NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: WorkSafe changes a welcome step towards modern, supportive regulation

    Source: EMA

    The change in focus for WorkSafe New Zealand is long overdue and should assist employers in keeping workers safer while having fewer concerns about being punished, says the Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA).
    The changes – including a new letter of expectations, a restructured funding model, and a legislative rewrite of the regulator’s core purpose – represent a significant shift in the approach to health and safety regulation in New Zealand.
    The EMA has long advocated for a more balanced, collaborative model that fosters partnership and practical support for employers and workers.
    ‘Hello, what can we do to help?’ may be the new greeting from a WorkSafe inspector, says EMA Manager of Employment Relations & Safety Paul Jarvie.
    “These reforms will help modernise WorkSafe into a regulator that promotes compliance through education rather than fear,” he says.
    “This is a welcome and necessary change. For years, businesses – particularly small and medium-sized enterprises – have felt they were being policed rather than supported.
    “We’ve heard consistently from our members that the culture of enforcement-first created a climate of fear and concealment, rather than clarity and cooperation. This meant businesses were reluctant to call in WorkSafe for assistance because they were worried about simply being fined without getting the help or guidance they originally sought to avoid or manage a potential risk in the workplace.
    “That feedback has come through strongly from our members for many years and Minister van Velden heard the concerns during her roadshow events with small to medium businesses last year. The EMA has been calling for a shift towards an enabling, advisory-based regulator – and it’s pleasing to see the government respond.”
    The announcement includes a redefinition of WorkSafe’s role, with a greater emphasis on early engagement, targeted guidance, and clear, consistent advice.
    Updating and streamlining more than 50 guidance documents and re-prioritising critical risk areas are among the first steps being taken.
    “Cleaning up of WorkSafe advice documents is long overdue and must continue,” Jarvie says.
    “Clear expectations, consistent advice, and a shared goal of risk reduction should be the foundation of our health and safety system. New Zealand workplaces are safer when employers and regulators work in partnership.”
    The EMA also supports the move to involve industries more directly in developing Approved Codes of Practice, with WorkSafe providing guidance and oversight.
    “Industry knows its risks best,” says Jarvie. “Empowering businesses to help shape the standards they work to – with proper regulatory oversight – is a smart, pragmatic approach that will deliver better compliance and ultimately, better outcomes for workers.”
    The EMA assisted the Minister ’s review roadshow and found strong support from our members for these changes. The EMA is actively involved in supporting our members to meet and surpass their health and safety obligations through our comprehensive training programme.
    The EMA looks forward to continuing to work with the government, WorkSafe, Unions and other key stakeholders to ensure the transition achieves its intended purpose: a modern, fit-for-purpose regulator focused on outcomes, not bureaucracy.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government protects thousands of miles of bus services from being scrapped

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Government protects thousands of miles of bus services from being scrapped

    Bus Services Bill will give local leaders the power to shape the bus services their communities rely on.

    • bus passengers across the UK – particularly the vulnerable – will be protected from sudden cuts to their services thanks to the Bus Services Bill, which has passed its second reading
    • Local Transport Minister visits Blackpool, seeing first-hand how locally controlled bus routes are restoring trust in public transport
    • empowering local leaders, government invests recent record £1 billion to improve bus services and drive up living standards by delivering the Plan for Change

    Thousands of bus passengers who rely on vital routes to get to work, school or the doctors will be protected from sudden and uninformed cuts to services thanks to the government’s Bus Services Bill.

    In a move that will protect thousands of miles of vital bus routes, the Bus Services Bill will end the plight of bus routes being scrapped at short notice, tightening requirements for cancelling vital bus routes – especially those used by vulnerable or disadvantaged passengers.

    Councils will identify socially necessary local services, and working with bus operators, put in place strict requirements before these services can be changed or cancelled.

    As the Bus Services Bill reached its second reading in the House of Commons yesterday (2 June 2025), the Transport Secretary called for greater accountability and reliability for bus services. MPs have also begun to have their say on proposals to protect vital services and empower local authorities to make the decisions that will benefit their communities.

    The bill, which has already passed through the House of Lords, will improve access to opportunities that drive up living standards and so grow the economy, as part of the Plan for Change.

    Buses remain the most used form of public transport across England, but approximately 300 million miles of bus services operating outside London were slashed from 2010 to 2024, with passengers left frustrated at the lack of accountability. 

    MPs also debated how the bill will allow local authorities to emulate the success of locally controlled bus networks.

    To mark the milestone, the Local Transport Minister, Simon Lightwood, visited Blackpool last week to hear first-hand from passengers how the locally controlled Blackpool Transport buses have put their needs first to deliver services that allow them to access jobs and social opportunities that drive up their quality of life.  

    Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said:  

    We’re committed to giving local leaders the power to shape the bus services their communities rely on. Our Bus Services Bill is a big step forward, protecting vital services that people depend on to get to work, school, or essential appointments.

    We have taken a decisive step towards better buses, building on our £1 billion investment to improve and maintain bus services, keeping people connected, driving up living standards and growing the economy in line with our Plan for Change.

    The plans will lift the ban on local authorities establishing their own bus companies, making it easier for them to control services and shape routes to work better for local people. 

    As part of this, the government will also reduce some of the complexities and red tape involved in bus franchising, including reducing the minimum period between local areas taking control and being allowed to run services.

    The bill will also empower local authorities to work alongside private operators to improve bus services if they choose not to pursue full ownership.  

    The government is also investing a near £38 million to bring 319 new zero emission buses to communities across England, while nearly £1 billion is being invested in England to improve bus infrastructure with new bus stops and digital timetables, introduce more frequent and more reliable buses and expand fare discounts.   

    The bill will also improve safety for both passengers and staff by mandating that staff, including drivers, undertake training to recognise and respond to incidents of criminal and anti-social behaviour, including acts of violence against women and girls. 

    Mayor for Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, said:

    Deregulation of buses came at the expense of passengers, with a shrinking network, high fares and a service not fit for the rapid growth and scale of ambition we are seeing in Greater Manchester.

    As the first area to bring buses back under local control, our Bee Network is putting people and businesses before profit, reversing decades-long decline in buses with rapidly growing numbers of passengers served by a more reliable, affordable and integrated network. This is central to supporting economic growth, higher productivity, access to new jobs, homes and public services and opening up opportunity for all.

    This bill is vital to reforming transport networks across the country, putting power back in the hands of locally accountable leaders to ensure services work for the communities they serve.

    North East Mayor, Kim McGuinness, said:

    On my first day as mayor, I started the legal process to bring buses back under public control because good public transport is how we unlock growth and opportunity for local people. I hear every day from people fed up with poor bus services.

    This can’t go on, so I’m pleased the government is working with mayors and local authorities to bring in legislation that will support our effort to improve bus networks across the country. It is crucial we fix the broken bus market so we can provide the reliable, affordable public transport people need.

    Professor Karen Lucas, Director of Manchester Urban Institute, said:

    The new buses bill will finally put a halt to the decimation of socially necessary services after years of unregulated cuts that have left many vulnerable people and low-income and rural communities stranded. This is a good first step in the right direction, but more local action is needed.

    Lydia Horbury, Bus Users UK Director for England, said:

    The protection of socially necessary bus services is vital to ensuring that everyone – regardless of age, income, or ability – can access education, employment, healthcare and their wider community. For too long, communities have been left stranded by sudden cuts to lifeline routes.

    Strengthening the framework around these services, as proposed in the Bus Services Bill, is a crucial step toward building a truly inclusive and reliable transport network outside London. We support any measures which empower local authorities to safeguard these routes and the passengers who depend on them.

    Ben Plowden of Campaign for Better Transport said:

    Buses are the most used form of public transport, connecting millions of people to jobs and education, shops and services, friends and family. Preserving vital bus services has long been central to our campaigning, so the new protections in the Bus Services Bill are very welcome indeed.

    Protecting existing services and identifying and filling gaps in the network is the way to ensure everyone can access opportunities and stay connected.

    Jason Prince, Director of the Urban Transport Group, said:

    The government has moved rapidly to bring about better buses by providing local leaders with the right tools to improve services for their communities. We welcome the Bus Services Bill and its commitment to back passengers and the services they rely upon.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 3 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Bank on the UK in volatile times’ Trade Secretary tells G7 and European businesses

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Bank on the UK in volatile times’ Trade Secretary tells G7 and European businesses

    Trade Secretary’s message comes after UK sealed landmark deals with India, the US and EU

    • Jonathan Reynolds to meet G7 and EU counterparts in Paris and Brussels to discuss economic security and global trade.
    • Trade Secretary targets economic growth and jobs, saying deals with India, US and EU make UK the most connected economy for global business.
    • Visit shows how Plan for Change is reducing trade barriers that will boost exports to the EU.

    The UK is a country that counterparts and businesses can bank on in increasingly uncertain and volatile times, Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds will tell G7 and EU ministers and commissioners on a three-day visit to Paris and Brussels.

    He will deliver the message at a G7 Trade Ministerial Meeting in Paris before travelling to Brussels for talks with EU counterparts and a speech to business representatives, policymakers, and diplomats at the European Policy Centre’s Economic Security Forum.

    The Trade Secretary’s message comes after the UK sealed landmark deals with India, the US and the European Union, positioning the UK as a global champion of free trade, delivering for British businesses and putting money in the pockets of working people.

    This will be delivered through the expected GDP increase by £4.8 billion thanks to the India deal, nearly £9 billion added to the UK economy by 2040 through the EU deal and the thousands of jobs saved across the country because of the deal with the US.

    He is also expected to meet US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal and EU Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maros Šefčovič to progress implementation of the trade deals and ensure businesses feel the benefits as soon as possible.

    Jonathan Reynolds will use the visit to reinforce that Britain is open for business as part of this Government’s Plan for Change to deliver on its core mission to grow the economy, raise living standards and put more money in people’s pockets.

    Ahead of the visit, Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    Our deals with the US, EU and India are proof that the UK is the most connected country in the world to do business. Along with our modern Industrial Strategy, our Plan for Change is making the UK a safe, stable bet in uncertain times.

    We recognise our relationship with G7 allies and EU counterparts must continue to evolve and deliver a better trading environment for our businesses and exporters.

    That’s why we want to wipe away costly, business-blocking barriers and open up opportunities to grow our economy, create jobs and put more money in people’s pockets.

    The Business Secretary will use his visit to call for the UK’s new relationship with the EU to help businesses, and with almost 100,000 UK businesses exporting goods to the EU last year, and the upcoming Trade Strategy, the UK is continuing its work to build on the recent deals and tear down barriers to doing business around the world.

    As part of the trip the Business and Trade Secretary will also discuss the UK’s modern Industrial Strategy being published this Spring in his first ever in person meetings with the European Commission’s Executive Vice-President for the Industrial Strategy Stephane Séjourné and Executive Vice-President for the Clean, Just and Competitive Transition Teresa Ribera.

    The Business and Trade Secretary will also use the visit to hold in-person meetings with Laurent Saint-Martin, Don Farrell and Maninder Sidhu, the Trade Ministers of France, Australia and Canada respectively.

    Updates to this page

    Published 3 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: First Ministers’ statement on building a strong Canadian economy and advancing major projects

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    “Today, Canada’s First Ministers met in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, to build a stronger, more competitive, and more resilient Canadian economy. This marks the first time that a First Ministers’ Meeting has taken place in Saskatchewan in over 40 years.

    “First Ministers expressed their deep concern regarding the wildfire situations across Canada, including in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta, and pledged to continue to provide assistance and support to impacted provinces, territories, and Indigenous communities.

    “First Ministers discussed the federal government’s plan to remove trade barriers and advance major projects of national interest, including by tabling their One Canadian Economy legislation, so Canada can be stronger at home and abroad.

    “First Ministers agreed to work together to accelerate major projects in support of building a strong, resilient, and united Canada. As a first step, First Ministers discussed projects of national interest which fit the following criteria, subject to consultation with Indigenous Peoples whose rights may be affected:

    • Strengthen Canada’s autonomy, resilience, and security.
    • Offer undeniable benefits to Canada and support economic growth.
    • Have a high likelihood of successful execution.
    • Are a high priority for Indigenous leaders.
    • Have clean growth potential, such as the use of clean technologies and sustainable practices.

    “First Ministers also agreed to continue the discussion on projects of national interest, working with provincial and territorial governments.

    “This is a first step in implementing a broader set of reforms to overhaul the project assessment process. A significantly improved, streamlined project assessment process is necessary for Canada to grow its economy to become the strongest in the G7 and a global energy superpower.

    “First Ministers are committed to immediately begin to address project approval and permitting efficiency and timelines for all projects. Premiers welcomed the Prime Minister’s commitment to ensuring all federal assessment decisions are rendered within two years, beginning with projects of national interest. First Ministers also agreed to work toward efficiently and effectively implementing ‘one project, one review’ with the goal of a single assessment for all projects, in a manner that respects federal, provincial, and territorial jurisdiction, enhancing co-ordination activities on permitting and eliminating duplication. This will help kickstart economic growth and ensure that projects get built in a timely manner. First Ministers pledged to fulfil the Crown’s duty to consult with Indigenous Peoples and discussed ways to strengthen Indigenous ownership and partnerships to provide Indigenous communities with generational economic opportunities.

    “Nation-building infrastructure and corridors, such as highways, railways, ports, airports, pipelines, nuclear projects, clean and conventional energy projects, and electricity transmission systems, are crucial for driving Canadian productivity growth, energy security, and economic competitiveness. First Ministers agreed that Canada must work urgently to get Canadian natural resources and commodities to domestic and international markets, such as critical minerals and decarbonized Canadian oil and gas by pipelines, supported by the private sector, that provide access to diversified global markets, including Asia and Europe. First Ministers also agreed to build cleaner and more affordable electricity systems to reduce emissions and increase reliability toward achieving net zero by 2050. In order to generate economic and social benefits, this work must be done by bringing together the right conditions, including Indigenous equity and participation, and deferring to provincial and territorial environmental assessments, where applicable.

    “First Ministers also discussed needed investments in dual-use infrastructure in Northern and Arctic communities that will address Canada’s Arctic sovereignty and security goals, meet local community needs, advance national energy independence, and unlock the North’s economic potential. Indigenous equity and participation will be pivotal to the success of these projects. Premiers acknowledged the federal commitment to move quickly to improve Canada’s defence capabilities and meet international spending targets.

    “Through recent federal, provincial, and territorial efforts and actions led by the Committee on Internal Trade and the Forum of Labour Market Ministers, significant progress has been made toward removing internal trade barriers and further facilitating the movement of goods, services, and workers across the country. Recognizing there is more work to do, First Ministers committed to unlock multilateral, economy-wide mutual recognition and labour mobility, while respecting Québec’s specificity. First Ministers directed the Committee on Internal Trade to rapidly conclude a comprehensive Mutual Recognition Agreement covering consumer goods, in alignment with the Committee on Internal Trade discussions, with implementation by December 2025. In addition, they directed their Ministers of Transport to work together to rapidly expand the trucking pilot. They also agreed to a 30-day service standard for pan-Canadian credential recognition.

    “First Ministers also stressed the importance of creating a new economic and security relationship with the United States to remove the unjustified American tariffs – including longstanding unjustified duties on softwood lumber – and create a more stable and predictable trade environment. They underscored they all have a role to play to achieve this.

    “The federal government committed to working urgently to remove Chinese tariffs on Canadian agriculture and seafood products. First Ministers emphasized the critical importance of regular and ongoing engagement with China at the highest level to improve the overall trade relationship. In the face of ongoing tariffs, they also discussed opportunities to diversify trade and broaden market access for Canadian exporters.

    “First Ministers emphasized the importance of joint efforts to maintain safe and secure communities, including by enhancing the criminal justice system through meaningful and urgent bail and sentencing reforms supporting law enforcement, addressing delays in the criminal justice process, and reviewing risk assessment for sentencing and release of repeat sex offenders and individuals charged with intimate partner violence and gender-based violence crimes. First Ministers recognized the devastating impact the toxic illegal drug supply is having on Canadian communities and committed to dismantling the illicit drug trade, including fentanyl and its precursors. First Ministers directed federal-provincial-territorial Attorneys General and Ministers of Justice and Public Safety to bring forward an action plan to promote safe and vibrant communities for consideration at a future meeting.

    “First Ministers agreed to continue to work collaboratively and address the priorities of all Canadians in every region of the country. To that end, they will meet regularly to drive action on shared priorities vital to Canada’s security and economic resilience.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Seniors’ Week 2025: Minister Nixon

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Moolenaar: Benson Should Endorse SAVE Act After Illegal Voter Flees to China

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Moolenaar (4th District of Michigan)

    Headline: Moolenaar: Benson Should Endorse SAVE Act After Illegal Voter Flees to China

    On Friday, federal prosecutors unsealed details regarding a new criminal case against Haoxiang Gao, a Chinese national who attended the University of Michigan and illegally cast a ballot in the 2024 election. The FBI alleges Gao fled the United States for China in January using a second passport to avoid prosecution. Congressman John Moolenaar made the following statement in response to the new case: 

    “It is disgraceful Haoxiang Gao was able to illegally vote in our state in the first place, and now he will likely never face the consequences of his actions after fleeing the country. Secretary Benson has said for months that she opposes strengthening our nation’s election
    laws to stop non-citizens from voting. She said the justice system would hold lawbreakers accountable. Now we see that is not the case. This student had his vote counted in our election last November and escaped justice on her watch. Secretary Benson should endorse the SAVE Act and do more to proactively prevent non-citizens from voting.”

    The SAVE Act would require every person registering to vote to present proof of U.S. citizenship. The bill passed the House earlier this year in a bipartisan vote of 220-208. 

    In April, Moolenaar was joined by all six of his GOP colleagues from Michigan in calling on Benson to justify her opposition to the SAVE Act in light of an internal review of the 2024 election that found an additional 15 non-citizens voted in the state.  

    The United States does not have an extradition treaty with China, so Gao will likely never face prosecution for illegally voting.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Admit to Roles in Drug Trafficking Organization (DOJ)

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    ARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Three people have admitted to working in a large-scale drug operation in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties.  

    Juan Carlos Suarez-Lugo, age 55, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, and Alexis Alvarado, age 38, of Ranson, West Virginia, each pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. Mauricio Antonio Alvarado-Flores, age 38, a citizen of El Salvador, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and illegal reentry.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, Suarez-Lugo, Alvarado, and Alvarado-Flores were working together and with others to sell drugs for the drug trafficking organization.

    Suarez-Lugo, Alvarado, and Alvarado-Flores each face at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison for the drug charge. Alvarado-Flores faces up to two years in prison for the illegal reentry charge. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher is prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government.

    The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force was the lead investigative unit. Other investigative agencies that assisted include the Federal Bureau of Investigation, including the Pittsburgh, San Francisco, San Juan, and Philadelphia Field Offices; United States Marshals Service; Homeland Security Investigations; United States Postal Service; Drug Enforcement Administration, the Louisville and Chicago Divisions; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; West Virginia State Police; Martinsburg Police Department; Ranson Police Department; Charles Town Police Department; Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office; Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office; West Virginia Air National Guard; Mineral County Sheriff’s Office; Grant County Sheriff’s Office; Hampshire County Sheriff’s Department; Keyser Police Department; Northwest Regional Drug Task Force, Virginia; Pennsylvania State Police; Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania; Winchester Police Department, Virginia; Frederick County Sheriff’s Office, Virginia; Virginia State Police; Sunnyvale Police Department, California. 

    U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker Pushes for USDOT’s “Earnest and Continued Collaboration” Following Announcement of EWR Runway Reopening, and Booker Advocacy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

    NEWARK, N.J. – Following United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) Secretary Sean Duffy’s visit to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement:

    “This afternoon, Secretary Duffy visited EWR and highlighted the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey’s reopening of one of EWR’s major runways 13 days ahead of schedule, marking the completion of a $121 million infrastructure upgrade. I applaud the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey for their work to get this rehabilitation completed ahead of schedule. This is an important first step toward helping alleviate and streamline air traffic. However, EWR requires comprehensive federal investments to properly address the needs of New Jersey’s travelers, boost resources to support and train our region’s air traffic controllers, and maintain the airport’s operational integrity. This means emergency supplemental funding for the FAA’s Air Traffic Organization (ATO) to properly modernize air traffic control infrastructure at airports nationwide, including at least $2 billion to replace the aging copper wire infrastructure and radar communication technology that Newark Liberty International Airport relies on. The ongoing situation in Newark requires earnest and continued collaboration across all levels of government, and I’m a willing partner. I’m hopeful that the Department of Transportation will continue to work with me and my colleagues in Congress on this issue to bolster one of our nation’s busiest airports–– one that tens of thousands of New Jerseyans rely on every day,” said Booker.

    On May 6, 2025, Senator Booker penned an urgent letter to Secretary Duffy asking the United States Department of Transportation to take steps to immediately address regional air traffic controller staffing shortages and detail all steps the agency is taking to remedy Newark Liberty International Airport’s reported telecommunication failures. The full May 6, 2025 letter can be found here.

    On May 14, 2025, following additional reported telecommunication failures at Newark Liberty International Airport, Senator Booker led members of New Jersey’s congressional delegation in a letter to Senate and House Appropriations Chairs demanding at least $2,000,000,000 in emergency funding to strengthen FAA air traffic control infrastructure. The full May 14, 2025 letter can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Cornyn on Senate Priorities for Pres. Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – Today on the floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) underscored the urgency of addressing our national debt in the Senate’s version of President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act and detailed additional priorities for the legislation, including extending the Trump tax cuts to avoid an average tax increase of $3,000 in Texas and implementing work requirements for means-tested programs. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s remarks are below, and video can be found here.

    “One of the most important things that we need to do in this budget reconciliation process is to finally come to grips with our national debt.”

    “We are now spending more money on interest on the national debt than we are to defend our nation, which is the number one job of the federal government.”

    “If we want the United States to maintain its standing in the world, if we want to be able to have the resources to defend the nation and deter our adversaries, we have to at least begin to get our fiscal house in order, and this bill — the big, beautiful bill from the House — we’re going to make it even more beautiful here in the Senate.”

    “I was happy to see that the House bill included work requirements that go into effect in 2026, and I hope the Senate will include this policy in our bill as well.”

    “Failure is not an option. If the President’s tax cuts are not extended, the American people will face the largest tax increase in American history… back home in Texas, my constituents will see their taxes increase on average $3,000 next year.”

    “As I’ve traveled my state as I did during the course of this most recent recess, my constituents have emphasized to me time and time again how much they are depending on these tax cuts being renewed, especially our small businesses that have depended on the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act to hire more staff, to purchase equipment that they could then expense, and to provide additional benefits to their employees.”

    “All of these small businesses, which are the primary job-creating engine in America, would be hurt, and would suffer increased costs, and have to cut somewhere in their business.”

    “The American people are depending on us to pass the President’s agenda through this One Big Beautiful Bill.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta, Secretary of State Weber Secure Court Ruling Invalidating Fresno County’s Unlawful Voter Law, Measure A

    Source: US State of California

    Monday, June 2, 2025

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

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta and California Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D. today issued a statement following the California Superior Court’s decision invalidating Measure A, which attempted to amend Fresno County’s charter to move elections for district attorney and sheriff away from the presidential cycle to the gubernatorial cycle. Attorney General Bonta and Secretary of State Weber filed a lawsuit challenging Measure A last year, arguing that Measure A is preempted by a state law that explicitly requires counties to hold these elections during the presidential election cycle, which traditionally has higher turnout. In its decision, the Superior Court permanently blocks Fresno County from enforcing Measure A, finding that the measure violates California’s election law.

    “There is nothing more fundamental to American democracy than the right to vote and make your voice heard,” said Attorney General Bonta. “With Measure A, Fresno County threatened to undermine that fundamental right, intentionally seeking to move elections for sheriff and district attorney to off years when voters are far less likely to show up and cast a ballot. Our democracy works best when everyone can participate. I’m proud to have worked with Secretary of State Weber to have permanently blocked this unlawful measure.”

    “Our democracy works best when more citizens can participate in our elections,” said Secretary of State Weber. “Today’s ruling helps ensure more voices are heard through the ballot box in Fresno County’s elections for district attorney and sheriff.”

    A copy of the court’s order is available here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Arab ministers reaffirm commitment to Palestinian cause

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    AMMAN, June 2 (Xinhua) — The delegation of the Arab Islamic Ministerial Committee on Sunday reaffirmed its ongoing efforts to end Israel’s war in the Gaza Strip and begin the process of ensuring the right of the Palestinian people to establish an independent, sovereign state on their national soil.

    The delegation held a virtual meeting with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Amman after Israel blocked the delegation’s planned visit to Ramallah, according to a statement from the Jordanian Foreign Ministry.

    During the meeting, M. Abbas praised the efforts of the ministerial committee to mobilize international support to stop the war in the Gaza Strip, put an end to the humanitarian “catastrophe” in the enclave and promote the implementation of the “two states for two peoples” principle.

    He stressed the Palestinian government’s commitment to the reform agenda and called for increased international political, economic and security support for its efforts.

    At a press conference following the meeting, the delegation stressed that the principle of “two states for two peoples” is the only path to a just and comprehensive peace in the region.

    Arab ministers also pledged to step up efforts to encourage more countries to recognize a Palestinian state.

    The delegation includes Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, Bahraini Foreign Minister Abdel Latif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Atty, Arab League Secretary General Ahmed Abu Al Gheit and Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Al Safadi. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Former German Foreign Minister A. Baerbock elected as Chairman of the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    UNITED NATIONS, June 2 (Xinhua) — The United Nations General Assembly (GA) on Monday elected former German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock as the president of its 80th session.

    In a speech after her election, A. Baerbock promised to defend the fundamental purposes and principles of the UN Charter and to help Member States find consensus.

    A. Baerbock will take up her new position in September this year, replacing the Chairman of the 79th session of the UN General Assembly, Philemon Young. Her term of office will be one year.

    A. Baerbock was born in December 1980 in Hanover, Germany. From December 2021 to May 2025, she served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Germany. Since 2013, she has been a member of the Bundestag /parliament/, and from 2018 to 2022, she served as co-chair of the Green Party. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Denis Manturov launched the first production of a vital chemical component in Russia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    During a working visit to the Nizhny Novgorod Region, First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov launched the first production of silica gels and silica sols in Russia and visited the First Weaving Factory.

    The ceremonial launch of the production was also attended by Deputy Governor of the Nizhny Novgorod Region Andrey Sanosyan and Chairman of the Board of Directors of JSC GC Titan Mikhail Sutyaginsky. GC Titan has commissioned a unique industrial production of silica gels and silica sols for Russia with a total capacity of 18 thousand tons per year on the territory of the Kulibin SEZ in Dzerzhinsk. The holding’s new project is being implemented by RusSilika. The total investment in the project amounted to 21 billion rubles, of which 5 billion rubles were provided by the Industrial Development Fund. Its implementation allowed the creation of more than 200 new jobs.

    Silica gels and silica sols are widely used in more than 30 industries. The products are included by the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Russia in the list of priority projects for the production of small- and medium-tonnage chemicals, which have a comprehensive impact on the development of related industries. Denis Manturov noted that the first stone in the foundation of the RusSilika plant was laid exactly two years ago. It was planned that the launch of production would take place at the end of 2025, today the enterprise is starting its work ahead of schedule.

    “I would like to especially note that silica gel has not been produced in industrial quantities in Russia until now. Thus, the plant is fully provided with demand. Moreover, the products have a large export potential, due to which an investment decision has already been made on further expansion of production. I am confident that with the support of the federal government and the administration of the Nizhny Novgorod region, all plans will be implemented. This fully meets the task of achieving technological sovereignty in the chemical industry. As you know, this is the goal of the specialized national project. And the Titan group of companies is actively participating in the recreation of the line of basic chemical products,” said the First Deputy Prime Minister.

    Denis Manturov also congratulated the company’s employees on the 95th anniversary of Dzerzhinsk.

    During a visit to the First Weaving Factory in the Volodarsk Advanced Social and Economic Development Area, the First Deputy Prime Minister was introduced to the technology for producing fabric for roller blinds, which was first mastered in Russia by order of a Belarusian customer. For this purpose, a Russian chemical industry enterprise specially developed a set of chemical preparations.

    With the support of the Industrial Development Fund and the Government of the Nizhny Novgorod Region, a large-scale investment project on import substitution in the light industry has been implemented. This is the first full-cycle textile production facility in Russia for the production of wide woven and knitted fabrics made of synthetic and blended yarns of its own production, fully equipped with advanced equipment. The investment volume exceeded 3.3 billion rubles. The manufactured products can be used in the work of enterprises in the light and chemical industries, in mechanical engineering. The factory’s capacity allows for the production of up to 11 million linear meters of finished products per year.

    At the moment, the investor has already started developing the project for the second stage of the factory, focused on the first production of polyester fiber and threads in Russia using the direct molding method from domestic raw materials. The production will be equipped with advanced equipment, the capacity for the production of finished products will be 130 thousand tons per year. The plans include increasing the number of employees to 350 people, as well as increasing labor productivity through automation and digitalization.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Vice Chairperson of the CPPCC National Committee Visited Uzbekistan and Attended the 2nd China-Uzbekistan Interregional Forum

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Tashkent, June 2 (Xinhua) — From June 1 to 2, Vice Chairwoman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) Shen Yueyue visited Uzbekistan and took part in the 2nd China-Uzbekistan Interregional Forum, where she delivered a speech.

    During the visit, she met with the Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Abdulla Aripov, the Chairperson of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis (upper house of parliament) of Uzbekistan Tanzila Narbaeva, Deputy Prime Minister Jamshid Khodjaev, and also held a friendly exchange of views with Deputy Prime Minister Zulaykho Makhkamova.

    Shen Yueyue noted that under the strategic leadership of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the China-Uzbekistan all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership in the new era has entered an accelerated development trajectory. The Chinese side is ready to work with Uzbekistan to implement the agreements reached by the heads of the two states, strengthen political mutual trust, deepen all-round mutually beneficial cooperation, promote cultural and humanitarian exchanges, and jointly build a community of shared future for China and Uzbekistan from a higher starting point, bringing even more benefits to the two countries and their peoples, the vice-chairwoman of the CPPCC National Committee emphasized.

    Prime Minister A. Aripov, for his part, asked Shen Yueyue to convey sincere greetings to Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China Li Qiang and noted that Uzbekistan and China are good partners, distinguished by mutual benefit and common gain, as well as reliable friends who support each other. Uzbekistan is ready to deepen cooperation with China in such areas as the economy, trade, investment, cultural, humanitarian and interregional exchanges, to promote high-quality construction of the “Belt and Road”, the head of the Uzbek government assured. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s remarks on the Election of the President of the 80th Session of the General Assembly [bilingual as delivered; scroll down for all-English and all-French]

    Source: United Nations

    Let me begin by congratulating Her Excellency, Annalena Baerbock of Germany on her election as the President of the 80th Session of the General Assembly. 

    And to our current President of this 79th session — His Excellency Philemon Yang of Cameroon — thank you for your leadership.

    From day one, you have presided over the General Assembly with wisdom, vision and skill.

    You hit the ground running with the Summit of the Future.

    And, since then, you have carried that work forward, taking on critical global issues, preparing for numerous milestone events in this 80th anniversary year, working to strengthen our institution, and serving as a powerful voice and advocate for Africa and its enormous potential.

    President Yang, thank you for your advice, guidance and deep commitment to the United Nations and multilateral solutions.

    Excellencies,

    President-elect Baerbock, as you prepare to lead the 80th General Assembly, you do so at a difficult and uncertain moment for the multilateral system.

    Conflicts, climate catastrophe, poverty and inequality continue to challenge the human family.

    Mistrust and divisions are rife.

    The Sustainable Development Goals are alarmingly off-track.

    Aid and development funding are drying up.

    And our institutions and structures still reflect the world of yesterday, not a vision of tomorrow.

    This is a moment for us to unite, to forge common solutions, and to take action to confront these challenges.

    President-elect Baerbock’s vision — “Better Together” — is an inspiring rallying cry for today’s world and the global problem-solving system embodied by the United Nations to address these challenges.

    Her priority issues range from peace and development to reform and transparency in the United Nations. 

    She brings a wealth of government and diplomatic experience to this task — including serving as her country’s Foreign Minister.

    And let us not forget the historic significance of her being only the fifth woman to be elected President of the General Assembly.

    President-elect Baerbock, you can count on my full support as you take on this important responsibility.

    Excellences,

    Depuis 80 ans, l’Assemblée générale des Nations unies joue un rôle indispensable pour bâtir des consensus, trouver des solutions, et agir pour un monde meilleur, plus pacifique et plus égalitaire.

    Alors que nous approchons de la fin de la 79ème session et nous préparons à l’ouverture de la 80ème, engageons-nous à faire vivre les valeurs de solidarité et de collaboration qui définissent notre Organisation depuis sa création.

    Je vous remercie.

    ****
    [all-English]

    Let me begin by congratulating Her Excellency, Annalena Baerbock of Germany on her election as the President of the 80th Session of the General Assembly. 

    And to our current President of this 79th session — His Excellency Philemon Yang of Cameroon — thank you for your leadership.

    From day one, you have presided over the General Assembly with wisdom, vision and skill.

    You hit the ground running with the Summit of the Future.

    And, since then, you have carried that work forward, taking on critical global issues, preparing for numerous milestone events in this 80th anniversary year, working to strengthen our institution, and serving as a powerful voice and advocate for Africa and its enormous potential.

    President Yang, thank you for your advice, guidance and deep commitment to the United Nations and multilateral solutions.

    Excellencies,

    President-elect Baerbock, as you prepare to lead the 80th General Assembly, you do so at a difficult and uncertain moment for the multilateral system.

    Conflicts, climate catastrophe, poverty and inequality continue to challenge the human family.

    Mistrust and divisions are rife.

    The Sustainable Development Goals are alarmingly off-track.

    Aid and development funding are drying up.

    And our institutions and structures still reflect the world of yesterday, not a vision of tomorrow.

    This is a moment for us to unite, to forge common solutions, and to take action to confront these challenges.

    President-elect Baerbock’s vision — “Better Together” — is an inspiring rallying cry for today’s world and the global problem-solving system embodied by the United Nations to address these challenges.

    Her priority issues range from peace and development to reform and transparency in the United Nations. 

    She brings a wealth of government and diplomatic experience to this task — including serving as her country’s Foreign Minister.

    And let us not forget the historic significance of her being only the fifth woman to be elected President of the General Assembly.

    President-elect Baerbock, you can count on my full support as you take on this important responsibility.

    Excellencies,

    For 80 years, the United Nations General Assembly has played an indispensable role in forging consensus, finding solutions and taking action to build a better, more peaceful and equal world.

    As we look ahead to the end of the 79th session, and prepare for the start of the 80th, let us strive to live up to the values of solidarity and collaboration that have defined this organization from the very start.

    Thank you.

    *****
    [all-French]

    Permettez-moi tout d’abord de féliciter Madame Annalena Baerbock, de l’Allemagne, qui vient d’être élue Présidente de la 80e session de l’Assemblée générale.

    Quant à vous, Monsieur Philemon Yang, du Cameroun, qui présidez actuellement la 79e session, je tiens à vous remercier de votre leadership.

    Dès le premier jour, vous avez présidé l’Assemblée générale avec sagesse, hauteur de vue et compétence.

    Le Sommet de l’avenir a été votre baptême du feu.

    Depuis lors, vous avez poursuivi sans relâche l’action engagée, vous emparant des grandes questions internationales, organisant les nombreuses manifestations qui ont jalonné le 80e anniversaire de l’Organisation, œuvrant au renforcement de notre institution et vous faisant le porte-voix et le défenseur de l’Afrique et de son énorme potentiel.

    Monsieur le Président, je vous remercie des orientations et de la direction données, ainsi que de votre profond attachement à l’Organisation des Nations Unies et aux solutions multilatérales.

    Mesdames et Messieurs,

    Madame la Présidente, alors même que vous vous préparez à diriger la 80e Assemblée générale, le système multilatéral vit un moment difficile et incertain.

    Les conflits, la catastrophe climatique, la pauvreté et les inégalités continuent de fragiliser la famille humaine.

    La méfiance et les divisions s’enracinent.

    Les objectifs de développement durable sont encore très loin d’être atteints.

    Le financement de l’aide et du développement se tarit.

    Enfin, nos institutions et nos structures sont toujours le reflet du monde d’hier et n’incarnent aucune vision pour demain.

    Le moment est venu pour nous de nous unir, de trouver des solutions communes et d’agir ensemble pour relever ces défis.

    La vision portée par Madame la Présidente et qu’incarnent ces mots – « Mieux ensemble » – est à même de rallier et d’inspirer le monde d’aujourd’hui et le système international de règlement des problèmes qu’est l’ONU et de leur permettre de remédier aux difficultés.

    Ses priorités vont de la paix et du développement à la réforme et à la transparence à l’ONU.

    Elle apportera à sa tâche une riche expérience gouvernementale et diplomatique, ayant notamment été la Ministre des affaires étrangères de son pays.

    Enfin, n’oublions pas la dimension historique que revêt son élection, puisqu’elle n’est que la cinquième femme à être élue Présidente de l’Assemblée générale.

    Madame la Présidente, vous pouvez compter sur mon appui total dans l’exercice de cette lourde responsabilité.

    Excellences,

    Depuis 80 ans, l’Assemblée générale des Nations unies joue un rôle indispensable pour bâtir des consensus, trouver des solutions, et agir pour un monde meilleur, plus pacifique et plus égalitaire.

    Alors que nous approchons de la fin de la 79ème session et nous préparons à l’ouverture de la 80ème, engageons-nous à faire vivre les valeurs de solidarité et de collaboration qui définissent notre Organisation depuis sa création.

    Je vous remercie.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Statement by IOM Spokesperson on the Devastating Floods in Nigeria

    Source: International Organization for Migration (IOM)

    Geneva/Abuja, 2 June 2025 – The international Organization for Migration (IOM) is deeply saddened by the devastating floods that struck Niger State, in Nigeria’s North-Central Region, on the night of 29 May 2025.  

    According to latest data from IOM’s Displacement Tracking Matrix, more than 3,000 people have reportedly been affected, with at least 153 lives lost and 11 reported injuries. The floods have destroyed homes, farmlands, water sources, essential infrastructure and health facilities, leaving families without shelter, food, clean water and access to critical health services. 

    IOM is working in close coordination with the Federal and State Governments, through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), to support response efforts. IOM has deployed a team of enumerators to assess the damage and identify urgent needs. 

    Together with government authorities and local and international partners, IOM is mobilizing urgent assistance to provide life-saving support to those affected. 

    IOM extends its deepest condolences to the families of the victims and to all those impacted by this heartbreaking disaster. 

    For More information, please contact IOM Media Center. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Update on the Golden State Plan to Counter Antisemitism

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jun 2, 2025

    Protecting Jewish Californians, strengthening campus safety, and ensuring California’s universities remain places of learning — not hate

    To the People of California,

    Recent years have seen a troubling spike in reported hate crimes and manifestations of bigotry. In response, California launched a robust anti-hate agenda that includes significant investments and actions to support and protect all the state’s communities from hate-motivated violence, to build mutual understanding and tolerance to prevent acts of hate and bigotry, and to redouble the state’s efforts to advance equity and fight discrimination. 

    Last year, as part of that agenda, my administration published the Golden State Plan to Counter Antisemitism, a roadmap for addressing hate and discrimination against the Jewish community in our state, and a call to remain vigilant amid new and evolving threats. Since the plan was released, California has taken bold action to ensure this vital California community feels safe and respected on their college campuses and schools, secure at their houses of worship, and supported and included in their communities.

    I would like to update the state on our progress since the plan was released last spring. Since then, we’ve doubled down on our efforts, requiring California’s higher education institutions to take concrete steps to prevent discrimination, protect student safety, and ensure civil discourse. We’ve also made new investments in nonprofit security and expanded resources to promote robust Holocaust and genocide education in California schools.

    Here’s what we’ve done together:

    • In partnership with the Jewish Caucus, enacted key legislation to protect student safety:
      • SB 1287 (Glazer) requires the CSU Trustees and requests the UC Regents to: adopt rules and procedures in the student codes of conduct that prohibit violent, harassing, intimidating, or discriminatory conduct that creates a hostile environment on campus; prohibit conduct that limits or denies a person’s ability to participate in or benefit from the free exchange of ideas or the educational mission of the segment; and develop mandatory training programs for students; and require each student to acknowledge the code of conduct. 
      • AB 2925 (Friedman) establishes requirements for anti-discrimination training offered at California college and university campuses that receive state financial assistance.
      • SB 153 (Committee on Budget and Fiscal Review) expressly prohibits the adoption of any curriculum that would subject a pupil to unlawful discrimination if used in a classroom. The new law also empowers individuals to seek enforcement of this prohibition through a complaint process and authorizes a fiscal penalty for violations.  
      • The 2024-25 Budget Act requires every CSU and UC campus to prepare a campus climate action notification annually, with campus plans for fostering healthy and safe discourse, bringing together campus community members with different viewpoints, and promoting the exchange of ideas in a safe and peaceful manner. 
    • Added funding to bolster security for faith communities: 
      • The 2024-25 Budget includes an additional $160 million for the Non-Profit Security Grant Program, $80 million each year in 2024-25 and 2025-26, bolstering safety and security for faith communities. 
      • In July 2024, announced California was expediting the deployment of funds and accepting applications for $76 million in grant funding available to bolster safety and security for nonprofits  — including synagogues — that are at higher risk of hate-based crimes. 
      • In March 2025, in partnership with the Legislature, announced this funding was being awarded to 347 community groups and nonprofit organizations to protect them from hate-motivated violence.
    • Added new resources to strengthen Holocaust and Genocide education across the state:
      • Signed SB 1277 (Stern), which established the California Teachers Collaborative for Holocaust and Genocide Education (Collaborative) in statute. The collaborative is creating a statewide professional development program on genocide for school district, county office of education, and charter school teachers.
      • In 2021, created the Governor’s Council on Holocaust and Genocide Education. In January 2025, on Holocaust Remembrance Day, the Council released “Holocaust and Genocide Education in California: A Study of Statewide Context and Local Implementation.” The Council assessed and made recommendations for how to improve Holocaust and genocide education in our schools. The Council  is now working to promote best practices for educators, schools and organizations and sponsor Holocaust and genocide remembrance.
    • Expanded efforts to counter discrimination and address hate. 
      • In 2024, the California Civil Rights Department collaborated with community groups and other organizations at nearly 200 events across 66 cities to support community-based anti-discrimination outreach and training sessions.
      • The Commission on the State of Hate, supported by the CA Civil Rights Department, is partnering with UCLA researchers on a first state-sponsored survey to estimate the prevalence of hate across California.

    Last year, I signed Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel’s legislation to help California residents recover art and personal property stolen from their families during the Holocaust. That small step toward resolving a historic wrong from 80 years ago was a vivid reminder that we cannot forget our history, and that the fight against hate is far from over. 

    Today, we face a tide of hate and violence, one that is not easily stemmed. California remains committed to protecting its people from hatred and abuse, providing individuals with the tools they need to stand up for their neighbors, and creating a better future where no one is afraid because of who they are. 

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Press releases

    Recent news

    Jun 1, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom and Acting Governor Eleni Kounalakis issued the following statement regarding the death of Baldwin Park Police Department Officer Samuel Riveros:“We mourn the tragic loss of one of California’s brave law enforcement officers,…

    May 31, 2025

    News Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring May 2025, as “Mental Health Awareness Month.”The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below: PROCLAMATIONDuring Mental Health Awareness Month, we recognize the…

    May 30, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Connie Nakano, of Elk Grove, has been appointed Assistant Director of the Office of Strategic Initiatives and Equity at the California Department of Aging. Nakano has been Assistant…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Johnson Earns High Marks For Voting Record, Engagement on Intellectual Property Policies

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Hank Johnson (GA-04)

    Congressman receives “A” on Council for Innovation Promotion Congressional Scorecard for Working to Strengthen America’s IP Ecosystem

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), ranking member of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, Artificial Intelligence and the Internet, announced June 2 that he received an “A” from the Council for Innovation Promotion (C4IP) for consistently introducing and supporting bills and policies that strengthen America’s IP framework.

    “Intellectual property laws protect the rights of inventors and creators by granting them patents, trademarks, and copyrights,” said Johnson. “In doing so, these laws boost America’s competitiveness and export growth, create millions of jobs, and affect virtually every segment of the U.S. economy. In many ways, IP laws are the drivers of the American Dream. I will continue to focus on intellectual property policies that foster the innovation and creativity we need to drive human progress. I am proud to represent so many hardworking artists, innovators, and small businesses working to make their dreams a reality.”

    C4IP is a bipartisan coalition dedicated to promoting strong and effective intellectual property rights that are necessary for innovation, increased economic competitiveness, and improved lives everywhere.

    The Scorecard evaluated Congress across three dimensions: political, legislative, and policy activity. It assesses both current congressional activity and relevant past activity by current members across 116th, 117th and 118th Congresses.

    The report highlighted some of Congressman Johnson’s most important legislative priorities, including his SHOP SAFE Act, and bills he’s cosponsored such as the RESTORE Patent Rights Act.

    “The United States is not only the world’s largest economy — it is also, by scale and substance, the global leader in innovation and creativity,” the report states. “Indeed, many, if not most, of the revolutionary technologies developed globally over the past half-century originated in the United States. A robust innovation-driven economy relies on a strong system of intellectual property (IP) rights, both now and in the future.”

    To read the report, click HERE. To learn more about C4IP, click HERE.

    ###
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VIDEO: Pressley, Advocates, Families Tell ICE: Hands Off Our Immigrant Neighbors

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

    Convening Comes Amid Disturbing Uptick in ICE Activity Across Massachusetts 7th

    Press Conference (YouTube) | Photos (Dropbox)

    EAST BOSTON – Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) convened a roundtable and press conference in East Boston with immigrant justice advocates, local leaders, and impacted families to tell Donald Trump and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE): Hands off our immigrant neighbors. The convening came amid an uptick in ICE activity across the Massachusetts 7th Congressional District and the Commonwealth, including a series of harrowing incidents in East Boston, Chelsea, Everett, and other communities.

    “Donald Trump wants a citizenry that is inactive and indifferent to the suffering of their neighbors, including our immigrant families in the Massachusetts 7th. But we will not stand idly by while he and ICE carry out their cruel, unlawful, and inhumane mass deportation agenda,” said Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley. “We stand with our immigrant neighbors. Children should not live in fear of their parents disappearing. Elders should not live in fear of going to the grocery store or their faith house. I was proud to convene an urgent and timely discussion about how we can push back against this harmful agenda, uplift impacted families, and share resources. I’m grateful to our advocates, families, and local partners for joining us.”

    Congresswoman Pressley was joined at the convening by State Senator Lydia Edwards, State Senator Sal DiDomenico, State Representative Adrian Madaro, Boston City Councilor Gabriela Coletta-Zapata, Chelsea City Manager Fidel Maltez, Ivan Espinoza-Madrigal of Lawyers for Civil Rights Boston, Nicole Eigbrett of the Asian American Resource Workshop (AARW), Caitlyn Burgess of MacMurray and Associates, Mercedes Pineda, an East Boston resident, Yolanda, a Randolph resident, Kenia Guerrero, a Chelsea resident, as well as impacted families, local elected officials, and community members.

    “East Boston is a proud, resilient, and diverse community — and our immigrant neighbors are the heart of it. The recent escalation in ICE activity is not only cruel, it’s dangerous,” said Senator Lydia Edwards, State Senator for Third Suffolk. “No one should live in fear for simply existing in their own neighborhood. I stand with Congresswoman Pressley, local advocates, and the families impacted in calling for humanity, accountability, and the end of these terrorizing practices. Our communities deserve safety, dignity, and the freedom to thrive.”

    “The cities I represent are vibrant and resilient because we welcome people from all parts of the world with open arms and lift each other up,” said State Senator Sal DiDomenico. “The Trump administration is tearing families apart and stoking fear, hoping that we will all sit back and not respond. I am proud to speak up against this abhorrent assault on our freedoms and our communities alongside my colleagues at all levels of government, impacted loved ones, and advocates on the ground fighting to protect our neighbors and keep families together. I want to thank Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley for convening this roundtable and continuing to sound the alarm about this crisis.”

    ”Our immigrant neighbors help form the backbone of our communities,” said State Representative Adrian Madaro. “They are caring parents, dedicated workers, and courageous dreamers who came here seeking a better life for themselves and their loved ones. Entire sectors of our economy that are essential to our collective wellbeing depend on their labor. Yet ICE has been harassing and targeting them in East Boston and surrounding communities for weeks, going as far as taking individuals with legal status and no criminal histories. Their desperation to fill jails with immigrants has torn families apart and inflicted deep emotional trauma. It has left many facing staggering legal costs. ICE is operating with alarming disregard for both the law and human dignity. They’ve sent ripple effects through several of our school communities, waiting outside during drop off, tearing parents from their children for all to see. These actions do not make us safer — they fracture the trust that holds our communities together. This is cruelty, not justice. Our neighbors deserve protection, not persecution.”

    “East Boston is home to vibrant, resilient immigrant communities who deserve to live without fear. We stand in solidarity with our neighbors and with leaders like Congresswoman Pressley in calling for dignity, safety, and justice. No one should be targeted for simply trying to build a better life. When they come for our neighbors, they come for all of us,” said Boston City Councilor Gabriela Coletta Zapata.

    “The recent actions by federal immigration agents have inflicted fear and trauma in our community. This is not just about immigration enforcement—this is about the violent persecution of our residents and the destruction of trust between government and the people we serve. Chelsea is a city of immigrants. We will not stand by while our neighbors are racially profiled, ripped from their homes and families, and treated with cruelty and inhumanity. We stand united in defense of every resident’s dignity and right to live without fear,” said Fidel Maltez, Chelsea City Manager.

    “Today, I stood in full support of Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley’s powerful call to action in East Boston, where she convened a roundtable and press conference with immigrant justice advocates, local leaders, and families impacted by increased ICE activity,” said Boston City Councilor Enrique Pepén. “The message was clear: Hands off our immigrant neighbors. Here in the City of Boston, we are unwavering in our commitment to protect and uplift our immigrant communities. Immigrants are an integral part of our city’s fabric—they are our neighbors, colleagues, caregivers, and small business owners. They are not only welcome here; they are essential to the strength, diversity, and vibrancy of Boston. We reject the fear tactics and inhumane practices that target our immigrant families. As leaders, we must stand up to any efforts that seek to divide or dehumanize our communities. I will continue to advocate on behalf of our immigrant neighbors and proudly support Congresswoman Pressley’s efforts to demand dignity, safety, and justice for all.”

    “Federal agents say that they target people with terrorist ties, but they are the ones terrorizing the people of Chelsea,” said Chelsea City Councilor Roberto Jiménez-Rivera. “They kidnap bread winners, hard working people with legal status, and children. Chelsea and other immigrant communities are getting punched in the face every day, and we need other communities to stand up with us and defend Massachusetts. Congresswoman Pressley is doing everything she can, and it would be a dereliction of duty for every other level of government to ignore this call to action. We must do as much as possible to pass legislation that protects our immigrant neighbors everywhere.”

    “The Trump administration has chosen to deliberately attack and break my community in the city of Chelsea,” said Chelsea City Councilor Manuel Teshe. “Now is when we come together and fight because we’re the last line of defense against this tyranny. I stand strong next to Congresswoman Pressley who courageously represents each and every one of us in D.C.”

    “The federal government’s unlawful targeting of our immigrant residents makes our communities less safe. The people of Cambridge stand with our immigrant neighbors to demand due process for everyone because none of us are safe unless we all are,” said Cambridge City Councilor Jivan Sobrinho-Wheeler.

    ““As an immigrant from Cameroon and a public official in Somerville, I know firsthand the fear and uncertainty that many in our communities face. Today, I stand not only as a policymaker but as someone who understands what it means to seek safety, dignity, and belonging in a new land. The recent ICE raids are a cruel reminder of how fragile that sense of safety can be. I’m deeply grateful to Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley for organizing this moment of solidarity. Her leadership reminds us that our communities are strongest when we stand together to defend the rights and humanity of every resident—no exceptions,” said Somerville City Councilor Wilfred Mbah.

    “Lawyers for Civil Rights applauds elected officials for standing with the community. We demand that the federal government uphold the Constitution and respect the rule of law. We will safeguard civil rights to prevent their erosion under the guise of immigration enforcement,” said Ivan Espinoza-Madrigal, Executive Director of Lawyers for Civil Rights.

    “At MacMurray and Associates, LLC, our mission is to empower the immigrant community by providing strong legal representation in both immigration court and before USCIS. In the wake of the recent ICE raids in our district, we have stood on the front lines—defending the rights of those detained, working tirelessly to reunify families, and ensuring that due process is not abandoned. Our partnership with the community and Congresswoman Pressley has been essential in responding rapidly and effectively to these injustices, giving voice and strength to those most vulnerable. Together, we continue to fight for a system where dignity and justice are not denied to immigrants seeking safety and opportunity, “ said Attorney Caitlyn Burgess.

    “The Asian American Resource Workshop (AARW) thanks Congresswoman Pressley for her partnership in this struggle for immigrant justice since the first Trump administration, during the height of raids and deportations in the Cambodian community,” said Nicole Eigbrett, Co-Executive Director of AARW. “Now, in his second term, we are experiencing Asian immigrants targeted on multiple fronts, including undocumented Asian workers, Chinese and Muslim international students, Southeast Asians with past criminal records, and TPS holders from Nepal. AARW will continue organizing to stop ICE raids, detentions, deportations within our community — but also across race and nationalities for solidarity with all immigrant communities in Massachusetts.”

    Video of the press conference is available here and photos are available here.

    Rep. Pressley has been a vocal advocate for our immigrant neighbors and everyone harmed by Donald Trump’s unlawful, anti-immigrant, and anti-free speech agenda. Congresswoman Pressley, who serves as Co-Chair for the House Haiti Caucus and represents one of the largest Haitian diaspora communities in the country, has also been an outspoken critic of the Trump Administration’s ending of Temporary Protected Status for Haiti, Venezuela, El Salvador, and other countries grappling with humanitarian crises.

    Rep. Pressley has also been an outspoken critic against the unlawful detention of Rümeysa Öztürk, a Tufts PhD student, Somerville resident, and constituent of the Congresswoman’s who was unlawfully detained for weeks in retaliation for her protected speech. After weeks of advocacy and Congressional oversight, including a visit to detention centers in Louisiana, Rep. Pressley and Senator Ed Markey welcomed Ms. Öztürk to Massachusetts following her arrival from ICE detention in Louisiana.

    Rep. Pressley has also spoken out against reports of ICE activity in Boston and other municipalities in Massachusetts.

    In January 2025, Rep. Pressley joined her colleagues in reintroducing the Neighbors Not Enemies Act, legislation that would repeal the antiquated Alien Enemies Act of 1798, which has been used to target innocent immigrants based on nothing more than national origin without affording due process rights, and which Donald Trump has used in his plans for mass deportations.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Secretary-General’s remarks on the Election of the President of the 80th Session of the General Assembly [bilingual as delivered; scroll down for all-English and all-French]

    Source: United Nations – English

    et me begin by congratulating Her Excellency, Annalena Baerbock of Germany on her election as the President of the 80th Session of the General Assembly. 

    And to our current President of this 79th session — His Excellency Philemon Yang of Cameroon — thank you for your leadership.

    From day one, you have presided over the General Assembly with wisdom, vision and skill.

    You hit the ground running with the Summit of the Future.

    And, since then, you have carried that work forward, taking on critical global issues, preparing for numerous milestone events in this 80th anniversary year, working to strengthen our institution, and serving as a powerful voice and advocate for Africa and its enormous potential.

    President Yang, thank you for your advice, guidance and deep commitment to the United Nations and multilateral solutions.

    Excellencies,

    President-elect Baerbock, as you prepare to lead the 80th General Assembly, you do so at a difficult and uncertain moment for the multilateral system.

    Conflicts, climate catastrophe, poverty and inequality continue to challenge the human family.

    Mistrust and divisions are rife.

    The Sustainable Development Goals are alarmingly off-track.

    Aid and development funding are drying up.

    And our institutions and structures still reflect the world of yesterday, not a vision of tomorrow.

    This is a moment for us to unite, to forge common solutions, and to take action to confront these challenges.

    President-elect Baerbock’s vision — “Better Together” — is an inspiring rallying cry for today’s world and the global problem-solving system embodied by the United Nations to address these challenges.

    Her priority issues range from peace and development to reform and transparency in the United Nations. 

    She brings a wealth of government and diplomatic experience to this task — including serving as her country’s Foreign Minister.

    And let us not forget the historic significance of her being only the fifth woman to be elected President of the General Assembly.

    President-elect Baerbock, you can count on my full support as you take on this important responsibility.

    Excellences,

    Depuis 80 ans, l’Assemblée générale des Nations unies joue un rôle indispensable pour bâtir des consensus, trouver des solutions, et agir pour un monde meilleur, plus pacifique et plus égalitaire.

    Alors que nous approchons de la fin de la 79ème session et nous préparons à l’ouverture de la 80ème, engageons-nous à faire vivre les valeurs de solidarité et de collaboration qui définissent notre Organisation depuis sa création.

    Je vous remercie.

    ****
    [all-English]

    Let me begin by congratulating Her Excellency, Annalena Baerbock of Germany on her election as the President of the 80th Session of the General Assembly. 

    And to our current President of this 79th session — His Excellency Philemon Yang of Cameroon — thank you for your leadership.

    From day one, you have presided over the General Assembly with wisdom, vision and skill.

    You hit the ground running with the Summit of the Future.

    And, since then, you have carried that work forward, taking on critical global issues, preparing for numerous milestone events in this 80th anniversary year, working to strengthen our institution, and serving as a powerful voice and advocate for Africa and its enormous potential.

    President Yang, thank you for your advice, guidance and deep commitment to the United Nations and multilateral solutions.

    Excellencies,

    President-elect Baerbock, as you prepare to lead the 80th General Assembly, you do so at a difficult and uncertain moment for the multilateral system.

    Conflicts, climate catastrophe, poverty and inequality continue to challenge the human family.

    Mistrust and divisions are rife.

    The Sustainable Development Goals are alarmingly off-track.

    Aid and development funding are drying up.

    And our institutions and structures still reflect the world of yesterday, not a vision of tomorrow.

    This is a moment for us to unite, to forge common solutions, and to take action to confront these challenges.

    President-elect Baerbock’s vision — “Better Together” — is an inspiring rallying cry for today’s world and the global problem-solving system embodied by the United Nations to address these challenges.

    Her priority issues range from peace and development to reform and transparency in the United Nations. 

    She brings a wealth of government and diplomatic experience to this task — including serving as her country’s Foreign Minister.

    And let us not forget the historic significance of her being only the fifth woman to be elected President of the General Assembly.

    President-elect Baerbock, you can count on my full support as you take on this important responsibility.

    Excellencies,

    For 80 years, the United Nations General Assembly has played an indispensable role in forging consensus, finding solutions and taking action to build a better, more peaceful and equal world.

    As we look ahead to the end of the 79th session, and prepare for the start of the 80th, let us strive to live up to the values of solidarity and collaboration that have defined this organization from the very start.

    Thank you.

    *****
    [all-French]

    Permettez-moi tout d’abord de féliciter Madame Annalena Baerbock, de l’Allemagne, qui vient d’être élue Présidente de la 80e session de l’Assemblée générale.

    Quant à vous, Monsieur Philemon Yang, du Cameroun, qui présidez actuellement la 79e session, je tiens à vous remercier de votre leadership.

    Dès le premier jour, vous avez présidé l’Assemblée générale avec sagesse, hauteur de vue et compétence.

    Le Sommet de l’avenir a été votre baptême du feu.

    Depuis lors, vous avez poursuivi sans relâche l’action engagée, vous emparant des grandes questions internationales, organisant les nombreuses manifestations qui ont jalonné le 80e anniversaire de l’Organisation, œuvrant au renforcement de notre institution et vous faisant le porte-voix et le défenseur de l’Afrique et de son énorme potentiel.

    Monsieur le Président, je vous remercie des orientations et de la direction données, ainsi que de votre profond attachement à l’Organisation des Nations Unies et aux solutions multilatérales.

    Mesdames et Messieurs,

    Madame la Présidente, alors même que vous vous préparez à diriger la 80e Assemblée générale, le système multilatéral vit un moment difficile et incertain.

    Les conflits, la catastrophe climatique, la pauvreté et les inégalités continuent de fragiliser la famille humaine.

    La méfiance et les divisions s’enracinent.

    Les objectifs de développement durable sont encore très loin d’être atteints.

    Le financement de l’aide et du développement se tarit.

    Enfin, nos institutions et nos structures sont toujours le reflet du monde d’hier et n’incarnent aucune vision pour demain.

    Le moment est venu pour nous de nous unir, de trouver des solutions communes et d’agir ensemble pour relever ces défis.

    La vision portée par Madame la Présidente et qu’incarnent ces mots – « Mieux ensemble » – est à même de rallier et d’inspirer le monde d’aujourd’hui et le système international de règlement des problèmes qu’est l’ONU et de leur permettre de remédier aux difficultés.

    Ses priorités vont de la paix et du développement à la réforme et à la transparence à l’ONU.

    Elle apportera à sa tâche une riche expérience gouvernementale et diplomatique, ayant notamment été la Ministre des affaires étrangères de son pays.

    Enfin, n’oublions pas la dimension historique que revêt son élection, puisqu’elle n’est que la cinquième femme à être élue Présidente de l’Assemblée générale.

    Madame la Présidente, vous pouvez compter sur mon appui total dans l’exercice de cette lourde responsabilité.

    Excellences,

    Depuis 80 ans, l’Assemblée générale des Nations unies joue un rôle indispensable pour bâtir des consensus, trouver des solutions, et agir pour un monde meilleur, plus pacifique et plus égalitaire.

    Alors que nous approchons de la fin de la 79ème session et nous préparons à l’ouverture de la 80ème, engageons-nous à faire vivre les valeurs de solidarité et de collaboration qui définissent notre Organisation depuis sa création.

    Je vous remercie.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Major £5 billion technology investment accelerates UK defence innovation in a European first

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Press release

    Major £5 billion technology investment accelerates UK defence innovation in a European first

    More than £4 billion drive towards autonomous systems to shape UK military future and boost export potential, supporting the Plan for Change

    UK troops and warships will be protected by drone and laser weapon technology through a major £5 billion investment, as the UK seeks to become the leading edge of innovation in NATO under the Strategic Defence Review (SDR) and driven by lessons from Ukraine. 

    The major funding package includes more than £4 billion for autonomous systems and a further investment of nearly £1 billion for Directed Energy Weapons (DEW) this Parliament – including the iconic DragonFire laser – boosting frontline capabilities while creating 300 skilled jobs across the country. 

    DragonFire is set to be the first high power laser capability entering service from a European nation, with the first Royal Navy Type 45 destroyer due to be fitted in 2027.  

    The SDR recommends that an immediate priority for force transformation should be a shift towards greater use of autonomy. To help achieve this, it says Defence must incorporate uncrewed and autonomous systems in high numbers over the next five years and make targeted investment in the development of novel directed energy weapons.  

    Today’s autonomous systems investment – of which more than £2 billion is new funding following the Government‘s historic uplift in defence spending to 2.5% of GDP from 2027– will see autonomous systems, including drones improve accuracy and lethality for our Armed Forces, and boost UK export potential. 

    It comes after major announcements ahead of the SDR publication, including: the building of up to a dozen new attack submarines for the Royal Navy; up to 7,000 new UK-built long-range weapons to procured; at least six new munitions and energetics factories in the UK; more than £1.5 billion to improve the state of military housing; and more than £1 billion for pioneering technology to spearhead battlefield engagements.

    The new DEW capabilities will give the UK an edge, creating low cost and sustainable alternatives to missiles to shoot down targets, such as drones, at the speed of light, reduce collateral damage and have a low-cost per shot, reducing reliance on expensive ammunition.   

    The systems will be tailored to the conditions in which they will operate – whether at sea, on land, or in the air – and will work alongside crewed assets, such as current and future fighter jets.  

    Both investments reflect the SDR’s vision for UK innovation to be driven by the lessons from Ukraine – harnessing drones, data and digital warfare to make our Armed Forces stronger and safer. 

    The SDR sets a path for the next decade and beyond to transform defence and make the UK secure at home and strong abroad. It ends the hollowing out of our Armed Forces and will also drive innovation, jobs and growth across the country, allowing the UK to lead in a stronger NATO as part of this Government’s Plan for Change.  

    Defence Secretary, John Healey MP said:

    These investments will mean the most significant advance in UK defence technology in decades. We will ensure our Armed Forces have the cutting-edge capabilities they need to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world.

    We are delivering the Strategic Defence Review’s vision to put the UK at the leading edge of innovation in NATO, by backing British industry and fast-tracking the kit of the future into the hands of frontline troops.

    This Government’s Plan for Change will harness the benefits of technology, create hundreds of new jobs and make defence a powerful engine for economic growth.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:  

    A strong economy needs a strong national defence. That’s why we are delivering the biggest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War—putting innovation and industrial strength at the centre of our national security strategy.

    Additional funding for autonomous systems maximises the defence industry’s potential to drive long term economic growth and productivity – helping us deliver our Plan for Change while keeping the UK safe.

    A new DEW will be created for the British Army this decade, alongside DragonFire being integrated on four Royal Navy warships, with the first ship due to be fitted in 2027, forming part of a layered air defence system to better protect UK forces while reducing collateral damage and reducing reliance on expensive ammunition. 

    DEW technology already supports 200 high-skilled UK jobs, with a further 300 positions to be created across the Ministry of Defence and industry partners. It’s another example of defence as an engine for UK economic growth, delivering on the Plan for Change.  

    In addition, a new Drone Centre will be established to accelerate exploitation of small, uncrewed air systems across all three military services, helping to deliver them to the front line faster.   

    The Centre will provide a central knowledge base to tackle any emerging legislative changes, develop best practice and better manage the interaction with industry. Crucially, it will apply battlefield lessons from Ukraine where drones now kill more people than traditional artillery. Detailed organisational arrangements will be developed over the coming months. 

    During the SDR process, 1,700 individuals, political parties, and organisations submitted more than 8,000 responses. 200 companies provided written contributions, more than 120 senior experts took part in the review and challenge panels, and nearly 50 meetings took place between the Reviewers and our senior military figures.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Reducing American antisemitism requires more than condemning opposition to Israel and targeting elite universities

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By David Mednicoff, Associate Professor of Middle Eastern Studies and Public Policy, UMass Amherst

    Law enforcement officials dress in protective gear to investigate after an attack on a march in Boulder, Colo., on June 1, 2025, calling for the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza. AP Photo/David Zalubowski

    Violent antisemitism in the U.S. isn’t limited to the far right wing of the political spectrum. This was tragically obvious in two recent events – the June 1, 2025, attack using Molotov cocktails to burn participants in a Boulder, Colorado, march supporting Israeli hostages in Gaza, and the murders of two Israeli embassy staffers, an American Jew and an Israeli, on May 21, 2025, outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C.

    As an expert on the Middle East, including Israel, my research and administrative work have included contributing to a global effort to define antisemitism and addressing antisemitism on my own campus.

    Antisemitism can be defined simply as “discrimination, prejudice, hostility or violence against Jews as Jews (or Jewish institutions as Jewish).” What actually constitutes it is more contested, especially with respect to links between Jews and the state of Israel.

    President Donald Trump claims he is taking “unprecedented” steps to combat antisemitism.

    American Jews perceive antisemitism as rising since 2016, largely because, as one study put it, “people who hold anti-Semitic views now feel more free to express them.” But the current federal fight against antisemitism in the U.S. may have more to do with the agendas of members of the American and Israeli governments than with the concerns of most American Jews.

    First, the Trump administration’s attacks on antisemitism center on elite universities, where the president claims antisemitism runs rampant. Second, the current Israeli government tries to blur the lines between pro-Palestinian activism and antisemitism.

    These factors polarize and complicate the landscape for combating antisemitism effectively.

    GOP nominee for president Donald Trump speaks to prominent Jewish donors at an event called Fighting Anti-Semitism in America on Sept. 19, 2024, in Washington, D.C.
    Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

    Targeting speech at universities by charging ‘antisemitism’

    Trump’s administration has taken dramatic actions in the name of curbing antisemitism. Yet, his policies are notable for what they ignore as well as what they target.

    Right-wing antisemitism was responsible for the deadliest attack on a Jewish community in U.S. history in Pittsburgh in 2018. Yet the administration’s model for fighting antisemitism is not based in fighting white supremacist hatred toward Jews, which relates back to the Nazis in Germany.

    In fact, members of Trump’s administration, including senior adviser Stephen Miller and former Department of Government Efficiency chief Elon Musk, have supported white supremacist ideas or groups. Trump’s own words have evoked right-wing antisemitic tropes, such as assuming American Jews are loyal to Israel or adept at making money.

    Trump administration policies on antisemitism are most vocal around punishing leading American universities as unsafe for Jews. As the leading target of the president’s ire, Harvard University has acknowledged that some activism against Israel’s war with Hamas in Gaza has contributed to antisemitism on campuses.

    However, federal actions targeting Harvard ostensibly seek to punish antisemitism by demanding sweeping federal oversight of Harvard’s curriculum and self-governance. Billions of dollars in research funds have been cut. Neither action connects clearly to Harvard’s patterns or policies around antisemitism.

    Given this, Harvard sued the government in April.

    Many American Jews believe that Trump’s true purpose is to use the antisemitism issue as one means to curb free expression at universities.

    Defending Israeli policy by charging ‘antisemitism’

    National governments naturally seek political and material support from powerful allies. Israel’s efforts to encourage Americans to champion that support fit this pattern.

    Israel receives more U.S. aid than any other country. Thus, its government has an interest in enlisting diverse people and organizations in a sustained way to support its policies.

    The Israeli intervention has grown because Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s far-right government is unpopular in both Israel and the U.S. Its war in Gaza, provoked by Hamas, is highly destructive and globally unpopular.

    Most experts and policymakers now argue that Israel, along with Hamas, has committed international war crimes.

    The Israeli government recently increased its funding to US$150 million for global public relations efforts. This is a major acceleration of policies that Israeli has pursued for decades known in Hebrew as “hasbara,” which translates to “explanation.”

    Documenting specific links between Israel’s government and groups promoting its agenda in the U.S. can be difficult. This may be a deliberate strategy by Israeli leaders to conceal their efforts.

    Yet, mainstream Israeli-run organizations such as the Jewish Agency have played up links between pro-Palestinian activism and antisemitism since Hamas triggered the war in Gaza. Groups whose funding and leadership are hard to trace maintain public blacklists labeling vocal pro-Palestine activists as antisemites. Those lists have been used by Israeli government bureaucrats to bar visitors to the country.

    U.S.-based groups aligned with Israeli government messaging engage in persistent strategies to discredit opposition voices. Some attack publicly vocal activists, including some American Jews. Others press organizations, political bodies and institutions to adopt a definition of antisemitism that makes it easy to conflate criticism of Israeli policy with antisemitism.

    Anti-Israel behavior in the U.S. can be antisemitic, such as asserting that American Jews, because they are Jews, are responsible for Israeli state actions. And some American Jews support crackdowns on pro-Palestinian activists.

    However, characterizing antisemitism in the U.S. mostly in terms of speech and activism against the Israeli government augments the Trump administration’s neglect of dangerous right-wing antisemitism.

    Presidential adviser Elon Musk interviews via video the German right-wing party AfD leader Alice Weidel at AfD’s election campaign launch on Feb. 23, 2025.
    Hendrik Schmidt/picture alliance via Getty Images

    Polarization and antisemitism in the US

    Taken together, the politics pursued by Trump and the Netanyahu government combine to target legally protected speech in the U.S. more than they deter antisemitism.

    By contributing to polarization, the conflation of antisemitism with a wide range of speech critical of Israel could add to threats faced by Jews and other religious minorities. Those who wish to undermine work toward Palestinian-Israeli coexistence benefit from the charge that most pro-Palestinian activists are antisemitic. This worsens already visible divides among American Jews over how Israel’s mistreatment of Palestinians squares with their Jewish identities.

    Supported by the most aggressive pro-Netanyahu groups, the Trump administration links concerns against antisemitism to efforts to deport immigrants who have expressed pro-Palestine views, such as Tufts doctoral student Rümeysa Öztürk. Deporting people in the name of policing speech critical of Israel also runs a risk that Jews will be blamed for government actions many Americans find objectionable.

    Let’s be clear. Some pro-Palestinian activism embraces Jew-hatred, as the attacks in Washington and Boulder highlight. But lumping together as antisemitic most pro-Palestinian speech, as current American and Israeli leaders do, complicates seeing antisemitism clearly and countering it.

    In addition, most Americans – and Israelis – seek an end to the war, mounting deaths and humanitarian disaster in Gaza. Any potential to blur this with antisemitism augments the few, loud American voices that support one side in the conflict by dehumanizing the other side.

    Americans believe other minority groups face greater discrimination than Jews. Yet, antisemitism from diverse directions is the worst I have seen in my lifetime.

    As with any policy problem, the way to deal with this issue is to focus on all facets of the problem, including right-wing racism and Christian nationalism.

    Current national politics around antisemitism may serve many purposes. Yet most American Jews doubt that these policies actually protect them.

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

    – ref. Reducing American antisemitism requires more than condemning opposition to Israel and targeting elite universities – https://theconversation.com/reducing-american-antisemitism-requires-more-than-condemning-opposition-to-israel-and-targeting-elite-universities-257290

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar, Grassley Celebrate C-SPAN’s Historic Senate Coverage, Call for Public Access Across Platforms, Including Streaming

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)
    C-SPAN provides the transparency and accountability our democracy needs, and it is important all Americans are able to access it 
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) introduced a resolution to mark the 39th anniversary of C-SPAN 2’s first Senate broadcast on June 2, 1986. The resolution urges all television providers, including streaming services, to carry the network. 
    “C-SPAN has connected the Senate with the American people for nearly 40 years—providing the public an opportunity to see their government at work on the Senate floor and in committee meetings,” Klobuchar said. “Access to this live coverage on all platforms is essential to keeping the American people informed and engaged in their democracy.”
    “Transparency brings accountability, and C-SPAN’s coverage of the Senate has certainly brought transparency to the people’s business. Our resolution celebrates C-SPAN 2’s nearly 40-year commitment to give Americans a front row seat in the Senate, all without accepting a dime of taxpayer dollars. This public service strengthens our system of self-government by boosting civic engagement, and ought to be available on all television and streaming platforms,” Grassley said. 
    Over 39 years, C-SPAN2 has recorded more than 43,830 hours of Senate action, including more than 169,000 speeches from a broad range of ideologies. The network has documented more than 23,493 roll call votes, acting as a living ledger of Senate decision-making. 
    Find text of the resolution HERE.?

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: North Dakota Department of Commerce Announces $15 Million Destination Development Grant to Boost Tourism and Economic Growth

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    The North Dakota Department of Commerce is excited to announce the launch of the 2025 Destination Development Grant Program, a $15 million initiative aimed at enhancing the state’s tourism industry. This program, funded by the 69th Legislative Assembly, is designed to support the development and expansion of tourism experiences and attractions that contribute to North Dakota’s economic growth and diversification.

    “Tourism plays an essential role in North Dakota, contributing to a strong economy, by attracting visitors who spend money and pay taxes,” said Gov. Kelly Armstrong. “This grant program will support projects that offer legendary experiences that make our state a unique destination.”

    The Destination Development Grant Program provides financial support for projects that increase the number of unique visitor experiences, support workforce recruitment and retention, and enhance the quality of life for North Dakota residents. Eligible projects include the construction or expansion of tourism, recreation, entertainment, historic, or cultural attractions, as well as infrastructure investments that directly support tourism.

    “By creating more experiences that attract visitors and expanding the potential for extended stays, we are also enhancing the quality of life for our residents,” said Commerce Tourism and Marketing Director Sara Otte Coleman. “This grant program is a fantastic opportunity for communities and businesses across North Dakota to develop and expand their tourism offerings, ultimately driving economic growth and diversification.”

    Grant requests should range between $25,000 and $5,000,000, with a required 1:1 match contribution from non-state sources. Eligible entities include for-profit and non-profit organizations or businesses involved in tourism. Private and non-profit tourism entities using government buildings or public property are also eligible if the grant dollars are used to improve items belonging to the business or non-profit.

    The grant portal will be open from July 1 through July 31, 2025. Applicants must submit all materials online, including a detailed project description, budget, and letters of support. Competitive applications will demonstrate a clear vision, strategic alignment with tourism goals, and long-term value.

    Information on the Destination Development Grant will be available at https://ndgov.link/DestinationDevelopment.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ernst Protects Iowans’ Second Amendment Rights

    US Senate News:

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

    DAVENPORT, Iowa – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) joined local gun owners at the Davenport Guns & Shooting Club to announce her new bill to protect Iowans’ Second Amendment rights and lawful gun dealers after the Biden administration’s “zero-tolerance” crackdown.

    After the roundtable, Ernst got in some target practice at the shooting range.
    Click here to download more photos.
    Ernst’s Fighting Irrational Regulatory Enforcement to Avert Retailers’ Misfortune (FIREARM) Act prevents the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) from shuttering Federal Firearms Licensees (FFLs) over minor clerical mistakes and allows them to correct self-reported errors.
    “The Biden administration’s zero-tolerance policy empowered gun grabbers in Washington to infringe on the Second Amendment and shutter small businesses,” said Ernst. “Iowans spoke loud and clear in November that they were tired of bureaucratic overreach. My FIREARM Act disarms the out-of-control ATF and ensures that the rights of law-abiding gun owners are protected.”
    Congressman Darrell Issa (R-Calif.) is introducing companion legislation in the House of Representatives.
    “For four years, the Biden administration undermined the Second Amendment and weaponized government against law-abiding citizens and small businesses of the lawful firearms industry,” said Issa. “It is now a new day and a different Washington, and that’s why my friend Senator Ernst and I are advancing the FIREARM Act. We can stop the targeting of our citizens and prevent it from ever happening again.”
    “It’s such a relief to know that Senator Ernst understands and appreciates the importance of the Second Amendment,” said Jeanelle Westrom, Iowa Director for Women for Gun Rights and the owner of Davenport Guns & Shooting Club. “Being a small business owner is hard, and it’s even harder when our agencies like the ATF are used as an end run around the Constitution. As the Iowa Director for Women for Gun Rights and the owner of Davenport Guns, I’m proud to stand by Senator Ernst and her FIREARM Act.”
    “Senator Joni Ernst’s ‘FIREARM’ Act will ensure that future administrations cannot weaponize the ATF as a political gun control tool for special interests,” said Lawrence G. Keane, NSSF Senior Vice President & General Counsel. “Under the Biden administration, the firearm and ammunition industry witnessed the ATF being weaponized to carry out that administration’s extreme antigun policies. That damaged the cooperative relationships between firearm retailers, who are on the frontline preventing illegal straw purchases of firearms, and the ATF, which enforces laws to safeguard our communities. NSSF is thankful for Senator Ernst’s leadership to provide remedies that repair this necessary public trust in our federal agencies.”
    Specifically, the FIREARM Act:

    Creates a safe harbor for FFLs to self-report violations, so they can correct any accidental errors;
    Requires the ATF to work collaboratively with FFLs to fix violations and help avoid future violations;
    Addresses the “willfulness” issue by defining it to mean a voluntary, intentional violation of a known legal duty achieved through specific intent or deliberate planning, excludes previous conduct, and creates a rebuttal if the conduct is not willful; and
    Allows for direct judicial review of license revocations to avoid the ATF from serving as both the judge and prosecutor.

    Click here to view the bill.
    Background:
    Because of her tireless commitment to protecting the rights of law-abiding gun owners and fighting back against bureaucratic overreach, Senator Ernst earned an “A+” rating from the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schumer, Murray Statement on President Trump’s Expected Rescissions Request

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    Washington, D.C. — Today, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, issued the following joint statement on the rescission request President Trump is expected to submit to Congress this week:
    “Let’s be honest about what this is: President Trump is looking to go after PBS and NPR to settle political scores and muzzle the free press, while undermining foreign assistance programs that push back on China’s malign influence, save lives, and address other bipartisan priorities. The Trump administration continues to take their eye off the ball and is not focused on helping lower middle-class families’ costs. Instead, they are pursuing political retribution to appease the most right-wing factions. They are blowing up the national debt to give the wealthiest few and biggest corporations huge tax breaks while ripping health care away from millions of Americans. Donald Trump’s misplaced priorities are exactly why Americans have quickly turned on his presidency.
    “If Republicans choose to go along with this rescission package, they will follow Trump at their peril. The power of the purse is one of Congress’s most fundamental Constitutional responsibilities. Democrats will not allow Republicans to play games with the budget.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Over 175 Students, Dozens of Staff at Exeter Job Corps in Limbo After Trump Halts Job Corps Operations

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    EXETER, RI — Once again, President Donald Trump is trying to eliminate the federal Job Corps program, which offers free vocational and career-training for underserved youth to help produce skilled workers.  Job Corps serves low-income youth between the ages of 16 and 24 who face barriers to education and employment.

    A week after U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) called out the Trump Administration for effectively ‘pausing’ Job Corps enrollment by preventing new students from getting background checks, the Trump Administration formally announced a “phased pause in operations” for all Job Corps centers nationwide, including the center in Exeter. 

    Senator Reed, a member of the Appropriations Committee, denounced Trump’s Job Corps suspension as counterproductive and pledged to work on a bipartisan basis to reopen, improve, and continue to fund the centers, which teach eligible youth the skills they need to become employable and independent.

    Reed stated: “Job Corps helps expand economic opportunity and prepare young people for good-paying jobs in in-demand fields.  It literally helps people turn their lives around and we shouldn’t turn our back on this program, we should strengthen it to improve outcomes for more young people.  The Exeter Job Corps Center is a high performing center that helps produce skilled workers in some of the trades we need most, like submarine manufacturing.  I strongly oppose President Trump’s attempt to dismantle vital resources for young people seeking education and opportunity and I will work to prevent the elimination of Job Corps.”

    “The Trump Administration’s Job Corps pause is putting the economic futures of young people across the country on hold.  Students trying to enroll are stuck in limbo.  Job Corps offers young people a second chance to complete their high school education, receive technical training, and prepare for a career.  The Trump Administration is attempting to take that away, but we will work hard to reverse it, because it would be a real blow to these young people and our regional economy,” Reed continued.

    At a May 22 hearing of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies (Labor-H), Senator Reed questioned U.S. Labor Secretary Chavez-DeRemer about the Trump Administrations efforts to terminate Job Corps.

    During the hearing, Reed noted: “And it’s not only critical to these young men and women to develop their talents and be productive members of our society, but also it’s a key aspect of our submarine production with their relationships to electric boat at Quonset Point Rhode Island. If we don’t have these trained and skilled workers, we will fall behind further and further in terms of submarine production, which will be a detrimental — is an understatement to our national security.”

    Earlier this week, Reed joined Appropriations Committee Chair Susan Collins (R-ME) in sending a letter to U.S. Labor Secretary Chavez-DeRemer requesting detailed information on Job Corps — including contracts, background check processing, and evaluation plans.  The bipartisan letter noted: “We would be pleased to work with you to improve Job Corps and make needed changes to the program, such as some of those that were included in the bipartisan bill to reauthorize the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, but we expect you to faithfully implement the program with the resources we have appropriated.”

    Since 1964, Job Corps has served more than three million low-income youth and young adults in all parts of the country.

    This is not the first time President Trump has tried to terminate Job Corps. In 2019, during Trump’s first term, his Administration announced it would be closing Job Corp centers. But thanks to public outcry and bipartisan efforts from Reed, Collins, and other members of Congress, the federal government reversed those decisions.

    Exeter Job Corps Center, which opened in 2004, provides free job training in a variety of fields, including: computers, culinary arts, construction, hospitality, health fields, manufacturing, and other career paths, as well as transportation and dormitory-style housing for those who need it. The programs are aligned with industry credentials and include work-based learning.

    Enrollment at Exeter Job Corps Center, located at the site of the former Ladd Center off Route 2 in Exeter, with a capacity for 185 students, with rolling admissions throughout the year.  Exeter Job Corps Center employs a staff of about 85 and offers vocational training in 6 trades, a GED program, and two high school diploma programs. Most participants are from Rhode Island or neighboring states.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Delivers $29.6 Million for RI Economic Development & Housing Initiatives

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed

    PROVIDENCE, RI – In an effort to help strengthen local neighborhoods and support economic development and affordable housing programs throughout the state, U.S. Senator Jack Reed today announced that Rhode Island will receive $29,614,503 in new federal aid from several federal housing and community development programs.

    Reed, a member of the Appropriations Committee, who helped secure the funds in the fiscal year 2025 continuing resolution (CR) appropriations bill, noted this year’s funding levels are based on the Biden Administration’s final budget, which was untouched by cuts from the Trump Administration when Congress passed the full-year CR in March.  

    As a result, Rhode Island’s allocations include:

    • $16,616,289 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds
    • $5,825,296 from the Home Investment Partnerships (HOME) program
    • $3,001,259 from the Housing Trust Fund
    • $1,469,265 from the Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) program
    • $1,484,128 from the Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS (HOPWA)
    • $1,218,265 through the Recovery Housing Program (RHP)

    The federal investments are administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which Senator Reed oversees as both an authorizer on the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, and as an appropriator on the Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD).

    “This federal funding will help strengthen neighborhoods, advance opportunities for local economic development, and ensure more Rhode Islanders have a healthy and safe place to live.  These programs help cities and towns expand housing options and move forward with capital improvement projects that can spur economic growth and development.  Unlike President Trump, whose Fiscal Year 2026 budget proposal calls for the elimination of many of these essential government programs. I’m committed to improving public infrastructure, boosting housing supply, and upgrading community assets.  From increasing affordable housing opportunities, to repairing roads and extending sidewalks, to enhancing parks and clean water infrastructure, these funds help revitalize neighborhoods and enhance economic development.  With Rhode Island experiencing an alarming affordable housing supply shortage, this critical funding will also bring millions to our state to help preserve and build more affordable housing,” said Senator Reed.

    President Trump’s fiscal year 2026 preliminary budget request to Congress would eliminate the CDBG and HOME programs and devastate HUD with a 43 percent cut in funding. Furthermore, it would place a massive burden on state and local budgets by cutting HUD rental assistance programs by nearly half and shrinking federal homeless assistance programs.

    CDBG provides local communities with a flexible source of federal funding to address a wide range of neighborhood development needs.  The funds may be used for capital-improvement projects or distributed to non-profit organizations to increase housing, supportive service, and job opportunities.  Eligible communities may also apply to the state, which annually allocates federal CDBG funds through a competitive process.  CDBG funds may also be used to address a variety of needs from revitalizing distressed areas by removing blight and assisting with infrastructure projects.

    Several Rhode Island cities will split over $16.6 million from this round of CDBG funding, including allocations for:

    1. Cranston: $1,085,975
    2. East Providence: $772,761
    3. Pawtucket: $1,776,064
    4. Providence: $5,227,138
    5. Warwick: $948,131
    6. Woonsocket: $1,050,583
    7. Rhode Island statewide: $5,755,637
    8. TOTAL: $16,616,289

    HOME is a major federal block grant program providing funding to state and local governments to expand and preserve the supply of quality, affordable housing for working families.  Providence will receive $1,414,533 in HOME funds, while Pawtucket will receive $520,010, Woonsocket will receive $333,115, and a pot of funds for communities across the state will total $3,557,637.

    Senator Reed created the national Housing Trust Fund (HTF) in the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008.  The HTF is an affordable housing production and preservation program.  Under the law, government-sponsored entities Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are required to contribute annually to the HTF.

    ESG provides annual grants to state and local governments to upgrade and expand emergency homeless shelters.  In this round of funding, Providence will receive $476,119 in ESG funds, Pawtucket will receive $155,836, Woonsocket will receive $93,908, and communities across the state will share an additional $743,402.

    Providence will also receive $1,484,128 in HOPWA funds, which help communities and nonprofit organizations offer housing assistance and related supportive services to low-income individuals who have been diagnosed with HIV/AIDS.

    To help more effectively combat the opioid crisis and ensure people with substance abuse disorders can access safe housing, Rhode Island will also receive $1,218,265 in Recovery Housing Program (RHP) funds.  Senator Reed backed this program as part of the Substance Use-Disorder Prevention that Promotes Opioid Recovery and Treatment (SUPPORT) for Patients and Communities Act.  This federal funding will help Rhode Island provide stable, temporary housing to individuals in recovery from a substance use disorder.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: June 2nd, 2025 Heinrich, Luján Urge FEMA to Implement Reforms to Better Address Disasters in New Mexico, Western States

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    “FEMA was originally structured to respond to large-scale hurricanes and disasters on the East Coast, and its current – and outdated – model reflects that legacy.”

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) urged the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to implement practical reforms to better address the unique and growing disaster risks faced by Western U.S. communities, particularly in the aftermath of catastrophic wildfires.

    The letter requests FEMA modernize its outdated response model, improve infrastructure reimbursement policies to facilitate smarter rebuilding, and expand individual and community assistance to reflect actual recovery costs. The letter also calls for FEMA to address gaps in support for high-risk areas where insurance is no longer accessible.

    “Western states face a distinct and growing threat: namely, catastrophic wildfires followed by cascading disasters such as landslides, flooding, and water system failures that compound damage and slow recovery. These cascading events – which can happen years after an initial fire – are devastating, and FEMA has repeatedly struggled to respond effectively,” the lawmakers wrote.

    “As New Mexicans learned in the wake of the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon fire and Californians in the wake of the Palisades fire, and Hawaii residents after the Maui wind-driven fires, FEMA’s protocols and funding mechanisms aren’t built to address the rapid domino effect that occurs after major wildfires. Events that are interconnected are treated as isolated occurrences, leaving affected communities without the timely, comprehensive support they deserve,” the lawmakers continued.

    Heinrich, Luján, and the New Mexico Delegation have secured $5.45 billion for recovery efforts following the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire. The fire, which was started by the U.S. Forest Service, caused widespread damage and uprooted the lives of many New Mexicans.

    The full text of the letter can be found HERE and below:

    Dear Secretary Noem and Acting Administrator Richardson:

    Thank you for the opportunity to provide public comments on FEMA’s disaster response and recovery operations. We are writing to ask you to consider practical reforms to improve the organization and administration of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). FEMA was originally structured to respond to large-scale hurricanes and disasters on the East Coast, and its current – and outdated – model reflects that legacy. Practical reforms are warranted to better serve communities in the Western United States.

    We want to emphasize that serious, targeted reform is the answer to these pressing problems – not dismantling FEMA altogether. The federal government has an important role to play in assisting state and local governments in the wake of natural disasters. Weakening or eliminating federal disaster assistance when state and local resources across the West are overwhelmed and depleted would be a dangerous step backwards. FEMA’s mission is simply too important to abandon.

    Western states face a distinct and growing threat: namely, catastrophic wildfires followed by cascading disasters such as landslides, flooding, and water system failures that compound damage and slow recovery. These cascading events – which can happen years after an initial fire – are devastating, and FEMA has repeatedly struggled to respond effectively. As New Mexicans learned in the wake of the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon fire and Californians in the wake of the Palisades fire, and Hawaii residents after the Maui wind-driven fires, FEMA’s protocols and funding mechanisms aren’t built to address the rapid domino effect that occurs after major wildfires. Events that are interconnected are treated as isolated occurrences, leaving affected communities without the timely, comprehensive support they deserve.

    FEMA’s reimbursement formulas and policies currently require that public infrastructure be rebuilt to its pre-disaster condition in order to qualify for full reimbursement. While we understand the intent behind these rules—to restore essential infrastructure equitably—they do not adequately address the unique and escalating risks associated with post-wildfire environments, especially with regard to flood-related infrastructure such as culverts, bridges, and drainage systems.

    After a wildfire, watersheds are severely destabilized. Vegetation loss, soil degradation, and hydrophobic soils result in dramatically altered runoff patterns, increasing both the speed and volume of post-fire flooding. The City of Las Vegas, New Mexico lived this harsh reality during the Fiestas last year, when floods paralyzed the city over a year after the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon fire. As a result of these floods, the business community lost out on their largest income-generating event of the year. These harsh post-fire flooding conditions mean that infrastructure like culverts, which may have been appropriately sized before a fire, are no longer adequate or safe in the changed landscape. Rebuilding these structures “as they were” effectively ensures that they will be overwhelmed during the next major rain event. FEMA’s reimbursement formula should be revised to allow and encourage local governments and agencies to rebuild smarter and stronger, particularly in high-risk post-wildfire areas. If infrastructure is likely to fail under new, foreseeable conditions like post-wildfire floods, federal policy should not prohibit communities from adapting their designs accordingly.

    In addition, individual assistance offered by FEMA is insufficient to help families and small businesses get back on their feet. Many disaster survivors are shocked to learn that reimbursements for personal property loss, home repairs, or temporary housing fall far short of the actual costs. This disparity leaves middle- and low-income families and businesses facing a steep financial cliff, even after receiving federal aid. While Congress has stepped in to fully reimburse New Mexico families for losses from the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon fire after the Federal government started the largest fire in the state’s history, comprehensive financial reimbursement is not the norm. In Maui, recovery is estimated to exceed $12 billion, a total of four times what the federal government is anticipated to contribute. The property and economic damage in California is as high as $275 billion. We need to revisit how individual assistance is calculated and ensure it reflects real-world rebuilding and living expenses.

    Last but not least, a growing number of Western disaster survivors lack insurance altogether. In high-risk areas like wildfire zones, insurance has become prohibitively expensive—or unavailable entirely. This leaves many households completely dependent on FEMA for recovery support. Yet FEMA’s systems and standards often assume a baseline level of private insurance coverage that no longer exists for a significant portion of affected residents. FEMA must adapt its policies and funding levels and work with other Federal agencies to meet the needs of those who fall into this widening gap and ensure that recovery is possible for those who, through no fault of their own, can’t obtain insurance.

    Thank you again for the opportunity to contribute to this critical dialogue. We hope FEMA will take this input seriously and act swiftly to adapt to the changing landscape of disaster response.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Heinrich Urge FEMA to Implement Reforms to Better Address Disasters in New Mexico, Western States

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)

    “FEMA was originally structured to respond to large-scale hurricanes and disasters on the East Coast, and its current – and outdated – model reflects that legacy.”

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) urged the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to implement practical reforms to better address the unique and growing disaster risks faced by Western U.S. communities, particularly in the aftermath of catastrophic wildfires.

    The letter requests FEMA modernize its outdated response model, improve infrastructure reimbursement policies to facilitate smarter rebuilding, and expand individual and community assistance to reflect actual recovery costs. The letter also calls for FEMA to address gaps in support for high-risk areas where insurance is no longer accessible.

    “Western states face a distinct and growing threat: namely, catastrophic wildfires followed by cascading disasters such as landslides, flooding, and water system failures that compound damage and slow recovery. These cascading events – which can happen years after an initial fire – are devastating, and FEMA has repeatedly struggled to respond effectively,” the lawmakers wrote.

    “As New Mexicans learned in the wake of the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon fire and Californians in the wake of the Palisades fire, and Hawaii residents after the Maui wind-driven fires, FEMA’s protocols and funding mechanisms aren’t built to address the rapid domino effect that occurs after major wildfires. Events that are interconnected are treated as isolated occurrences, leaving affected communities without the timely, comprehensive support they deserve,” the lawmakers continued.

    Senators Luján and Heinrich and the New Mexico Delegation have secured $5.45 billion for recovery efforts following the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire. The fire, which was started by the U.S. Forest Service, caused widespread damage and uprooted the lives of many New Mexicans.

    The full text of the letter can be found HERE and below:

    Dear Secretary Noem and Acting Administrator Richardson:

    Thank you for the opportunity to provide public comments on FEMA’s disaster response and recovery operations. We are writing to ask you to consider practical reforms to improve the organization and administration of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). FEMA was originally structured to respond to large-scale hurricanes and disasters on the East Coast, and its current – and outdated – model reflects that legacy. Practical reforms are warranted to better serve communities in the Western United States.

    We want to emphasize that serious, targeted reform is the answer to these pressing problems – not dismantling FEMA altogether. The federal government has an important role to play in assisting state and local governments in the wake of natural disasters. Weakening or eliminating federal disaster assistance when state and local resources across the West are overwhelmed and depleted would be a dangerous step backwards. FEMA’s mission is simply too important to abandon.

    Western states face a distinct and growing threat: namely, catastrophic wildfires followed by cascading disasters such as landslides, flooding, and water system failures that compound damage and slow recovery. These cascading events – which can happen years after an initial fire – are devastating, and FEMA has repeatedly struggled to respond effectively. As New Mexicans learned in the wake of the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon fire and Californians in the wake of the Palisades fire, and Hawaii residents after the Maui wind-driven fires, FEMA’s protocols and funding mechanisms aren’t built to address the rapid domino effect that occurs after major wildfires. Events that are interconnected are treated as isolated occurrences, leaving affected communities without the timely, comprehensive support they deserve.

    FEMA’s reimbursement formulas and policies currently require that public infrastructure be rebuilt to its pre-disaster condition in order to qualify for full reimbursement. While we understand the intent behind these rules—to restore essential infrastructure equitably—they do not adequately address the unique and escalating risks associated with post-wildfire environments, especially with regard to flood-related infrastructure such as culverts, bridges, and drainage systems.

    After a wildfire, watersheds are severely destabilized. Vegetation loss, soil degradation, and hydrophobic soils result in dramatically altered runoff patterns, increasing both the speed and volume of post-fire flooding. The City of Las Vegas, New Mexico lived this harsh reality during the Fiestas last year, when floods paralyzed the city over a year after the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon fire. As a result of these floods, the business community lost out on their largest income-generating event of the year. These harsh post-fire flooding conditions mean that infrastructure like culverts, which may have been appropriately sized before a fire, are no longer adequate or safe in the changed landscape. Rebuilding these structures “as they were” effectively ensures that they will be overwhelmed during the next major rain event. FEMA’s reimbursement formula should be revised to allow and encourage local governments and agencies to rebuild smarter and stronger, particularly in high-risk post-wildfire areas. If infrastructure is likely to fail under new, foreseeable conditions like post-wildfire floods, federal policy should not prohibit communities from adapting their designs accordingly.

    In addition, individual assistance offered by FEMA is insufficient to help families and small businesses get back on their feet. Many disaster survivors are shocked to learn that reimbursements for personal property loss, home repairs, or temporary housing fall far short of the actual costs. This disparity leaves middle- and low-income families and businesses facing a steep financial cliff, even after receiving federal aid. While Congress has stepped in to fully reimburse New Mexico families for losses from the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon fire after the Federal government started the largest fire in the state’s history, comprehensive financial reimbursement is not the norm. In Maui, recovery is estimated to exceed $12 billion, a total of four times what the federal government is anticipated to contribute. The property and economic damage in California is as high as $275 billion. We need to revisit how individual assistance is calculated and ensure it reflects real-world rebuilding and living expenses.

    Last but not least, a growing number of Western disaster survivors lack insurance altogether. In high-risk areas like wildfire zones, insurance has become prohibitively expensive—or unavailable entirely. This leaves many households completely dependent on FEMA for recovery support. Yet FEMA’s systems and standards often assume a baseline level of private insurance coverage that no longer exists for a significant portion of affected residents. FEMA must adapt its policies and funding levels and work with other Federal agencies to meet the needs of those who fall into this widening gap and ensure that recovery is possible for those who, through no fault of their own, can’t obtain insurance.

    Thank you again for the opportunity to contribute to this critical dialogue. We hope FEMA will take this input seriously and act swiftly to adapt to the changing landscape of disaster response.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –