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Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tillis, Warnock Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Extend Tax Deadline for Natural Disaster Victims

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) recently introduced the bipartisan Disaster Related Extension of Deadlines Act, legislation that provides an extension to ensure taxpayers impacted by recent natural disasters have more flexibility when claiming refunds or credits.

    “Helene devastated communities across Western North Carolina, leaving many families struggling to recover,” said Senator Tillis. “North Carolinians affected by this disaster deserve the opportunity to claim the tax refunds they’re entitled to without facing unnecessary red tape. This commonsense legislation ensures disaster victims aren’t penalized for circumstances beyond their control and provides much-needed relief during the recovery process.”

    Background:

    Taxpayers usually have three years to file a claim for credit or refund of any overpayments of tax. However, when a filing deadline is postponed due to a federally declared disaster or similar reason, the three-year “lookback period” for paying refunds is not increased.  As a result, some taxpayers who take advantage of a postponed filing deadline will not be able to obtain a refund.

    Separately, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is required to demand payment within 60 days of an assessment, even if the payment deadline is postponed. As a result, the IRS may send letters demanding payments that have been postponed. This creates unnecessary confusion and stress for disaster victims.

    To ensure that taxpayers impacted by disasters are treated like every other taxpayer when claiming their refunds, the Disaster Related Extension of Deadlines Act would:

    • Extend the three-year period for receiving a refund or credit when the IRS extends a filing deadline due to a natural disaster, ensuring that a deadline extension does not give disaster impacted taxpayers a shorter lookback period for claiming a refund;
    • Ensure that the automatic IRS payment deadline is extended to match any disaster-based filing deadline extension.

    The American Institute of CPAs and the National Association of Realtors support the legislation.

    Full text of the legislation is available HERE.

    Senator Tillis has been pushing for federal assistance for Western North Carolina since the moment Helene made landfall.

    • On October 1, 2024, Senator Tillis led a bipartisan letter to Senate Appropriations Chair Patty Murray (D-WA) and Vice Chair Susan Collins (R-ME) on the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene and the urgent need to pass an appropriations package to support the millions of Americans affected by the storm.  
    • On October 16, 2024, Senator Tillis led a bipartisan group of senators in urging the White House to rapidly submit a government funding request to Congress that will fully cover costs associated with clean-up and recovery following Hurricanes Helene and Milton so that affected communities could begin to heal. The Senators called for Congress to return to Washington from the October in-state work period to approve federal disaster relief legislation.
    • On October 23, 2024, The Hill published an op-ed by Senator Tillis addressed to members of Congress to step up and be proactive with long-term disaster recovery assistance.  
    • On October 29, 2024, Senator Tillis and his colleagues announced plans to introduce legislation that would replenish the Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Program with families and small businesses across WNC unable to get loans approved until then. The Senators outlined their plan to seek passage of the legislation when Congress returned to session.
    • On November 14, 2024, Senator Tillis attempted to pass legislation to replenish the SBA Disaster Loan Program through a unanimous consent request on the Senate floor, but was blocked by another Senator.
    • On November 15, 2024, Senator Tillis led a bipartisan letter to request that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) immediately send a supplemental appropriation request to Congress to support the communities we represent, which were devastated after Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The OMB sent the request to Congress a few days later.
    • On November 18, 2024, Senator Tillis introduced the standalone RELIEF Act to provide Hurricane relief to small businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene.  
    • On November 20, 2024, Senator Tillis called on Congress to quickly pass Hurricane Helene relief during his testimony to the Senate Appropriations Committee. 
    • On November 21, 2024, Senator Tillis met with Governor Cooper, Governor-Elect Stein, members of the North Carolina Congressional Delegation and the North Carolina General Assembly, and local leaders from Western North Carolina to discuss efforts to provide federal assistance to North Carolinians affected by the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. 
    • On December 5, 2024, Senator Tillis joined Fox News’ Your World with Neil Cavuto where he discussed the urgent need for Congress to provide federal assistance to North Carolinians affected by the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. 
    • On December 10, 2024, Senator Tillis hosted N.C. Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger, N.C. House of Representatives Speaker-elect Destin Hall, State Senators Bill Rabon and Ralph Hise, and State Representative Dudley Greene to discuss efforts to provide immediate assistance to North Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene’s devastation.  
    • On December 18, 2024, Senator Tillis committed to filibustering any continuing resolution that did not include disaster aid for Western North Carolina.
    • On December 21, 2024, Senator Tillis voted to pass a bipartisan government funding bill that included more than $100 billion in disaster relief for states and communities hit by natural disasters, including North Carolina during Hurricane Helene.
    • On January 7, 2025 Senator Tillis announced $1.65 billion in Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds to help rebuild communities devastated by Hurricane Helene. 
    • On January 24, 2025, Senator Tillis released a statement thanking President Trump for his visit to Western North Carolina to survey the devastation left behind by Helene.
    • On January 31, 2025, Senator Tillis introduced the Disaster Mitigation and Tax Parity Act of 2025, legislation that excludes from gross income, for income tax purposes, any qualified catastrophe mitigation payment made under a state-based catastrophe loss mitigation program. 
    • On March 11, 2025, Senator Tillis reintroduced the Disaster Assistance Simplification Act, bipartisan legislation to simplify the application process for federal disaster recovery assistance. 
    • On April 1, 2025, Senator Tillis sent a letter urging U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins to work with Congress to quickly distribute the more than $23 billion Congress passed in December to assist farmers, ranchers and rural Americans in responding to devastating natural disasters in 2023 and 2024.
    • On April 3, 2025, Senator Tillis (R-NC) introduced the FEMA Independence Act, bipartisan legislation to restore the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as an independent cabinet-level agency and improve efficiency in federal emergency response efforts.  

    In addition to Senator Tillis’ legislative efforts, he has met with local leaders, residents, and elected officials across Western North Carolina including in: Asheville, Black Mountain, Boone, Burnsville, Canton, Clyde, Fairview, Flat Rock, Hendersonville, Hot Springs, Marshall, Morganton, Spruce Pine, Swannanoa, Waynesville and Wilkesboro.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Welcome insights to make hospitality thrive

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston has welcomed a report from the Restaurant Association and Hospitality New Zealand on steps to support the hospitality sector to thrive.

    “It’s fantastic to see the insights and ideas discussed at last year’s Hospitality Summit now presented as actionable solutions in this report,” Louise Upston says.

    “I’m pleased to see that the Government’s focus on tourism growth aligns with the hospitality sector’s priorities, particularly our vision to drive economic growth for hospitality businesses and jobs for Kiwis, by increasing international visitor numbers. 

    “The hospitality sector’s renowned hustle and hard work shines through in its response to this report, with industry leading the way on most recommendations. 

    “The Hospitality Summit has been a key initiative allowing greater alignment across the hospitality and tourism sectors. The input of hospitality leaders has been instrumental in delivering our Tourism Boost. The shared knowledge of leaders has been invaluable in helping chart future directions.

    “Where recommendations call for government support or action, much is already being addressed through the work programmes of various government agencies.

    “Work currently underway includes the additional $3 million to secure more business events as part of the Tourism Boost package, and $50,000 for the Restaurant Association of New Zealand, working in partnership with Hospitality NZ, to develop hospitality and restaurant spending insights.

    “Changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa address concerns raised about wage thresholds and job checks while a review of the vocational education and training system will consider the need for better support for skilled talent in the hospitality industry.  

    “The comprehensive recommendations in this report are exactly the type of feedback that I want to encourage from the sector, working in partnership with Government.  

    “I look forward to working together as we continue to prioritise growth for the tourism and hospitality sectors,” says Louise Upston.

    Note to editors: 

    ‘Serving Success – Opportunities for the New Zealand Hospitality Industry’ is available online:  www.hospitality.org.nz/assets/Hospitality-Summit-2024-Report.pdf

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Reserve Bank funding reduction agreed

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government and the Reserve Bank board have agreed a funding agreement that will reduce budgeted operating expenses for the bank by about 25 per cent in the coming year.
    “The new five-year agreement reflects the need for all government entities to identify cost savings and demonstrate value for money, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says.
    “The bank initially sought funding of $1.03 billion for the coming five years, but the Treasury advised me that that amount did not represent good value for money.
    “The new agreement allocates the bank operating expenses of $750 million and capital expenditure of $25.6 million for the period. 
    “That equates to average operating expenditure of $150 million a year, 25 per cent less than the bank’s $200 million operating expenses budget for the current financial year. 
    “The Reserve Bank has grown hugely in recent years. Fulltime equivalent staff numbers increased from 255 in the 2017/18 year to 660 in January this year. 
    “Benchmarking analysis performed by the Treasury shows that several of the Reserve Bank’s non-legislative functions, particularly in the People and Communications teams, appear overstaffed.
    “The new agreement will ensure that the Reserve Bank has adequate resources to fulfil its legal responsibilities while promoting heightened cost efficiency.
    “Both the board of the Reserve Bank and the Treasury are of the view the new expenditure limits are appropriate.”
    Unlike most other agencies, which are funded annually through the Budget process, the Reserve Bank’s board negotiates five-year funding agreements with the Minister of Finance, who receives advice from the Treasury. The structure of these agreements is to support the Reserve Bank to maintain its independence from the government of the day.
    The new agreement will apply from 1 July 2025.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: True number of people living with Huntington’s disease gene in Northern Scotland revealed The number of people who have the gene that causes Huntington’s disease in Northern Scotland has been accurately counted for the first time in 35 years in new research from the University of Aberdeen in partnership with NHS Grampian.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    The number of people who have the gene that causes Huntington’s disease in Northern Scotland has been accurately counted for the first time in 35 years in new research from the University of Aberdeen in partnership with NHS Grampian.

    It is crucial that we know this number, and that it is accurate, so that health boards can properly plan now for care, and for treatments when they become available in the future.” Professor Zofia Miedzybrodzka

    The research used NHS family-based records to find that there are more than 160 adults living in the area who have the Huntington’s gene but have not been tested.  

    However, the scientists behind the study believe the figure will be even higher as not everyone with Huntington’s disease symptoms seek diagnosis.  

    The study, published in Neuroepidemiology, confirmed that Northern Scotland has one of the highest rates of Huntington’s disease in the world at 14.5 per 100,000 people, it is more than five times the estimated worldwide rate of 2.71 per 100,000 people.  

    Huntington’s disease runs in families, and every child of someone affected has a 50:50 chance of inheriting the gene. The gene slowly damages the brain, eventually taking away the person’s ability to walk, talk, eat and drink, make their own decisions and care for themselves.   

    The new analysis showed that, on average, every person who has been diagnosed with Huntington’s disease will have at least another 2.2 relatives who have the gene. This means there are hundreds of people in Northern Scotland who could be considered for effective treatments for Huntington’s disease when these become available in the future.   

    The research was led by University of Aberdeen’s Professor Zosia Miedzybrodzka who is also NHS Clinical Lead for Huntington’s disease in North of Scotland (covering Grampian, Highland, Orkney, Shetland, and the Western Isles), based in NHS Grampian, alongside Heather Cruickshank, Genetic Counsellor in NHS Grampian.  

    Previous studies have mainly looked at the number of people who tested positive for the Huntington’s disease gene then estimated the number of relatives at risk using statistical modelling. However, in this study, scientists used family tree clinical records to count how many people have a 50:50 chance of having inherited the neurodegenerative condition but, crucially, have not been tested.   

    This meticulous approach has not been used in the UK since the Huntington’s disease gene was discovered in 1993.   

    The authors stress how important it is to generate a clear picture of the number of people with Huntington’s disease in the region to ensure that care planning objectives are met and reinforces the need to invest in specialist care and support to help people impacted by what is a notoriously complex and difficult to manage condition.   

    Professor Miedzybrodzka said: “Previous work looked at how many people in the area have been tested for Huntington’s disease, that is people diagnosed with Huntington’s disease signs and those with a gene alteration that will develop the condition in later life. However, no one has properly counted just how many people who haven’t been tested yet must have the gene.   

    “It is crucial that we know this number, and that it is accurate, so that health boards can properly plan now for care, and for treatments when they become available in the future.   

    “A 2022 Scottish government report underestimated Huntington’s disease rates and did not account for numbers of people at risk in a way that our clinic and lab data has.”  

    Heather Cruickshank added: “In 1989, when scientists previously studied this, testing was not possible, fewer people had a diagnosis of Huntington’s disease, and families were larger.   

    “But even now, despite high rates of testing, most people at risk of developing Huntington’s disease in Scotland have not had a test.   

    “There is a massive worldwide effort seeking treatments for Huntington’s disease.   

    “Going forward, services need to plan to treat these as yet uncounted people, as well as those currently diagnosed. Regional variations in rates will become more important, including genetic counselling and testing, management, and treatment delivery. Furthermore, better knowledge of the numbers of people who could benefit will encourage investment into drug discovery.  

    “Having a test remains a free choice for people from Huntington’s disease families and our research means that care can be planned for all those at risk, without people who don’t want a test having one.”  

    Commenting on the findings of the study Chief Executive Officer of Scottish Huntington’s Association, Alistair Haw, said: “Earlier this term a Scottish Parliament motion calling for an expansion of specialist Huntington’s disease services in light of rising cases became the most supported motion in the history of devolution. This latest study further strengthens the case for immediate action to expand specialist services for families impacted by Huntington’s.   

    “Huntington’s disease is a hugely complex, widely misunderstood and extremely difficult to manage condition. Specialist services are not some ‘nice to have’ optional extra but an absolute necessity to prevent patients reaching crisis point and presenting to acute emergency statutory services. Specialist Huntington’s services need to be expanded urgently – a message further reinforced by this new and clear evidence which has major implications for health and social care providers throughout Scotland and beyond.”  

    Case Studies

    Brian Watt, 69, Hopeman  

    Brian Watt, 69, of Hopeman in Moray, is living with a Huntington’s disease diagnosis.   

    Former manager of the Chivas whisky distillery in Keith, Brian received the diagnosis in 2016.   

    Brian recalls: “I knew there was Huntington’s disease in my family – my father and my sister were both diagnosed.   

    “I wasn’t sure whether to go ahead with the test, but I am glad I did.”  

    Brian received counselling – offered by NHS Grampian’s Huntington’s disease clinic in Aberdeen – before taking the test and he felt this was ‘hugely important’ and ‘absolutely necessary’ to be able to process the news regardless of the result.   

    Almost immediately after receiving the news that he has the gene, Brian set about organising a support group in his local area for people with Huntington’s disease and their families. The group is still going strong as a Branch of the Scottish Huntington’s Association and has helped support more than 30 families in the Moray area.   

    Brian keeps busy and believes a positive outlook to be vital when living with Huntington’s disease: “It could be tempting to just lie in bed all day and feel depressed about having this disease. But you have to keep going – keep busy doing things you enjoy.”   

    Brian walks his two terriers along Hopeman beach every day, works part-time at Moray Motor Museum in Elgin and organises quarterly meetings of his support group.   

    Brian says: “Zosia said to me the best way to manage Huntington’s disease is with a balance of lifestyle, attitude and medication and I think that is spot-on. I try to keep a healthy lifestyle and positive attitude and I’m doing just fine.”  

    Alexander (Sandy) Patience, 62, Inverness  

    Sandy Patience, 62, originally from Avoch on the Black Isle lives in Inverness with his wife Laura whom he describes as a ‘blessing from God.’     

    Sandy was diagnosed with Huntington’s disease in 2017 and recounts in his own words how the disease has blighted his family throughout his life:  

    “My childhood as a young boy was shaped by going to see my grandmother – my mam’s mother, who was also HD positive, in hospital every single Saturday from when I was 8 to when I was13 years old.     

    “My dear mother then struggled with HD until she passed away when I was 21 and she was only 59 years old. I remember it began when I was just a young boy, and I watched her get progressively more unwell.    

    “After that, my dear sister Helen passed away with HD in August 2020 after more than two decades of struggle. Helen was a very special sister to me. When our dear mam passed away in1984, Helen – being eleven years older than me, tried really hard to be a ‘surrogate mother’ to me after our hearts were broken about mam. But tragically, HD in our family is never far away.   

    “Helen, very sadly never married, for obvious reasons to me. She was very intelligent in school where she won the Dux Medal, and then in her working life until HD put the brakes on that which devastated Helen at the time. I loved Helen, and my beautiful wife Laura was just the most special sister-in-law to her, not to mention, a perfect daughter in law to my amazing dad who passed away in 2013 aged 89 years.  

    “My dad’s heart would have been shattered if he was still alive when I got my diagnosis four years after he passed away. His long life of struggles included fighting a World War for five years, and being full-time carer for mam for two decades with no help from social care. I remember it like yesterday. The pain I feel for mam and dad in those forgotten decades will never leave me.     

    “But even with all of that, our family was full of love. My dear late mam was shaping my life in so many ways, and I am incredibly proud to have the same loving genes in myself – as well as the bad stuff that I refuse to name unless to raise awareness.   

    “I remember how I felt on the way home from Aberdeen after I had been diagnosed in Dec 2017. I said to Laura ‘this is a game changer in our twenty years together – please can you leave me and live the rest of your life with someone else.’  

    “But, by the Grace of God she didn’t, because her love for me is as immense as mine for her. We are very very blessed, and I can’t imagine life without my soulmate by my side, she picks me up if I am feeling down and tells me when I am behaving like a donkey – sometimes several times a day”, he laughs.  

    Even with the difficulties Sandy has faced, he remains fiercely positive, he explains: “See, life is what we make it for me and Laura.  

    “For sixteen wonderful years, from April 2006 until August 30th 2023 I had two soulmates in my life. My dear wife Laura and my wonderful Labradoodle, Rollo. He never left my side – on the couch or at my feet on the bed. He read my mind a million times over. He loved me a million times more every single day. He loved Laura and all our family, he loved my late Dad, Helen, and brother, David unconditionally for many years with his huge loving heart. I have been emotional about all my family many times when Rollo was beside me on the couch and he would be nudging me and saying: ‘it’s ok Dad, I am here to make you feel better’. He always always did. I miss him more every day.  

    Sandy was overjoyed to find out that his daughter, Kim tested negative for the HD gene: “By the grace of God, my own daughter Kim tested negative about a year after my own diagnosis. Now we know that my three beautiful grandchildren are safe from this horrific disease. Our tears at Kim’s negative test was something I waited all Kim’s life to witness, it was something truly amazing. It was something I prayed for a thousand times over since I knew the risks for Kim after my own positive test.   

    “I can fight for my own life now because I know that I am the last person in my family gene pool with this HD positive test result.”  

    And fight Sandy does: “I am fighting so much to crush it every single day, every moment of every day. The more I fight, the more I look to God for my future health and happiness. I truly don’t want to change anything about my life. I intend to be in the same place – body and mind.   

    “I am privileged to be asked by Professor Zosia to help her again with raising awareness for HD issues. She is incredibly knowledgeable about everything HD, caring for all her patients and their families.   

    “This is a fantastic opportunity for other people, just like me, to take a big leap forward and consider testing for HD. Obviously, I was devastated about my own diagnosis, but I am certain, no doubt in my mind I have done the correct thing for myself and Laura and our family.    

    “I want everyone to know that testing positive is not the end of the world, it may even be the beginning of better family relationships and countless other positive things.” 

    Related Content

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Request for New Zealand to Suspend Entry of Israeli Passport Holders in Solidarity with Palestine

    Source: Palestine Forum of New Zealand

    Open Letter from Palestine Forum of New Zealand to Prime Minister of New Zealand, and, Minister of Foreign Affairs.

    Dear Prime Minister Luxon and Minister Peters,

    I am writing to express deep concern over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and to urge the New Zealand government to take a firm stand in support of international law and human rights.

    The Maldives has recently announced a ban on Israeli passport holders entering their country, citing solidarity with the Palestinian people and condemnation of the ongoing conflict in Gaza.  This decisive action reflects a growing international demand for accountability and justice. New York Post (ref. https://nypost.com/2025/04/15/world-news/maldives-bans-israeli-passport-holders-amid-gaza-conflict/?utm_source=chatgpt.com )

    New Zealand has a proud history of advocating for human rights and upholding international law. In line with this tradition, I respectfully request that the New Zealand government consider implementing a temporary suspension on the entry of Israeli passport holders. Such a measure would serve as a peaceful protest against the ongoing violence and a call for an immediate ceasefire and the protection of civilian lives.

    I understand the complexities involved in international relations and the importance of maintaining diplomatic channels. However, taking a stand against actions that result in significant civilian casualties and potential violations of international law is imperative.

    I appreciate your attention to this matter and urge you to consider this request seriously. New Zealand’s voice can contribute meaningfully to the global call for peace and justice.

    Sincerely,

    Maher Nazzal
    Palestine Forum of New Zealand

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Finance and Security – Bank accounts a key tool for reducing ex-prisoner reoffending – FinCap

    Source: FinCap

    New research conducted by Te Herenga Waka-Victoria University of Wellington finds that taking simple steps to enable ex-prisoners to open bank accounts would assist them in accessing housing, employment, and benefits, which would reduce the risk of re-offending.
    The research, led by Senior Lecturer Victoria Stace, was commissioned by FinCap, a charitable trust which supports more than 700 financial mentors in their work helping people who are in financial hardship. The findings of Stage 2 of this work, being released today, are based on interviews with a broad group of stakeholders, including representatives from the banking sector, financial mentoring organisations, community groups, and the Department of Corrections.
    “Enabling ex-prisoners to access banking services is a simple measure. It carries negligible cost to the government or banks, could help reduce crime, and save on the costs of imprisoning reoffenders,” says FinCap Senior Policy Advisor Jake Lilley.
    “Without a bank account, ex-prisoners struggle to be paid for work, receive benefits, pay bills, or find housing-making it hard to live legally and independently.
    “Ex-prisoners who find themselves unable to do these things are more likely to return to crime. This carries an enormous social cost to the victims and a massive fiscal cost to the government. Access to banking is a simple, effective anti-crime measure,” says Jake Lilley.
    “Many prisoners either lose access to their bank accounts upon entering prison or do not have any bank account, and those attempting to open new accounts face obstacles, particularly in meeting identification and proof of address requirements. We need uniform procedures across the banking sector to improve access to banking for prisoners,” says Victoria Stace.
    “We have developed a set of practical recommendations to make this happen, including:
    • Corrections should ensure that prisoners have ID documents prior to release (birth certificate and a form of photo ID), and given the opportunity to apply for a bank account prior to release 
    • Major banks should participate in a programme that offers bank accounts to people in prison who are due for release
    Every prison should have access to at least one financial mentoring service, with regular financial capability workshops for inmates. “Collaboration between Corrections, banks, financial mentoring organisations, and community groups is essential to overcoming these challenges. Ensuring nationwide consistency, addressing systemic barriers, and securing resources are critical for the successful implementation of the proposed recommendations,” says Victoria Stace.
    Read the report here: https://www.fincap.org.nz/images/files/Steps-to-Freedom-Full-Report-on-Stage-2.pdf

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Transport and Legislation – Ending ACC discount for safe truck drivers is a backwards move

    Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

    Road freight industry group Transporting New Zealand is calling on the Government to reverse its decision to end an ACC levy discount for truck drivers, saying the move will jeopardise road safety.
    The ACC Fleet Saver package closes to new entrants from 1 July this year and will end on 20 June 2029.
    Fleet Saver can save accredited businesses that demonstrate their commitment to road and workplace safety up to 40 per cent on the ACC portion of their annual motor vehicle license fees.
    Chief executive Dom Kalasih says the savings from the programme helps businesses to deliver better safety outcomes for staff and customers.
    “The proposed closure would jeopardise this progress. The Government needs to make it easier for businesses to sign up by reducing barriers.”
    He says currently the programme is only open to businesses that own five or more heavy goods vehicles. However, data from the Ministry of Transport shows 55 per cent of heavy vehicles in the road freight industry operate in fleets of five vehicles or less.
    “We want to work with ACC to reform and improve the scheme,” Kalasih says.
    “ACC’s claim that the programme is not delivering is based on an assessment they made in 2018, and there have been no improvements or substantial promotion of the programme since that date.
    “The closure of the programme will not support improved safety and recovery outcomes, nor will it produce any material financial savings for ACC.”
    Kalasih says even more puzzling is that while ACC is shutting its Fleet Saver system down, NZTA is signaling its intent to reward transport operators with a variety of accredited management systems.
    “How one part of government can be closing down this approach just as another one starts off on that path is baffling.”
    “The industry deserves some joined up government thinking on this otherwise it appears inevitable there will be an increased compliance cost to industry and ultimately that will show up as an increased cost of living.”
    Kalasih says he welcomes the opportunity to meet with the ACC Minister Scott Simpson to discuss how ACC and the road freight industry can work to protect and improve the safety benefits offered by Fleet Saver,
    Transporting New Zealand encourages any eligible road freight companies to apply to join ACC Fleet Saver by June 30 and will help members with the application process.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Florida Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Hurricane Debby

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Florida of the May 12, deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by Hurricane Debby occurring Aug. 1-27, 2024. 

    The disaster declaration covers the Florida counties of Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Columbia, DeSoto, Dixie, Duval, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hardee, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Marion, Nassau, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Sumter, Suwannee, Taylor, Union and Wakulla, as well as the Georgia counties of Brooks, Charlton, Clinch, Echols, Lowndes, Thomas and Ware. 

    Under this declaration SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. 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 small 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. 

    “SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.” 

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition. 

    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 economic injury applications is May 12, 2025. 

    ### 

    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 or 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 –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Thousands of miles of roadworks lifted ahead of Easter as drivers set to be £500 better off

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Press release

    Thousands of miles of roadworks lifted ahead of Easter as drivers set to be £500 better off

    We are tackling the real problems that drivers face by lifting miles of roadworks and cracking down on disruptive streetworks. 

    • 97.5% of major roads across the country will be roadwork free over the Easter holidays, speeding up journey times and improving living standards
    • government intervention is set to save drivers up to £500 a year on pothole related car repairs and fuel duty, easing the cost of living and delivering the Plan for Change
    • comes alongside hefty fines to minimise disruptive street works as government doubles fines and applies charges up to £10,000 a day for those overrunning to clear more roads

    Drivers are set to benefit from up to £500 of savings per year and see smoother Easter getaways as 1,127 miles of roadworks are lifted, the Department for Transport (DfT) has announced today (16 April 2025).

    It comes as RAC data shows hitting a pothole can cost drivers up to £460 in repairs. That’s why the government is putting £1.6 billion into the hands of local councils from this month to get fixing our roads – enough to fill 7 million extra potholes, going far above and beyond the government’s manifesto commitment.

    To further protect motorists given continued cost-of-living pressures and potential fuel price volatility amid global uncertainty, the government has frozen fuel duty at current levels for another year to support hardworking families and businesses, saving the average car driver £59.

    Together, this means that drivers could save up to £500 a year from the government’s measures, saving motorists money, improving living standards and getting Britain moving as part of the Plan for Change.   

    The government is also speeding up journeys for the 19.1 million drivers the AA estimate will make car trips on Good Friday, as National Highways lifts 1,127 miles of roadworks over the bank holiday.

    Around 97.5% of major roads across England will be completely free from roadworks, speeding up millions of journeys and boosting connectivity across the country to drive growth – the key priority in the government’s plan for change.

    Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said:  

    Cutting journey times and saving drivers money every year is all part of our Plan for Change to raise living standards and put more money in people’s pockets.

    We are tackling the real problems that drivers face by lifting 1,127 miles of roadworks over Easter and cracking down on disruptive streetworks to make journeys to see loved ones as smooth as possible. 

    This government is also saving drivers up to £500 a year, with councils soon to receive their record £1.6 billion pothole funding and the continued freeze on fuel duty.

    Improving our national infrastructure and rebuilding Britain is critical to achieving growth – the top mission of the government. That’s why since entering office the government has unlocked 7 major road schemes backed by £580 million. This includes the recently approved Lower Thames Crossing which will be a key strategic route for drivers, freight and logistics – improving connectivity between the south and the midlands, linking up our ports and unlocking regional growth.

    This includes £200 million for the A47 Thickthorn Junction and £290 million for M3 Junction 9, plus £90m for local road schemes like the:

    • A130 Fairglen Interchange
    • South-East Aylesbury Link Road
    • A350 Chippenham Bypass
    • A647 scheme in Leeds

    This is a total of over £580 million for schemes to get Britain moving.

    On top of this, the government recently announced a further £4.8 billion for National Highways to protect the country’s strategic road network, which provides critical routes and connections across the country. The funding will ensure this vital network is kept in good repair and remains fit for the future whilst delivering essential improvement schemes to unlock growth and housing development.

    Many drivers are already seeing faster journeys on motorways, as over 270 miles of roadworks have recently been lifted following National Highways completing its National Emergency Area Retrofit programme last month, which saw roadworks on the M1, M3, M4, M5, M20, M25 and M27 lifted.

    National Highways is reminding drivers to properly prepare for Easter travel by relaunching its ‘TRIP’ campaign, encouraging drivers to ‘Top-up, Rest, Inspect, Prepare’. The guidance aims to prevent breakdowns which can lead to delays and unexpected costs. 

    Significant routes to benefit from roadworks being lifted or completed in time for the Easter getaway include:

    • over 130 miles of roadworks on the M25
    • more than 100 miles on the M1 between London and Chesterfield
    • more than 70 miles on the A27 between Polegate, East Sussex and Havant, Hampshire
    • 49 miles on the A34 between Oxford and Winchester
    • almost 50 miles on the M27 between Southampton and Portsmouth
    • over 45 miles on the M4 between Hayes and Hungerford
    • 44 miles on the M2 between Rochester and Faversham
    • 37 miles on the A303 near Andover
    • 31 miles on the A47 between Great Yarmouth and Peterborough

    Disruptive streetworks by utility companies are also being tackled under this government’s clampdown, with doubled fines and charges of up to £10,000 per day for utility works that overrun at weekends and bank holidays. This will help make sure works finish on time, and roads can be fully reopened to traffic.  

    The most congested roads also see the highest charges, under lane rental schemes – meaning utility companies are charged more on the busiest roads and at the busiest times. At least 50% of the revenue raised from these will go into mending more potholes, so that even more roads can be improved. There are currently 5 lane rental schemes running across England, with applications for 8 new schemes.  This month saw East Sussex starting its own lane rental scheme, to deter disruptive utility companies and save drivers many hours off weekend car journeys.

    The government is also introducing measures to implement a new digital service that will speed up roadworks, slash traffic delays and reduce accidental strikes on pipes which currently amount to 60,000 per year, costing the UK economy £2.4 billion.

    With holes being dug in UK roads every 7 seconds, the National Underground Asset Register, part of the Data (Use and Access) Bill, will create a map of the country’s underground pipes and cables, allowing construction workers to instantly see their exact location – a process which currently takes 6 days.

    Technology Secretary, Peter Kyle, said:

    Technology must be first and foremost used to make people’s lives better, and that includes tackling the misery of traffic caused by road works. 

    That’s why we are creating a comprehensive digital map of underground cables and pipes in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The map will mean construction workers and utility companies will know exactly what lies beneath before they dig, helping to prevent accidental damage like bursting water mains.

    Our laws will not only back our mission to make British roads safer and journey times quicker, but also grow our economy by £400 million each year as part of our Plan for Change by reducing disruption to motorists and businesses.

    Andrew Butterfield, National Highways Director of Operational Services, said: 

    We expect the roads to be busy with people looking to make the most of a long Easter weekend. That’s why we are making journeys easier by removing a huge number of roadworks.

    Drivers should also take time to plan ahead. Two of the top 3 causes of breakdowns are tyre issues and empty fuel tanks. You can help prevent any breakdowns by following our advice: top up your fuel, oil and screenwash, plan your journey, check your tyres and prepare for all weather conditions.

    Dan Joyce, Operations Director at Kwik Fit, said:

    The removal of roadworks for Easter is welcome news for drivers, so it will be even more frustrating if something else gets in the way of a smooth holiday journey.

    There are many easy checks drivers can make themselves to avoid problems. Tyre pressure and tread, along with topping up fluids, are the key ones to carry out.  If anyone has any concerns about their car’s condition, they can book a free check with Kwik Fit and have one of our expert teams check it over to make sure they’re safe on the roads.

    AA President, Edmund King OBE, said:

    Bank holiday weekends tend to remind us of the importance of having a good road network without roadwork delays or plagues of potholes. Hence, we very much welcome the lifting of roadworks as record numbers hit the roads this weekend and the government’s efforts to address the pothole pandemic and reduce disruptive streetworks. Drivers can help by making sure their tyres are properly inflated, oil and coolant levels are correct, and that they plenty of fuel or charge if driving an EV.

    Andy Turbefield, Head of Autocentres Quality, Standards and Policy at Halfords, said:

    Potholes are more than just a nuisance; they’re a threat to road safety. Every day in our garages we see the damage they do to tyres and wheels, steering and suspension and exhaust systems. Addressing Britain’s pothole crisis will not only save motorists money, it could also save their lives.

    RAC breakdown spokesperson, Alice Simpson, said:

    With a ‘hat-trick of hold-ups’ expected on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, the lifting of roadworks should help ease journeys to popular destinations like the West Country, the south coast and East Anglia. A quick check of your vehicle before leaving could avoid an expensive and unwanted breakdown.

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    Published 16 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Lowering Drug Prices by Once Again Putting Americans First

    Source: The White House

    class=”has-text-align-left”>By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:

    Section 1.  Purpose.  My first term included numerous significant actions, including some of the most aggressive in recent history, to deliver lower prescription drug prices to American patients.  The message was clear:  no longer would the executive branch sit idly by as pharmaceutical manufacturers charged patients in our Nation more than those in other countries for the exact same prescription drugs, often made in the exact same places.

    These actions included encouraging the development of generic and biosimilar alternatives to higher cost brand name prescription drugs and biologics to harness competitive forces and increase access to affordable medicines.  The United States also, for the first time, established a pathway to expand access to lower cost drugs imported from outside of the country.  Reform efforts ensured that Government-mandated discounts were passed through to patients instead of being retained by middlemen.  New price transparency rules were promulgated to allow patients, doctors, and employers to see the actual cost of prescription drugs before purchase.  Insulin copayments were capped for Medicare beneficiaries, and manufacturers, instead of patients and taxpayers, were forced to foot the bill through the provision of larger discounts.  I also called on the Congress to come to the table to help craft sustainable solutions that would promote innovation and affordable access for the long-term.  When the Congress refused, I proposed the test of an innovative new payment mechanism that would prevent drug manufacturers from charging our patients much higher prices than those found abroad.
    Combined, these bold actions were delivering real savings for American patients and set the foundation to dramatically narrow the price disparity between the United States and foreign nations over time.
    Unsurprisingly, the Biden Administration reversed, walked back, or neglected many of these initiatives, undoing the progress made for American patients.  The Biden Administration then signed into law the misnamed Inflation Reduction Act, which included the Medicare Prescription Drug Negotiation Program.  While this program has the commendable goal of reducing the drug prices Medicare and its beneficiaries pay, its administratively complex and expensive regime has thus far produced much lower savings than projected.  Further, accompanying changes to the Medicare Part D program led to inflated premiums and diminished coverage choices for seniors, prompting a taxpayer-funded bailout of insurance companies offering Part D plans.  Finally, the program imposes price controls on small molecule prescription drugs, usually in tablet or capsule form, 4 years earlier than on large molecule biological products.  Known as the “pill penalty,” this discrepancy threatens to distort innovation by pushing investment towards expensive biological products, which are often indicated to treat rarer diseases, and away from small molecule prescription drugs, which are generally cheaper and treat larger patient populations.
    The American people deserve better.  It is time to restore the progress our Nation made in my first term to deliver lower prescription drug prices by putting Americans first and making America healthy again.

    Sec. 2.  Policy.  It is the policy of the United States that Federal health care programs, intellectual property protections, and safety regulations are optimized to provide access to prescription drugs at lower costs to American patients and taxpayers.

    Sec. 3.  Improving upon the Inflation Reduction Act.  (a)  Within 60 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Health and Human Services (Secretary), consistent with sections 1191 to 1198 of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1320f-1320f-7) and other applicable law, shall propose and seek comment on guidance for the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program for initial price applicability year 2028 and manufacturer effectuation of maximum fair price under such program in 2026, 2027, and 2028.  The guidance shall improve the transparency of the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program, prioritize the selection of prescription drugs with high costs to the Medicare program, and minimize any negative impacts of the maximum fair price on pharmaceutical innovation within the United States.
    (b)  Within 180 days of the date of this order, the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy, in coordination with the Secretary, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB Director), and the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, shall provide recommendations to the President on how best to stabilize and reduce Medicare Part D premiums.
    (c)  The Secretary shall work with the Congress to modify the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program to align the treatment of small molecule prescription drugs with that of biological products, ending the distortion that undermines relative investment in small molecule prescription drugs, coupled with other reforms to prevent any increase in overall costs to Medicare and its beneficiaries.

    Sec. 4.  Reducing the Prices of High-Cost Drugs for Seniors.  Within 1 year of the date of this order, the Secretary shall take appropriate steps to develop and implement a rulemaking plan and select for testing, consistent with 42 U.S.C. 1315a(b)(2), a payment model to improve the ability of the Medicare program to obtain better value for high-cost prescription drugs and biological products covered by Medicare, including those not subject to the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program.

    Sec. 5.  Appropriately Accounting for Acquisition Costs of Drugs in Medicare.  Within 180 days of the date of this order, as appropriate and consistent with applicable law, the Secretary shall publish in theFederal Register a plan to conduct a survey under section 1833(t)(14)(D)(ii) of the Social Security Act to determine the hospital acquisition cost for covered outpatient drugs at hospital outpatient departments.  Following the conclusion of this survey, the Secretary shall consider and propose any appropriate adjustments that would align Medicare payment with the cost of acquisition, consistent with the budget neutrality requirement in section 1833(t)(9)(B) of the Social Security Act and other legal requirements.

    Sec. 6.  Promoting Innovation, Value, and Enhanced Oversight in Medicaid Drug Payment.  Within 180 days of the date of this order, the OMB Director, the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy, and the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, in coordination with the Secretary, shall jointly provide recommendations to the President on how best to ensure that manufacturers pay accurate Medicaid drug rebates consistent with section 1927 of the Social Security Act, promote innovation in Medicaid drug payment methodologies, link payments for drugs to the value obtained, and support States in managing drug spending.

    Sec. 7.  Access to Affordable Life-Saving Medications.  Within 90 days of the date of this order, as appropriate and consistent with applicable law, the Secretary shall take action to ensure future grants available under section 330(e) of the Public Health Service Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 254b(e), are conditioned upon health centers establishing practices to make insulin and injectable epinephrine available at or below the discounted price paid by the health center grantee or sub-grantee under the 340B Prescription Drug Program (plus a minimal administration fee) to individuals with low incomes, as determined by the Secretary, who:
    (a)  have a high cost-sharing requirement for either insulin or injectable epinephrine;
    (b)  have a high unmet deductible; or
    (c)  have no healthcare insurance.

    Sec. 8.  Reevaluating the Role of Middlemen.  Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy, in coordination with the Secretary, the OMB Director, and the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, shall provide recommendations to the President on how best to promote a more competitive, efficient, transparent, and resilient pharmaceutical value chain that delivers lower drug prices for Americans.

    Sec. 9. Accelerating Competition for High-Cost Prescription Drugs.  Within 180 days of the date of this order, the Secretary, through the Commissioner of Food and Drugs, shall issue a report providing administrative and legislative recommendations to:
    (a)  accelerate approval of generics, biosimilars, combination products, and second-in-class brand name medications; and
    (b)  improve the process through which prescription drugs can be reclassified as over-the-counter medications, including recommendations to optimally identify prescription drugs that can be safely provided to patients over the counter.

    Sec. 10.  Increasing Prescription Drug Importation to Lower Prices.  Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Secretary, through the Commissioner of Food and Drugs, shall take steps to streamline and improve the Importation Program under section 804 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to make it easier for States to obtain approval without sacrificing safety or quality.

    Sec. 11.  Reducing Costly Care for Seniors.  Within 180 days of the date of this order, the Secretary shall evaluate and, if appropriate and consistent with applicable law, propose regulations to ensure that payment within the Medicare program is not encouraging a shift in drug administration volume away from less costly physician office settings to more expensive hospital outpatient departments.

    Sec. 12.  Improving Transparency into Pharmacy Benefit Manager Fee Disclosure.  Within 180 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Labor shall propose regulations pursuant to section 408(b)(2)(B) of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 to improve employer health plan fiduciary transparency into the direct and indirect compensation received by pharmacy benefit managers.

    Sec. 13.  Combating Anti-Competitive Behavior by Prescription Drug Manufacturers.  Within 180 days of the date of this order, the Secretary or his designee shall conduct joint public listening sessions with the appropriate personnel from the Department of Justice, the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Trade Commission and issue a report with recommendations to reduce anti-competitive behavior from pharmaceutical manufacturers.

    Sec. 14.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:

    (i.) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or

    (ii.) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

      (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
      (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

                                     DONALD J. TRUMP

      THE WHITE HOUSE,
          April 15, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Ensuring National Security and Economic Resilience Through Section 232 Actions on Processed Critical Minerals and Derivative Products

    Source: The White House

    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, as amended (19 U.S.C. 1862) (the “Act”), it is hereby ordered:

         Section 1.  Policy.  A strong national defense depends on a robust economy and price stability, a resilient manufacturing and defense industrial base, and secure domestic supply chains.  Critical minerals, including rare earth elements, in the form of processed minerals are essential raw materials and critical production inputs required for economic and national security.  Critical mineral oxides, oxalates, salts, and metals (processed critical minerals), as well as their derivative products — the manufactured goods incorporating them — are similarly foundational to United States national security and defense.

         But processed critical minerals and their derivative products face significant global supply chain vulnerabilities and market distortions due to reliance on a small number of foreign suppliers.  These vulnerabilities and distortions have led to significant United States import dependencies.  The dependence of the United States on imports and the vulnerability of our supply chains raises the potential for risks to national security, defense readiness, price stability, and economic prosperity and resilience.

         Processed critical minerals and their derivative products are essential for economic security and resilience because they underpin key industries, drive technological innovation, and support critical infrastructure vital for a modern American economy.  They are key building blocks of our manufacturing base and foundational to sectors ranging from transportation and energy to telecommunications and advanced manufacturing.  These economic sectors are, moreover, foundational to America’s national security.

         Processed critical minerals and their derivative products are essential for national security because they are foundational to military infrastructure, energy infrastructure, and advanced defense systems and technologies.  They are key building blocks of our defense industrial base and integral to applications such as jet engines, missile guidance systems, advanced computing, radar systems, advanced optics, and secure communications equipment.

         The United States manufacturing and defense industrial bases remain dependent on foreign sources for processed critical mineral products.  Many of these foreign sources are at risk of serious, sustained, and long-term supply chain shocks.  Should the United States lose access to processed critical minerals from foreign sources, the United States commercial and defense manufacturing base for derivative products could face significant shortages and an inability to meet demand. 

         Associated risks arise from a variety of factors.  First, global supply chains are prone to disruption from geopolitical tensions, wars, natural disasters, pandemics, and trade conflicts.

        Second, major global foreign producers of processed critical minerals have engaged in widespread price manipulation, overcapacity, arbitrary export restrictions, and the exploitation of their supply chain dominance to distort world markets and thereby gain geopolitical and economic leverage over the United States and other competitors that depend on processed critical minerals to manufacture derivative products essential to their economic and national security and national defense. Therefore, the import dependence of the United States on processed critical minerals from foreign sources may pose a serious national security risk to the United States economy and defense preparedness.

         Third, the risks arising from America’s import dependence on processed critical minerals also extend to derivative products that are integral to the United States economy and economic and national security. 

         For the United States to manufacture derivative products, it must have ready access to an affordable, resilient, and sustainable supply of processed critical minerals.  Simultaneously, a resilient and sustainable manufacturing base for derivative products is vital to creating a stable demand base for processed critical minerals.  Both must coexist to ensure economic stability and national security.

         Finally, overreliance on a small number of geographic regions amplifies the risks posed by geopolitical instability and regional disruptions.

         In light of the above risks and realities, an investigation under section 232 of the Act (section 232) is necessary to determine whether imports of processed critical minerals and their derivative products threaten to impair national security. 

         Sec. 2.  Definitions.  As used in this order:
            (a)  The term “critical minerals” means those minerals included in the “Critical Minerals List” published by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) pursuant to section 7002(c) of the Energy Act of 2020 (30 U.S.C. 1606) at 87 FR 10381, or any subsequent such list.  The term “critical minerals” also includes uranium.
            (b)  The term “rare earth elements” means the 17 elements identified as rare earth elements by the Department of Energy (DOE) in the April 2020 publication titled “Critical Materials Rare Earths Supply Chain.”  The term also includes any additional elements that either the USGS or DOE determines in any subsequent official report or publication should be considered rare earth elements.
            (c)  The term “processed critical minerals” refers to critical minerals that have undergone the activities that occur after critical mineral ore is extracted from a mine up through its conversion into a metal, metal powder or a master alloy.  These activities specifically occur beginning from the point at which ores are converted into oxide concentrates; separated into oxides; and converted into metals, metal powders, and master alloys. 
            (d)  The term “derivative products” includes all goods that incorporate processed critical minerals as inputs.  These goods include semi-finished goods (such as semiconductor wafers, anodes, and cathodes) as well as final products (such as permanent magnets, motors, electric vehicles, batteries, smartphones, microprocessors, radar systems, wind turbines and their components, and advanced optical devices).

         Sec. 3.  Section 232 Investigation.  (a)  The Secretary of Commerce shall initiate an investigation under section 232 to determine the effects on national security of imports of processed critical minerals and their derivative products.
         (b)  In conducting the investigation described in subsection (a) of this section, the Secretary of Commerce shall assess the factors set forth in 19 U.S.C. 1862(d), labeled “Domestic production for national defense; impact of foreign competition on economic welfare of domestic industries,” as well as other relevant factors, including:
                 (i)    identification of United States imports of all processed critical minerals and derivative products incorporating such processed critical minerals;
                 (ii)   the foreign sources by percent and volume of all processed critical mineral imports and derivative product imports, the specific types of risks that may be associated with each source by country, and those source countries deemed to be of significant risk;
                (iii)  an analysis of the distortive effects of the predatory economic, pricing, and market manipulation strategies and practices used by countries that process critical minerals that are exported to the United States, including the distortive effects on domestic investment and the viability of United States production, as well as an assessment of how such strategies and practices permit such countries to maintain their control over the critical minerals processing sector and distort United States market prices for derivative products;
                 (iv)   an analysis of the demand for processed critical minerals by manufacturers of derivative products in the United States and globally, including an assessment of the extent to which such manufacturers’ demand for processed critical minerals originates from countries identified under subsections (b)(ii) and (b)(iii) of this section;
                 (v)    a review and risk assessment of global supply chains for processed critical minerals and their derivative products;
                 (vi)   an analysis of the current and potential capabilities of the United States to process critical minerals and their derivative products; and
                 (vii)  the dollar value of the current level of imports of all processed critical minerals and derivative products by total value and country of export.
         (c)  The Secretary of Commerce shall, consistent with applicable law, proceed expeditiously in conducting the investigation as follows:
                 (i)    Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Commerce shall submit for internal review and comment a draft interim report to the Secretary of the Treasury, the Secretary of Defense, the United States Trade Representative, the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, and the Senior Counselor to the President for Trade and Manufacturing.
                 (ii)   Comments to the Secretary of Commerce from the officials identified in subsection (c)(i) of this section shall be provided within 15 days of submission of the draft interim report described in subsection (c)(i) of this section.
                 (iii)  The Secretary of Commerce shall submit a final report and recommendations to the President within 180 days of the investigation’s commencement.
         (d)  In considering whether to make recommendations for action or inaction pursuant to section 232(b) of the Act (19 U.S.C. 1862(b)), the Secretary of Commerce shall consider:
                 (i)    the imposition of tariffs as well as other import restrictions and their appropriate levels;
                 (ii)   safeguards to avoid circumvention and any weakening of the section 232 measures;
                 (iii)  policies to incentivize domestic production, processing, and recycling; and
                 (iv)   any additional measures that may be warranted to mitigate United States national security risks, as appropriate, under the President’s authority pursuant to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.).

         Sec. 4.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
                 (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
                 (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
         (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
         (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

                                  DONALD J. TRUMP

    THE WHITE HOUSE
        April 15, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Restores Common Sense to Federal Procurement

    Source: The White House

    MODERNIZING THE PROCUREMENT SYSTEM: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order restoring common sense to Federal procurement by dramatically simplifying the process.

    • The Order directs his administration to simplify and streamline the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), which governs Federal procurement, to ensure it contains only provisions required by statute or essential to efficient, secure, and cost-effective procurement.
    • Agencies exercising procurement authority must ensure agency-specific regulations align with the streamlined FAR.
    • The Order mandates the issuance of interim guidance, as needed, to support reform until the final rules reforming the FAR are published.
    • A regulatory sunset provision will be considered that would result in non-statutory FAR provisions expiring after four years unless renewed.

    ELIMINATING BARRIERS TO DOING BUSINESS WITH THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT: President Trump wants to create the most agile, effective, and efficient procurement system possible.

    • The Federal Government is the largest buyer of goods and services in the world, spending nearly $1 trillion annually, yet conducting business with the Federal Government is often prohibitively inefficient and costly given the regulatory complexity.
    • Since its inception over 40 years ago, the FAR has ballooned to more than 2,000 pages of regulations, creating an onerous bureaucracy that undermines timely delivery of high-value products and services.
    • Studies have consistently found that the FAR is a barrier to, rather than a prudent vehicle for, doing business with the Federal Government.
    • By reforming the FAR, President Trump is reducing bureaucratic hurdles, empowering all businesses to compete for government contracts, and ensuring taxpayer dollars deliver maximum value.

    RECLAIMING EFFICIENCY FOR THE AMERICAN TAXPAYER: President Trump is working to simplify the Federal Government and free the American people from excessive regulations and bureaucracy.

    • President Trump launched a 10-to-1 deregulation initiative, ensuring every new Federal rule is justified by clear benefits and accompanied by much larger deregulatory measures.
    • At every step, President Trump is promoting the use of commercial options, letting the market drive innovation and deliver high-quality, cost-effective solutions to meet government needs.
    • President Trump established the “Department of Government Efficiency” to examine how to streamline the operations of the Federal Government, eliminate unnecessary programs and wasteful spending, and reduce bureaucratic inefficiency.
    • President Trump has already reduced unnecessarily large governmental entities and terminated numerous harmful Biden expansions of governmental authority.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Fact Sheet: President Trump Brings Permitting Technology Into the 21st Century for Government Efficiency

    Source: The White House

    MODERNIZING PERMITTING TECHNOLOGY: Today, President Donald J. Trump issued a memorandum to ensure the Federal government is leveraging modern technology to effectively and efficiently conduct environmental reviews and evaluate permits.

    • The Presidential Memorandum directs Federal agencies to make maximum use of technology in the environmental review and permitting processes for infrastructure projects of all kinds.
    • The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), in consultation with the National Energy Dominance Council (NEDC) and relevant permitting agencies, will issue a Permitting Technology Action Plan to guide agencies as they use technology to digitize permit applications, expedite reviews, enhance interagency coordination on projects, and give sponsors more transparency and predictability on project permitting schedules.
    • CEQ will also establish and lead a Permitting Innovation Center to assist Federal agencies as they adopt new software and automate application and review processes, including to coordinate agencies in this effort.
    • This will also help agencies share information with state and tribal officials to make those permitting processes easier for project sponsors.

    ELIMINATING UNCERTAINTY: President Trump recognizes the environmental review and permitting process has been burdened by a lack of transparency and outdated technology.

    • The current environmental review and permitting process in the United States is inefficient, unpredictable, and counterproductive to the growth of the American economy and other infrastructure projects that benefit the American people.
    • Projects often involve multiple Federal agencies with overlapping statutory requirements, and expanding the use of modern technology in the environmental review and permitting process will improve coordination and reduce duplicative efforts by both Federal agencies and project applicants.
    • The actual time to complete many infrastructure projects, when measured from project inception to in-service date, can be a decade or more.

    RESTORING AMERICAN PROSPERITY:  Environmental review and permitting reform is a top priority for the Trump Administration and this action will accelerate the process, improve the transparency and predictability of project timelines, and eliminate unnecessary delays holding back the growth of the American economy. 

    • As part of his America First agenda, President Trump promised to Make America Affordable and Energy Dominant Again by streamlining environmental reviews and permitting decisions.
    • This memorandum builds on President Trump’s Day One Executive Order Unleashing American Energy, which includes provisions to expedite and simplify the environmental review and permitting process, and return our Nation to energy dominance.
      • In response to the President’s Executive Order, the CEQ published an interim final rule to rescind its National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) regulations. Rescinding this regulation removes a burdensome layer of bureaucracy, creating a clear path for agencies to expeditiously reform their own NEPA procedures and allow America to build again.
      • This action to return CEQ to a consulting body, combined with the implementation of modern permitting technology, will enable better interagency coordination, resulting in the greatest and fastest permitting reform ever to take place in the decades-long history of NEPA.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Enforces Requirement of Cost-Effective Commercial Solutions in Federal Contracts

    Source: The White House

    ENFORCING COST-EFFECTIVE PROCUREMENT: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to enforce existing law requiring the Federal Government to utilize the competitive marketplace and the innovations of private enterprise to provide better, more-cost-effective services to the taxpayer.

    • The Order directs the administration to prioritize the procurement of commercially available products and services, as required by the Federal Acquisition Streamlining Act of 1994 (FASA), rather than non-commercial, custom products or services.
    • It calls for agency contracting officers to review all pending contracts for non-commercial products or services within 60 days and submit proposed waivers justifying their necessity.
      • The waivers must include market research and price analysis to demonstrate why commercial solutions cannot meet the government’s needs.
    • It directs agencies to submit reports to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) within 120 days and annually thereafter detailing compliance with FASA and progress on implementing the Order’s policies.
    • The Order establishes that waivers for non-commercial procurements must be reviewed and approved or denied in writing.

    CURBING WASTEFUL EXPENDITURES: President Trump is eliminating unnecessary and imprudent expenditures of taxpayer dollars by requiring government procurement of existing commercial products and services where possible.

    • Previous administrations evaded statutory requirements and abused the federal contracting framework by procuring custom products and services where a suitable or superior commercial solution would fulfill the Government’s needs.
    • This overreliance on custom items increased government spending and caused costly delays to the detriment of American taxpayers.
    • Federal agencies are wasting taxpayer dollars on non-commercial solutions that fail to leverage the efficiency and competitiveness of the private-sector marketplace.
    • For example, with respect to IT procurement, a 2019 report found that the Federal government could have saved an estimated $345 billion over the last 25 years if it had abided by FASA and purchased more commercial off-the-shelf IT solutions, rather than building systems from scratch.

    PROMOTING COMMERCIAL SOLUTIONS AND STREAMLINING ACQUISITIONS: President Trump is ensuring government procurement delivers better value to American taxpayers.

    • President Trump previously signed an Executive Order to modernize defense acquisitions, including a preference for commercial solutions.
    • President Trump also signed an Executive Order consolidating certain federal procurement in the General Services Administration in order to eliminate waste, inefficiencies, and duplication.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Ensures National Security and Economic Resilience Through Section 232 Actions on Processed Critical Minerals and Derivative Products

    Source: The White House

    BOLSTERING AMERICA’S CRITICAL MINERALS FUTURE: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order launching an investigation into the national security risks posed by U.S. reliance on imported processed critical minerals and their derivative products.

    • The Order directs the Secretary of Commerce to initiate a Section 232 investigation under the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 to evaluate the impact of imports of these materials on America’s security and resilience.
    • This investigation will assess vulnerabilities in supply chains, the economic impact of foreign market distortions, and potential trade remedies to ensure a secure and sustainable domestic supply of these essential materials.
    • The investigation will culminate in a report detailing risks and providing recommendations to strengthen domestic production, reduce dependence on foreign suppliers, and enhance economic and national security.
    • If the Secretary of Commerce submits a report finding that imports of critical-mineral articles threaten to impair national security and the President decides to impose tariffs, any resulting tariff rate imposed under Section 232 would take the place of the current reciprocal tariff rate, pursuant to President Trump’s April 2 order.

    COUNTERING THREATS TO NATIONAL SECURITY AND ECONOMIC STABILITY: President Trump recognizes that an overreliance on foreign critical minerals and their derivative products could jeopardize U.S. defense capabilities, infrastructure development, and technological innovation.

    • Critical minerals, including rare earth elements, are essential for national security and economic resilience.
      • Processed critical minerals and their derivative products are key building blocks of our defense industrial base and integral to applications such as jet engines, missile guidance systems, advanced computing, radar systems, advanced optics, and secure communications equipment.
    • The United States remains heavily dependent on foreign sources, particularly adversarial nations, for these essential materials, exposing the economy and defense sector to supply chain disruptions and economic coercion.
    • Foreign producers have engaged in price manipulation, overcapacity, and arbitrary export restrictions, using their supply chain dominance as a tool for geopolitical and economic leverage over the United States.
    • A few months ago, China banned exports to the United States of gallium, germanium, antimony, and other key high-tech materials with potential military applications.  
    • Just this week, China suspended exports of six heavy rare earth metals, as well as rare earth magnets, in order to choke off supplies of components central to automakers, aerospace manufacturers, semiconductor companies and military contractors around the world.

    STRENGTHENING AMERICAN INDUSTRY: This Executive Order builds on previous actions taken by the Trump Administration to ensure U.S. trade policy serves the nation’s long-term interests.

    • On Day One, President Trump initiated his America First Trade Policy to make America’s economy great again.
    • On Liberation Day, President Trump imposed a 10% tariff on all countries and individualized reciprocal higher tariffs on nations with which the U.S. has the largest trade deficits in order to level the playing field and protect America’s national security.
      • More than 75 countries have already reached out to discuss new trade deals.
      • As a result, the individualized higher tariffs are currently paused amid these discussions, except for China, which retaliated.
      • China now faces up to a 245% tariff on imports to the United States as a result of its retaliatory actions.  
    • President Trump signed proclamations to close existing loopholes and exemptions to restore a true 25% tariff on steel and elevate the tariff to 25% on aluminum.
    • President Trump unveiled the “Fair and Reciprocal Plan” on trade to restore fairness in U.S. trade relationships and counter non-reciprocal trade agreements.   
    • President Trump signed a memorandum to safeguard American innovation, including the consideration of tariffs to combat digital service taxes (DSTs), fines, practices, and policies that foreign governments levy on American companies.
    • President Trump signed similar Executive Orders launching investigations into how imports of copper and imports of timber, lumber, and their derivative products threaten America’s national security and economic stability.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Announces Actions to Lower Prescription Drug Prices

    Source: The White House

    LOWERING PRESCRIPTION DRUG PRICES: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to expand on the historic efforts of his first term to lower prescription drug prices.

    • The Order directs the Department of Health and Human Services to take steps to significantly reduce drug prices for American patients.
    • It delivers lower drug prices for Medicare and the seniors who rely on it by:
      • Improving the Medicare Drug Pricing Negotiation Program in order to eclipse the 22% in savings achieved in the program’s first year.
      • Aligning Medicare payment for certain prescription drugs with the cost by which hospitals actually acquire them, which can be 35% lower than what the government currently pays.
      • Standardizing Medicare payments for prescription drugs, such as cancer treatments, regardless of where the patient receives care, which can lower prices by as much as 60%.
    • It provides massive discounts to low-income patients for life-saving medications.
      • Insulin prices for low-income patients and the uninsured will be lowered to as low as $0.03, plus a small administrative fee.
      • Injectable epinephrine for low-income patients and the uninsured will be as low as $15, plus a small administrative fee.
    • The Order helps states reduce drug prices by:
      • Facilitating importation programs that could save states millions in prescription drug costs.
      • Building off programs to help states get much better deals on expensive sickle-cell medications in Medicaid than the statutorily required 23.1% discount.

    BRINGING RADICAL TRANSPARENCY AND COMPETITION TO PRESCRIPTION DRUG MARKETS: President Trump is dedicated to creating a transparent, competitive, and fair prescription drug market for American consumers.

    • President Trump has already taken numerous actions to end the practice of large corporations profiting by keeping health care prices and business practices hidden from Americans.
    • The Order increases the availability of generics and biosimilars, which can be as much as 80% cheaper than brand alternatives.
    • The Order builds off that critical work and reevaluates the role of middlemen by:
      • Improving disclosure of fees that pharmaceutical benefit managers (PBMs) pay to brokers for steering employers to utilize their services.
      • Directing the administration to develop reforms to promote a more competitive, transparent, efficient, and resilient prescription drug value chain.
    • By addressing the influence of middlemen and promoting open competition, President Trump’s actions aim to create a fairer prescription drug market that lowers costs and ensures accountability across the health care system.

    PUTTING AMERICAN PATIENTS FIRST ONCE AGAIN: President Trump is delivering on his promise to once again put American patients first by building off of the historic efforts of his first term to lower prescription drug prices.

    • In his first term, President Trump took numerous actions that delivered real results for patients:
      • The Food and Drug Administration sped up development of lower-cost generic medicines and biosimilars as well as created a pathway for states to import lower cost drugs from Canada.
      • Government-mandated discounts were passed through to patients instead of being retained by middlemen.
      • Price transparency rules were developed to allow patients, doctors, and employers to see the actual cost of prescription drugs.
      • Insulin copays were capped for Medicare beneficiaries.
    • Unsurprisingly, the Biden-Harris Administration let many of these priorities languish while failing to even achieve the savings projected from the new Medicare Prescription Drug Negotiation Program.
    • President Trump will not stand for inaction, and his Administration is working rapidly to lower the cost of prescription drugs for Americans.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Rosen in Las Vegas Sun: Trump abandoned his promise to lower prices, but I won’t

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    LAS VEGAS, NV – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) penned an op-ed in the Las Vegas Sun criticizing President Trump for abandoning his promise to lower costs for Nevada families and reaffirming her support to provide families financial relief. In the piece, she highlighted how President Trump’s reckless tariffs and cuts to essential services are hurting hardworking Nevadans.
    Las Vegas Sun: Sen. Rosen: Trump abandoned his promise to lower prices, but I won’t
    By Jacky Rosen
    Throughout the 2024 presidential election, Donald Trump promised to bring down costs for Americans on Day 1. It’s the reason many people in our state voted for him. Unfortunately, he’s broken that promise. As president, he’s abandoned efforts to ease the financial burden so many Nevada families are facing. Instead, he’s focused on giving major tax breaks to ultra-wealthy individuals like Elon Musk.
    At the beginning of his term, I stood ready to work with President Trump to bring down costs. But I am not going to support policies or politicians that will hurt families in our state.
    A nonpartisan report recently found that Trump’s new taxes will cost the average family nearly $4,000 per year, increase home prices by roughly $20,000, and car prices by $3,000.
    Our state’s economy is fueled by travel and tourism, which rely on visitors coming to our city and spending money. If families are squeezed and their disposable incomes are decimated, fewer visitors from around the country will be able to afford a trip to Las Vegas.
    Just recently, Republicans rammed through a budget resolution in the middle of the night that puts Medicaid on the chopping block to pay for more tax cuts for billionaires. Medicaid is not just a health care program; it’s a lifeline for Nevadans in need.
    There’s a key difference between Trump and me: He may break his promise to lower costs and make things affordable for Nevada families, but I won’t.
    I helped pass bipartisan legislation in the Senate to reverse Trump’s tariffs on Canada.
    I wrote a letter calling on the administration to reverse its tariffs and sounding the alarm about the impact Trump’s tariffs would have on housing costs in our state and nationwide.
    And I’ve spoken out wherever I can — on the Senate floor, in committee hearings and back home in Nevada — to put pressure on this administration to keep its promise and do something to lower costs for our state.
    It’s time for Trump and Republicans to stop putting the ultra-wealthy ahead of working families. It’s time for them to put aside their hyper-partisan actions that are raising costs. It’s time to deliver meaningful financial relief for Nevadans. I’m ready to get that done.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: 04.15.2025 WTAS: Sen. Cruz Leads the Fight for Cryptocurrency

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) continues to make news for his leadership in the cryptocurrency space. Last week, President Trump signed his resolution into law overturning a Biden-era rule that would have undermined American leadership in cryptocurrency. Significantly, this is also the first cryptocurrency bill to ever be signed into law.
    Read more about Senator Cruz’s leadership and accomplishments for Bitcoin and cryptocurrency below.
    THE DALLAS EXPRESS: Cruz Control: Celebrating Cryptocurrency Win After Trump Signs New Law
    “Senator Ted Cruz declared a win for the cryptocurrency community when President Donald Trump signed his Congressional Review Act into law.
    Cruz has emerged as one of crypto’s most vocal advocates in the Senate. The senator has introduced a series of bills aimed at boosting the industry, and fending off what he views as federal overreach into digital financial systems.”
    CRYPTO IN AMERICA: Trump Makes History Signing First Crypto Bill into Law
    “The bill, introduced under the Congressional Review Act by Republican Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) to repeal the IRS’s so-called ‘DeFi broker rule,’ passed the Senate on March 26 with overwhelming bipartisan support in a 70–28 vote.
    ‘This rule would have undermined American leadership on cryptocurrency, and I am grateful to President Trump for signing my resolution into law,’ Cruz, who attended the signing ceremony Thursday afternoon, told Crypto In America. ‘The resolution is a victory for innovation, privacy, and economic freedom.’”
    INSIGHTS: The First U.S. Crypto Law is Now in Effect! Trump Has Eliminated DeFi Regulations!
    “The rules faced quick backlash. Critics argued they would hinder DeFi development. Republican Senator Ted Cruz pushed to repeal these rules, and now he has Trump’s support. Cruz attended the signing ceremony and stated, ‘This regulation will undermine America’s leadership in crypto. I thank President Trump for signing my resolution into law.’
    Cruz added, ‘We are protecting developers building the future of cryptocurrency. We clearly state that America will not cede digital leadership to China. We will preserve the ability for Americans to trade without government interference.’”
    DECRYPT: Ted Cruz Introduces FLARE Act to Repurpose Flared Gas for Bitcoin Mining
    “U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) has introduced a new bill aiming to turn waste energy into electricity for Bitcoin mining.
    Cruz specifically pointed to crypto mining as a direct output of this extra energy. In a statement announcing the bill’s introduction, he said that it, ‘takes advantage of Texas’s vast energy potential, reinforces our position as the home of the Bitcoin industry, and is good for the environment.’”
    THE STREET ROUNDTABLE: Senator Ted Cruz proposes bill to power Bitcoin mining with wasted gas
    “With Bitcoin mining still at the center of the debate over cryptocurrency’s environmental footprint, U.S. Senator Ted Cruz has introduced legislation intended to change the narrative — and the power source.
    Cruz emphasized the bill’s environmental and economic angles in a statement released when it was announced…Cruz’s measure could be considered part of a larger political drive to keep crypto innovation — and energy consumption — inside U.S. limits with a climate-conscious touch to mining.”
    CRYPTO.NEWS: Ted Cruz introduces FLARE Act to incentivize Bitcoin mining with waste gas
    “United States Senator Ted Cruz has introduced a new bill that offers tax incentives for cryptocurrency miners using flared natural gas to power mining operations.
    By turning stranded gas into usable energy, Cruz and supporters argue the bill would not only cut emissions but also boost energy innovation and grid resilience, especially during periods of peak demand or extreme weather.”
    CRYPTOSLATE: Senator Ted Cruz introduces FLARE Act to repurpose flared gas for Bitcoin mining
    “Senator Ted Cruz introduced legislation on April 1 to repurpose flared gas and use it to generate ‘value-added products,’ like mining Bitcoin (BTC) and other digital assets.
    According to Cruz, the bill simultaneously addresses two challenges: reducing oil and gas industry emissions and encouraging energy use innovation.”
    BACKGROUND
    Sen. Cruz introduced the Facilitate Lower Atmospheric Released Emissions (FLARE) Act, incentivizing entrepreneurs and crypto miners to use natural gas that would otherwise be stranded.
    Sen. Cruz introduced the Anti-CBDC Surveillance State Act, legislation that prohibits the Federal Reserve from issuing a central bank digital currency (CBDC). This bill passed with an overwhelming bipartisan support.
    Sen. Cruz passed a joint resolution of disapproval overturning the IRS’s Gross Proceeds Reporting rule for brokers handling digital asset sales.
    Sen. Cruz authored the Adopting Cryptocurrency in Congress as an Exchange of Payment for Transactions Resolution, also known as the ACCEPT Resolution.
    Sen. Cruz introduced an amendment to repeal a provision from the 2021 infrastructure package that created new reporting requirements for many cryptocurrency and blockchain companies in both the 117th and 118th Congresses.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ensuring National Security and Economic Resilience Through Section 232 Actions on Processed Critical Minerals and Derivative Products

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, as amended (19 U.S.C. 1862) (the “Act”), it is hereby ordered:
         Section 1.  Policy.  A strong national defense depends on a robust economy and price stability, a resilient manufacturing and defense industrial base, and secure domestic supply chains.  Critical minerals, including rare earth elements, in the form of processed minerals are essential raw materials and critical production inputs required for economic and national security.  Critical mineral oxides, oxalates, salts, and metals (processed critical minerals), as well as their derivative products — the manufactured goods incorporating them — are similarly foundational to United States national security and defense.
         But processed critical minerals and their derivative products face significant global supply chain vulnerabilities and market distortions due to reliance on a small number of foreign suppliers.  These vulnerabilities and distortions have led to significant United States import dependencies.  The dependence of the United States on imports and the vulnerability of our supply chains raises the potential for risks to national security, defense readiness, price stability, and economic prosperity and resilience.
         Processed critical minerals and their derivative products are essential for economic security and resilience because they underpin key industries, drive technological innovation, and support critical infrastructure vital for a modern American economy.  They are key building blocks of our manufacturing base and foundational to sectors ranging from transportation and energy to telecommunications and advanced manufacturing.  These economic sectors are, moreover, foundational to America’s national security.
         Processed critical minerals and their derivative products are essential for national security because they are foundational to military infrastructure, energy infrastructure, and advanced defense systems and technologies.  They are key building blocks of our defense industrial base and integral to applications such as jet engines, missile guidance systems, advanced computing, radar systems, advanced optics, and secure communications equipment.
         The United States manufacturing and defense industrial bases remain dependent on foreign sources for processed critical mineral products.  Many of these foreign sources are at risk of serious, sustained, and long-term supply chain shocks.  Should the United States lose access to processed critical minerals from foreign sources, the United States commercial and defense manufacturing base for derivative products could face significant shortages and an inability to meet demand. 
         Associated risks arise from a variety of factors.  First, global supply chains are prone to disruption from geopolitical tensions, wars, natural disasters, pandemics, and trade conflicts.
         Second, major global foreign producers of processed critical minerals have engaged in widespread price manipulation, overcapacity, arbitrary export restrictions, and the exploitation of their supply chain dominance to distort world markets and thereby gain geopolitical and economic leverage over the United States and other competitors that depend on processed critical minerals to manufacture derivative products essential to their economic and national security and national defense. Therefore, the import dependence of the United States on processed critical minerals from foreign sources may pose a serious national security risk to the United States economy and defense preparedness.
         Third, the risks arising from America’s import dependence on processed critical minerals also extend to derivative products that are integral to the United States economy and economic and national security. 
         For the United States to manufacture derivative products, it must have ready access to an affordable, resilient, and sustainable supply of processed critical minerals.  Simultaneously, a resilient and sustainable manufacturing base for derivative products is vital to creating a stable demand base for processed critical minerals.  Both must coexist to ensure economic stability and national security.
         Finally, overreliance on a small number of geographic regions amplifies the risks posed by geopolitical instability and regional disruptions.
         In light of the above risks and realities, an investigation under section 232 of the Act (section 232) is necessary to determine whether imports of processed critical minerals and their derivative products threaten to impair national security. 
         Sec. 2.  Definitions.  As used in this order:        (a)  The term “critical minerals” means those minerals included in the “Critical Minerals List” published by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) pursuant to section 7002(c) of the Energy Act of 2020 (30 U.S.C. 1606) at 87 FR 10381, or any subsequent such list.  The term “critical minerals” also includes uranium.        (b)  The term “rare earth elements” means the 17 elements identified as rare earth elements by the Department of Energy (DOE) in the April 2020 publication titled “Critical Materials Rare Earths Supply Chain.”  The term also includes any additional elements that either the USGS or DOE determines in any subsequent official report or publication should be considered rare earth elements.        (c)  The term “processed critical minerals” refers to critical minerals that have undergone the activities that occur after critical mineral ore is extracted from a mine up through its conversion into a metal, metal powder or a master alloy.  These activities specifically occur beginning from the point at which ores are converted into oxide concentrates; separated into oxides; and converted into metals, metal powders, and master alloys.         (d)  The term “derivative products” includes all goods that incorporate processed critical minerals as inputs.  These goods include semi-finished goods (such as semiconductor wafers, anodes, and cathodes) as well as final products (such as permanent magnets, motors, electric vehicles, batteries, smartphones, microprocessors, radar systems, wind turbines and their components, and advanced optical devices).
         Sec. 3.  Section 232 Investigation.  (a)  The Secretary of Commerce shall initiate an investigation under section 232 to determine the effects on national security of imports of processed critical minerals and their derivative products.     (b)  In conducting the investigation described in subsection (a) of this section, the Secretary of Commerce shall assess the factors set forth in 19 U.S.C. 1862(d), labeled “Domestic production for national defense; impact of foreign competition on economic welfare of domestic industries,” as well as other relevant factors, including:             (i)    identification of United States imports of all processed critical minerals and derivative products incorporating such processed critical minerals;             (ii)   the foreign sources by percent and volume of all processed critical mineral imports and derivative product imports, the specific types of risks that may be associated with each source by country, and those source countries deemed to be of significant risk;            (iii)  an analysis of the distortive effects of the predatory economic, pricing, and market manipulation strategies and practices used by countries that process critical minerals that are exported to the United States, including the distortive effects on domestic investment and the viability of United States production, as well as an assessment of how such strategies and practices permit such countries to maintain their control over the critical minerals processing sector and distort United States market prices for derivative products;             (iv)   an analysis of the demand for processed critical minerals by manufacturers of derivative products in the United States and globally, including an assessment of the extent to which such manufacturers’ demand for processed critical minerals originates from countries identified under subsections (b)(ii) and (b)(iii) of this section;             (v)    a review and risk assessment of global supply chains for processed critical minerals and their derivative products;             (vi)   an analysis of the current and potential capabilities of the United States to process critical minerals and their derivative products; and             (vii)  the dollar value of the current level of imports of all processed critical minerals and derivative products by total value and country of export.     (c)  The Secretary of Commerce shall, consistent with applicable law, proceed expeditiously in conducting the investigation as follows:             (i)    Within 90 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Commerce shall submit for internal review and comment a draft interim report to the Secretary of the Treasury, the Secretary of Defense, the United States Trade Representative, the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, and the Senior Counselor to the President for Trade and Manufacturing.             (ii)   Comments to the Secretary of Commerce from the officials identified in subsection (c)(i) of this section shall be provided within 15 days of submission of the draft interim report described in subsection (c)(i) of this section.             (iii)  The Secretary of Commerce shall submit a final report and recommendations to the President within 180 days of the investigation’s commencement.     (d)  In considering whether to make recommendations for action or inaction pursuant to section 232(b) of the Act (19 U.S.C. 1862(b)), the Secretary of Commerce shall consider:             (i)    the imposition of tariffs as well as other import restrictions and their appropriate levels;             (ii)   safeguards to avoid circumvention and any weakening of the section 232 measures;             (iii)  policies to incentivize domestic production, processing, and recycling; and             (iv)   any additional measures that may be warranted to mitigate United States national security risks, as appropriate, under the President’s authority pursuant to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.).
         Sec. 4.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:             (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or             (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.    (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.     (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
                                  DONALD J. TRUMP
    THE WHITE HOUSE    April 15, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Orca Announces Signing Settlement Agreement for the Payment of Arrears Owing by Tanzania Electric Supply Company Limited

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORTOLA, British Virgin Islands, April 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Orca Energy Group Inc. (“Orca” or the “Company” and includes its subsidiaries and affiliates) (TSX-V: ORC.A, ORC.B) announces that PanAfrican Energy Tanzania Limited (“PAET”) signed a Settlement Agreement with Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (“TPDC”) and Tanzania Electric Supply Company Limited (“TANESCO”) for TANESCO to pay PAET and TPDC US$52.0 million for unpaid amounts owing by TANESCO for deliveries of natural gas from the Songo Songo gas field.

    PAET and TPDC (collectively, the “Seller“) agreed with TANESCO in the Portfolio Gas Supply Agreement (as amended) (the “PGSA”) to supply it with Additional Gas (as defined in the Production Sharing Agreement (“PSA”) between PAET, TPDC and the Government of Tanzania). TANESCO, a parastatal organization wholly owned and controlled by the Government of Tanzania with oversight by the Ministry of Energy, has lifted, but not paid for, certain Additional Gas volumes supplied by the Seller. The parties acknowledged in the Settlement Agreement that these unpaid amounts totaled US$104,164,507.41 (the “TANESCO Arrears”) as of January 9, 2025, comprised of US$33.7 million of the principal amount owing and approximately US$70.5 million of default interest.

    The Settlement Agreement requires TANESCO to pay the Seller the Tanzanian Shilling equivalent of US$52.0 million (the “Settlement Amount”) comprised of the US$33.7 million principal amount and US$18.3 million representing a portion of the default interest owed by TANESCO to the Seller. The Seller agreed to waive the balance of the default interest owing by TANESCO to the Seller if TANESCO pays the Settlement Amount when required and in full. TANESCO must pay the Settlement Amount to PAET in weekly installments commencing in April 2025 and ending in October 2025. Payments on account of the Settlement Amount will be allocated between PAET and TPDC in accordance with the PSA. Pursuant to the PSA, and assuming payment in full of the Settlement Amount, Orca expects to retain approximately US$29.4 million of the Settlement Amount with TPDC retaining the balance.

    If TANESCO breaches its payment obligations under the Settlement Agreement, the Settlement Agreement terminates and the Seller will be entitled to enforce its rights to receive payment of the net amount of the TANESCO Arrears owing plus default interest.

    Jay Lyons, Chief Executive Officer, commented:

    “We are pleased to announce that a financial settlement has been reached for the Additional Gas volumes historically supplied but not paid for under the PGSA with TANESCO. Since Orca first entered Tanzania, the Company has always strived to act in the best interests of the country. This situation was no different. Despite Orca not being fully paid by TANESCO for certain volumes supplied, dating back to 2013, the Company chose to continue supplying natural gas to TANESCO in order to help protect the Tanzanian economy through sustained power generation.

    The Group is pleased to have resolved the ongoing arrears situation, with a clear payment plan now laid out that will enable TANESCO to pay the reduced amount agreed by all parties and stop incurring further arrears. It is important to note that in the event the payment schedule is not adhered to, the Group retains the right to pursue other avenues of legal recourse available to it in order to safeguard the interests of its investors.”

    Orca Energy Group Inc.

    Orca Energy Group Inc. is an international public company engaged in natural gas development and supply in Tanzania through PAET. Orca trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the trading symbols ORC.B and ORC.A.

    Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    Forward-Looking Information

    This news release contains forward-looking statements or information (collectively, “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact included in this news release, which address activities, events or developments that Orca expects or anticipates to occur in the future, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements often contain terms such as may, will, should, anticipate, expect, continue, estimate, believe, project, forecast, plan, intend, target, outlook, focus, could and similar words suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding an outlook. More particularly, this news release contains, without limitation, forward looking statements pertaining to the following: timing as to payment of the Settlement Amount; that the Seller will receive the full Settlement Amount in accordance with the terms of the Settlement Agreement; that the Settlement Agreement will not be terminated; the estimated portion of the Settlement Amount to be received by PAET; and whether TANESCO will pay some or all of the Settlement Amount in Tanzanian Shillings at the Bank of Tanzania Selling Rate on the date of payment. Although management believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot guarantee future results since such expectations are inherently subject to significant business, economic, operational, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies.

    These forward-looking statements involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the Company’s control, and many factors could cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements made by the Company, including, but not limited to: risks as to timing of payment of the Settlement Amount; risks that the Seller will not receive the full Settlement Amount in accordance with the terms of the Settlement Agreement; risks that the Settlement Agreement will be terminated; uncertainty around the portion of the Settlement Amount to be received by PAET; and uncertainty whether TANESCO will pay some or all of the Settlement Amount in Tanzanian Shillings at the Bank of Tanzania Selling Rate on the date of payment. No assurances can be given that any of the events anticipated by these forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do so, what benefits the Company will derive therefrom. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive.

    Such forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions made by the Company in light of its experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors the Company believes are appropriate in the circumstances, including, but not limited to: the Company’s relationship with TANESCO; that TANESCO will abide by the terms of the Settlement Agreement; that the amount of receivable by PAET pursuant to the Settlement Agreement will be in line with expectations; and other matters.

    The forward-looking information contained in this news release is provided as of the date hereof and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable Canadian securities laws.

    The MIL Network –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Dan Goldman Hosts Community Leaders and Constituents to Condemn Trump’s Attacks on Social Security Staff and Services

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    GOP Attacks on Social Security Administration Severely Harm Recipients’ Ability to Receive Benefits 

     

    Over 4 Million New Yorkers Rely on Social Security Benefits to Make Ends Meet 

     

    See Pictures and Video from Press Conference Here 

    New York, NY – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) today joined Disability Advocate Michael Schweinsburg, senior services providers, and Social Security recipients to observe Save Social Security Day of Action and condemn Trump and the Republican Party’s attempts to dismantle the Social Security Administration and slash benefits that New Yorkers have worked their whole lives for.

    “Social Security is a hard-earned benefit that millions of New Yorkers rely on to retire with dignity – Donald Trump and the Republican Party are trying to rip it away,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “From closing Social Security field offices to gutting administration staff and forcing seniors to travel long distances to do routine paperwork in person, Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and their DOGE hatchet men are putting insurmountable obstacles between New York seniors and the benefits they’re entitled to. As this president wages war on the programs their constituents depend on, I call on my New York Republican colleagues to grow a spine and demand these cuts be reversed immediately.”

    New York City Councilmember Carlina Rivera said, “It’s shameful that DOGE is threatening seniors, veterans, retirees and the disability community through its attacks on the Social Security Administration. New Yorkers and Americans across the country are afraid that Trump’s threats will result in drastic cuts to a system they have spent their whole lives paying into. This important agency is already seeing delays in service and technology outages and we cannot accept any more disruptions to a program that is a lifeline for so many. I’m thankful to Congressman Goldman and all of the advocates who keep fighting to ensure that all people continue receiving the benefits they’ve earned.”

    Following the press conference, Congressman Goldman entered the Social Security field office in his district and spoke to the Social Security office manager about the new administration’s policies and how they are impacting the operations of the field office. 

    Since taking office, the Trump administration has severely weakened the Social Security Administration’s ability to efficiently administer benefits to the 73 million Americans who receive Social Security. In February, the Trump administration announced plans to slash Social Security staff by over 12 percent, with even deeper cuts proposed for departments responsible for protecting sensitive data, maintaining benefit claims processing systems, and managing the agency’s website and online portal. These cuts will likely lead to further website and benefit disruptions, as well as longer in-person lines and phone wait times, preventing tens of millions of Americans from accessing their benefits.

    Congressman Goldman has worked tirelessly to protect Social Security from the Trump administration’s attacks and ensure every retiree receives the benefits they deserve.  

    Last month, Goldman urged the Acting Social Security Administration Commissioner to oppose the Trump-Musk plan to consolidate ten regional offices down to four and cut 7,000 workers for the Social Security Administration. 

    In February, Goldman cosponsored the Taxpayer Data Protection Act, which would prevent Musk and DOGE from accessing the payment systems at the Treasury Department. This system is responsible for delivering trillions in Social Security and Medicare benefits, tax refunds, and payments to government contractors. 

    Last Congress, Congressman Goldman cosponsored and voted to pass the Social Security Fairness Act. The now-enacted legislation restores full Social Security benefits for more than 3 million public service employees who receive other forms of retirement benefits. SSA is in the process of implementing the law. 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: WISH to Ignite: WISHfest25 Sparks Curiosity, Community, and Courage in Waterbury

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    More than 1,200 students, educators, and community members filled downtown Waterbury on March 28 for WISHfest25, the University of Connecticut’s third annual Waterbury Innovation, Sustainability, and Health Festival (WISHfest).

    Co-hosted by UConn Waterbury, the City of Waterbury, and Waterbury Public Schools, the festival embraced this year’s theme: “WISH to Ignite: Passion, Resilience, and Boundless Possibilities.”

    From electrifying keynotes and hands-on science exhibits to deep conversations around neurodiversity, leadership, and identity, WISHfest25 once again demonstrated that innovation isn’t limited to the lab—it thrives in community.

    From Jurassic Science to Real-Life Resilience

    The day began at the historic Palace Theater, where students heard from Jack Horner, the world-renowned paleontologist who advised six “Jurassic Park” and “Jurassic World” films—and who also happens to be severely dyslexic.

    “Being different doesn’t mean being broken,” Horner told a packed theater. “It means you see the world in a different way—and that’s where new ideas come from.”

    A panel discussion at the Palace Theater features, from left to right, Clarke, UConn NSF TRANSCEND fellow & Ph.D. student Vaishnavi Sivaprasad, Horner, and Reis, moderated by Hoeft.” (Steven Bustamante / UConn Photo)

    Horner, a MacArthur “Genius” Fellow who has received multiple honorary doctorates, shared his journey of scientific discovery and defying expectations—even showing the audience a high school report card filled with Ds and Fs. For many students, this was their first time meeting a scientist in person.

    “I still remember his talk from 10 years ago, word for word,” said Dean Fumiko Hoeft, founder and co-director of WISHfest. “It’s the kind of spark we want every student to walk away with.”

    After the event, Horner added, “You found a wonderful group of young students and lots of interesting people. I had a blast!”

    Also featured on stage was Shavana Clarke, Miss Connecticut USA 2024, a proud Jamaican American, LGBTQ+ advocate, and UConn alumna. With honesty and grace, Clarke shared her journey navigating mental health and identity, reminding students that resilience often begins with telling your story.

    Members of the Waterbury Police Department’s Mounted Unit interact with attendees at WISHfest, at the UConn Waterbury campus.” (Steve Bustamante / University of Connecticut)

    “You’re not a burden. You’re not alone. And your difference is your strength,” Clarke told the crowd, as students rose to applaud.

    Sally Reis, UConn Board of Trustees Distinguished Professor and 2025 Reed Fellow, urged educators to adopt a strength-based approach and emphasized how supporting neurodiverse and twice-exceptional learners can unlock untapped potential.

    “We spend too much time fixing what’s ‘wrong,’” Reis said. “WISHfest reminds us to discover and develop the talents of all students.”

    From the Stage to the Lab: Hands-On Learning at UConn Waterbury

    Following the morning program, energy shifted across the street to the UConn Waterbury campus, where students dove into VR simulations, brain dissections, research showcases, and interactive career stations hosted by UConn faculty, staff, and industry professionals.

    “I loved how WISHFest had such fun events at the Palace and UConn like when Jack Horner came and talked about his life,” said Julian Malusa, age 10, from Judson School in Watertown, who attended with his grandmother, reflecting on the excitement and inspiration the event provided for young attendees.

    Two UConn Waterbury students pose with Jonathan XV at WISHfest 2025 (Steve Bustamante / University of Connecticut)

    This portion of the festival was coordinated by the UConn Center for Career Readiness and Life Skills and the Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board (NRWIB), highlighting pathways in health care, business, government, tech, and education.

    The event also earned praise from school leadership. “The Waterbury Public Schools’ students were once again wowed by WISHfest and encouraged by their visit to UConn Waterbury,” said Interim Superintendent Darren Schwartz. “I am grateful for the ongoing leadership of Dr. Fumiko Hoeft and her collaboration with the Waterbury Public Schools.”

    From 1:30 to 4:00 p.m., UConn Waterbury students participated in closed small-group sessions with keynote speakers, NSF TRANSCEND Ph.D. Fellows, researchers, and community partners—deepening discussions on AI, neurodiversity, innovation, and inclusive leadership.

    Leadership, Laughter, and Legacy: The Pre-Event Dinner

    The evening before WISHfest, over 20 civic and academic leaders gathered for a private dinner hosted by Cathy and Jim Smith at their Middlebury residence. Guests included UConn President Radenka Maric, Senator Joan Hartley, Mayor Paul Pernerewski, Interim Superintendent Schwartz, and leaders in the arts, education, and nonprofit sectors.

    A student uses a VR headset at UConn Waterbury’s WISHFest 2025 (Steve Bustamante / University of Connecticut)

    Cathy Smith, President of the Leavenworth Foundation, has long supported revitalization efforts throughout Waterbury with her husband Jim Smith—from restoring the Green and City Hall to supporting the Palace Theater, and now, WISHfest.

    Closing the Day with Art and Appreciation

    The festival concluded with a VIP reception at the Mattatuck Museum, where speakers, students, and community members came together in an evening of reflection, art, and connection.

    “This is what it means to be One UConn,” said President Radenka Maric, who returned for her second WISHfest. “We don’t just teach science or policy—we create spaces where young people can imagine new futures.”

    Powered by Partnership

    WISHfest25 is a free event, made possible through the generosity of the David and Joan Reed Endowment to UConn Waterbury, with additional support from UConn NSF TRANSCEND Ph.D. Training Program, UConn School of Business Digital Frontiers Initiative, UThe OLLI Program at UConn Waterbury, Mattatuck Museum, Palace Theater, Cathy & Jim Smith, Dunkin’, and Coca-Cola.

    A group photo of WISHfest staff, comprising UConn Waterbury staff and students, in front of the Palace Theater.(Steve Bustamante / University of Connecticut)

    “The collaboration between UConn, local schools, and community partners is what truly makes WISHfest successful,” said Monica Lattimer, co-director of WISHfest and Associate Director of Operations at UConn Waterbury. “It’s amazing to see how this event grows each year and continues to inspire our students to explore new career paths and ideas.”

    What’s Next?

    Planning is already underway for WISHfest26, which will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026, and feature Temple Grandin—renowned scientist, animal behaviorist, and autism advocate—as keynote speaker. The 2026 theme will explore agriculture, nutrition, sustainability, and neurodiversity, co-sponsored by UConn CAHNR and the USDA NextGen Fellows.

    “If this year was about igniting possibility,” said Hoeft, “next year, we’ll cultivate it.”

    To learn more, visit wishfest.waterbury.uconn.edu. To inquire about sponsorship or participation in next year’s event, email wishfest@uconn.edu.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division Delivers Remarks Following Conviction of Michael Sang Correa

    Source: United States Department of Justice

    Thank you, Acting United States Attorney Grewell, Special Agent in Charge of HSI’s Denver Field Office, Steve Cagan, and everyone for being here. My name is Matthew Galeotti, and I am the Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division.

    Today, the Justice Department secured the conviction of Michael Sang Correa on multiple counts of torture and one count of conspiracy to commit torture.

    This verdict underscores the Justice Department’s determination to protect victims and prevent perpetrators of torture and other heinous human rights abuses abroad from seeking a new life here in America.  You cannot hide here.  We can and will prosecute you if you come to the United States after committing atrocities abroad. This country will not be a safe haven for human rights violators.

    At the outset, I want to express my admiration and gratitude for the strength and courage of the victim witnesses who travelled all the way from Africa to a courtroom in Denver, Colorado, to tell the jury what Correa and his co-conspirators did to them. Reliving those horrific crimes and facing their tormenter in person again takes tremendous bravery. It must have been painful and difficult, and we thank them for enduring this ordeal in the interests of justice.

    I also want to express my appreciation and commend the prosecutors from the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section, Assistant United States Attorneys from the District of Colorado, and agents from Homeland Security Investigations for relentlessly pursuing this case, and ensuring justice was done.

    The evidence presented at trial exposed the depravity of the torture Correa committed in 2006, prior to his arrival in the United States, where he sought to escape accountability for his crimes here in Colorado.

    The government’s evidence showed that Correa, along with his co-conspirators, tortured and abused victims accused of plotting a coup against the regime then in power in The Gambia, a West African country which at the time was under the regime of President Yahya Jammeh.

    Correa belonged to a special unit of President Jammeh’s security forces, known as the “Junglers,” who brutally cracked down on what the regime claimed was a coup plot.

    Trial testimony revealed the direct role Correa played in that torture.

    With the intent to cause severe pain and suffering, Correa and his co-conspirators:

    Dripped hot, molten plastic onto the bare skin of one of their victims; they put plastic bags over victims’ heads, restricting breathing; one of Correa’s co-conspirators put the barrel of a pistol into the mouth of a victim; they threatened victims with knives and stabbed one of them; they electrocuted their victims, on their hands, and on their genitals; they extinguished cigarettes into their skin; they rubbed sand into their eyes; they hit one victim in the face with a hammer; and they beat their victims ruthlessly, using fists, feet, firearms, sticks, branches, wire, and pipes, to inflict pain and cause injury.

    There were virtually no bounds on their cruelty.

    But, just as there were no bounds on the defendant’s cruelty, there are no bounds on how far this Justice Department, under the leadership of Attorney General Pamela Bondi, will go to hold people who commit such brutality to account.

    People who have committed violent crimes — let alone human rights abuses — should not come to the United States. Period. They are not entitled to live the American Dream. They belong in prison. A core policy objective of the Justice Department is to secure our communities against criminal aliens, and today’s conviction of Correa is one more step taken in that direction.

    Wherever we have jurisdiction, the Justice Department will prosecute persons who have committed atrocities abroad under the federal criminal statutes proscribing torture, war crimes, genocide, and the recruitment or use of child soldiers, among other criminal charges. The Department can also use our criminal and civil immigration and naturalization laws to revoke U.S. citizenship or obtain other criminal penalties.

    The Department of Justice participates in an interagency effort to deny safe haven in the United States to human rights violators, working closely with the Department of Homeland Security, FBI and other agencies to identify such individuals and prevent them from entering the United States. This verdict today is the outcome of successful collaboration across agencies, and especially with Homeland Security Investigations and its Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center.

    My thanks also go to the Department’s prosecutors, paralegal specialists, historian/analysts, and others who have worked on the Correa case with impressive determination and skill. They did so while always putting the victims first, which is one of the Department’s core principles.

    Correa’s conviction is the third time in which a defendant has been found guilty of torture in federal court, and it won’t be the last. Today’s verdict is a demonstration of our commitment to leave no stone unturned to prosecute human rights violators.

     

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Delivering on compassionate intervention

    [. The creation of the Alberta Recovery Model is a shift in addiction policy, with an approach that focuses on services and investments to lead people down a path of healing. Alberta’s government built this model because with the right care and support, recovery is possible.

    Despite the supports for treatment and recovery, there are some individuals who remain likely to cause harm to themselves or others as a result of their addiction or substance use. In response to these concerns, Alberta’s government is delivering on its promise to bring forward the Compassionate Intervention Act to support the health, wellness and recovery of Albertans facing severe addiction challenges and in turn, restore safety for families and communities.

    “For those suffering from addiction there are two paths – they can let their addiction destroy and take their life or they can enter recovery. There is no compassion in leaving people to suffer in the throes of addiction and in Alberta we choose recovery. That’s why we’re introducing compassionate intervention – another tool in the Alberta Recovery Model – to help keep our communities safe while ensuring our most vulnerable can access much needed recovery supports.”

    Danielle Smith, Premier

    “We cannot – and will not – stand by and let addiction destroy our families and communities. The Compassionate Intervention Act will provide life-saving support, ensuring families are no longer forced to watch their loved ones suffer from the deadly disease of addiction and endure the pain it brings.”

    Dan Williams, Minister of Mental Health and Addiction

    If passed, the Compassionate Intervention Act would create a pathway for parents, family members, guardians, health care professionals, and police or peace officers to request a treatment order or care plan for those who, because of their severe addiction, are likely to cause harm to themselves or others. Compassionate intervention is just one tool to help someone pursue recovery, which is why other options should be tried and specific criteria met before someone could be considered eligible.

    The eligibility criteria for youth are comparable to the Protection of Children Abusing Drugs Act (PChAD), which provides mandatory short-term stabilization, detox and assessment. Compassionate intervention would replace and improve PChAD, allowing for longer-term treatment, an easier application process and increased family involvement in a child’s recovery.

    “This is an opportunity to bring forward a world-leading program that will restore health to our most vulnerable Albertans, many of whom are facing the most severe addictions. I look forward to working with Recovery Alberta and Alberta’s government to help lead a thoughtful and evidence-informed implementation of compassionate intervention.”

    Dr. Rob Tanguay, interim senior medical lead for compassionate intervention, Recovery Alberta

    “With evidence-based programming and support, the compassionate intervention program will be a world leader in addressing some of the most complex cases of addiction. Recovery Alberta is well-positioned to deliver this with incredible staff and clinicians, and we look forward to supporting more people in their journey to reclaim their lives from the disease of addiction.”

    Kerry Bales, CEO, Recovery Alberta

    Premier Danielle Smith and Mental Health and Addiction Minister Dan Williams announce introduction of compassionate intervention legislation

    Alberta’s government has built a strong partnership focused on recovery with Indigenous communities across the province. The Compassionate Intervention Act includes the ability for First Nations and Métis to integrate their unique practices and traditions into the compassionate intervention process.

    Budget 2025 provides $180 million over three years to build two 150-bed compassionate intervention centres in Edmonton and Calgary, with construction expected to begin in 2026. These centres, operated by Recovery Alberta, will support intakes and assessment, and delivery of compassionate intervention care for adults. With an immediate need to provide compassionate intervention care, Alberta’s government is also exploring options to have some temporary adult spaces available within existing facilities next year. 

    For youth capacity, Alberta’s government is planning to transition protective safe houses used for PChAD into spaces for compassionate intervention. Next year, Alberta’s government expects to open the Northern Alberta Youth Recovery Centre, which will more than double addiction treatment capacity for youth and include space for care under the Compassionate Intervention Act.

    Every patient who leaves the compassionate intervention system will leave with a discharge plan for ongoing supports and services. This may include continuing treatment in a recovery community or another community bed-based program, day programming, psychiatric care and/or ongoing work with a recovery coach. It may also include help finding housing, employment, skills training and more.

    Key facts:

    • Significant investments have been made to expand treatment capacity since 2019, such as:
      • Publicly funding more than 10,000 addiction treatment spaces.
      • Building 11 recovery communities, including four in partnership with First Nations and one with the Métis Nation within Alberta.
      • Expanding Virtual Opioid Dependency Program (VODP), which provides same-day access to evidence-based addiction treatment medication.

    Related information

    • Compassionate Intervention
    • Fact sheet – Compassionate Intervention: A path to recovery
    • Fact sheet – Compassionate Intervention: Based on best practices
    • Alberta Recovery Model
    • Bill 53: Compassionate Intervention Act

    Related news

    • Laying the foundation for compassionate intervention (Feb 24, 2025)

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference
    • Listen to the news conference
    • Listen to Albertans’ stories

    Quotes:

    “We value our partnership with Alberta’s government as we work to save lives and bring people into recovery. But with new, increasingly deadly drugs like methamphetamine and fentanyl, we can’t keep doing the same things and expect different results while people are dying. As Chief of Enoch Cree Nation, I support compassionate intervention and welcome investments that prioritize Indigenous culture and new approaches that truly meet the needs of our people.”

    Chief Cody Thomas, Enoch Cree Nation

    “Tsuut’ina Nation is grateful for our relationship with the Ministry of Mental Health and Addiction. Compassionate intervention is an important part of addressing the opioid addiction crisis. We are confident that this policy, guided by elders and experts, will provide valuable support for individuals and families in need.”

    Chief Roy Whitney, Tsuut’ina Nation

    “We cannot afford to sit back and watch our nation members continue to suffer in their addiction. We must intervene. We would much rather step in with compassionate intervention instead of waiting until we are going to funerals.”

    Chief Ouray Crowfoot, Siksika Nation

    “As Chief of Woodland Cree First Nation, I appreciate Alberta’s commitment to addressing addiction through expanded treatment and recovery supports. With the Compassionate Intervention Act, it’s encouraging to see the government taking steps to work in partnership with First Nations. While we recognize there are complexities with this approach, our shared goal remains the same: to provide our people with the help they need and to stop the devastation that addiction continues to bring to our communities.”

    Chief Isaac Laboucan-Avirom, Woodland Cree First Nation

    “We have never felt more pain than the day we found out we lost our daughter to addiction. Addiction truly does take over a person’s life, and it is devastating that legal intervention was not available to us. As parents, my husband and I support the Compassionate Intervention Act as an option for families today dealing with the challenges of addiction.”

    Susan and Stephen Boone, parents of a child lost to addiction

    “My son was discharged from the emergency room into our care, without any addiction resources or support. The new Compassionate Intervention Act is critical for other families in crisis like mine. The opportunity for recovery in Alberta is necessary for the addict who suffers and for those who love them.”

    Janelle Watson, parent with a child affected by addiction

    “Alberta is a leader in recovery, and other jurisdictions are taking note of what they are accomplishing. Compassionate intervention is an innovative and encouraging step forward in resolving the most complex cases of addiction. I strongly support approaches like this, which commit to providing high-quality, comprehensive, evidence-based treatment within therapeutic environments.”

    Dr. Keith Humphreys, Esther Ting Memorial professor, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University

    “What Alberta is bringing forward for compassionate intervention and the Alberta Recovery Model is a monumental achievement and will provide a roadmap for the rest of North America. Providing options for long-term care with monitoring and accountability, similar to what we know works for doctors and pilots, is going to be a game-changer for those struggling with severe addiction and mental illness. It’s fantastic Alberta has the will to help people suffering from addiction by giving them the tools and support that will get them into recovery.”

    Dr. Anna Lembke, professor and medical director of Addiction Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine

    “As an addiction psychiatrist, I welcome Alberta’s commitment to treatment and recovery, an example for governments everywhere to follow. Compassionate intervention for those experiencing severe addiction is a policy that will save lives and restore people’s well-being. Especially encouraging is the level of care that will be given to support psychiatric treatment along with long-term recovery.”

    Dr. Charl Els, addiction psychiatrist and clinical professor, psychiatry, University of Alberta

    “The Canadian Centre of Recovery Excellence (CoRE) appreciates Alberta’s willingness to align compassionate intervention with empirically proven practices, such as opioid agonist treatments, to help those with severe illness. As the policy moves forward, CoRE will closely monitor and research the outcomes to ensure it is helping people effectively stabilize and make meaningful progress in their recovery journeys.”

    Dr. Nathaniel Day, chief scientific officer, Canadian Centre of Recovery Excellence

    “Internationally and within Canada, attempts at intervention for drug-related problems have often proven ineffective as approaches have lacked a comprehensive plan and don’t account for the co-occurrence of complex illnesses. Alberta’s system-wide, holistic approach to compassionate intervention balances the short-term rights of individuals and the intermediate and long-term health and wellness of those same people. This new legislation definitely adds to the international benchmark status of the Alberta Recovery Model.”

    Dr. Julian Somers, clinical psychologist and distinguished professor, Simon Fraser University

    “Addiction is not just a big city issue. Each one of our communities has grappled with different social challenges such as addiction. Alberta’s Mid-sized Cities Mayors’ Caucus is pleased the Government of Alberta is introducing the Compassionate Intervention Act and welcomes the provincial government’s investment in solving the addiction crisis.”

    Jeff Genung, mayor, Town of Cochrane and chair, Alberta Mid-sized Cities Mayors’ Caucus

    “The Alberta Association of Chiefs of Police supports the Alberta Compassionate Intervention Act as a vital step toward addressing the complex challenges of addiction and recovery-oriented treatment for our communities. This legislation provides law enforcement with a compassionate approach to intervene and connect individuals in crisis with the treatment and support they need. By prioritizing public safety and individual well-being, this act reflects our shared commitment to building healthier and safer communities across Alberta.”

    Mark Neufeld, president, Alberta Association of Chiefs of Police

    “The Downtown Revitalization Coalition supports a comprehensive and compassionate approach to addressing the complex challenges of addiction and mental health in our communities. We commend the Alberta government for introducing the Compassionate Intervention Act, which recognizes that some individuals are simply not able to seek help or manage recovery on their own. This legislation offers a path forward – one grounded in care, a holistic plan of support and the belief that every person deserves the opportunity to reclaim their future.”

    Cheryll Watson, chair, Downtown Revitalization Coalition, Edmonton

    “Native Counselling Services of Alberta is pleased to support the Compassionate Intervention Act. We believe this is an important piece of legislation to support recovery for people who have been entrapped by addiction and are now a danger to themselves or others.”

    Blake Jackman, director of housing, Native Counselling Services of Alberta

    “It is important to do everything possible to help a young person be lifted out of addiction onto a path of recovery. Hull Services is pleased to support the Compassionate Intervention Act to enhance life-saving services for young Albertans in need.”

    Jon Reeves, executive director, Hull Services

    “We know the despair and hopelessness parents feel when their child is struggling with addiction to harmful substances. Through compassionate intervention, Wood’s Homes is pleased to support enhanced care options for young Albertans.”

    Bjorn Johansson, CEO, Wood’s Homes

    “This commitment to compassionate intervention is ensuring we bring as many people out of addiction as possible. It’s clear Alberta’s government is taking recovery seriously with significant investment into the delivery of compassionate intervention care.”

    Bruce Holstead, person in recovery and executive director, Fresh Start Recovery Centre

    “Human trafficking often has deep ties to mental health and addiction. Vulnerabilities caused by these issues make individuals more likely to be victimized by traffickers. Consequences of trauma resulting from being trafficked can also lead to new or deepening adverse mental health and addictions impacts. Compassionate intervention has the potential to provide a much-needed tool for prevention and rehabilitation supports for people directly impacted by, or at risk of human trafficking.”

    Paul Brandt, founder and CEO, #NotInMyCity, and co-chair, Alberta Centre to End Trafficking in Persons

    “When we opened Wihchihaw Maskokamik Society (Bear Lodge), it was with the goal to help our people find healing and support, and connect with culture and services to help save their lives. I have seen first-hand the damage that addiction can cause to a person’s life, and I’m hopeful that we now have an opportunity to help people who are most in need to change their lives for the better.”

    Glori Sharphead, senior manager, Wihchihaw Maskokamik Society (Bear Lodge), Enoch Cree Nation 

    “We need to ask ourselves if it is better to leave someone to harm themselves or others with ongoing addiction or if we should compassionately intervene. The answer is obviously to intervene and do what we can to save someone’s life.”

    Earl Thiessen, person in recovery and executive director, Oxford House Foundation

    “The George Spady Society is a proud partner and contributor of the Alberta Recovery Model. Our organization appreciates the government’s approach to prioritizing the lives of people suffering from addiction through a range of care options and providing opportunities for compassionate intervention when needed.”

    Dawn-Marie Diab, CEO, George Spady Society

    “Acknowledging that no single solution will fit all, we support diverse approaches to meet community needs. The Compassionate Intervention Act addresses a critical gap in our systems, and we are encouraged by its potential to bolster the continuum of care for individuals facing severe addiction issues. We look forward to the opportunity to collaborate in shaping this effort, ensuring the number of lives lost to addiction is reduced through a dignified, human centered approach.”

    Johanna Knettig, co-CEO, Bissell Centre

    “There is nothing more heart-wrenching than families watching a loved one struggle with the illness of addiction. The families supported by PEP Society are glad to see this government’s plan for compassionate intervention, and we look forward to having this resource to rebuild health and wellness across Alberta.”

    Lerena Greig, executive director, PEP Society

    “CMHA Alberta Division and Centre for Suicide Prevention knows families struggle to access community-based addiction supports and treatment for their loved ones, all while watching their loved ones’ mental health and addiction issues deteriorate to a crisis. A framework to compassionately intervene with the most vulnerable among us can help. We are committed to continuing to build a community-based system of care that includes treatment combined with peer and family support throughout the journey.”

    Mara Grunau, CEO, Canadian Mental Health Association, Alberta Division and Centre for Suicide Prevention

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Meeks, Jacobs, Cherfilus-McCormick, Jackson, Jayapal, Olszewski Statement on Two Years of Brutal War in Sudan

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

    Washington, DC – Representatives Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Sara Jacobs, Ranking Member of the Africa Subcommittee, alongside Representatives Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Jonathan Jackson, Pramila Jayapal, and Johnny Olszewski, Democratic Members of the Africa Subcommittee, today issued a joint statement marking the two-year anniversary of the outbreak of war in Sudan:

    “It is time to permanently end the brutal violence perpetrated by the warring parties in Sudan and return to a path toward peace and a civilian-led democracy. On this somber day marking two years since the outbreak of the Sudan war, we call on the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), and allied militias to come to the negotiating table and put a stop to this brutal conflict. They all must ensure unfettered humanitarian access and abide by their repeated commitments to protect civilians, end reprisal killings, and ensure accountability for perpetrators of war crimes and other atrocities.

    “External actors like the UAE must immediately stop fueling the conflict by arming the warring parties and instead work with international partners to apply pressure on the parties to reach an agreement. And all conflict stakeholders must recognize that, in order for any peace agreement to be successful, it must include Sudanese civil society members as full participants and contributors. Additionally, a sustainable peace agreement must provide for an end to military rule, the establishment of a civilian government, and a clear roadmap to democratic elections.

    “We call on President Trump and his administration to stop exacerbating the situation in Sudan through unlawful aid cuts and to immediately restore all U.S. foreign assistance for Sudan and its humanitarian crisis. Mutual aid societies like the Emergency Response Rooms are critical lifelines for conflict-affected civilians, and they deserve more international support. This moment demands renewed and consistent attention from the United States government and our partners in order to bring an end to the killing and help the Sudanese people emerge from this national nightmare.”

    Additional background: Since the war started, over 150,000 people in Sudan have been killed, more than 12 million displaced from their homes, and 25 million – half of Sudan’s population – currently face acute food insecurity in the world’s largest humanitarian crisis. The U.S. State Department found the warring parties – the RSF and SAF – have committed war crimes and other atrocities, including mass sexual violence. The State Department also determined the RSF has committed genocide. Over the weekend, the RSF escalated its attacks in El Fasher, targeting civilians, relief workers, and lifesaving services in Zamzam, Abu Shouk, and Naivasha IDP camps. 

    Issues: Foreign Affairs & National Security

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Relief to Kentucky Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Excessive Rain

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Kentucky who sustained economic losses caused by excessive rain, flash flooding and high winds occurring July 30 through August 2, 2024. 

    The disaster declaration covers the primary county of Breckinridge; and the adjacent counties of Grayson, Hancock, Hardin, Meade and Ohio in Kentucky; as well as Perry in Indiana. 

    Under this declaration, the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to this disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises. 

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small 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. 

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”  

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.250% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition. 

    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 economic injury applications is December 1, 2025. 

    ### 

    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 –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Relief to Utah Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Drought

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Utah who sustained economic losses due to the drought occurring Feb. 11.

    The declaration covers the Utah counties of Beaver, Box Elder, Davis, Juab, Millard, Salt Lake, Sanpete, Sevier, Tooele, Utah and Weber as well as the Nevada counties of Elko, Lincoln and White Pine.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. 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.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months after the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA 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.

    Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than Dec. 8.

    ###

    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 –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Relief to Nevada Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Drought

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Nevada who sustained economic losses due to the drought occurring Feb. 11.

    The declaration covers the Nevada counties of Elko Eureka, Humboldt, Lander, Lincoln, Nye and White Pine as well as the Idaho counties of Cassia, Owyhee and Twin Falls, and in Utah counties of Box Elder, Juab, Millard and Tooele.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. 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.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months after the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA 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.

    Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than Dec. 9.

    ###

    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 –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Relief to Texas Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Drought

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Texas who sustained economic losses due to the drought beginning April 1.

    The declaration covers the Texas counties of Brown, Callahan, Coleman, Concho, Crockett, Edwards, Glasscock, Irion, Kimble, McCulloch, Menard, Midland, Reagan, Runnels, Schleicher, Sterling, Sutton, Taylor, Tom Green, Upton and Val Verde.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. 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 small 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.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months after the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA 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.

    Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than Dec. 8.

    ###

    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 –

    April 16, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Relief to Nebraska Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Drought

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Nebraska who sustained economic losses due to the drought beginning April 1.

    The declaration covers the Nebraska counties of Banner, Blaine, Box Butte, Brown, Cherry, Cheyenne, Dawes, Garden, Grant, Hooker, Keya Paha, Kimball, Morrill, Scotts Bluff, Sheridan, Sioux and Thomas as well as the South Dakota counties of Bennett, Fall River, Oglala Lakota, Todd and Tripp, and in Wyoming counties of Goshen, Laramie and Niobrara.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. 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.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months after the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA 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.

    Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than Dec. 9.

    ###

    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 –

    April 16, 2025
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