will win a share of a £11.5 million pot – provided by Innovate UK – that will help drive innovation, as he opened an industry conference of G7 nations today (Thursday 26 September).

    Pioneering projects across the country will help take the UK’s thriving semiconductor industry to the next level as it further enhances everyday life – from more efficient medical devices to energy saving phone screens – and kickstart economic growth.

    This comes shortly before the Government’s International Investment Summit which will showcase the UK as a place to do business. Today’s move is yet another reason for business to choose the UK as a place to invest – as it is backing the industries of the future.

    A new report by Perspective Economics reveals the UK semiconductor sector, which includes over 200 companies in research, design, and manufacturing, is valued at almost £10 billion and could grow up to £17 billion by 2030.

    Semiconductors are small chips at the core of everyday technology from smartphones to renewable energy systems and this support will help to scale up domestic manufacturing and strengthen supply chain resilience, so the UK is fit for the future in a global industry.

    The funding comes as the G7 Semiconductors Point of Contact group kicks off with a stakeholder forum at major UK tech company Arm’s HQ in Cambridge, where member states, research organisations, and industry representatives are discussing key issues affecting the global semiconductor industry, like supporting early-stage innovation and sustainability.

    Science Minister, Lord Vallance, said:

    Semiconductors are an unseen but vital component in so many of the technologies we rely on in our lives and backing UK innovators offers a real opportunity to growth these firms into industry leaders, strengthening our £10 billion sector and ensuring it drives economic growth.

    Our support in these projects will promote critical breakthroughs such as more efficient medical devices that could significantly lower costs and faster manufacturing processes to improve productivity.

    Hosting the G7 semiconductors Points of Contact group is also a chance to showcase the UK’s competitive and growing sector and make clear our commitment to keeping the UK at the forefront of advancing technology.

    Among the funded projects, receiving a share of £11.5 million, is Vector Photonics Limited in collaboration with the University of Glasgow, which aims to enhance the power and cost-effectiveness of blue light lasers in everyday technology by using gallium nitride, a high-performance material. Blue lasers are key in devices like medical equipment, quantum displays and car headlights.

    Another project, led by Quantum Advanced Solutions Ltd with the University of Cambridge, is developing advanced shortwave infrared (SWIR) sensors which improve vision in critical sectors like defence, by supporting surveillance in challenging conditions in low-visibility environments, such as during adverse weather conditions or atmospheric disturbances. The project looks to simplify production using innovative quantum dot materials – tiny semiconductor particles that emit light at specific wavelengths – offering higher sensitivity and performance, cutting costs and making this advanced technology more accessible to multiple sectors including manufacturing and healthcare.

    Andrew Tyrer, Deputy Director, Electronics, Sensors and Photonics, Innovate UK, said:

    Innovate UK’s investment in this programme directly supports the National Semiconductor Strategy launched in 2023 and aims to ensure the UK’s place in the global landscape.

    Iain Mauchline Innovation Lead – Electronics, Sensors, and Photonics at Innovate UK, added:

    It has been recognised that semiconductors are key enablers for the UK ambitions across all critical technology areas. Funding these diverse projects highlights the strengths and depth of the UK’s semiconductor ecosystem.

    The G7 Semiconductors Point of Contact Group, established under Italy’s G7 Presidency earlier this year, continues its mission to address issues impacting the semiconductor industry, including early-stage innovation, crisis coordination, sustainability, and the impact of government policies and practices.

    Rene Haas, CEO, Arm said: 

    It is an honour to host the G7 Semiconductor working group at Arm’s global headquarters in Cambridge to advance collective efforts from industry, research organizations, and governments to increase supply chain resilience, security, and energy efficiency.  We look forward to continued partnership with the G7 representatives and the UK government as we work to enable innovation and realize the full potential of AI.” 

    This meeting immediately follows the OECD Semiconductor Informal Exchange Network gathering, where countries and stakeholders shared strategies for strengthening global semiconductor supply chains and addressing shared challenges in the semiconductor industry.

    The UK is playing a key role in the OECD’s efforts to unite government and industry in navigating the complexities of the global chip supply chain.

    Charles Sturman, CEO of TechWorks said:

    This report represents the first detailed economic study of the UK Semiconductor sector in many years. I am proud to have been part of this important work and pleased with the results. Key findings here show that the UK already sees significant revenue from the sector and, by building on strong innovation, we can see significant opportunity to increase this together with our ~2% share of global semiconductor revenues; ultimately creating much more than the 86,000 jobs currently in the wider economy. The industry is set to grow rapidly in the next decade and the right mix of scale-up support and industrial policy can secure future growth of the UK semiconductor sector.

    Notes to editors

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

    Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 300

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Treasury – Debt and deficits accentuate the fiscal challenge of an aging population

    Source: The Treasury

    Higher than expected debt and structural fiscal deficits are compounding the fiscal challenge of an aging population, Treasury Deputy Secretary and Chief Economic Adviser Dominick Stephens said in a speech today.
    The speech reiterates the Treasury’s consistent message that New Zealand’s fiscal settings are not sustainable in the face of long-run population aging.
    “As the over-65s become a larger share of the population, the public purse will be stretched further and further,” said Dominick Stephens.
    The speech explores how falling interest rates, high population growth, and a stunning increase in labour force participation among the over 65s have all helped with fiscal sustainability.
    “New Zealand has been extremely successful at keeping seniors in the workforce, partly because older workers face no abatement of national superannuation if they choose to work,” commented Dominick Stephens.
    “There is no silver bullet solution, we are going to need to pull a number of levers to render fiscal policy sustainable for the long run.
    “Boosting productivity will lead to a more prosperous society and give the government more choices.
    “It is younger people who matter most for fiscal sustainability. We need young people who are willing and able to support their elders. Young New Zealanders are doing well in many respects, but there are challenges in education, mental health and housing.”
    The Treasury will publish its next Long Term Fiscal Statement in 2025.
    The full speech is available on the Treasury website:  https://www.treasury.govt.nz/publications/speech/longevity-and-public-purse 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: No child left behind with STAR system

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Education Minister David Seymour says that the Government is delivering real solutions to get kids back in the classroom, introducing the Stepped Attendance Response (STAR) system.

    “Any student who reaches a clearly defined threshold of days absent will trigger an appropriate and proportionate response from their school and the Ministry,” says Mr Seymour.

    “New Zealand attendance rates are low by national and international standards. In 2023, 80.6% of students in England and 61.6% of students in Australia were attending using a measure similar to the Term 2 New Zealand regular attendance rate, which was only 47.1%. 

    “If this issue isn’t addressed there will be an 80-year long shadow of people who missed out on education when they were young, are less able to work, less able to participate in society, more likely to be on benefits. That’s how serious this is.

    “The basic premise of the STAR is that no child is left behind. Every student, parent, teacher and school has a role to play. Each school will develop their own STAR system to suit their community and school.

    Some examples of how interventions could work are:

    • 5 days absent: The school to get in touch with parents/guardians to determine reasons for absence and set expectations. 
    • 10 days absent: School leadership meets with parents/guardian and the student to identify barriers to attendance and develop plans to address this.
    • 15 days absent: Escalating the response to the Ministry and steps to initiate prosecution of parents could be considered as a valid intervention.

    “Since becoming the Minister responsible for attendance, I’ve visited numerous schools to see how they’re addressing it. Some schools have an approach that is functioning well, but many do not. 

    “It will be mandatory for all schools to have an attendance management plan based on STAR from the beginning of the 2026 school year. The Ministry will work with schools, the Attendance Service, non-government agencies and other government agencies to streamline this. The Ministry will also provide best practice templates for attendance plans and toolkits for dealing with absent students, depending on the reasons for absence. 

    “Schools will have to play their part in setting a good example as well. This means not taking teacher-only days during term time. Under existing regulations, and terms in the union contracts, teacher-only days are only legally allowed to be held out of term time, unless authorised by the Minister of Education. 

    “I have asked the Ministry to collect data on when a school is open or closed for instruction for the full day, and for each year group, during term time. It is critical the entire system works cohesively to ensure education is respected and valued by students and lost instruction time is made up. 

    “I have also directed the Ministry to take a more active role in the prosecution process. I reserve the right to look at an infringement scheme in the future if this approach doesn’t work.

    “With more reliable and timely data being made available, the next phase of improving student attendance will be further understanding why students don’t attend. 

    “I’ve directed the Ministry of Education, with the active co-operation of the Ministry for Social Development, Oranga Tamariki, Police, Kainga Ora, and Te Puni Kokiri to develop robust information sharing agreements so that staff can share appropriate information once a student has been identified as needing support.

    “Almost every aspect of someone’s adult life will be defined by the education they receive as a child. If we want better social outcomes, we can’t keep ignoring the truancy crisis. This Government has set itself bold targets to address attendance, and it’s a bold approach that is needed for the future.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Air pollutant trends decrease at most monitoring sites over the last eight years – Stats NZ media release

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Air pollutant trends decrease at most monitoring sites over the last eight years – 26 September 2024 – Concentrations of air pollutants decreased at many air quality monitoring sites between 2016 and 2023, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

    “PM10 trends decreased at 30 out of 41 local government monitoring sites, while trends for PM2.5 decreased at 12 out of 16 sites. Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) trends decreased at 99 out of 114 NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi monitoring sites between 2014 and 2023,” environment and agricultural statistics senior manager Stuart Jones said.

    PM10 and PM2.5 are particles that can be suspended in the air and are less than 10 micrometres and 2.5 micrometres in diameter, respectively. They are primarily formed by residential wood burning, dust from unsealed roads, and industrial and construction activities. NO2 is a gas primarily formed through burning fossil fuels.

    “PM10 can be breathed into lungs and PM2.5 is small enough to enter the blood stream. Concentrations of particles, gas, and liquid in air can be harmful to human health and contribute to health issues such as cardiovascular and respiratory health problems and increased mortality,” Jones said.

    Visit our website to read this news story in full and view the indicators published today:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Oil and gas is alive and well, Minister Wilkinson: Minister Jean

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    “It is a shame that the federal energy minister is so misinformed when it comes to the future of oil and gas in Canada and around the world.

    “Wilkinson falsely claimed that oil and gas will be peaking this year, that the market is inevitably declining and that making more investments in this industry, supporting it and defending it will allegedly make Canada poorer.

    “We shouldn’t be surprised that this comes from a government whose anti-energy and anti-development policies broke Canada.

    “Let us be absolutely clear, Alberta’s government remains committed to increasing oil and gas production. Small, medium and large companies are actively investing in oil and gas growth all across our province to reach this target.

    “The demand for Alberta’s oil is only growing and reached record production in July. Alberta has recently developed new markets in Asia. Millions of people die every year from energy poverty. To kill the oil and gas industry would be to condemn developing countries to energy poverty.

    “It is Alberta’s responsibility to meet this demand.

    “All reputable international forecasters predict this growth to continue for years to come. Alberta’s oil and gas sector is driving Canada’s economy, and we will continue to defend the sector by any means possible.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Air pollutant trends decrease at most monitoring sites over the last eight years – Stats NZ media release

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Air pollutant trends decrease at most monitoring sites over the last eight years – 26 September 2024 – Concentrations of air pollutants decreased at many air quality monitoring sites between 2016 and 2023, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

    “PM10 trends decreased at 30 out of 41 local government monitoring sites, while trends for PM2.5 decreased at 12 out of 16 sites. Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) trends decreased at 99 out of 114 NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi monitoring sites between 2014 and 2023,” environment and agricultural statistics senior manager Stuart Jones said.

    PM10 and PM2.5 are particles that can be suspended in the air and are less than 10 micrometres and 2.5 micrometres in diameter, respectively. They are primarily formed by residential wood burning, dust from unsealed roads, and industrial and construction activities. NO2 is a gas primarily formed through burning fossil fuels.

    “PM10 can be breathed into lungs and PM2.5 is small enough to enter the blood stream. Concentrations of particles, gas, and liquid in air can be harmful to human health and contribute to health issues such as cardiovascular and respiratory health problems and increased mortality,” Jones said.

    Visit Statistics NZ’s website to read this news story in full and view the indicators published today:

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Challenges Ukraine Narrative, Blasts Biden-Harris Administration for Prolonging the War

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
    “The Biden-Harris Administration needs to negotiate a peace agreement now . . . or there will be disastrous consequences coming in the very near future”
    WASHINGTON – Today,U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) delivered a floor speech criticizing the Biden-Harris administration for prolonging the unwinnable war in Ukraine at the expense of American taxpayers. Sen. Tuberville also discussed why the history of NATO is inconvenient for the Biden-Harris administration’s narrative. In the speech, Sen. Tuberville highlighted that Ukraine is becoming desperate, which could have dire consequences.
    Read the speech below or watch it here.
    “Mr. President, 
    I rise today to talk about the un-winnable war in Ukraine, which has already cost American taxpayers billions of dollars. 
    Now, anyone who dares question the Uni-Party’s narrative on the war in Ukraine is obviously going to get criticized. That’s OK. The media has been complicit in pushing this narrative. Think about [it]: when was the last time you saw live footage on the ground in Ukraine? It’s rare because Ukraine is losing and is losing badly.
    This comes after we just gave Ukraine $60 billion dollars more of taxpayer money earlier this year to prolong this war. 
    I see President Zelensky, a Uni-Party puppet, is here begging, begging for more money on [the] campaign trail with Kamala Harris. It feels like he’s here every other month demanding more and more taxpayer money. That’s because he knows that the money spigot will cut off if Kamala Harris doesn’t win in November.
    Look, this subject is too important to go unaddressed. Over the last several months, I’ve asked multiple high-ranking members of the Biden-Harris administration to articulate what it is trying to accomplish in Ukraine. Just tell us. Tell us what it will cost and how we plan to achieve these results. Basically, I’m asking: what is our game plan? Not one official in this administration has answered my questions clearly. Not one. 
    One of the most interesting responses I received was from Secretary Austin himself, Secretary of Defense. He says, ‘We want to see Ukraine remain a sovereign, independent and democratic state that has the ability to defend itself in its territory and deter aggression.’ Ok. Secretary Austin continued, stating that it is the administration’s goal to bring Ukraine into NATO while simultaneously blaming Russia for NATO’s past expansion. 
    Now, here’s when the DC establishment really, really gets upset. I’m going to review a few undeniable facts about NATO’s history. Predictably, the Uni-Party will accuse me of spewing Russian propaganda. But these are the facts and that’s what we have to go by. We can’t shy away from them. 
    NATO was formed 75 years ago in 1949 as a defensive alliance to counter the communist Soviet Union. It was wildly successful in that it maintained peace through deterrence throughout the cold war. NATO helped us win the Cold War and dissolve [the] communist Soviet Union. When the Cold War ended in 1991, Ukraine instantly became the world’s third-largest nuclear power. Ukraine. Following a series of negotiations, Ukrainians agreed to give up their nuclear weapons in exchange for security guarantees from both Russia and NATO. Territorial integrity and political independence.
    These efforts were successful because they included assurances by many, many heads of state, including our own, that would no up-eastward expansion of NATO towards Russia would ever happen. It was over. At that time, there were 16 NATO members. Today, 33 years later, after this agreement, there are 32 NATO members. Even though in 1991 we agreed to no more eastward expansion, we broke the agreement. We, NATO and the United States. NATO has expanded eastward seven times since that agreement in 1991. The largest expansion in 2004 included two countries that share a border with Russia: Estonia and Latvia. Today, NATO includes three countries that border Russia. Six NATO members are former Warsaw Pact members. The bulk of this expansion happened before Russia annexed Crimea and invaded part of Ukraine in 2014.
    Again, these are all the facts. All play a part in the NATO story and Russia’s response to it. Here’s another fact: NATO’s expansion was on NATO’s terms, separate and apart from any Russian input or activity. Let me read that again. NATO expansion was on NATO’s terms, separate and apart from any Russian input or activity—contrary to Secretary Austin’s claims. Ask yourself: How would the U.S. react if China or Russia entered a mutual defense organization with Mexico or Canada? How would we react? What if they started basing troops or participating in military exercises just miles from our homeland?
    Having covered a brief history of NATO, let’s ask logical follow-up questions that we should always ask before involving ourselves in any armed conflict. First, how far are we willing to take this proxy war with Russia? How far are we? Did we think about that before we got into this? Are we [as] committed to winning as Russia’s President is? Vladimir Putin? Are we committed to winning? What happens if the momentum turns? What happens if it turns against Ukraine and Russia starts making real gains, as it appears is happening today. Will the U.S. send more taxpayer money? More weapons? Will NATO send troops? Will the United States send troops? What’s the plan? 
    War is a serious business. We should understand that by now. You don’t half-ass your way into one and certainly don’t half-ass your way out of one. That doesn’t seem to resonate around here.
    Since the Russian offensive began, we have sent more than one $174 billion taxpayer dollars to Ukraine, one of the most corrupt countries in the world. Recently, the Biden-Harris administration announced their intent, their intent, to send an additional $700 million taxpayer dollars to Ukraine in cash. Are you kidding me? Why on earth would we give cash to the most corrupt country on the face of the planet? 
    So, after all that, after the last two and a half years of funding billions of taxpayer dollars, getting hundreds of thousands of people killed, what do we have to show for it? The war has only gotten worse. Hundreds of thousands are dead. Ukraine is becoming more desperate, as its forces are [experiencing] widespread insubordination and even mass desertion. We don’t hear that on TV. We don’t hear that in this propaganda media. Over six million Ukrainians have fled the country, have run, have left their country.
    Ukraine is playing with fire, now seeking to conduct offensive operations deep inside Russia. Why? You can’t win. Most recently, Ukraine launched a drone attack that struck in Moscow. What are we trying to do— start World War III? Most recently, Ukraine launched a drone attack that struck several other office buildings in Moscow. Adding to the uncertainty of this situation, this administration’s current policy towards Ukraine has all the hallmarks of every Biden-Harris foreign policy decision that has preceded it: weak planning, disastrous results, zero leadership. This administration never considered the consequences of Ukraine losing. How can that ever happen?
    This is really sad. It’s sad for the United States of America. It’s sad for the taxpayers. It’s sad for our military. It’s sad for our allies and it’s sad for NATO. Some of [his] Democratic colleagues have said, ‘Joe Biden never made a correct decision in foreign policy in forty years.’ Well, he hadn’t broke that. 
    Biden-Harris administration has dumped billions of dollars also into the lap of Iran. Removed the terrorist designation from the Houthis, who by the way, we’re fighting against right now, but they’re ‘not terrorists.’ Alienated one of our most important friends, Saudi Arabia. And they’ve executed the disastrous Afghanistan withdrawal that unnecessarily cost the lives of Americans. All this weakness was a direct signal to our adversaries: ‘Now is the time to make your move.’ And that’s exactly what our adversaries China, Iran, Russia, and North Korea are doing.
    China today tested another ballistic missile into the Pacific Ocean. They’re preparing. Russia now has pounced on Ukraine. Whatever you hear in the media, it’s not true. It is a slaughter. Iran has released its proxies and terrorized the Middle East. Our ally Israel is fighting for its life against Hamas following the gruesome October 7th attack almost a year ago. The Houthis, the Houthis, are a bunch of people that live in the mountains, have been emboldened to attack ships, which has negatively impacted global trade. We can’t even beat the Houthis and we’re trying to create more wars. China has stepped up its aggression in the China Sea. We’re losing influence across the globe, especially in South America and Africa where the Chinese and the Russians are taking over. We’re leaving leaps and bounds.
    So, let’s be very clear. Despite the administration’s incompetence, I still believe Putin was wrong to invade Ukraine. I think we all do. He should have withdrawn his forces immediately after it started. Putin is responsible for his actions, and he has made no secret of the fact that he sees Ukraine as historically a part of Russia. 
    At the same time, I do not think that Ukraine’s border is more important than ours—not even close—which we have been completely […] neglecting the last three and a half years.
    We have been overrun, [at the] southern border, northern border, and from airplanes all over the world flying into our cities. It’s an embarrassment.
    We do not need the administration to enable Ukraine to use offensive weapons and strike deep into Russia. That cannot happen. We are on the cusp of a nuclear war. Nobody seems concerned: ‘It won’t happen.’ Yes, it will happen. Putin has told us it will happen if you continue this. This would only escalate this conflict to an entirely new level that none of us can ever imagine. Do you think this offensive would convince Putin to come to the table and negotiate a peace agreement? Well, I would hope we would go, but we do not seem to want to make a peace agreement. We had better and we’d better do it in the very near future. This will provoke him to [use] even more deadly weapons if we continue to attack within their borders, costing more and more lives. NATO and the U.S. would be forced to respond as a result. We’re trying to create a war. 
    We must consider these questions thoroughly before we involve ourselves in another one of these crazy conflicts that should never happen. Improvising won’t cut it. Now is the time for the U.S. to lead and negotiate a peace to the end of this bloody war. I keep hearing people say, ‘well, we’re building equipment for our military.’ Yeah, right. Or our men and women are not losing their lives. We’re getting close to it. We’re getting very close.
    Now look, I come from a military state in the state of Alabama. We build everything. We have thousands of troops. I want it to be well-funded and well-equipped if we ever have to fight a war. We need a lethal killing machine to deter other aggression. That’s what a military is about. This is not about defunding our military. I want our military laser-focused on protecting Americans and not woke DEI initiatives. And it’s not about abandoning our allies either. We need to support our allies.
    It’s about this administration funding a proxy war with no plan, zero, no plan on how to stop it, or how to win it. The Biden-Harris administration needs to negotiate a peace agreement now. Immediately, or there will be huge, disastrous consequences coming in the very near future. 
    Mr. President, I yield floor.”
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, and HELP Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Budd Calls Out Biden & Harris For Using Federal Agencies for Partisan Politics

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina)

    Washington, D.C. — In a speech on the Senate floor today, Senator Ted Budd (R-NC) pushed the chamber to pass the Promoting Free and Fair Elections Act.

    The bill would prohibit federal agencies from using taxpayer funds to implement or enter into agreements with partisan organizations that conduct voter mobilization activities.

    The legislation was blocked by Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA).

    Senator Budd said in his speech:

    “I do not believe that the federal government should be using official taxpayer resources to advance partisan politics.”

    “Congress has attempted to conduct oversight on this order. And citizens have filed Freedom of Information Act lawsuits. The Biden-Harris administration has released only a tiny fraction of these agency plans. In at least one instance, the administration redacted every single paragraph of an agency plan leaving only vague headers. So that begs the question… What does the Biden-Harris administration have to hide?”

    WATCH VIDEO OF THE EXCHANGE

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Votes Against Continuation of Out-of-Control Democrat Spending

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) today released a statement following his vote against the Continuing Resolution (CR) to temporarily fund the government for the next three months.
    “For the past four years, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris have treated the American taxpayers like their own personal ATM,” said Senator Tuberville. “We are $35 trillion in debt and have very little to show for it. Rather than going through the appropriations process, Democrats are trying to ram another CR down our throats—setting us up for a massive omnibus at the end of the year. This is completely irresponsible and no way to govern, which is why I voted no. To save this country, we have to turn off the spending faucet in Washington and start putting American taxpayers first.” 
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, and HELP Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –