NewzIntel.com

    • Checkout Page
    • Contact Us
    • Default Redirect Page
    • Frontpage
    • Home-2
    • Home-3
    • Lost Password
    • Member Login
    • Member LogOut
    • Member TOS Page
    • My Account
    • NewzIntel Alert Control-Panel
    • NewzIntel Latest Reports
    • Post Views Counter
    • Privacy Policy
    • Public Individual Page
    • Register
    • Subscription Plan
    • Thank You Page

Category: Politics

  • PM Modi launches ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’ to boost agricultural modernisation

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed the launch of the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan via videoconferencing, describing it as a significant initiative for farmers and a unique effort to support agricultural development.

    Highlighting the timely nature of the initiative with the monsoon season approaching and preparations for the Kharif season underway, the Prime Minister said that, over the next 12 to 15 days, around 2,000 teams—comprising scientists, experts, officials, and progressive farmers—will travel across more than 700 districts and reach millions of farmers in villages. He extended his best wishes to all participating farmers and teams, acknowledging their dedication to strengthening India’s agricultural sector.

    Noting that agriculture has traditionally been a state subject, with each state formulating its own policies and welfare schemes, PM Modi emphasised the need for transformation in the sector in response to changing times. While Indian farmers have achieved record levels of production, he said that evolving market dynamics and consumer preferences require modern reforms in agriculture, undertaken in collaboration with both state governments and farmers.

    Under this campaign, scientific teams will move from “lab to land,” bringing data and advanced agricultural knowledge directly to farmers. The teams will assist farmers ahead of the Kharif season, ensuring they are equipped with practical insights and updated techniques.

    The Prime Minister lauded the significant research achievements of Indian agricultural scientists over the decades and their positive impact on productivity. He also praised progressive farmers who have adopted new techniques and achieved remarkable results. However, the PM noted that there remains a gap in the widespread dissemination of this knowledge and that efforts must now be intensified. “Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan presents a valuable opportunity to bridge this knowledge gap and ensure farmers benefit from cutting-edge agricultural innovations,” he said.

    The Prime Minister stressed that for India to become a Viksit Bharat (Developed India), agriculture must also evolve. He listed several priority areas for the government, including ensuring fair prices for produce, strengthening the rural economy, and aligning crop patterns with national and global needs. He asserted that India must not only meet its own food requirements but also emerge as a global food supplier.

    To meet this vision, PM Modi underlined the importance of addressing challenges posed by climate change, increasing grain production with minimal water use, protecting soil health, modernising farming techniques, and taking science and technology directly to the fields. He noted that the government has worked extensively in these areas over the past 10–11 years and urged all campaign participants to raise awareness among farmers about these efforts.

    The Prime Minister also focused on diversifying farmers’ income sources beyond traditional agriculture. He mentioned initiatives such as installing solar panels along field boundaries to generate additional revenue, expanding beekeeping under the “Sweet Revolution,” converting agricultural waste into energy, promoting the cultivation of Shri Anna (nutri-cereals), and increasing value addition in farm products.

    The PM also highlighted the Gobardhan Yojana, which is helping generate income from non-milking cattle. Modi urged widespread dissemination of information about these innovations to maximise farmer participation.

    “India’s agriculture must become a cornerstone of a developed India,” PM Modi said, underscoring the magnitude of the mission. He encouraged farmers to engage actively with visiting scientists and ask questions to gain practical insights. The Prime Minister also urged scientists and officials to treat the campaign not merely as routine work but as a form of national service. “Address farmers’ queries in full and document their valuable suggestions,” he said.

    PM Modi expressed confidence that the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan would open new avenues of progress for India’s farmers and help drive agricultural modernisation. He extended his best wishes to all stakeholders involved.

     

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Israel accepts US special envoy S. Witkoff’s proposal for ceasefire in Gaza – media

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    JERUSALEM, May 29 (Xinhua) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday said the Jewish state’s government has accepted the proposal of U.S. Special Envoy for the Middle East Steven Witkoff for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the release of hostages, Israeli state broadcaster Kan reported.

    According to Kan, B. Netanyahu made the statement during a meeting with the families of the Israeli hostages who are presumed dead.

    The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office is not yet ready to comment.

    Earlier on Thursday, Hamas said in a statement that it had received Witkoff’s proposal and was currently studying it.

    As reported by Kan, citing a senior Israeli official, the proposal includes a 60-day ceasefire in the Gaza Strip in exchange for the release of 10 live hostages and the handover of 18 bodies of the dead in two stages. Israel, in turn, must free 1,236 Palestinian prisoners and hand over the bodies of 180 dead Palestinians.

    The proposal does not oblige Israel to end its 19-month offensive in Gaza, but it does require the Jewish state and Hamas to negotiate a long-term truce. The United States, Egypt and Qatar would act as guarantors of the ceasefire. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Opens Disaster Loan Outreach Center in Hardy

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today the opening of a Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC) in Sharp County to assist small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents who sustained economic losses and physical damage from severe storms, tornadoes and flooding occurring April 2-22.

    Beginning Friday, May 30, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the Disaster Loan Outreach Center in Hardy to answer questions and assist with the disaster loan application process. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Those who prefer to schedule an in-person appointment in advance can do so at appointment.sba.gov.

    The center’s hours of operation are as follows:

    SHARP COUNTY
    Disaster Loan Outreach Center
    Hardy Fire Station
    203 Church St.
    Hardy, AR  72542

    Opens at 9 a.m., Friday, May 30

    Mondays – Fridays, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
    Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

    “When disasters strike, SBA’s Disaster Loan Outreach Centers perform an important role by assisting small businesses and their communities,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the U.S. Small Business Administration. “At these centers, our SBA specialists help business owners and residents apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to support their recovery.”

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

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

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

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

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

    Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.62% for nonprofits, and 2.75% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines eligibility and sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

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

    The deadline to return physical damage applications is July 21, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 23, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Together With Local and Federal Law Enforcement Partners, Attorney General Bonta Reaffirms Commitment to Combat the Fentanyl Epidemic

    Source: US State of California Department of Justice

    Attorney General Bonta joins law enforcement partners in Sacramento region to discuss collaborative efforts to protect communities from fentanyl

    SACRAMENTO — California Attorney General Rob Bonta, Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho, Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper, Placer County District Attorney Morgan Gire, and local and federal law enforcement partners today to reaffirmed their commitment to combating the fentanyl epidemic through collaborative action. The California Department of Justice (DOJ) is actively working to prevent fentanyl trafficking across the border through coordinated efforts with local and federal law enforcement partners throughout California to stop fentanyl before it ever has a chance to make it to Sacramento. As of April 2025, DOJ has seized a total of 15,468,990 fentanyl pills, 6,793 pounds of fentanyl powder and have arrested 508 suspects on fentanyl related charges. 

    “Today, I want to remind Californians that our work will continue until illicit fentanyl stops destroying lives,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “We will continue to collaborate with local, state, and federal law enforcement wherever possible. We’ll investigate traffickers, disrupt trafficking networks, and continue to prevent overdose deaths by taking illicit fentanyl off of our streets. Those who bring this poison into the state can expect to be prosecuted and held accountable for the death and devastation they’ve caused. We are extremely thankful to all our Greater Sacramento area law enforcement partners standing on the frontlines with us to battle this epidemic.”  

    “With a focus on increased accountability for drug dealers, our SACFORCE team has successfully prosecuted dangerous drug peddlers,” Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho. “We’re partnering regionally to disrupt fentanyl distribution and increasing public awareness to protect people from fentanyl poisonings. This combined approach is working in Sacramento, and we will continue to keep fentanyl deaths on a downward trend.”

    “With 33 years in law enforcement, and having worked as a gang and narcotics detective, I have been in the war against drugs for decades – and fentanyl is the deadliest drug I have ever seen,” said Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper. “We need to be the adults in the room. The social experiment of allowing this deadly poison to flow freely has failed – and now it’s time to take action, with more than just words.”

    “We are proud to stand with our federal, state, and local partners in the continued fight to rid our communities of fentanyl and those who peddle it,” said Placer County District Attorney Morgan Gire. “Our aggressive enforcement and prosecution, combined with our extensive outreach and education campaigns, have reduced overdose and poisoning deaths in our region and are saving lives. We will continue to hold dealers of this poison accountable and use all available resources to combat this deadly epidemic.”

    In 2022, in response to the fentanyl epidemic, the California Legislature and the Governor approved appropriation for the creation of the California Department of Justice Fentanyl Enforcement Program (FEP). FEP works with local and federal law enforcement partners throughout the state to address the fentanyl crisis and get these dangerous drugs off California’s streets. The program is comprised of regional investigative teams placed in San Diego, Los Angeles, Dublin, and Sacramento. FEP targets major multijurisdictional fentanyl-trafficking criminal networks. The program works with local and federal law enforcement partnerships to identify, investigate, disrupt, and dismantle these criminal networks. 

    Some of Doj’s recent fentanyl related enforcement actions can be read about here:

    • March 2025: Announced the arrest of three major fentanyl traffickers and the seizure of nearly $55 million worth of fentanyl in Los Angeles.
    • January 2025: Announced an update on the ongoing efforts to combat the fentanyl epidemic at the Mexico and California border through the Fentanyl Abatement and Suppression Team. 
    • October 2024: Issued guidance to provide local governments with suggestions for the permissible, effective, and strategic use of opioid settlement abatement funds.
    • April 2024: Together with local and federal law enforcement partners, Attorney General Bonta received a briefing on fentanyl trafficking and toured the California-Mexico border
    • February 2024: Announced a joint operation in San Diego County resulted in the felony arrest of a suspect and the seizure of 720,000 fentanyl pills.
    • January 2024: Announced that FEP arrested and filed charges against three drug traffickers alleged to be responsible for bringing 30,000 fentanyl pills across the Mexico and California border.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Colorado Recognized for National Climate Leadership, Receiving A-List Top-Status in Environmental Reporting and Data Transparency

    Source: US State of Colorado

    STATEWIDE – CDP, a global non-profit running the world’s only independent environmental disclosure system, named Colorado to its 2024 CDP A-list Thursday. Colorado is one of only two states to receive this designation (out of 92 states and regions that disclosed). In addition, 37 U.S. cities also received the designation, including Aspen, Boulder, Denver, Fort Collins, and Lakewood. 

    To receive this top-status A-list recognition, states and local governments had to meet rigorous criteria, including publishing an emissions inventory, a climate risk and vulnerability assessment, and a climate action plan through CDP. A-listers also had to be working to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 or sooner and tracking progress toward that goal. 

    Data transparency, quality, and accessibility are key parts of Colorado’s environmental justice strategy. These not only hold Colorado accountable to achieving our goals and addressing historical inequities in disproportionately impacted communities, but also help the state, local governments, and businesses make decisions that reduce emissions, improve air quality, and save Coloradans money. 

    “Colorado is a national leader in climate action, and our data plays an important role. Data helps Colorado to make the right decisions to help save people money and maximize environmental, economic, and health benefits in our communities. We appreciate CDP’s recognition and look forward to demonstrating the ongoing benefits of our climate work,” said Governor Polis. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Los Angeles Man Who Mailed Kilograms of Cocaine for Distribution in Western Pennsylvania Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking Charge

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Los Angeles, California, pleaded guilty in federal court to a drug trafficking charge, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    Jose Angel Sanchez, 33, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine.

    In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, between March 2022 and September 2022, an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) conducted an investigation into a drug trafficking organization operating in the Western District of Pennsylvania. The investigation revealed that Sanchez would mail parcels containing kilogram quantities of cocaine from California to a residence in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania. After investigators seized a parcel containing two kilograms of cocaine before it reached the Aliquippa residence, Sanchez began sending the parcels from California to co-defendant Christopher Andrew Salgado in West Virginia. Thereafter, surveillance confirmed that Salgado would drive the parcels from West Virginia to the Pittsburgh International Airport, where he would pick up Sanchez, who had arrived on flights from California. Salgado would when then drive both the parcel of cocaine and Sanchez to co-defendant Romaro Foster Sr. in Aliquippa.

    Following one re-supply of cocaine to Foster Sr., law enforcement conducted a traffic stop of Salgado as he drove Sanchez back to the Pittsburgh International Airport. After identifying Salgado and Sanchez, law enforcement terminated the traffic stop while surveillance followed the conspirators. Prior to reaching the airport, investigators observed Salgado park at a fast food restaurant and discard a box in a trash bin in the restaurant’s parking lot before leaving. Investigators recovered the box, which bore a shipping label with Salgado’s West Virginia address that Sanchez had mailed from California. Investigators observed drug packaging material within the box and conducted a field test of the packaging, which revealed the presence of cocaine.

    In August 2022, investigators seized a parcel sent from California to Salgado in West Virginia that contained approximately two kilograms of cocaine. Investigators then executed a search warrant upon Salgado’s residence, recovering a different parcel mailed by Sanchez to Salgado that contained another approximately two kilograms of cocaine.

    Judge Hardy scheduled sentencing for October 2, 2025. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than 10 years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $10 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Judge Hardy previously sentenced Salgado to five years of imprisonment for his role in the drug trafficking conspiracy.

    Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

    The Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Sanchez.

    This prosecution is part of an OCDETF investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: Kazakhstan to get EIB Global support for energy-efficient homes

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    • EIB Global and Kazakhstan Housing Company sign accord to promote energy-efficient homes in country.
    • Agreement comes in wake of first EU-Central Asia summit. 
    • The company will also benefit from technical assistance provided under the joint EIB and GIZ initiative, FELICITY II. 

    The European Investment Bank’s development arm (EIB Global) and state-owned Kazakhstan Housing Company JSC are teaming up to increase the number of energy-efficient and sustainable homes in Kazakhstan.

    EIB Vice-President Kyriacos Kakouris and Altay Kuzdibayev, chairman of the management board of Kazakhstan Housing Company, signed a memorandum of understanding today in the Kazakh capital Astana for financing to build energy-efficient homes.    

    “We will work closely with Kazakhstan Housing Company to explore financing opportunities for housing projects that meet high energy-efficiency standards,” said EIB Vice-President Kakouris. “The agreement reflects a commitment by the European Union and the bank to deepening our strategic partnership with central Asia. Contributing to the sustainable future of the region through initiatives like this one is a high priority for us.”

    This new accord is part of an initiative – FELICITY II Cities Advisory Facility – undertaken jointly by the EIB and German development agency Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ). The initiative is supported by the International Climate Initiative (IKI) of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action of Germany to support low-carbon investments in countries in eastern Europe and central Asia.  

    “Improving people’s quality of life and developing a modern, comfortable urban environment are the key priorities of Kazakhstan Housing Company. Signing a memorandum with EIB Global is an important step in the implementation of long-term international cooperation initiatives that are in line with both national priorities and global climate challenges. We are confident that this partnership will contribute to the formation of a new standard of housing and the development of sustainable and energy efficient housing projects in Kazakhstan,” said Kazakhstan Housing Company Management Board Chairman Kuzdibayev.

    The memorandum of understanding builds on the first EU-Central Asia summit held in April 2025, when government leaders pledged to strengthen ties between the two regions. During the summit, EIB Global announced plans to expand its strategic investments in sustainable development across central Asia.

    GIZ, which was represented at today’s signing event in Astana, , in cooperation with the German Energy Agency (dena) will offer technical assistance to Kazakhstan Housing Company under FELICITY II.

    Cooperation between the EIB and Kazakhstan Housing Company creates a real opportunity to accelerate the low-carbon transformation of Kazakhstan’s building sector, which accounts for a third of the country’s energy use,” said GIZ Project Director André Fabian. “It will also stimulate the market for energy-efficient construction and foster the uptake of innovative technologies and services.” The signing took place during the Astana International Forum, an annual conference that promotes global dialogue and attracts leaders of governments, international organisations, businesses and academic institutions. At the Forum, EIB Vice-President Kakouris participated in panel discussions on water security, global trade and climate action.

    Background information

    About EIB Global

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by the Member States. It finances investments that pursue EU policy objectives.

    EIB Global is the EIB Group’s specialised arm devoted to increasing the impact of international partnerships and development finance, and a key partner of Global Gateway. It aims to support €100 billion of investment by the end of 2027 – around one-third of the overall target of this EU initiative. Within Team Europe, EIB Global fosters strong, focused partnerships alongside fellow development finance institutions and civil society. EIB Global brings the EIB Group closer to people, companies and institutions through its offices across the world.

    Photos of EIB headquarters for media use are available here

    Kazakhstan to get EIB Global support for energy-efficient homes
    Kazakhstan to get EIB Global support for energy-efficient homes
    ©EIB
    Download original
    Kazakhstan to get EIB Global support for energy-efficient homes
    Kazakhstan to get EIB Global support for energy-efficient homes
    ©EIB
    Download original
    Kazakhstan to get EIB Global support for energy-efficient homes
    Kazakhstan to get EIB Global support for energy-efficient homes
    ©EIB
    Download original

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Focus on Planning Enforcement with new charter adopted

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Members of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee have agreed to adopt the 2025 Planning Enforcement Charter that captures all planning enforcement policy and procedures. It explains how the enforcement process works, the Council’s roles and responsibilities and the service standard that have been set.  

    Building work, engineering works or the use of buildings or land for an alternative use, in planning legislation, is known as ‘development’. Some smaller scale development does not require planning permission however, most does. Sometimes, “developers” (which can be a company or individual and includes householders) undertake work without the benefit of planning permission or fail to keep to the terms of the permission they have been given.

    Where this happens, the Council has powers to take enforcement action against such unauthorised development, if it considers it is in the public interest to do so.

    Committee Chair, councillor Ken Gowans said: “Planning enforcement is one of the more complex parts of the planning system. The charter clearly explains in detail how the enforcement process works in Highland and includes information about the role that the public play in reporting unauthorised development and assisting us to investigate breaches of planning control.

    He added: “The Charter will ensure that our procedures are fair, reasonable, consistently applied, and transparent. It will also mean all interested parties are fully aware of the procedures involved in the process, the powers available to us as a Council and equally importantly the limits of those powers.”

    The Council regularly monitors progress of development to ensure planning controls are being followed. Given the size of the Council area, there is also a role for the pubic in alerting the Council to any problems that they become aware of.

    The committee also noted progress being made to enhance the Council’s Enforcement Team. There will be 4 full-time Planning Enforcement Officers working under the Principal Planning Enforcement Officer. The team will be supported by  3 access officers, on a part-time basis, whose role is to gather information to assist planning enforcement officers as well as to investigate some potential breaches of planning control.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: 20mph scheme in Highlands – final traffic order approved today

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Members of The Highland Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee today (Thursday 29 May) approved the final step to formalise all 20mph schemes in the Highlands and a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) will now be actioned.

    All the roads included in the final TRO follow the outcome of technical assessments, discussions with Members, Community Councils and the public.

    Chair of the Committee, Councillor Ken Gowans said: “In the summer of 2022 the Council agreed to take on the opportunity provided by Transport Scotland for the early adoption of 20 mph speed limits in our Council area.

    “This has been a huge piece of work so firstly I want to thank many members of the public, community groups and my fellow councillors, for getting involved and providing feedback throughout the process. I’d also like to thank our small but very dedicated Road Safety Team for all their hard work. To do a roll out on this scale is unprecedented. This is a significant milestone for road safety and another big step in our ambition to reduce accidents on our roads.”

    By being an early adopter, Highland Council havs fast tracked the implementation of 20mph speeds limits and worked closely with Transport Scotland to look at the process and how it can be refined for the wider roll out that is currently happening across Scotland

    In the report presented to the committee there was detailed information on the benefits of the programme along with the information provided to all objectors which addresses some of the perceptions around 20mph speed limits.

    Pre and post 20 mph implementation speed counts have been taken at over 250 locations in Highland. The results have been available to view on the dedicated Council 20mph webpages throughout the project.

    Councillor Gowans added: “The information gathered since we introduced 20mph across our towns, villages and settlements shows an encouraging reduction in collisions compared to those statistics before the 20mph speed limit was introduced. This is really very positive news for communities across Highland. Our 20mph scheme will improve road safety through simplifying speed limits for drivers, reducing perceptions of road danger, making it safer for people to walk and wheel, and create more pleasant towns, villages and neighbourhoods by providing a more calm environment for all road users. “

    As The Highland Council was selected by The Scottish Government to pilot the roll-out of 20mph schemes, all costs for the project are being met by Transport Scotland.

    Following the decision a roll out of roundels and markings will be done with a contract in place already for work to be undertaken in Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey, Caithness and Sutherland. Other areas will follow.

    Details of the TRO can be found by visiting – https://www.highland.gov.uk/20mph

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese Foreign Minister Holds Series of Meetings with Pacific Island Colleagues

    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

    XIAMEN, May 29 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday held a new round of separate meetings with foreign guests who arrived in China to attend the third China-Pacific Island Countries Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Xiamen, east China’s Fujian Province.

    At a meeting with Foreign Minister of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) Lorin Robert Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee, he said that the two heads of state reached an important consensus on strengthening mutual trust and friendship, as well as deepening mutually beneficial cooperation.

    China highly appreciates the resolution passed by the FSM Congress in support of the one-China principle and believes that the FSM will continue to firmly support China’s just position on Taiwan-related issues, Wang said.

    China is willing to further expand cooperation with the FSM in key areas such as infrastructure, climate change and marine exploration, promoting the continuous development of the China-Micronesia comprehensive strategic partnership, he said.

    L. Robert, for his part, congratulated on the successful holding of the 3rd China-Pacific Island States Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and reaffirmed the FSM’s continued commitment to the one-China principle. Micronesia is ready to further develop its comprehensive strategic partnership with China, he added.

    During a meeting with Vanuatu Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Trade Mark Athey, the Chinese Foreign Minister stressed that the China-Vanuatu comprehensive strategic partnership has been continuously developing under the leadership of the leaders of the two countries.

    According to Wang Yi, since the new Vanuatu government took office in February this year, the country has been pursuing a positive and friendly policy toward China, which is highly appreciated by the Chinese side. The two countries should take advantage of the current favorable situation to strengthen exchanges at all levels and expand practical cooperation, the Chinese diplomat noted.

    M. Ati, for his part, noted that China’s support not only helps Vanuatu improve the living conditions of its population, but also increases its confidence and sustainability in development.

    The Vanuatu government firmly adheres to the one-China principle and is willing to strengthen the alignment of development strategies with China, accelerate negotiations on a bilateral free trade agreement, and develop cooperation in areas such as education, infrastructure, health and law enforcement, moving towards a brighter future, Athi said.

    At a meeting with Papua New Guinea Foreign Minister Justin Tkachenko, Wang Yi said the two countries should implement the consensus reached by their leaders, begin negotiations on a free trade agreement as soon as possible and deepen cooperation in various fields.

    China values Papua New Guinea’s influence as a major country in the South Pacific and its role as a gateway to Asia, Wang continued, adding that China is willing to work with Papua New Guinea and other Pacific island countries to implement the outcomes of this foreign ministers’ meeting to make greater contributions to regional peace and development.

    J. Tkachenko, for his part, noted that relations with China are of utmost importance for Papua New Guinea. According to him, the government of Papua New Guinea strongly supports China’s efforts to protect national sovereignty and territorial integrity. Papua New Guinea, he added, is ready to strengthen communication and coordination with China to advance cooperation within the Belt and Road Initiative, as well as to expand practical cooperation in such areas as agriculture, education, telecommunications, energy and regional development.

    In addition, Wang Yi met with former President and current Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Nauru Russ Coon, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs and Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Fiji Lenora Kerekeretabua and Deputy Secretary-General of the Pacific Islands Forum Esala Nayasi. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UNDRR and the CCRO Network build momentum towards launch of new Resilience Assessment Tool at Risk-!n Conference

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Geneva, 22 May 2025 – In a compelling display of cooperation, the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and the Corporate Chief Resilience Officers (CCRO) Network came together last week at the Risk-!n conference to underline the growing importance of enterprise resilience in strengthening societal disaster risk reduction efforts.

    During a dedicated session titled “How the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and a network of Chief Resilience Officers are partnering to improve societies’ resilience”, UNDRR and CCRO Network representatives showcased how strategic collaboration with the private sector is helping to drive tangible progress toward a more resilient future.

    The session, held on 12 May, featured Dr. Abhilash Panda, Deputy Chief of the Intergovernmental Processes, Interagency Cooperation and Partnerships Branch at UNDRR, and Laurent Giezendanner, Head of Corporate Security at Syngenta, representing the CCRO Network. Together, they introduced participants to the principles behind the Resilience Maturity Assessment (ReMA) tool-a forthcoming initiative aimed at helping businesses of all sizes assess and strengthen resilience across six core operational dimensions.

    The event generated significant interest and anticipation for the official launch of the ReMA tool, scheduled to take place at the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (GP2025) this June-the premier global forum for disaster risk reduction practitioners.

    The Risk-!n session also served as a valuable forum for early feedback. Participants expressed enthusiasm about the potential for the ReMA tool to benchmark resilience across industries, while also recommending the inclusion of guidance for local community engagement and strategies to integrate human resilience into corporate planning. The discussion underscored strong support for continued collaboration between UNDRR and private sector actors, positioning this partnership as a blueprint for effective risk reduction.

    By fostering strategic dialogue between global disaster risk experts and corporate resilience leaders, the collaboration between UNDRR and the CCRO Network is helping to shape tools and solutions that are scalable, data-driven, and inclusive-key ingredients for a safer and more resilient world.

    For more information on the ReMA tool and its launch at the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction, visit: ReMA Launch at GP2025

    Learn more about the CCRO Network here: CCRO Network – UNDRR.

    For media inquiries, please email: [email protected]

    About the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR)

    UNDRR is the lead agency in the United Nations on disaster risk reduction. It provides leadership, expertise, and tools to enable countries to understand and act on disaster risks before they become disasters. UNDRR’s work is guided by the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, which aims to achieve a substantial reduction in disaster risk and losses by the year 2030.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Portuguese cities advance MCR2030 commitments at 12th National Resilience Meeting

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    From 21 to 23 May 2025, the municipalities of Funchal, Machico, and Ponta do Sol hosted the 12th edition of the National Meeting of Resilient Cities and Towns — a key event under the Making Cities Resilient 2030 (MCR2030) initiative.
    Bringing together more than 120 participants representing 38 Portuguese cities, along with international delegations from Brazil and Greece, the meeting served as a vital platform for local authorities, civil protection professionals, international partners, and resilience experts to exchange knowledge and reinforce collective action toward urban resilience.

    The three-day program featured thematic panels, roundtables, technical field visits, and strategic dialogue. Topics included:

    • Artificial Intelligence for Disaster Risk Reduction
    • Resilience in urban and tourism contexts
    • Risk communication strategies
    • International cooperation for disaster mitigation
       

    One of the key moments of the event was the certificate ceremony during the opening session, where several new Portuguese cities were officially recognized and awarded by UNDRR for joining the MCR2030 initiative. This growing network of engaged municipalities reflects Portugal’s continued leadership in promoting disaster resilience at the local level.

    UNDRR joined the meeting to support dialogue on urban resilience with Ms. Yigyeong Oh, Regional focal point for MCR2030 at UNDRR Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia, delivering remarks and engaging in discussions on local risk governance and multi-level coordination.

    “Portugal has consistently demonstrated strong leadership within the MCR2030 global network. With two MCR2030 Resilience Hubs and an actively growing number of committed cities, it offers a model for peer learning and local action,” said Ms. Oh of UNDRR.

    This event reaffirmed the commitment of Portuguese cities to building safer, more resilient communities through knowledge-sharing and collective action. It also highlighted Portugal’s continued efforts to align local resilience strategies with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

    About MCR2030

    MCR2030 is a ‘who’s who’ of international partners with unmatched expertise and experience in supporting urban resilience. The partnership has 35 MCR2030 Resilience Hubs globally, recognized global leaders in urban resilience that are increasingly active in terms of capacity-building support to other local governments. Portugal has been a champion in the MCR2030 network with two Resilience Hubs and 82 cities as of 28 May 2025.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Sarh hosts landmark workshop on urban risk-Informed development and resilience

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Sarh, a major city in southern Chad along the Chari River, faces frequent flooding due to its tropical climate, long rainy season, poor infrastructure, and rapid urban growth.  To address these challenges, the city of Sarh hosted, from 7 to 9 April 2025, a high-level workshop on urban development planning based on disaster risk reduction (DRR) and climate resilience, under the Making Cities Resilient 2030 (MCR2030) initiative. 

    Opening the event, His Excellency Abdramane Hamat Bargou, Government Delegate of the Province of Moyen-Chari, called attention to the impact of climate change on Sarh, a city increasingly vulnerable to floods. He praised the city’s commitment to aligning development planning with disaster risk reduction and adaptation efforts. 

    A collaborative effort for a safer Sarh 

    The workshop demonstrated strong political support and highlighted the importance of multilevel governance. City officials, provincial leadership, national institutions, regional organizations, including Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), came together to jointly assess disaster risks, identify priorities, and co-create solutions tailored to Sarh’s context.

    “The Ministry is fully committed to supporting cities like Sarh in developing and operationalizing their disaster risk reduction plans. Strengthening local governance structures and ensuring that DRR is mainstreamed into local development planning is a national priority. We will work to replicate the example of Sarh to other municipalities across Chad.” Mr Hassan Abdoulaye Mahamat, Director Risk Prevention, Ministry of Territorial Administration and Decentralization, Republic of Chad

    The participation of the city of Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo, which developed its Action Plan last year, further deepened the workshop’s impact. The representative shared their experience and lessons learned on challenges also faced by Sarh offering a powerful example of peer learning and South-South cooperation.  

    Sarh sets a model for urban resilience

    Reflecting on the exercise, Honourable Ramadan Boka, Mayor of Sarh, stated: 

    “The Disaster Resilience Scorecard exercise was a real eye-opener. The tool sparked real conversations between sectors that don’t always sit at the same table. It’s not just an assessment—it’s a starting point for collective action.”

    Sarh’s commitment to embedding DRR into governance and planning makes it the first city in Chad to both establish a multisectoral DRR committee and join the global MCR2030 network. “Sarh is leading by example. What we’ve seen here is not just planning—it is transformation in motion,” said Mr Semingar Ngaryamngaye, Director Disaster Risk Reduction at ECCAS. 

    The city now serves as a reference point for others across Central Africa on the journey to resilient, inclusive, and sustainable urban futures. 

    Honourable Djime Ngandéré Member of Parliament added: 

    “Our earlier engagement in an MCR2030 regional training laid the foundation for this initiative. That experience gave us the tools and vision to launch Sarh’s resilience journey.” 

    As a result, the Multisectoral Committee for Disaster Risk Reduction is now tasked with finalizing the Action Plan developed during the workshop and laying the groundwork for its implementation.

    The workshop was organized by UNDRR in collaboration with the City of Sarh, Ministry of Administration, Territorial and Decentralization, and ECCAS, and through the financial support of the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development of Germany (BMZ), through the GIZ Resilience Initiative Africa Project implemented by UNDRR Regional Office for Africa.  

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Nations: The path to resilience: Alfred Nzo municipality’s journey

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    In the heart of South Africa’s Eastern Cape, the Alfred Nzo District Municipality, characterized by its rural landscapes and environmental vulnerability, is quietly undergoing a transformation. With rising threats from floods, wildfires, droughts, and even snowstorms, the district’s leadership has embarked on a journey to equip its local institutions with the tools, knowledge, and partnerships needed to prevent hazards from becoming disasters.

    From 6 to 8 May 2025, over 50 local government officials and stakeholders participated in the Urban Risk-Informed Development Planning and Making Cities Resilient workshop. Organized by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) in collaboration with Alfred Nzo District Municipality and funded through the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) Resilience Initiative Africa, the workshop advanced the efforts towards achieving the Sendai Framework target E: substantially increasing the number of local DRR strategies by 2030.

    From Global Framework to Local Action

    Alfred Nzo has made notable strides. “We’ve developed a Climate Change Response Plan, Environmental Management Framework, and ecosystem-based projects focused on water conservation, invasive species control, and rangeland restoration,” said Zola Mbuyana, Assistant Manager for Environmental Management and Water Quality. 

    Learning by Doing: From Theory to Action 

    Local government officials explored how to align local planning with national policy and the Sendai Framework. The Making Cities Resilient 2030 initiative provides specific tools, such as the Disaster Resilience Scorecard for Cities and the Ten Essentials for Making Cities Resilient, designed specifically to support local governments in aligning strategies with global DRR commitments. The preliminary assessments revealed key strengths, such as the existence of a Disaster Management Centre and a climate change strategy. However, gaps remain, such as the lack of dedicated disaster risk management units in the four local municipalities, poor coordination among stakeholders, and limited budget allocations.

      Prioritizing What Matters

    “This workshop marks a step toward ensuring local governments like Alfred Nzo lead from the front in risk-informed development,” said Ms. Isabel Njihia, Programme Management Officer at UNDRR. “The Scorecard is not a performance audit but a practical guide for identifying priority actions and aligning local efforts with global resilience targets.” Understanding local risk in Alfred Nzo, including flood patterns, wildfire zones, and snowstorm vulnerabilities, was emphasized as critical to developing relevant solutions. Emphasis was placed on community engagement, indigenous knowledge, and local leadership as pillars of sustainable DRR strategies.

    “We cannot stop the floods or droughts from coming, but we can ensure our communities are prepared, our infrastructure is resilient, and our response systems are ready before disaster strikes,” Mduduzi Mkhalane, Deputy Director Health Programmes

    Building a Blueprint for Resilience

    By the final day, the officials moved from diagnosis to creating a draft DRR Action Plan rooted in local risks and realities. This plan promotes a phased, multi-sectoral approach, with clear indicators for progress and defined roles across departments. Some key priorities for action include establishing dedicated DRM units in all local municipalities, conducting multi-hazard infrastructure audits and mainstreaming DRM into urban design and development and developing a Post-Disaster Recovery Framework.

    Toward a Resilient Future

    What emerged from the Alfred Nzo workshop was more than a plan – it was a shared commitment. Local leaders recognized that resilience is a continuous process, requiring learning, investment, and inclusive governance. The plan calls for the engagement of NGOs, private sector actors, traditional leaders, and marginalized groups, affirming the principle of leaving no one behind, embedded in both the Sendai Framework and the African Union’s Agenda 2063. The Alfred Nzo District Municipality now has a draft roadmap, built on evidence, collaboration, and global best practice. With the guidance of UNDRR and the support of GIZ’s Resilience Initiative Africa, the next phase will be crucial: finalizing, endorsing, and implementing the DRR Action Plan with appropriate institutional backing and funding. Continued intersectoral cooperation, community awareness, and adequate funding will be vital. This journey is just beginning, but one thing is clear: in Alfred Nzo, the principles of the Sendai Framework are not just ideals – they are being translated into action.

    Explore the Making Cities Resilient 2030 initiative at mcr2030.undrr.org.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Canada: Spring legislative session focuses on standing strong for B.C., growing economy

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    In the face of global instability, the first session of the 43rd parliament focused on growing a stronger, more self-sufficient economy that supports good-paying jobs and protecting the services British Columbians rely on.

    “In this time of rapid change and disruption, there’s nowhere I’d rather be than right here in British Columbia,” said Premier David Eby. “We have everything we need to build lasting prosperity, including the abundant natural resources, clean energy and critical minerals and metals the world needs. That’s why we are taking action to leverage our strengths. B.C. will emerge from this global transition as Canada’s economic engine.”

    Key actions during the spring session include:

    Standing strong for B.C. and Canada: Standing up to the Trump administration by passing a new law to respond quickly to tariff threats, including by removing interprovincial trade barriers, pulling American liquor from store shelves and directing government to cancel contracts with U.S. companies and support suppliers from Canada and trusted trading partners.

    Growing the economy and creating good jobs: Expediting major natural-resource and renewable-energy projects in partnership with First Nations equity owners, while passing new laws to get vital public infrastructure, such as schools and hospitals, built faster and create good jobs throughout the province. Government also outlined a new vision for mining development in the northwest focused on generating tens of billions of dollars in investment and creating thousands of family-supporting jobs.

    Helping people with costs: Eliminating the consumer carbon tax, while ensuring big polluters pay their fair share. Delivering a fifth ICBC rebate to drivers, while maintaining basic car insurance rates through to 2026, marking six years in a row with no increases. Seniors with low incomes are also receiving more financial help to pay their rent.

    Strengthening health care: Recruiting more doctors, nurses and other health-care professionals from the United States by fast-tracking credential recognition for nurses and launching a targeted marketing campaign, while introducing legislation to prohibit employers from requiring employees who are sick to provide a doctor’s note, freeing doctors to spend more time treating patients.

    This session, the B.C. government also launched the Clean Power Action Plan to harness B.C.’s clean-electricity advantage through a second call for power to power 500,000 homes, building on the first call for power that attracted $6 billion in private-sector investment. In addition, government has opened hundreds of new homes for families, delivered a relief package to tree-fruit growers and made heat pumps more affordable for low- and moderate-income households.

    The legislature has passed 13 pieces of legislation this session, including two members’ bills. The Supply Bill will be introduced and passed on Thursday, May 29, 2025, bringing the total to 14 pieces of legislation. Three other bills will be considered in the fall session.

    “The challenges our province and country faces are best met with a united front,” said Mike Farnworth, government house leader and Minister of Transportation and Transit. “This past session, our government has worked closely with the Green Party caucus to put B.C. first and work together on our shared priorities. We’re removing barriers to interprovincial trade, reducing everyday costs for British Columbians and addressing the shift in the global economy by leveraging our province’s many advantages.”

    Learn More:

    To learn more about the legislation introduced this spring, visit: 
    https://workingforyou.gov.bc.ca/legislation

    To learn more about the government’s new vision for mining development in the northwest, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2025PREM0059-000496

    To learn more about the government’s efforts to recruit health-care workers from the U.S., visit: 
    https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2025HLTH0020-000443

    To learn more about the Clean Power Action Plan, visit:
    https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2025ECS0018-000412

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Union Members Show Strength and Solidarity at 54th CBTU Convention

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    IAM Union members from across the country joined hundreds of labor leaders and activists in Orlando earlier this month for the 54th Annual Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU) Convention. The theme, “Preserving and Building on Our Legacy: Unbought, Unbossed, Unstoppable,” reflected the ongoing commitment of Black trade unionists to economic, political, and social justice for all workers.

    CBTU is not a Black separatist or civil rights organization. It is the fiercely independent voice of Black workers within the trade union movement, challenging organized labor to be more relevant to the needs and aspirations of Black and poor workers.

    At the same time, CBTU is recognized as a potent economic and political force within the African-American community. One of every five Black workers belongs to a union, and Black union members earn 40% more than non-union Black workers. In the political arena, CBTU has leveraged the vast resources of unions to mobilize Black voters to influence elections and public policy at every level of government.

    Rev. Terrence L. Melvin, president of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU), spoke to CBTU delegates throughout the Convention on the importance of leaders who will stand up against billionaires ramping up attacks on all workers. President Melvin also gave a moving tribute to President Emeritus William “Bill” Lucy, who passed away earlier this year at 90.

    READ: Civil service workers: Front-line against union busting and corporate domination People’s World 

    The delegates also heard from AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond, AFSCME President Lee Saunders, AFGE President Everett Kelley, and many other leaders. 

    WATCH: IAM Delegates Motivated At CBTU Convention in Florida

    IAM members attended workshops on organizing, conflict resolution, leadership development, building power, and sharing strategies to strengthen our union and the broader labor movement.

    View photos here.

    “Our members showed up strong at CBTU because we know that real power comes from solidarity,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “IAM members believe that working people have a right to the full value of their labor. CBTU’s work aligns with our mission to raise standards for all workers—on the job, in our communities, and across the country.”

    IAM National Political and Legislative Director and CBTU Executive Board Member Hasan Solomon delivered an impactful update on the Boeing strike, highlighting the strength and unity of IAM members and the broader labor movement. Solomon also discussed the pros and cons of tariffs and the IAM’s support of strategic tariffs that help protect and grow jobs in the United States and Canada. 

    “The CBTU Convention is about action,” said IAM Human Rights Director Nicole L. Fears. “IAM members left Orlando recharged and ready to organize, mobilize, and lead. We’re proud to be part of a movement unafraid to speak truth to power and fight for justice for all workers.”

    Since its founding conference in 1972, CBTU’s stature among African-American workers has grown. Currently, more than 50 different international and national unions are represented in CBTU. With 50 chapters nationwide and one in Ontario, Canada, CBTU is maximizing the strength and influence of Black workers in unions and empowering their communities.

    IAM members are proud to stand with CBTU in fighting for dignity, justice, and a better future for all.

    The IAM remains committed to building a stronger union through solidarity, justice, and the belief that working people deserve to live with dignity and share in the wealth they create.

    The post IAM Union Members Show Strength and Solidarity at 54th CBTU Convention appeared first on IAM Union.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: First Stage of New Midtown Bus Terminal Construction Marked

    Source: US State of New York

    The deck-overs represent the first step in the replacement of the existing 75-year-old, functionally obsolete bus terminal with a world-class facility. When complete, the project will include a new main terminal, a separate storage and staging building and new ramps leading directly into and out of the Lincoln Tunnel. The project plan — including the permanent closure of a portion of 41st Street between Eighth and Ninth avenues, a central main entrance, more street-facing retail, a soaring multi-story indoor atrium and new public open space — will enhance the commuter experience at the world’s busiest bus terminal and become a centerpiece for the community. The project is expected to create approximately 6,000 good-paying union construction jobs.

    Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Chairman Kevin O’Toole said, “It is incredibly satisfying to break ground on the first stage of construction of a new Midtown Bus Terminal that will improve the lives of hundreds of thousands of daily commuters between New Jersey and New York, and greatly improve the community hosting it. I’d like to thank Governor Murphy and Governor Hochul for their full support of a project that will bring economic growth and vitality to our bistate region for decades to come.”

    Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Executive Director Rick Cotton said, “Today’s groundbreaking for the first stage of a new Midtown Bus Terminal is a momentous accomplishment that moved forward after years of delay by focusing on two key propositions — improving the lives of tens of thousands of daily commuters and providing real benefits to a community burdened by an architectural eyesore and a deluge of bus traffic. By focusing on benefits both to commuters and the surrounding community, we are now moving forward with a project that enjoys unprecedented support at every level of government on both sides of the river. And at last, we are on our way to creating a gateway that our region deserves.”

    Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Vice Chairman Jeffrey Lynford said, “Today marks the start of a long-awaited transformation: replacing one of our region’s most notorious eyesores with a modern, best-in-class bus terminal. When complete, this new facility will not only improve commutes — it will also serve as a valuable neighborhood asset. This project is the result of over a decade of work, including hundreds of meetings with community leaders, transit advocates, and elected officials, as well as a rigorous environmental review led by the Federal Transit Administration. Thanks to that deep engagement, the project has earned broad support — from the local community to every level of government.”

    NJ TRANSIT President and CEO Kris Kolluri said, “The new Midtown Bus Terminal represents a transformative investment in the future of regional mobility. For NJ TRANSIT, as the largest tenant, this project is more than just infrastructure — it’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity to redefine the commuting experience for the tens of thousands of New Jersey residents who depend on it every day. The new terminal will stand as a gateway to opportunity, and a powerful symbol of our shared commitment to a stronger, more connected region.”

    Reliable and efficient bus service between New York and New Jersey is critical to the interconnected economies of both states, as hundreds of thousands of New Jersey residents work in New York City. The new terminal is designed to meet projected 2040-50 commuter growth, provide a best-in-class customer experience that serves the region’s 21st century public transportation needs, and enhance the surrounding community. The project does not include the taking of any private property as it will be built on existing Port Authority of New York and New Jersey property stretching as far west as 11th Avenue.

    The new bus terminal will be built for the future and designed to be net-zero emissions, accommodating all-electric bus fleets and implementing modern high technology innovations. The new ramp structure will provide a direct connection to the Lincoln Tunnel, with added queue space and bypass capability, thereby reducing congestion, bus circulation, idling and parking on local city streets. Community-friendly outward-facing local retail will benefit commuters and the community alike.

    The final plan for the Midtown Bus Terminal replacement project incorporates extensive public feedback from a broad community outreach effort, including input from New York City, New Jersey, commuters, local community boards and elected officials in both states. The total cost of the replacement project has been estimated at approximately $10 billion, with actual procurement for phase one of the project actively in progress. Construction of the Dyer Avenue deck-overs is now underway. The project has received unprecedented support from the community, the city, state and federal agencies.

    The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s construction plan for the new bus terminal calls for it to be built in phases, with the deck-overs being built first followed by the storage and staging facility. The Dyer Avenue deck-overs project encompasses the construction of two decks over below-grade portions of Dyer Avenue and the Lincoln Tunnel Expressway between West 37th and West 38th streets and between West 38th and West 39th streets. The storage and staging facility can serve as a temporary terminal while the existing terminal is demolished and replaced.

    Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said, “The Midtown Bus Terminal is a relic of a bygone era and overdue for a much-needed upgrade. This first step makes it possible to rebuild the bus terminal with minimal interruptions for hundreds of thousands of passengers every day. This project will also represent a long-term investment in the city by creating 6,000 new jobs and 3.5 acres of much-needed open space in Midtown. I am grateful to the Port Authority for reaffirming its commitment to a world-class 21st century travel experience in New York.”

    Representative Jerry Nadler said, “Finally, after many years of discussion and hard-fought community negotiation, we are finally breaking ground on the first phase of a brand-new Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown, the Dyer Avenue deck-overs. The replacement bus terminal is long overdue and thankfully moving forward. A new bus terminal will improve air quality and make our streets safer for pedestrians by removing all commuter and inter-city buses from our streets. And it will replace the outdated and deteriorating bus terminal with a modern, efficient transportation hub that meets the needs of both commuters and residents while contributing to the continued growth and success of New York City. These new deck-overs will eventually lead to a new 3.5-acre publicly accessible open space on the West Side, something that is desperately needed in Hell’s Kitchen. I have been proud to support this project and helped it secure up to $1.9 billion in federal funding from the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) Loan Program championed by the Biden Administration’s Build America Program.”

    State Senator Jeremy Cooney said, “Hundreds of thousands of travelers from New York and New Jersey rely on this route and the Midtown Bus Terminal. This project will mean good-paying construction jobs, more efficient travel, and eventually new green spaces for the community to enjoy. I want to thank Governor Hochul and Governor Murphy for their dedication to making this project a reality and creating a more seamless transportation experience between our two states.”

    State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal said, “Construction on our new, state-of-the-art Midtown Bus Terminal is officially underway. The deck-overs, breaking ground today, will allow work on this project to begin without disrupting service at the busiest bus terminal in the world. It’s particularly exciting that when construction of the terminal is complete, not only will we have a bus terminal that will reduce congestion and accommodate more riders, we will also have new park land, as the deck-overs will be transformed into 3.5 acres of publicly accessible green space. I look forward to the day that the construction is completed and the Midtown Bus Terminal goes from ‘worst’ to ‘first’ in the eyes of the millions of New Yorkers who utilize or live near the terminal, including my constituents on the west side of Manhattan.”

    Assemblymember Tony Simone said, “The start of construction over Dyer Avenue marks the beginning of the total transformation of our outdated bus terminal into a world class transit hub. This massive investment by the Port Authority will not only get buses off our crowded streets, these deck overs will eventually be new green space for the west side. When complete, this neighborhood will be unrecognizable from its current state, becoming a place New Yorkers will want to spend in, all while drastically changing how millions move through our city and region.”

    New York City Mayor Eric Adams said, “Today marks a major milestone in building the future of public transit for our region. Breaking ground on the Dyer Avenue deck-overs is more than the start of construction — it’s the beginning of a transformative investment in sustainable infrastructure, improved air quality, and expanded public space. The new Midtown Bus Terminal will not only modernize a vital commuter hub, but will also reconnect our neighborhoods, support thousands of good-paying jobs, and create a greener, more accessible West Side for generations to come.”

    Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine said, “Breaking ground on the Dyer Avenue deck-overs is an important first step in the replacement of the Midtown Terminal, which will be a transformational project for the west side. It is time for the busiest bus terminal in the world to become a world-class facility for commuters, visitors, and residents. I am excited for this project to become a reality and will continue to work with the Port Authority and the community to ensure the best outcomes during and after construction.”

    New York City Councilmember Erik Bottcher said, “Today’s groundbreaking marks a truly transformative moment for New York City — and especially for the West Side. After years of collaboration, planning, and deep community engagement, we are finally beginning the next chapter for the Midtown Bus Terminal. This project isn’t just about replacing a building — it’s about restoring a neighborhood. By removing buses from our streets and creating a network of vibrant green spaces, we are reconnecting Hell’s Kitchen, healing the urban fabric, and delivering the modern transit infrastructure New Yorkers deserve. This is a victory for the community, for sustainability, and for the future of our city. I’d like to thank the Port Authority, Manhattan Community Board 4 and my colleagues in government for all the work they have done to bring us to this point.”

    New York City Councilmember Selvena Brooks-Powers, Chair of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure “Reliable, accessible public transportation is essential to our region’s economic health and quality of life. The Midtown Bus Terminal is a critical link for commuters across the city and beyond, and this groundbreaking marks an important step toward delivering a modern, efficient facility that meets 21st-century needs. I look forward to continued engagement with the Port Authority to ensure that this project centers equity, sustainability, and community benefit at every phase.”

    New York City Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Andrew Kimball said, “With today’s groundbreaking on the Dyer Avenue deck-overs, the Midtown Bus Terminal vision moves one step closer to becoming reality and Midtown Manhattan gets a huge upgrade. The new terminal is more than just one of the busiest transit hubs in the country, it will bring new open space, reduce congestion, employing thousands of union workers during its construction, and bring massive quality of life upgrades to Midtown Manhattan.”

    New York City Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez said, “It is welcome news to the city, to bus riders, and to the local communities on Manhattan’s west side that construction of the Dyer Avenue deck-overs is now underway. By reducing bus congestion and idling, easing the commuter experience, and creating new public space the midtown bus terminal replacement project will greatly enhance this area that New York City has outgrown. NYC DOT congratulates the Port Authority on breaking ground and we look forward to continuing to support them in this impactful initiative.”

    New York City Department of City Planning Director Dan Garodnick said, “It’s hard to overstate how vital the Midtown Bus Terminal is to New York City, the tri-state region, and the country. It’s one of the great front doors to our city. With today’s groundbreaking on the Dyer Avenue deck-overs, we’re taking the first step toward a modern, world-class transit hub that New Yorkers deserve. I look forward to seeing this transformation take shape and serve residents, commuters, and visitors for generations to come.”

    Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York President Gary LaBarbera said, “Today marks a crucial milestone for the Midtown Bus Terminal Replacement Program, a key critical infrastructure project that will not only establish a modern and state-of-the-art transit hub for New Yorkers and visitors alike, but also generate thousands of family-sustaining union construction careers. We applaud Governor Hochul and Governor Murphy, along with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey for pushing forward this major development that will serve as an economic boon for our city and surrounding communities. Our members look forward to playing a role in building this project and pursuing the paths to the middle class that it creates.”

    New York League of Conservation Voters President Julie Tighe said, “The new Midtown Bus Terminal will be a game changer for commuters and neighborhood residents alike and a huge win for the environment. While serving hundreds of thousands of daily passengers, the new zero-emission, electric-bus friendly commuter hub will cut air pollution, ease the burden on neighborhood streets, and create thousands of good-paying union jobs in the process. Just as important, the addition of 3.5 acres of new public green space will deliver lasting environmental and public health benefits to the surrounding community. We commend Governors Hochul and Murphy and the Port Authority for prioritizing climate-smart design and investing in a healthier, more sustainable future.”

    New York Building Congress President and CEO Carlo A. Scissura said, “This groundbreaking is a landmark moment not just for the transformation of Manhattan’s West Side but the entire region. The Port Authority is advancing a bold vision for transit and public space that delivers real benefits and will create over 6,000 good-paying union jobs and 3.5 acres of public open space, all while providing long overdue infrastructure upgrades. The new Midtown Bus Terminal project is exactly the kind of investment New York needs, and we proudly stand alongside those who made it happen today – with special thanks to Rick Cotton for his leadership – as we break ground on this exciting and essential project.”

    Real Estate Board of New York President James Whelan said, “REBNY and its members are pleased to see the launch of this project. More than just supporting the growth of New York City’s diverse regional transit infrastructure, the project will energize our economy with thousands of new jobs and retail in Midtown.”

    Regional Plan Association President and CEO Tom Wright said, “Today’s groundbreaking is the result of years of thoughtful partnership to deliver a shared vision for a reimagined Midtown Bus Terminal that strengthens the local community and expands regional connectivity. The Port Authority Bus Terminal is one of the most high-traffic transportation hubs in the nation and is critical to the tri-state region’s continued economic vitality. This moment marks an important step towards the creation of a modern, expanded, best-in-class terminal that will not only serve the needs of commuters but create an amenity and attraction for the community.”

    Association for a Better New York CEO Emma Pfohman said, “As the gateway for millions of commuters and travelers each year, the revitalized Midtown Bus Terminal will not only improve the daily lives of New Yorkers but also fuel our city’s continued growth and resilience. The Association for a Better New York applauds Governor Hochul, Governor Murphy, and the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey for leading this important investment in the region’s transportation infrastructure and in our city’s future.”

    Times Square Alliance President Tom Harris said, “The Midtown Bus Terminal is an extremely vital aspect of the commuter life of the hundreds of thousands of people who commute to Times Square every day. We applaud both governors for taking this first step toward the new world class terminal to come that will provide another reason why Times Square is one of the strongest transportation hubs in the city and beyond.”

    Bryant Park Corporation President Dan Biederman said, “We’ve seen an early version of the Port Authority’s plans for the bus terminal. They’re excellent, just what we’d expect from the agency that has had recent success with terminals at Newark and LaGuardia airports. We strongly endorse their interim steps to at long last make the PABT, which serves as a gateway for Bryant Park visitors, an attractive facility.”

    Manhattan Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Jessica Walker said, “This is an exciting day for all New Yorkers as well as employees and visitors coming here from the broader region. This forward-looking project is critical to New York’s preparation for future growth and demand. It is innovative and aspirational in nature, understanding that our city’s best days are ahead. Congratulations to the Port Authority and Governors Hochul and Murphy for bringing us to this point.”

    Manhattan Community Board 4 Chair Jessica Chait said, “Community Board 4 is proud to mark this milestone toward a cleaner, less congested, and more connected region. The Dyer Avenue deck-overs lay the literal groundwork for a modern, sustainable transit hub that reflects a welcoming and efficient gateway to New York City. We thank the Port Authority and our elected partners for centering community input in a project that will improve air quality, reduce street-level congestion, and bring vital open space to our neighborhood.”

    Hudson Yards Hell’s Kitchen Alliance President Robert J. Benfatto said, “The Hudson Yards Hell’s Kitchen Alliance is looking forward to the completion of the construction of the Midtown Bus Terminal project, including the Dyer deck-overs, so that the neighborhood can begin using a new, first-in-class bus transit facility. We will continue to advocate for our community throughout this long process, as our mission states that we are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of the diverse population who lives, works and visits within the district.

    About the Midtown Bus Terminal

    What is now the world’s busiest bus terminal opened in 1950, after the mayor of New York City requested the Port Authority to consolidate eight separate, smaller bus terminals throughout Midtown Manhattan in order to relieve street congestion. As the regional population grew and spread geographically, the Port Authority expanded the terminal’s capacity in 1963 by converting parking space to a fourth level of bus operations and adding three new levels of public parking for 1,000 cars. By 1966, the terminal served nearly 69 million passengers, once again requiring increased bus capacity. In 1970, the Port Authority created a 2-mile exclusive bus lane (XBL) on the New Jersey Route 495 approach to the Lincoln Tunnel, giving buses faster access directly to the bus terminal and saving commuters up to 20 minutes in travel time.

    In 1981, the Port Authority expanded the bus terminal’s capacity by 50 percent with a new North Wing extension to 42nd Street and the diagonal girder façade now familiar to bus riders. The current facility spans 1.9 million square feet as the nation’s largest bus terminal and the world’s busiest. Individual carriers, the largest of which is NJ Transit, serve routes for daily commuters throughout New Jersey, eastern Pennsylvania, and the lower Hudson Valley, as well as provide intercity services to and from locations such as upstate New York, New England, the Mid-Atlantic and Canada. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the bus terminal accommodated an estimated 260,000 passenger trips on an average weekday. As of 2024, the terminal served approximately 205,000 average weekday daily passengers.

    For more information on the replacement project, visit the Port Authority’s website on the Midtown Bus Terminal replacement.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Drought declared in north-west of England

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Drought declared in north-west of England

    Many reservoirs in the region are at historic low levels for the time of year

    The Environment Agency has declared drought status for the north-west of England following the driest start to spring in 69 years.

    River flows have been declining along with groundwater levels due to the dry March, April and start of May.

    Reservoir storage levels in the region are also receding and are currently lower than they were at this time during the 1984, 1995 and 2022 drought years.

    The recent rain, while welcome, is not enough to reverse the dry start to the year and expected hotter weather in the coming weeks is set to exacerbate the situation.

    The decision by the EA to move into drought status sees the regulator increase their operational response while ensuring water companies step up the actions agreed in their drought plans.

    This includes fixing leaks, communicating with customers and supporting them to reduce demand, and submitting drought permits to take more water, as needed. These actions if taken in a timely manner will help preserve supplies for people and the environment.

    In the North West, the EA continues to work to ensure United Utilities acts in accordance with their drought plan.

    Although the North-west has experienced a dry start to the year, it is a mixed picture in other parts of England. The Environment Agency and Defra ministers will convene a meeting of the National Drought Group on 5 June to assess the situation across the country and ensure that water companies are enacting their drought plans to conserve water supplies.

    Andy Brown, Water Regulation Manager at the Environment Agency said:

    Drought is a naturally occurring phenomenon. As we see more impacts from climate change heavier rainfall and drier summers will become more frequent. This poses an enormous challenge over the next few decades.

    Despite the rain over the weekend levels remain low and we are encouraging people to be aware of the impacts of drought as we enter the summer period.

    With further unsettled periods and rainfall over the coming weeks we will continue to closely monitor the situation and implement our Drought Plan.

    Water Minister Emma Hardy said:

    I am receiving regular updates from the Environment Agency.

    I’m doing everything in my power to hold United Utilities to account to ensure we have the regular supply of water that is needed across the region.

    The government is taking decisive action to secure our water supply for the decades to come. That’s why we are building 9 new reservoirs and upgrading pipes to cut leakage by 17%.

    Periods of dry weather and low rivers can have several environmental consequences such as deoxygenating water. This can lead to fish kills, as well as more algal blooms and diminished river flow that prevents wildlife from moving up or downstream. 

    The Environment Agency is encouraging the public to report environmental incidents to their 24/7 hotline on 0800 80 70 60.

    Defra announced today that the Environment Secretary was stepping in to speed up delivery for the first two major reservoirs since the 1990s as part of government action to secure our water supply for future generations.

    Further information

    A decision to declare drought is taken based on reservoir levels, river flows and moisture in the soil along with consideration of the long-term weather forecasts.  Droughts are often long-term events, starting as far back as the previous Autumn with effects felt throughout the following seasons. Declaring drought status enables the Environment Agency to plan, deliver and manage actions in drought plans.

    However, there is no single definition for drought, so while it’s caused by a period of low rainfall, the nature, timing and impacts on people, the environment, agriculture or business will vary. Some droughts are short and intense like a hot, dry summer, while others are long and take time to develop over multiple seasons.

    Read more here: Drought explained – Creating a better place

    Share this page

    The following links open in a new tab

    • Share on Facebook (opens in new tab)
    • Share on Twitter (opens in new tab)

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: CBO’s Panel of Health Advisers, 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    The Congressional Budget Office’s Panel of Health Advisers consists of widely recognized experts in health policy and the health care sector. Members of the panel have a variety of backgrounds, areas of expertise, and experience. CBO hosts an annual meeting of the panel so that its members can discuss important issues in their areas of expertise and advise the agency on its analysis. In addition, CBO engages with members of the panel throughout the year. The agency may, for example, call on them for advice about how to address analytical questions that arise in the preparation of studies and cost estimates. Through that engagement, CBO and its analysis benefit from the advisers’ understanding of cutting-edge research and the latest real-world developments in health care delivery and financing. Although the advisers provide considerable assistance, they bear no responsibility for CBO’s work; that responsibility rests solely with the agency.

    Today, I would like to announce the members of the Panel of Health Advisers for the coming year:

    • Katherine Baicker
    • Michael Chernew
    • Jeffrey Clemens
    • Heather Dlugolenski
    • Marisa Domino
    • Erin Fraher
    • Craig Garthwaite
    • Darrell Gaskin
    • John Haupert
    • Anne Karl
    • Lisa Lee
    • Thomas Lee
    • Patricia MacTaggart
    • David Meltzer
    • Sergio Santiviago
    • Kosali Simon
    • Neeraj Sood
    • Cori Uccello
    • Melanie Whittington

    Members of CBO’s Panel of Health Advisers are selected to represent a variety of perspectives, enabling the agency to gather information and insights from experts with diverse views and from their interactions at periodic panel meetings. The panelists’ affiliations are shown on CBO’s website. CBO requires panelists to disclose to the agency any substantial political activity in which they may be involved and any significant financial interests that they may have.

    CBO also has a Panel of Economic Advisers.

    Phillip L. Swagel is CBO’s Director.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: CBO’s Panel of Economic Advisers, 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    The Congressional Budget Office relies on many outside experts. For example, the agency works with its Panel of Economic Advisers to learn about important analytical issues in the advisers’ areas of expertise and to obtain feedback about the agency’s economic forecast. In addition, from time to time during the year, CBO calls on members of the panel for advice about how to address analytical questions that arise when preparing studies and cost estimates. Although such experts provide considerable assistance, CBO is solely responsible for the accuracy of its work.

    Members of the panel generally serve two-year terms and can be reappointed. Today, I would like to announce the current members of the Panel of Economic Advisers:

    • Alan Auerbach
    • Markus Brunnermeier
    • Seth Carpenter
    • Kathryn Dominguez
    • Karen Dynan
    • Robert Hall
    • Glenn Hubbard
    • Donald Kohn
    • Gregory Mankiw
    • Giuseppe Moscarini
    • Emi Nakamura
    • Jonathan Parker
    • James Poterba
    • Valerie Ramey
    • Joshua Rauh
    • Brian Sack
    • Ayșegül Șahin
    • James Stock
    • Kevin Warsh
    • Mark Zandi

    Members of CBO’s Panel of Economic Advisers are selected to represent a variety of perspectives, enabling the agency to gather information and insights from experts with diverse views and from their interactions at periodic panel meetings. The panelists’ affiliations are shown on CBO’s website. CBO requires panelists to disclose to the agency any substantial political activity in which they may be involved and any significant financial interests that they may have.

    CBO also has a Panel of Health Advisers.

    Phillip L. Swagel is CBO’s Director.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Missouri Man Pleads Guilty to Multimillion-Dollar Medicare Fraud Conspiracy

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    A Missouri man pleaded guilty today to orchestrating a scheme to defraud Medicare by unlawfully billing millions of dollars in claims for cancer genetic testing and cardiovascular genetic testing. 

    According to court documents, Jamie P. McNamara, 49, of Kansas City, operated several laboratories in Louisiana and Texas, which obtained doctors’ orders for genetic testing from telemarketers and call centers that used aggressive telemarketing campaigns to induce Medicare beneficiaries to agree to receive genetic testing. Orders for genetic testing were signed by purported telemedicine doctors who were not the beneficiaries’ treating physicians, did not perform consultations with the beneficiaries, and did not follow up with the beneficiaries after the testing was performed. To obtain the orders, McNamara paid illegal kickbacks and bribes, which he disguised through sham contracts. In furtherance of the scheme, he also shifted the billing between his laboratories to evade scrutiny from Medicare and law enforcement and concealed his ownership and control of the laboratories by falsely listing the names of his family members as owners and company representatives on Medicare and other documents. In approximately one and a half years, the laboratories operated by McNamara submitted over $174 million in claims to Medicare for genetic testing and received over $55 million in reimbursements. The government previously seized several luxury vehicles and over $7 million in bank accounts.

    “The defendant used illegal payments and lies to fraudulently bill Medicare over $174 million,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Health care fraud harms patients, drains government resources, and violates the public trust. The Criminal Division is fully committed to uncovering and aggressively prosecuting these schemes.”    

    “This guilty plea marks the conclusion of a meticulous and complicated prosecution,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson for the Eastern District of Louisiana. “Medicare fraud schemes profoundly erode taxpayer confidence and faith in our medical institutions. Schemes such as these must be rooted out, investigated and prosecuted, not only for the monetary loss triggered by the fraud, but also to preserve the public’s trust. Our office, along with our investigative partners, will continue to work diligently to maintain taxpayer confidence in our federal institutions and seek justice for all victims of fraud.”

    “McNamara lined his pockets by preying on vulnerable Americans concerned about their health. The genetic tests Medicare patients were lured into receiving did not provide them with any answers on their predisposition to life threatening illnesses and cost taxpayers millions of dollars,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp of the FBI New Orleans Field Office. “Today’s plea is the culmination of thorough investigative work and partnership between the FBI and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) to protect the public and ensure that justice is served.”

    “Misleading patients with fraudulent genetic testing schemes to exploit the Medicare program is not just unethical — it’s criminal,” said Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of HHS-OIG. “Today’s plea reflects HHS-OIG’s steadfast commitment to holding those who deceive patients and seek to cripple the integrity of our nation’s federal health care programs accountable. We will continue to collaborate with our law enforcement partners to investigate such schemes and bring those responsible to justice.”

    While on pretrial release, McNamara violated his bond conditions by, among other things, fleeing from a DUI arrest and cutting off an ankle monitor. He was subsequently detained.

    McNamara pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 9 and faces up to 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    HHS-OIG and the FBI are investigating the case.

    Assistant Chief Justin M. Woodard and Trial Attorney Kelly Z. Walters of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Moses for the Eastern District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of 9 strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Global: Surge of ICE agreements with local police aim to increase deportations, but many police forces have found they undermine public safety

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By W. Carsten Andresen, Associate Professor of Criminal Justice, St. Edward’s University

    A Kinney County sheriff’s deputy arrests an undocumented immigrant who was pulled over in March 2023 in Brackettville, Texas. Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post via Getty Images

    During his first few months in office, President Donald Trump has been establishing a framework for deporting undocumented immigrants en masse. It’s something he has previously vowed will be “the largest deportation operation in the history of our country.”

    Part of that operation includes what’s known as the federal 287(g) program. Established in 1996, it allows U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, whose work is normally carried out by federal officials, to train state and local authorities to function as federal immigration officers.

    Under 287(g), for example, local police officers can interview people to determine their immigration status. They can also issue immigration detainers to jail people until agents with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement take custody.

    “Illegal immigration has wide-ranging consequences, including a troubling surge of dangerous drugs into our state,” T.K. Waters, sheriff of Jacksonville, Florida, said in a February 2025 statement to explain his office’s participation in 287(g). “We remain committed to partnering with President Trump’s administration and our federal counterparts to secure our borders, protect Floridians, and establish a framework for the rest of the nation to follow.”

    Local police authorities across the country – from Jackson County, Texas, to Frederick County, Maryland – are participating in 287(g) for similar reasons.

    Since Trump began his second term in January, ICE has increased 287(g) agreements from 135 in 25 states in December 2024 to 628 in 40 states as of May 28, 2025.

    As a criminal justice scholar, I believe the surge of 287(g) agreements sets a dangerous precedent for local policing, where forging relationships and building the trust of immigrants is a proven and effective tactic in combating crime. In my view, the expansion of 287(g) will erode that trust and makes entire communities – not just immigrants – less safe.

    Past federal-local cooperation

    There is a long history of federal authorities collaborating with local police to enforce immigration laws.

    During the Great Depression, federal officials blamed Latinos for taking American jobs, and local agencies helped them deport up to 1.8 million people to Mexico. It’s estimated that 60% of those deported were U.S. citizens.

    In the early 1930s, local police participated in immigration raids in California and other states. As author Adam Goodman details in his book “The Deportation Machine,” state and local government agencies, including social workers, welfare agencies and police, acted as “de facto immigration agents.”

    Trump’s mass deportation plan mirrors President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s 1954 federal immigration initiative, which resulted in 1.3 million deportations.

    As author Natalia Molina notes in her book “How Race is Made in America,” local police often served as “immigration cops” in Eisenhower’s program because the federal government “did not have enough agents to cover such a large territory” as the U.S.

    During his two terms, President Barack Obama deported over 5 million people and used the 287(g) program to help him do that, primarily to target jailed or recently arrived undocumented people. Obama’s use of 287(g) peaked at 76 agreements during his first term but dropped to 35 during his second term.

    A Justice Department investigation launched in 2008 found the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office in Arizona engaged in unconstitutional law enforcement actions against Latinos. The Justice Department found that the sheriff’s office engaged in a pattern of “unlawful seizures, including unjustified stops, detentions, and arrests, of Latinos in violation of the Fourth Amendment.”

    Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio looks on as inmates are moved in Phoenix, Ariz., in April 2009.
    Joshua Lott/Getty Images

    Power of local policing

    Forty states have adopted 287(g) agreements as of May 2025.

    This could have effects outside of the immigration laws.

    In the past 45 years, many law enforcement professionals in urban areas have highlighted the importance of forging relationships and building trust with immigrant communities. That’s because the police depend on the participation of all citizens to prevent crime and solve criminal investigations.

    But police departments across the U.S. have found that 287(g) partnerships erode that trust.

    In 1979, Los Angeles Police Chief Daryl Gates created Special Order 40 that prohibited local officers from enforcing immigration laws in response to community complaints alleging discrimination against Latinos. Gates issued the order “to encourage immigrants to cooperate with police and build community trust.”

    Other large police departments followed. In places such as Chicago and San Francisco, they shifted focus from helping federal immigration officials to prioritizing community relationships.

    William Bratton, who led six police departments, including in Boston, Los Angeles and New York, criticized 287(g) in a 2009 op-ed. He said that deputizing local officers to enforce immigration laws immediately “undermines their core public safety mission.”

    Conservative police scholar George Kelling, co-author of the broken windows theory, which presumes that visible signs of disorder can lead to crime, also expressed support for local police agencies prioritizing their community relationships.

    In a 1999 study, Kelling highlighted a San Diego police memo announcing its refusal to enforce federal immigration laws. The San Diego Police Department, he wrote, “thought through its values, mission, and functions and elaborated a policy that put public safety and harmony above aggressive attempts to ferret out undocumented aliens.”

    During Trump’s first administration, some police chiefs echoed Bratton and Kelling. They warned that employing local officers to enforce immigration measures could spark fear and damage public safety.

    Former Seattle Police Chief Kathleen O’Toole stated in 2016 that Seattle police officers were prohibited from “inquiring about a person’s immigration status.”

    And former Milwaukee Police Chief Ed Flynn announced in 2016 that his department does not enforce immigration law.

    He added, “It is our opinion, our strongly held belief that our responsibility is to protect the residents of our city. To protect them, they must trust us, they must be willing to report crimes, they must be willing to be witnesses.”

    A Cameron County sheriff’s officer puts handcuffs on a suspected undocumented immigrant detained during a traffic stop in South Texas.
    Robert Daemmrich Photography Inc/Corbis via Getty Images

    Consequences of 287(g)

    President Trump has frequently linked immigrants with higher crime rates, calling them murderers and rapists.

    But multiple studies have found that undocumented people commit fewer crimes than U.S. citizens.

    Although the Trump administration is expanding the use of local police in immigration enforcement, research casts doubt on using mass deportation as a crime reduction strategy.

    A 2018 study on 287(g) from the libertarian Cato Institute found no evidence that ICE-led partnerships with local police decreased crime rates.

    And a 2014 study on the Secure Communities Program, which calls for local police agencies to share arrestee information with federal immigration officials, found that this program has “no discernible impact” on crime in medium and large municipalities.

    The Trump administration’s expansion of 287(g) ignores the shift that some big city police departments have made away from immigration enforcement in favor of community policing. And I believe it threatens to undermine the relationship between local police and the increasingly diverse communities they serve.

    W. Carsten Andresen was employed in the past (2000-2003) at The Police Institute, a Rutger’s University Think Tank run by George L. Kelling.

    – ref. Surge of ICE agreements with local police aim to increase deportations, but many police forces have found they undermine public safety – https://theconversation.com/surge-of-ice-agreements-with-local-police-aim-to-increase-deportations-but-many-police-forces-have-found-they-undermine-public-safety-255937

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Canada: Housing targets deliver more than 16,000 homes, new priority communities added

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    More people are finding homes as the Province and municipalities boost housing delivery through targets, with new communities joining the program.

    Housing targets have delivered 16,130 net new homes, built across the first 30 priority municipalities. In 2023, the Province implemented the Housing Supply Act, which enabled government to establish housing targets for communities based on areas of greatest need and highest projected growth. Achieving the targets within five years will help communities address projected population growth and local housing demands.

    “I appreciate that these communities in the next group are already making progress in building more housing for people. Setting housing targets allows us to further align with our broader goals as a province,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. “As we add new communities to the housing targets program to keep up with demand, we will continue to work together with municipalities to make sure more people can find homes that fit their needs and budgets. We’re also delivering real results – more than 16,000 homes have now been built through housing targets and thousands more are on the way.”

    A fourth group of priority communities will soon be given housing targets, after targets were announced in 2024 for the second and third sets of priority communities. Many in the fourth group are already leaders in building more homes. By joining the housing targets program, they will demonstrate that all communities, big and small, have a vital role to play in addressing the housing crisis.

    The group will include Burnaby, Coquitlam, Courtenay, Township of Langley, Langford, Penticton, Pitt Meadows, Richmond, Squamish and Vernon. Targets for these communities will be set following consultation and will reflect 75% of each municipality’s estimated housing need.

    “Burnaby has been proactive in delivering the housing our community needs,” said Mike Hurley, mayor of Burnaby. “By streamlining our planning process and reducing barriers, we’ve increased our housing starts. In 2024, we issued permits for more than 2,300 homes, and so far this year we have issued permits for more than 4,000 more.”

    In addition, to ensure people benefit from more homes being built faster, the Province is expanding the list of communities that may receive housing targets. Twelve communities with high demand, low vacancy rates and limited housing availability are being added to the list. Three of these communities are already included in the fourth set of priority communities receiving targets.

    The new communities joining the list are Coldstream, Comox, Courtenay, Cumberland, Lake Country, Parksville, Peachland, Penticton, Qualicum Beach, Salmon Arm, Summerland, and Vernon. Many of these communities are already taking steps to increase housing supply. Joining the program will support them in accelerating homebuilding and meeting the needs of their growing populations.

    “Over the past two years, Penticton has advanced development by refining key policies and building strong partnerships with industry and community organizations,” said Julius Bloomfield, mayor of Penticton. “These efforts are delivering results, with many new housing units already approved and built. We welcome provincial support to help accelerate solutions that meet the urgent need for housing.”

    Building on the progress of the first 10 communities announced in 2024, which reported more than 8,300 homes built in their first year of targets, six-month progress reports from the second and third sets of priority communities show more than 7,800 net-new homes have been built. Many communities, including Central Saanich, Esquimalt, New Westminster and Kelowna, are trending toward exceeding their first-year housing targets. This shows strong local commitment to building the homes people need and planning for future growth aligned with the Province’s new housing policies.

    “Affordable housing is a top priority for our council, and locally we are taking action, already surpassing 38% of our five-year housing target in the first year,” said Tom Dyas, mayor of Kelowna. “As we increase housing options, we look forward to partnering with the Province to align infrastructure delivery with community growth.”

    Other communities are on track to meet their first-year targets with projects in the works. The Province will continue to support them as they accelerate approvals and meet the new provincial requirements, and will also monitor progress and consider next steps for municipalities that do not meet housing targets.

    The housing targets program is part of the Province’s Homes for People action plan to deliver more homes in B.C., building on its historic $19-billion housing investment. Since 2017, the Province has nearly 92,000 homes delivered or underway throughout B.C.

    Quotes:

    Nathan Pachal, mayor, City of Langley –

    “Langley City is proud to deliver a variety of housing for various needs. With an official community plan that aligns with provincial housing goals, we remain focused on getting homes built while preserving walkability and livability in our city. To support timely, high-quality housing delivery, we will continue to streamline our development processes, which remain among the most efficient in Metro Vancouver.”

    Patrick Johnstone, mayor, New Westminster –

    “Meeting the Province’s one-year housing target demonstrates New Westminster city council’s and staff’s commitment to addressing local needs across the housing spectrum. Staff’s work to streamline permitting, develop new funding tools and update zoning bylaws builds on our record of strong leadership in tackling the housing crisis.”

    Quick Facts:

    • To facilitate implementation of the housing targets and other initiatives, the Province has provided local governments with a range of resources and supports, such as:
      • the historic $1-billion Growing Communities Fund to help all 188 local governments address population growth;
      • $51 million in grant-based funding to support activities or projects, such as updating existing zoning bylaws, housing needs reports and official community plans; and
      • $10 million for a second intake of the Local Government Development Approvals Program administered by the Union of BC Municipalities.

    Learn More:

    To learn more about municipal housing targets, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/local-governments-and-housing/housing-targets

    To learn about the steps the Province is taking to tackle the housing crisis and deliver affordable homes for people in British Columbia, visit: https://strongerbc.gov.bc.ca/housing/

    A backgrounder follows.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: As GOP Tries to Gut Medicaid and Attack Reproductive Healthcare, Pressley Reintroduces Bill Affirming Equitable Access to Reproductive Healthcare for People with Disabilities

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

    Resolution Designates “Disability Reproductive Equity Day” in May, Calls for Disability and Reproductive Justice Amid Trump’s Attacks on Healthcare

    This Month, Pressley Delivered Keynote at Center for American Progress’ Reproductive Equity Summit

    Resolution Text

    WASHINGTON – Today, as Republicans advance deep cuts to Medicaid and continued attacks on reproductive healthcare, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), in partnership with disability justice and reproductive justice advocates, reintroduced a resolution demanding equitable access to reproductive and sexual healthcare for people with disabilities, and designating a day in May as “Disability Reproductive Equity Day.”

    With Donald Trump and Republicans attempting to rip away healthcare for millions through cuts to Medicaid – which would be devastating for people with disabilities – the Disability Reproductive Equity Day resolution presents an affirmative vision for healthcare equity and demands increased access to reproductive and sexual healthcare for those with disabilities.

    The resolution enumerates the unique, discriminatory barriers that people with disabilities face in accessing critical reproductive and sexual healthcare, and calls for equitable access to healthcare and the right to reproductive and sexual health, autonomy, and freedom.

    “Bodily autonomy should be a fundamental right. The paths to true reproductive justice and disability justice are inextricably linked, and together we are pressing for the reproductive and sexual healthcare needs of people with disabilities,” said Rep. Ayanna Pressley. “While Donald Trump and Republicans push their Big, Ugly Bill that would strip healthcare from people with disabilities and those seeking reproductive healthcare, we are fighting back and recommitting ourselves to disability justice, to healthcare equity, and to reproductive freedom. I am proud to reintroduce the Disability Reproductive Equity Day resolution with disability justice and reproductive justice partners to demand a more just America.”

    The Disability Reproductive Equity Day resolution is endorsed by: National Partnership for Women & Families, Disability Culture Lab, American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), New Disabled South, U.S. Gender and Disability Justice Alliance, The Reproductive Justice Collective at the Center for Racial and Disability Justice (CRDJ), Autistic Women and Nonbinary Network, Lurie Institute for Disability Policy at Brandeis University, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, the National Women’s Law Center, and the National Health Law Program.

    “Self-determination and bodily autonomy are core values of both the reproductive rights and disability rights movements, yet for too long, the discrimination and systemic barriers disabled people face when seeking sexual and reproductive health care have been ignored. People with disabilities have continually been denied the right of deciding if, when and how to start their families,” said Rolonda Donelson, Huber Reproductive Health Equity Legal Fellow for the National Partnership for Women & Families.

    “The National Partnership for Women & Families is proud to endorse the resolution to support the second-ever Disability Reproductive Equity Day, and we’re grateful to Rep. Ayanna Pressley for continuing the fight for the reproductive health care and rights of disabled people.”

    “Disability reproductive equity isn’t a niche issue; it’s a fundamental matter of human rights and public health. Disabled folks must be able to make informed choices about our bodies,” said Keidra Chaney, Program Director at Disability Culture Lab. “We need access to comprehensive reproductive health care without barriers, and to be able to parent without fear of discrimination or state interference. The current rise in eugenic laws that make even these basic rights impossible are an attack on disabled lives and reproductive rights. Disability justice and reproductive justice are one fight: we demand policies that prioritize our lives, freedom, access, and bodily autonomy.”

    “For disabled people, as for all people, access to comprehensive and quality sexual and reproductive healthcare is essential for their autonomy, their health and well-being, and their capacity for self-determination. No lawmaker or politician should be able to substitute their personal opinion for medical facts or treatments,” said the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD). “AAPD thanks Rep. Pressley for her leadership and joins her in calling on Congress to recognize Disability Reproductive Equity Day and to work to ensure that all people have the right to make the decisions that are best for them and their families.”

    “New Disabled South and New Disabled South Rising endorse the reintroduction of the resolution designating a day in May as Disability Reproductive Equity Day. Disabled people deserve reproductive health equity just like nondisabled people. Disability justice includes reproductive justice and reproductive justice must include disabled people along with all of their reproductive and sexual health needs. Disabled people should have full bodily autonomy and access to equitable reproductive healthcare. We call upon lawmakers to not only acknowledge the historic reproductive wrongs committed against disabled people in the name of eugenics, but to ensure that disabled people have access to the full range of reproductive healthcare services.”

    “The US Gender & Disability Justice Alliance strongly supports the designation of Disability Reproductive Equity Day. Disabled people are whole people, with the right and the capacity to live full, self-determined lives that include love, family, pleasure, and parenting. Our bodies and choices have long been targeted by policies rooted in ableism, eugenics, and control. We call on Congress to recognize that disability is not a limitation of worth, but a powerful part of human diversity, and to honor our right to access reproductive and sexual health care with dignity and respect.”

    “The Reproductive Justice Collective at the Center for Racial and Disability Justice (CRDJ) recognizes the critical importance of affirming reproductive autonomy, equity, and justice for disabled individuals, particularly in the context of historic and ongoing reproductive oppressions rooted in ableism, racism, and structural inequality. Our research, policy briefs, and Reproductive Justice Toolkit emphasize the urgent need to dismantle systemic barriers to reproductive health, which disproportionately impact disabled people of color, including: coerced sterilization, restricted parental rights, inaccessible reproductive health care, inadequate sexual education, increased surveillance and criminalization. The national designation of Disability Reproductive Equity Day is an essential step towards acknowledging and addressing these inequities, and it aligns deeply with our commitment to intersectional, community-led strategies that uplift dignity, autonomy, and justice for all disabled people.”

    “The Autistic Women and Nonbinary Network applauds the introduction of Disability Reproductive Equity Day. Autistic children become autistic adults and deserve the same rights to bodily, sexual, and reproductive freedom as anyone else. We urge lawmakers to recognize and honor our ability to make decisions for ourselves–especially these most personal and private decisions. Autistic people and all people with disabilities deserve the dignity and respect to make our own decisions, especially regarding sexual and reproductive health.”

    “Reproductive equity cannot exist without disability justice. Disabled people—especially those who are multiply marginalized—have long been excluded from conversations about reproductive health, rights, and autonomy. We applaud Representative Pressley’s leadership in recognizing that the reproductive freedom of disabled people is essential to a just and equitable future,” said Dr. Monika Mitra, Director, Lurie Institute for Disability Policy, Brandeis University.

    “People living with disabilities deserve inclusive, respectful, accessible care, including sexual and reproductive health care, but right now House Republicans are trying to gut Medicaid, threatening access to life-saving care. People with disabilities — especially those who are Black, Latino, Indigenous, LGBTQ+, or have low incomes — already face significant barriers to reproductive care, which are exacerbated by abortion and gender-affirming care bans and other restrictions.  In the face of these attacks, we thank Rep. Ayanna Pressley for reintroducing the vital Disability Reproductive Equity Act. Reproductive rights and disability rights are inextricably linked. Everyone deserves the freedom to make decisions about their own bodies, lives, and futures,” said Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Federation of America.

    “We proudly support the resolution recognizing Disability Reproductive Equity Day. Today, disabled people are facing urgent threats to our access to sexual and reproductive health care, from a reconciliation bill that could kick millions of disabled people off of Medicaid to this administration’s ongoing attacks on reproductive rights. That makes it even more critical than ever that we reaffirm our vision: a future where disabled people are empowered to make decisions about our reproductive rights and care and live with dignity and self-determination,” said Ma’ayan Anafi, senior counsel for health equity and justice at the National Women’s Law Center. “This resolution celebrates disabled people and uplifts their leadership in the movement towards reproductive freedom. We thank Rep. Pressley for her continued commitment to advancing equity and justice for all.”

    “For too long, the United States has denied people with disabilities equitable access to affordable and comprehensive sexual and reproductive health care, subjecting us to coverage gaps, discrimination, coercion, and violence. Proposed Medicaid cuts such as work requirements in the reconciliation bill, as well as ongoing attacks on the Affordable Care Act’s preventive services mandate and health care nondiscrimination protections, threaten to intensify structural barriers. The National Health Law Program is grateful to Representative Pressley for her commitment to safeguarding current rights and forging a future in which all people with disabilities have access to high-quality sexual and reproductive health care.”

    A copy of the resolution text can be found here.

    Earlier this month, at the Center for American Progress’ Disability Reproductive Equity Summit, Rep. Pressley spoke of the importance of intersectional policymaking and affirming disability rights and reproductive rights as the human rights that they are.

    Rep. Pressley has been a longtime advocate the disability community and has championed policies that promote disability justice. In addition to being an original co-lead of the Disability Reproductive Equity Day resolution, Rep. Pressley is a co-lead of the Reproductive Health Care Accessibility Act, legislation that would eliminate barriers and strengthen access to reproductive health care for people with disabilities.

    Rep. Pressley has also been an outspoken critic of Republican’s harmful budget reconciliation bill, which would make harmful cuts to Medicaid and threaten the reproductive healthcare access for millions in America, including those with disabilities.

    • On May 6, 2025, Rep. Pressley joined the Disability Justice Initiative at the Center for American Progress in kicking off their Disability Reproductive Equity Summit to develop an agenda for disability reproductive justice.
    • On August 14, 2024, Rep. Pressley issued a statement applauding Biden-Harris Administration for finalizing its proposed rule to improve access to medical diagnostic equipment (MDE) for people with disabilities. The DOJ’s final rule followed an April letter by Rep. Pressley and 11 of her colleagues urging it to strengthen and finalize its proposed rule, and underscoring the need for health care facilities to have functional and accessible MDE for people with disabilities.
    • On May 23, 2024, Rep. Pressley held a press conference alongside colleagues and reproductive justice and disability justice advocates to unveil the Disability Reproductive Equity Day Resolution.
    • On May 2, 2024, Rep. Pressley issued a statement applauding the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) finalized rule that prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability. 
    • On April 4, Rep. Pressley led her colleagues in urging the Department of Justice (DOJ) to strengthen and quickly finalize its proposed rule to improve access to medical diagnostic equipment (MDE) for people with disabilities.
    • On December 12, 2023, Rep. Pressley wrote to the Biden-Harris Administration seeking data on the housing needs for aging adults, people with disabilities, and Medicaid beneficiaries.
    • On September 29, 2022, Rep. Pressley and Rep. Cori Bush introduced the Reproductive Health Care Accessibility Act, legislation that would eliminate barriers and strengthen access to reproductive health care for people with disabilities.
    • On June 25, 2022, Rep. Pressley applauded the passage of H.R. 2543, which included several key amendments championed by Rep. Pressley to advance disability and economic justice.
    • On May 24, 2022, in a House Financial Services subcommittee hearing, Rep. Pressley discussed the crisis of Long COVID as a disability justice issue and outlined how the status quo has relegated disabled Americans—including those with Long COVID—to a second-class standard of living.
    • On April 14, 2020, Rep. Pressley urged Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker to rescind the Crisis of Care standards that have disproportionately harmed communities of color and the disability community in Massachusetts.
    • On March 29, 2022, in a historic committee hearing on Medicare for All, Rep. Pressley highlighted Medicare For All as a disability justice issue and questioned Ady Barkan, founder of Be A Hero and leading advocate for Medicare for All, about how tying health coverage to employment perpetuates deep inequities for people with disabilities.
    • On February 25, 2021, Rep. Pressley, Rep. Katie Porter, and their colleagues introduced the Mental Health Justice Act to reduce violence against individuals with mental illness and disabilities.
    • On March 30, 2021, she led her colleagues on a letter with 107 of their colleagues to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris calling for an historic investment of $450 billion in home- and community-based services (HCBS) in the Build Back Better infrastructure package.
    • On September 18, 2022, Rep. Pressley, Dr. Subini Ancy Annamma, and Villissa Thompson published an op-ed in Teen Vogue in which they called for an end to the policies and systemic injustice that result in the overcriminalization of Black girls with disabilities in schools.
    • On July 29, 2020, Rep. Pressley, Rep. Ilhan Omar, and Senators Chris Murphy and Elizabeth Warren unveiled the Counseling Not Criminalization in Schools Act to end the over-policing of K-12 schools and stop the criminalization of students, including those with disabilities.
    • In early 2020, she worked with advocates to challenge Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker’s crisis standards of care and release updated guidelines with input from the disability community.
    • On October 11, 2019, Rep. Pressley and her colleagues introduced the Improving Access to Higher Education Act to help improve college access and completion for students with disabilities.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump’s military parade: A ‘big big celebration’ or an authoritarian ritual?

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Irene Gammel, Professor & Director, Modern Literature and Culture Research Centre and Gallery, Toronto Metropolitan University

    U.S. Army soldiers march along Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C. during U.S. President Donald Trump’s Inaugural Parade in January 2017. (Kalie Jones)

    Born on June 14, 1946, United States President Donald Trump turns 79 in 2025 — the same day that the U.S. Army, founded in 1775, marks its 250th anniversary. To mark the anniversary, Trump proclaimed that “we’re gonna have a big, big celebration.”

    Plans drawn up by the army call for 6,600 soldiers, 150 vehicles, 50 helicopters, seven military bands and thousands of civilians. The parade will also reportedly include 34 horses, two mules and a dog.

    Dismissed by many as a costly vanity project by some, the parade invites a deeper question: what kind of political work does a birthday celebration like this actually do?

    Far from trivial or benign, Trump’s spectacle draws on a long history of authoritarian leaders who use ritualized celebrations to bind personal power to national identity. The most notorious example, Adolf Hitler, turned his birthdays into massive national events with military parades, mass rallies and highly estheticized scenes of domestic cheer.

    These displays blurred dominance and intimacy, fatherliness and force — an approach revived today in the digital era, where curated imagery and social media entangle leadership with affective spectacle.

    Fascist birthday culture

    I was born and raised in Germany. I’m acutely aware that Hitler’s birthday still casts a shadow and that such dates continue to carry political weight, with the rituals involved doing long-term political work.

    During the Third Reich, the Führer’s birthday — modeLled on the Kaiser’s — became a mass propaganda event, blending public spectacle with personal attachment.

    As German philosopher Theodor Adorno noted, fascist rituals portrayed the authoritarian leader as both a “superman” and an ordinary, flawed “average person.” This duality encouraged intimate identification and awe, much like the dynamic between a patriarchal father and child.

    Trump echoes this dynamic through a mix of paternal posturing, hypermasculine bluster and expansive nationalism. Whereas Hitler relied on the latest photograph and film technology, today’s spectacles are amplified by digital media’s participatory culture.

    German leader Adolf Hitler reviewing a military parade held in celebration of his 47th birthday on April 20, 1936.
    (German Federal Archives), CC BY

    Neo-Nazi groups across North America and Europe still mark Hitler’s birthday with cakes, cookies, memes and tweets; often disarmingly “cute” images overlaid with disturbing swastikas and jokes. In his 2017 paper, sociologist Christian Fuchs shows that the most retweeted neo-Nazi post in his study was “Wake and bake #HitlersBirthday #420,” blending cannabis culture with fascist nostalgia to deflect horror through humour.

    The blurred boundaries between the national and the personal feed meme culture, where, as communications scholar Limor Shifman writes, “small units of culture” spread through imitation, often cloaked in play.

    Amid mounting pressure on various institutions in the U.S. — universities, courts and public discourse — the military/birthday parade is an extravaganza that fuses esthetics and propaganda to cement authority, suppress dissent and consolidate power.

    Power aesthetics of military pageantry

    By combining a military display with a personal celebration, Trump’s birthday parade stages a grand spectacle of power. Key here is the presence of thousands of soldiers in military uniform, which creates a “persona and a powerful collective presence,” as fashion scholar Jennifer Craik writes.

    Uniforms signal discipline and belonging, but also intimidate and threaten. Fashion writer Colin McDowell calls the uniform a “spectacle” steeped in associations with power and eroticism, a garment long linked to theatricality and role-playing.

    Nowhere was this more explicit than under European fascism and colonialism. Uniforms were engineered to seduce, often fetishized: streamlined silhouettes, tight jackets and black leather boots. As Craik notes, such imagery was not incidental; it was the visual grammar of domination. As sociologist Klaus Theweleit observes, fascist power had to be seen, desired and even fantasized.

    Trump’s parade is a show of force. Its sheer scale — bands, vehicles, helicopters — performs strength and legitimacy, marking who belongs and who does not. But the birthday celebration also turns attention back to the man himself, reminding us that authoritarianism is not only about intimidation but also about the persona of the autocrat.

    Parades staged for Adolf Hitler’s 50th birthday.

    Authoritarian scripts, then and now

    Autocratic regimes work hard to fashion the leader into a man of the people: familiar, relatable and someone to be admired. Think of Hitler in his motorcade, hands outstretched toward the crowd.

    My father, just 10 years old, was part of that spectacle at one of these parades on a mandatory school trip, lined up along the street. Yet as the motorcade neared, he was shoved aside in the crush. What stayed with him wasn’t Hitler — he never saw him — but the fanatical woman who pushed him to get closer.

    The point was the crowd itself, kept at a fever pitch with ever-new spectacles like Hitler’s 50th birthday on April 20, 1939, declared a national holiday. German Propaganda Minister Joseph Goebbels staged it as what historian Ian Kershaw called “an astonishing extravaganza of the Führer cult;” a visual and military spectacle widely broadcast.

    One gift, a model of the FW 200 Condor, later became Hitler’s official plane. Trump’s new luxury Air Force One, “a gift” from Qatar, is also part of his visual narrative. The symbolism is eerie: once again, the personal cloaks itself in national power.

    The cult of MAGA

    In the end, Trump’s militarized birthday parade solicits not just admiration but political allegiance. Like past authoritarian rituals, it manipulates affect through military pageantry to elevate the leader as both a symbol and supreme commander.

    The spectacle demands emotional submission with the goal being identification with the leader. It exchanges democratic freedom for a vision of unity under a single figure. However wrapped in humour or patriotic kitsch, Trump’s parade rehearses an authoritarian script with disturbingly familiar cues.

    What appears as celebration is, in fact, a rehearsal. It signals a dangerous shift toward personal glorification and a political culture where pageantry replaces participation and adoration displaces dissent.

    As history warns, that is when democracy begins to give way.

    Irene Gammel receives funding from Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

    – ref. Trump’s military parade: A ‘big big celebration’ or an authoritarian ritual? – https://theconversation.com/trumps-military-parade-a-big-big-celebration-or-an-authoritarian-ritual-257536

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Breaking: Israel accepts US special envoy S. Witkoff’s proposal for ceasefire in Gaza – media

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    JERUSALEM, May 29 (Xinhua) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday that the Jewish state’s government has accepted the proposal of U.S. Special Envoy for the Middle East Steven Witkoff for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the release of hostages, Israeli state television Kan TV reported.

    According to the TV channel, B. Netanyahu made the corresponding statement during a meeting with the families of the Israeli hostages, who are presumed dead. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Los Angeles, multiagency taskforce case results in 14 arrests on complaints alleging more than $25 million in COVID-19 relief, small business loans fraudulently obtained

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    LOS ANGELES — Fourteen defendants — including San Fernando Valley and Glendale residents — were arrested May 28, on two federal criminal complaints alleging they fraudulently obtained more than $25 million in taxpayer-funded COVID-19 relief funds and federally-guaranteed small business loans.

    This case is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General and El Camino Real Financial Crimes Task Force, a multiagency task force that includes federal and state investigators who are focused on financial crimes in Southern California.

    “This transnational criminal network sought to defraud the government of millions of dollars and almost succeeded,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Los Angeles acting Special Agent in Charge John Pasciucco. “Through the diligent work of the El Camino Real Financial Crimes Task Force and our federal partners, ICE HSI is continuing to identify these criminal groups looking to profit from the pandemic and will use all available resources to hold them accountable, to include removing them from the country when applicable.”

    The 18 total defendants named in the complaints — four defendants are believed to be in Armenia — are charged with conspiracy to defraud the government with respect to claims; false, fictitious, or fraudulent claims; wire fraud and attempted wire fraud; bank fraud and attempted bank fraud; money laundering conspiracy; laundering of monetary instruments; engaging in monetary transactions in property derived from specified unlawful activity; and/or structuring financial transactions to evade reporting requirements.

    The defendants arrested May 28 include:

    • Vahe Margaryan, aka “William McGrayan,” 42, of Tujunga, who allegedly orchestrated a scheme to defraud numerous banks and the Small Business Administration’s Preferred Lender Program, a program designed to help small businesses that otherwise might not obtain financing. McGrayan allegedly directed owners of sham corporations to open bank accounts, make false statements, and concoct documents, including phony resumes and financial statements, to support loan applications to buy other sham corporations. McGrayan allegedly paid for phony tax returns that falsely reported millions in revenue and tens of thousands in tax due and owing. McGrayan, whose alleged criminal activity lasted from 2018 until January 2025, then directed the laundering of millions in fraud proceeds through various bank accounts.
    • Sarkis Gareginovich Sarkisyan, 37, aka “Samuel Shaw,” of Glendale, who allegedly, among other offenses, submitted a false application and bogus documents to obtain a loan under the Paycheck Protection Program which provided low-interest, forgivable loans to help small businesses retain their workforce and cover expenses. Sarkisyan allegedly applied in April 2021 on behalf of a fake business that received more than $700,000 in PPP funds.
    • Mery Babayan, 32, aka “Mery Diamondz,” of Van Nuys, together with co-defendants Margaryan and Hovannes Hovannisyan, 48, aka “John Harvard,” of Panorama City, in May 2021 allegedly defrauded a bank by representing the nonexistent sale of a sham business to another sham company to obtain an approximately $3 million federally guaranteed loan through the SBA’s Preferred Lending Program.
    • Felix Parker, 77, of North Hollywood, who in January 2023 allegedly made false statements and submitted fraudulent documents, including fake tax returns that falsely reported that his shell company, Canmar Promo, earned millions of dollars annually and owed tens of thousands in federal income taxes. Parker allegedly obtained more than $2 million in government-guaranteed funds earmarked to help small businesses.
    • Axsel Markaryan, 47, aka “Axel Mark,” of Pacoima, who in June 2023 allegedly fraudulently obtained more than $5 million in SBA loans via the submission of false statements and the submission of fake documents, including bogus tax returns. After the loans were obtained, Markaryan and his co-schemers in November 2023 laundered the money, including sending at least $100,000 to a co-schemer in Armenia.

    Law enforcement seized approximately $20,000 in cash, two money-counting machines, paper cash bands or currency straps in denominations of $2,000 and $10,000, multiple cell phones, multiple laptops, two loaded semi-automatic 9mm handguns, and boxes of 9mm ammunition.

    “Today’s enforcement action is intended to send a message to all criminals who take advantage of government programs designed to help those who need them most,” said United States Attorney Bill Essayli. “If you took COVID-19 or SBA money you weren’t entitled to, your door could be the next one we visit. Together with our law enforcement partners, my office will aggressively prosecute individuals who cheat the system meant to protect and support law-abiding citizens.”

    “Scheming to fraudulently obtain federal funds that were meant to provide assistance to the nation’s small businesses is unacceptable,” said the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General Western Region acting Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Huang. “OIG will continue to ardently investigate fraudulently obtained SBA program funds, including COVID-19 pandemic-related loans, to protect taxpayers from fraud, waste, and abuse. I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their dedication and pursuit of justice.”

    “Today, 14 individuals were arrested in connection with a fraudulent loan scheme in which they allegedly obtained in excess of $25 million through the SBA Paycheck Protection Program, Economic Injury Disaster Loan programs, and other federal funding programs,” said IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Tyler Hatcher, Los Angeles Field Office. “These programs were established to assist individuals and businesses in need of financial assistance and instead were pilfered by the named defendants. IRS-CI is dedicated to identifying and dismantling criminal organizations that prey on assistance programs set up for the benefit of our law-abiding citizens.”

    A criminal complaint contains allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    If convicted, each defendant would face a statutory maximum sentence of decades in federal prison.

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Mark Aveis and Gregg E. Marmaro of the Major Frauds Section and Maxwell Coll of the Cyber and Intellectual Property Crimes Section are prosecuting these cases.

    Individuals across the world can report suspicious criminal activity to the ICE Tip Line 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 866-DHS-2-ICE. Highly trained specialists take reports from both the public and law enforcement agencies on more than 400 laws enforced by ICE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Los Angeles, multiagency taskforce case results in freight forwarding company exec arrest on federal indictment alleging massive scheme to avoid customs duties payments

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    LOS ANGELES – The chief financial officer at a downtown Los Angeles-based shipping company was arrested May 27 on a 22-count federal grand jury indictment charging him and the company’s CEO with using fraudulent documents, shell companies, bribes to public officials, and kickbacks to Mexican drug cartels to smuggle billions of dollars’ worth of goods from the United States into Mexico, repeatedly lying to U.S. customs officials and defrauding Mexico out of hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of duties owed. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, IRS Criminal Investigation and the DEA are investigating this matter.

    Ralph Olarte, 55, of Glendale, the CFO of Sport LA Inc., was arrested May 27 at Los Angeles International Airport. He made his initial appearance and was arraigned May 28 in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles.

    Also charged in the indictment is Humberto Lopez Belmonte, 53, of Mexico City, who was arrested and arraigned on May 27 in Los Angeles federal court. Lopez pleaded not guilty to the charges against him and a July 21 trial date was scheduled. A federal magistrate judge ordered Lopez released on $100,000 bond.

    Olarte and Lopez are charged with one count of conspiracy to smuggle goods from the United States. Both defendants and their company, Sport LA Inc., also are charged with one count of smuggling goods from the United States, three counts of knowingly submitting false and misleading export information, five counts of wire fraud for false information submitted to CBP, one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud against Mexico, one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, and seven counts of international promotional and concealment money laundering.

    Sport LA is charged with three counts of making false statements to a government agency. The other defendant companies — H&R Logistics Inc. and Olarte Transport Service Inc. — are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering.

    According to the indictment returned on April 30 and unsealed May 27, Olarte and Lopez, from at least 2013 to the present, operated a lucrative international shipping enterprise. Through shipping companies they controlled, Olarte and Lopez smuggled billions of dollars’ worth of goods from and through the United States into Mexico. Many times, they concealed the nature of the shipped goods, some of which contained contraband.

    The companies allegedly submitted millions of false and misleading statements to U.S. customs officials, used shell companies in Mexico to shield their true customers, and created and presented false documents – including sham certificates for paid Mexican import taxes. They also bribed Mexican customs officials, paid kickbacks to drug cartels — including the Jalisco New Generation Cartel — to operate the scheme and smuggled bulk cash into the U.S. to avoid reporting requirements.

    Olarte and Lopez then laundered the proceeds of their scheme back from the true Mexican customers, through the shell companies, and ultimately into the companies’ U.S. bank accounts. As a result of the conspiracy, Olarte and Lopez personally received millions of dollars in illicit proceeds.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    If convicted, Olarte and Lopez would face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for each count of wire fraud- and money laundering-related count, up to five years in federal prison for each smuggling- and false statements-related count, and up to two years in federal prison for each count of knowingly submitting false and misleading export information.

    This investigation is led by HSI’s El Camino Real Financial Crimes Task Force, a multiagency task force that includes federal and state investigators who are focused on financial crimes in Southern California.

    The Transnational Organized Crime Section is prosecuting this case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Army Birthday 250 Troop Card

    Source: United States Army

    Guidance:

    • Public Affairs posture is active. The world is watching; and you will represent America’s Army in all that you say and do. Your command presence will be the display of pride, discipline and fitness.
    • Be aware of national and world press and social media influencers in and around your locations to/from and throughout DC. Welcome media and designate a representative. Stay positive; and if you don’t want to be interviewed – politely decline.
    • Unit leaders at all levels should keep HQDA 250 Birthday Public Affairs Guidance on-hand.
    • Focus comments on your participation in the festival and parade; and what you do in the Army.
    • Share your once-in-a-lifetime experience on your social media platforms. THINK, TYPE, POST.
    • For interviews, avoid commenting and speculating about any current world events, political situation(s), or ongoing missions. A good response could be the following: ‘that question is better answered by others in my chain of command; I don’t speak on politics, or I don’t want to speculate.’ Then, talk about your message and what you do know.
    • Refer questions outside of your role to your chain of command. For command representatives and PAOs, HQDA-level media questions should be referred to this number, 703-220-9044.

    Messages/Talking Points:

    • We are focused on ensuring that the U.S. military remains the world’s most combat-credible fighting force capable of maintaining peace through strength.
    • One year older than the nation it defends, the United States Army has dedicated itself to fighting and winning the nation’s wars for 250 years.
    • As we celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States Army, we reflect on the rich history and legacy of service, sacrifice, and dedication. From the Revolutionary War to present-day missions, our Soldiers have consistently demonstrated their resolve to defend freedom at home and abroad.
    • I AM PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN SOLDIER BECAUSE:
    • I JOINED THE ARMY TO:
    • I AM PROUD TO REPRESENT AMERICA TODAY ESPECIALLY BECAUSE:

    Army Birthday Information: https://www.army.mil/1775/

    Refer questions outside of your role to your chain of command.

    For command representatives and PAOs, HQDA-level media questions should be referred to this number: 703-220-9044.

    Click here for a downloadable version of the Troop Card [PDF – 101.5 KB]

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Missouri Man Pleads Guilty to Multimillion-Dollar Medicare Fraud Conspiracy

    Source: US State Government of Utah

    A Missouri man pleaded guilty today to orchestrating a scheme to defraud Medicare by unlawfully billing millions of dollars in claims for cancer genetic testing and cardiovascular genetic testing. 

    According to court documents, Jamie P. McNamara, 49, of Kansas City, operated several laboratories in Louisiana and Texas, which obtained doctors’ orders for genetic testing from telemarketers and call centers that used aggressive telemarketing campaigns to induce Medicare beneficiaries to agree to receive genetic testing. Orders for genetic testing were signed by purported telemedicine doctors who were not the beneficiaries’ treating physicians, did not perform consultations with the beneficiaries, and did not follow up with the beneficiaries after the testing was performed. To obtain the orders, McNamara paid illegal kickbacks and bribes, which he disguised through sham contracts. In furtherance of the scheme, he also shifted the billing between his laboratories to evade scrutiny from Medicare and law enforcement and concealed his ownership and control of the laboratories by falsely listing the names of his family members as owners and company representatives on Medicare and other documents. In approximately one and a half years, the laboratories operated by McNamara submitted over $174 million in claims to Medicare for genetic testing and received over $55 million in reimbursements. The government previously seized several luxury vehicles and over $7 million in bank accounts.

    “The defendant used illegal payments and lies to fraudulently bill Medicare over $174 million,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Health care fraud harms patients, drains government resources, and violates the public trust. The Criminal Division is fully committed to uncovering and aggressively prosecuting these schemes.”    

    “This guilty plea marks the conclusion of a meticulous and complicated prosecution,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson for the Eastern District of Louisiana. “Medicare fraud schemes profoundly erode taxpayer confidence and faith in our medical institutions. Schemes such as these must be rooted out, investigated and prosecuted, not only for the monetary loss triggered by the fraud, but also to preserve the public’s trust. Our office, along with our investigative partners, will continue to work diligently to maintain taxpayer confidence in our federal institutions and seek justice for all victims of fraud.”

    “McNamara lined his pockets by preying on vulnerable Americans concerned about their health. The genetic tests Medicare patients were lured into receiving did not provide them with any answers on their predisposition to life threatening illnesses and cost taxpayers millions of dollars,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp of the FBI New Orleans Field Office. “Today’s plea is the culmination of thorough investigative work and partnership between the FBI and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) to protect the public and ensure that justice is served.”

    “Misleading patients with fraudulent genetic testing schemes to exploit the Medicare program is not just unethical — it’s criminal,” said Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of HHS-OIG. “Today’s plea reflects HHS-OIG’s steadfast commitment to holding those who deceive patients and seek to cripple the integrity of our nation’s federal health care programs accountable. We will continue to collaborate with our law enforcement partners to investigate such schemes and bring those responsible to justice.”

    While on pretrial release, McNamara violated his bond conditions by, among other things, fleeing from a DUI arrest and cutting off an ankle monitor. He was subsequently detained.

    McNamara pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 9 and faces up to 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    HHS-OIG and the FBI are investigating the case.

    Assistant Chief Justin M. Woodard and Trial Attorney Kelly Z. Walters of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Moses for the Eastern District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of 9 strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 30, 2025
←Previous Page
1 … 583 584 585 586 587 … 1,899
Next Page→
NewzIntel.com

NewzIntel.com

MIL Open Source Intelligence

  • Blog
  • About
  • FAQs
  • Authors
  • Events
  • Shop
  • Patterns
  • Themes

Twenty Twenty-Five

Designed with WordPress