NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI USA: Abraham Accords Caucus Introduces Resolution Promoting Peace and Tolerance in Education to Strengthen the Abraham Accords

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brad Schneider (D-IL)

    WASHINGTON – Reps. Brad Schneider (IL-10), Ann Wagner (MO-02), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), and Craig Goldman (TX-12), co-chairs of the bipartisan, bicameral Abraham Accords Caucus, introduced a resolution encouraging the U.S. Department of State and civil society to advance the goals of the Abraham Accords through education rooted in peace and tolerance.

    The resolution recognizes the critical role that national curricula play in shaping the attitudes of future generations and commends countries like Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia for taking meaningful steps to promote respect and understanding in their educational systems. It urges the State Department to prioritize curriculum reform in bilateral dialogues and encourages continued engagement from civil society and international organizations in the region. The resolution also emphasizes the objectives of the bipartisan Israel Relations Normalization Act of 2021.

    “The Abraham Accords are not just about diplomacy between governments—they are about building a shared future with stability, security and peace between peoples,” saidRep. Schneider. “The Accords offer the region a chance to break free from the gravity of history, to move beyond conflict and toward connection. That future depends on education rooted in peace, tolerance, and mutual recognition.”

    “I am beyond proud of the work the Abraham Accords Caucus has accomplished in Congress, and I look forward to continuing to deepen and expand the relationships between Israel and its Arab neighbors,” said Rep. Wagner. “Violent extremist organizations, many of which are funded and promoted by Iran, must be addressed by fostering a coalition of like-minded nations pursuing peace, stability, and prosperity in the Middle East. This resolution encourages the State Department to proactively engage with regional countries to build new and stronger relationships that will enhance and entrench the Abraham Accords for years to come.” 

    “If we nourish civility and cooperation in schools, children are more likely to grow up in a world that treasures peace and acceptance,” said Rep. Wasserman Schultz. “Encouraging and investing in those principles in classrooms throughout Abraham Accords countries is one critical way to do that.  As co-chair of the Abraham Accords Caucus, I’m proud to support these goals which can lead to a positive change throughout the region and lead to a safer world for all our children.” 

    “Continuing the important work of the Abraham Accords, this resolution highlights the critical need for educational reform across Middle Eastern nations,” said Rep. Goldman. “If left unaddressed, extreme, antisemitic, and hateful curricula will continue to fuel instability and violence in the region. Both Israel and its neighboring Arab states stand to benefit from fostering mutual respect and tolerance among the next generation of leaders.”

    “Education rooted in peace and tolerance is essential for lasting regional stability,” added Marcus Sheff, CEO of IMPACT-se. “Textbooks that reflect positive values are not only something today’s children deserve—they craft the open and tolerant societies of the future that we all desire, shaping attitudes and beliefs of future generations. We commend the countries that have taken meaningful steps toward curriculum reform and urge others to follow. IMPACT-se is gratified that our research has helped highlight the critical link between education and normalization. We applaud the Abraham Accords Caucus co-chairs for advancing this important resolution and working toward our shared vision of strengthening the Abraham Accords by ensuring peace and tolerance education for all children.”

    The text of the resolution is available here.

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scott Denounces Republican Bill to Restrict Voting Rights

    Source: {United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bobby Scott (3rd District of Virginia)

    Headline: Scott Denounces Republican Bill to Restrict Voting Rights

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03), Co-Chair of Congressional Voting Rights Caucus, released the following statement after voting against H.R. 22, the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act:

    “House Republicans’ so-called SAVE Act is nothing more than a shameful attempt to silence the voices of millions of Americans. This bill will prevent Americans from using their driver’s license or military ID in order to register to vote. It will also eliminate existing voter registration methods, including registering via mail or online. 

    “If this bill were to become law, military service members deployed overseas would be forced to return to the U.S. to register to vote. Married women who have changed their surnames would not be allowed to use their birth certificate to prove their citizenship — an apparent reference to his unlawful order revoking birthright citizenship. Twenty-one million eligible voters would need to pay significant fees to obtain documentation needed to cast their ballot.

    “Adding unnecessary and expensive barriers to vote will disenfranchise millions of U.S. citizens and disproportionately impact communities of color. To be clear, it is already illegal under federal law for noncitizens to cast a ballot. This legislation is not about safeguarding elections; it is a blatant assault on the constitutional rights of millions of Americans.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McCaul Votes For SAVE Act to Protect Election Integrity

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Michael McCaul (10th District of Texas)

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Congressman Michael McCaul (R-Texas) — chairman emeritus of the House Committee on Homeland Security — voted for the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, legislation he also cosponsored in both the 118th and 119th Congress. The SAVE Act would strengthen federal law by requiring proof of American citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections.

    “Americans deserve to know their elections will be safe and secure when they go to the ballot box. The SAVE Act will restore public confidence in our election system by closing loopholes that enable non-citizens to register to vote. It’s appalling that 208 Democrats voted against commonsense legislation, despite the fact it offers six different ways for citizens to verify their identity. Their opposition underscores why we need this bill — to provide a line of defense against any fraudulent effort to bolster Democrats’ voting bloc.”

    Background:

    Federal law — the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 — states that it is illegal for non-citizens to vote in federal elections, yet the National Voter Registration Act (NVRA) does not require states to verify citizenship upon registration. This has led to noncitizen voting in several states, including Massachusetts, Ohio, and Virginia.

    The SAVE Act, introduced by Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas), would amend the NVRA to ensure that only American citizens can vote in federal elections. Specifically, it would:

    • Require proof of citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections; and
    • Provide states with access to existing federal databases and require them to remove noncitizens from their rolls.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Access Canberra team guide PhD student in local business venture

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Savannah McGuirk is using her PhD learnings to solve real-word problems through her start-up.

    In brief:

    • Savannah McGuirk takes PhD learnings to solve real word problems with a start-up.
    • She seeks advice to make sure her business is compliant.
    • Advice from the Access Canberra Business Assist Team confirms she’s on track.

    While completing her PhD, Savannah McGuirk discovered an industry problem that was yet to be solved.

    With her research pointing the way, Savannah launched her business, Remote Water Analytics.

    From research to start-up

    “Research is funny like that,” Savannah said. “You never know where you going to end up.”

    “I started out my PhD looking at carbon levels in soil, but soon discovered that soil moisture was impacting remote sensing satellite and drone data for carbon monitoring. What I also found, was there is no consistency in methods for monitoring soil moisture levels with optical satellite data.”

    That’s when things shifted for Savanah. She saw the application of her scientific research for the purpose of solving real world industry problems.

    Remote Water Analytics is in its infancy as Savannah finalises her PhD, but she’s already working with some clients. She’s using state-of-the-art remote sensing technologies, like satellites and drones alongside advanced data science, AI and machine learning to pull comprehensive insights into soil and water conditions.

    “We can do soil moisture mapping as well as long and short-term soil monitoring. We can also provide geospatial data visualisation. Satellite data gives us near real-time access to accurate and actionable information,” she said.

    Savannah said they can help small scale farmers or large agricultural operations to adopt more sustainable practices.

    “To be honest, I was surprised there wasn’t already a product in market that could affordably, reliably and efficiently test soil moisture remotely.

    “Soil sampling and testing is an expensive and labour-intensive endeavour, particularly over large areas when we’re dealing with large agricultural holdings.”

    But it’s not just agricultural applications that Remote Water Analytics can deal with. Savannah is currently working with a local Canberra civil construction company who are developing a new Canberra suburb.

    “Construction companies can’t work when it’s wet without damaging the surfaces which they have already carefully prepared. By accurately monitoring soil moisture levels, we can get them back on site as quickly and safely as possible after rain, ultimately helping them get their job done faster and realise real financial savings.”

    ACT Government business support

    Earlier this year, Savannah attended the ACT Government’s first CBR Small Business Expo. Curious to see what was on offer, she came across the Access Canberra Business Assist Team.

    “I overheard them speaking to someone else, and they sounded helpful,” she said.

    “It got me thinking about whether there were any permits or licences I need to operate a soil and water management business.”

    Like a true Canberran, and scientist, Savannah was keen to know that she was following all the correct processes and had all the right licences and permits.

    After hearing Savannah’s story, the Business Assist Team got to work on her behalf, seeking advice across government, including from the ACT Environmental Protection Authority.

    Kim from the Access Canberra Business Assist Team said they were glad to provide advice to Savannah.

    “Savannah’s business is a bit niche, and we were able to give her peace of mind that she was compliant with necessary regulations,” said Kim.

    Savannah agreed.

    “It was reassuring to be able to access the team by email and get confirmation that I had done the right things and was compliant in running my business,” she said.

    As for what’s next for Savannah, her business is one of 24 across Australia participating in a business accelerator program run by the Commonwealth Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.

    “It’s a three-month accelerator program to support drought-resilience in Australian agriculture.

    “I’m a scientist, so I’m looking forward to learning many of the skill sets I need to run and operate a successful start-up,” she said.

    To find out more about the Access Canberra Business Assist Team that helped Savannah, contact the team.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Helping Canberra’s community gardens take climate action

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Community gardens give easy access to fresh produce and increase the resilience of local food production.

    Twelve Canberra projects have received a grant through the Community Garden Grants Program.

    They will each receive a share of $100,000 in total funding.

    The benefits of community gardens

    Community gardens offer opportunities for local climate action.

    The program also helps Canberrans connect and learn in a shared space.

    The gardens give easy access to fresh produce and increase the resilience of local food production.

    Havelock Community Garden

    The Canberra Student Housing Co-operative is a 2024 recipient.

    They plan to use their grant funds to turn the Havelock Community Garden in Turner into a communal food production space.

    This will make it a place for community connection and socialising.

    They also see it as a means of engaging and educating the student community on growing and maintaining a garden.

    “Education is a big part of what we’re trying to do. Through the grant, we can carry out all these projects we wouldn’t have been able to do before,” Cooperative Director Benjamin Mason said.

    While volunteers and skills are plentiful, cost has been a barrier.

    “This grant means we will be spending less of our budget on the inventory required to run the garden. It means we can now start gardening,” Benjamin said.

    Growing their own food will bring substantial cost benefits, as well as environmental and social ones.

    “We have our own bulk food storage that all residents can access as part of the housing co-operative. The overarching plan is to eat the food from the garden, but anything we can’t eat fresh will be used in our pickling program,” he said.

    2024 Community Garden Grant funding streams

    There are two funding streams in 2024.

    In Stream 1, there is a total of $40,000 to:

    • improve and enhance existing gardens
    • build non-food-related gardens.

    In Stream 2, there is a total of $60,000 to:

    • set up large-scale food production community gardens
    • build significant infrastructure to increase food production in existing gardens.

    2024 grant recipients

    Stream 1:

    • Canberra Environment Centre: $7,835.76 to boost capacity to produce food in their community garden and increase resilience to climate change
    • Canberra Organic Growers Society Inc: $2,000.00 to buy zero-emission power tools for the Charnwood Community Garden
    • Holy Spirit Parish, Gungahlin: $2,641.79 to enhance the productivity and sustainability of their existing gardens
    • The Food Cooperative Shop: $2,872.72 to install vertical garden infrastructure and hold composting workshops
    • Red Hill Primary School P&C: $4,068.65 to plant a bush tucker garden and enhance existing food gardens
    • Church of Christ Ainslie ACT Inc: $3,922.60 to improve seed raising capabilities, build more garden beds and create a frog bog along with native plantings
    • Canberra Student Housing Co-operative: $2,239.00 to convert the Havelock Community Garden into a communal food production space
    • Miles Franklin Primary School P&C: $8,000.00 to build the Gambara Garden, complete with fruit trees and vegetable gardens
    • Scullin Community Group Inc: $2,832.84 to plant an edible sensory hedge at the Scullin Shops.

    Stream 2:

    • Old Narrabundah Community Council: $18,947.00 to install secure fencing around their newly renovated gardens
    • Canberra Muslim Community Inc: $22,000.00 to build the GM Multicultural Community Garden at Gungahlin Mosque
    • SEE Change Belconnen: $22,470.41 to build the demonstration verge garden network. This will build verge gardens in five locations across Belconnen.

    The Community Garden Grants Program began in 2015. It has since supported 87 community garden projects.

    Find more information on the Community Garden Grants program and this year’s recipients at the Everyday Climate Choices website.

    The Canberra Student Housing Co-operative plans to use their grant funds to turn the Havelock Community Garden in Turner into a communal food production space.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CONGRESSMAN BISHOP OPPOSES BUDGET RESOLUTION THAT GUTS HEALTHCARE, NUTRITION, AND EDUCATION – HURTING FAMILIES, SENIORS, AND VETERANS

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Sanford D Bishop Jr (GA-02)

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), voted against H. Con. Res. 14, a partisan budget resolution that would result in cuts to Medicaid, student loans, and nutrition assistance for American families to pay for tax cuts for billionaires. At the same time, implementation of the budget resolution will add trillions of dollars to the national debt which even extremist, Republican critics of the legislation have pointed out. 

    “I have never seen a more partisan and fiscally irresponsible budget,” said Congressman Bishop. “This measure will result in millions of Americans losing their health insurance. Seniors, children, people with disabilities, and working families will bear the brunt of this budget’s harmful cuts. Public schools across the country – from rural to urban communities – will lose billions of dollars that help them afford teachers, textbooks, and supplies. Cuts to nutrition programs will see families, school children, seniors, disabled persons, and even young active-duty military families and veterans go hungry.”

    Among the cuts in the Republican budget resolution are:

    • $880 billion in cuts from the budget covering healthcare, interstate commerce, conservation, energy, public health and healthcare, including Medicaid;
    • $330 billion in cuts in the budget sections that support America’s students and schools across the country, including school lunch and breakfast programs;
    • $230 billion in cuts from agricultural and rural development programs, which support our farmers and other ag producers as well as food banks and other programs that help feed America’s families – especially during this period of astronomically high food prices; and
    • Additional cuts to the budget covering infrastructure programs that help improve and make our roads, railways, bridges, and airports safer as well as other investments that help lower costs for Americans everywhere.

    The U.S. House Budget Committee estimates if the budget proposed by H. Con. Res. 14 is enacted, Georgia’s Second Congressional District will see:

    • Nearly 200,000 people on Medicaid will lose coverage, including an estimated 133,300 children under the age of 19 and 30,000 senior citizens over the age of 65;
    • More than 200,000 people will lose SNAP and be at risk of going hungry;
    • 320,000 school children will lose school meals; and
    • 26,000 students will lose Pell Grants that makes it possible for them to get their education.

    The Congressman has also highlighted that the Trump Administration fired department and agency Inspectors General, within days of taking office. 

    The Congressman concluded, “The Administration says they want to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse and reduce the deficit – which we all support – but this budget resolution does neither. What they are doing is eliminating transparency and dismantling the government, as outlined last year in Project 2025. This is a reverse Robin Hood scheme that steals the federal resources needed to adequately meet the needs of the American people, in order to pay for tax cuts that overwhelmingly benefit billionaires.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pappas Statement on the SAVE Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

    Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released the following statement after voting no on the SAVE Act:

    “It is already illegal to vote in our elections if you are not a citizen of the United States, and New Hampshire local officials do an excellent job of enforcing this and all other existing laws every election. I voted no on this legislation today because it would force unnecessary federal changes to state voter registration and election procedures, creating even more undue burdens for married women, military members and their families, and seniors when they go to vote. Similar extreme legislation was recently implemented in New Hampshire, and we have already seen its ramifications on Granite Staters’ ability to cast their ballots on Town Meeting Day last month. I remain committed to safeguarding our free and fair elections and ensuring every eligible voter is able to make their voice heard.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following Supreme Court Ruling, Hoyer Joins Raskin, Colleagues to Demand Trump White House Immediately Return Maryland Man Deported in ‘Error’

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) and U.S. Representatives Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Sarah Elfreth (MD-03), April McClain Delaney (MD-06), and Johnny Olszewski (MD-02) released the following statement after the Supreme Court of the United States ruled that the Trump Administration must facilitate the return of Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, a Maryland immigrant the administration deported in ‘error’ to a Salvadoran mega-prison where he remains:

    “The Trump Administration admitted that the deportation of Mr. Abrego Garcia, which had no legal basis, was done in ‘administrative error,’ and a federal district judge ordered them to return him to the United States by midnight this Monday. Rather than bring back the man they admitted they wrongfully deported without Due Process, the Trump Administration amazingly placed on leave the Justice Department attorney who argued the case simply for telling the truth about the Administration’s ‘administrative error.’ 

    “In a big victory for the rule of law and Due Process, the Supreme Court has just ruled that the Administration must facilitate Mr. Abrego Garcia’s return to the United States. The Supreme Court is effectively on the side of the vast majority of Americans and the civilized world who reject this lapse into lawlessness and insist that Mr. Abrego Garcia be returned to his family in the U.S. immediately. 

    “The Administration must now act swiftly to ensure that Mr. Abrego Garcia, who was grabbed off the streets of Maryland, shackled, and flown to a Salvadoran mega-prison, is brought back home safely to his loved ones and without any further delay.

    “During the first Trump Administration in 2019, Kilmar won withholding of removal, a legal status that specifically prohibits his removal to El Salvador. He was granted this status after the administration accused him, without any evidence, of gang membership and tried to deport him. A judge found instead that he had credibly proven his fear of persecution by a gang in El Salvador and that he posed no threat to public safety.

    “The Trump Administration admits it made an ‘error’ deporting Mr. Abrego Garcia. Contrary to what administration officials say, President Trump has both the duty and the power to bring this man back to Maryland to his American wife and child. 

    “We say to the president that, if you have the means to sweep someone off the street in America and deport him to a torturer’s prison in El Salvador, where we are paying their government as our junior partner for this dubious service, then you certainly have or you can find the means to bring him back. This should be easy since the El Salvadoran government is acting as our agent in the affair as part of this shocking agreement with the Trump Administration.”

    “If Trump is allowed to get away with this thorough destruction of Due Process in Mr. Abrego Garcia’s case, he will believe that his administration can sweep anyone—citizen or noncitizen—off the street and ship them to a prison in an authoritarian state and escape judicial review. A whole lot rests on the return of Mr. Abrego Garcia to his family.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scalise Touts Budget Resolution Passage

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Scalise (1st District of Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) spoke to reporters after the passage of the Budget Resolution. Leader Scalise discussed how today’s vote unlocks the reconciliation process which will allow Republicans to fulfill the mandate voters gave us to cut spending through rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse, prevent tax hikes, unleash American energy independence, and secure the border.On House Republicans unifying around the Budget Resolution:“Everybody has been in the room at different stages. Some members had more questions than others. Every member knows, and I’ve been very candid, there’s still a lot of work left to do, but we are including all of our members, from the most conservatives to those in the most swing districts in all of these conversations, because it’s going to take all of us to get it done.“None of these votes are easy, and then the next votes won’t be easy, but they’re all significantly important for the American people. I think if you just keep sight of what the goal is, our goal from the very beginning is to provide relief to families who have been struggling and to get our economy back on track, and deliver on the promises that President Trump and House and Senate Republicans ran on during the campaign, and we’re elected and given a mandate to deliver. We’re now working on those next steps, and we’re going to get this passed because failure is not an option.”On generating savings by rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse:“The beauty is that the committees get to go deal with that. You can find $1.5 trillion and more. Obviously, you saw the press conference this morning. Well, first of all, if you look at just waste, fraud, and abuse in all federal programs, that’s on the table. I think most Americans would tell you, please go root out waste, fraud, and abuse. If any program is stealing money from taxpayers in a way that’s not intended, not even talking about changing eligibility. All of those things are going to be looked at to make the programs work better. Some of these programs do not work well for the people on it. I’ll give you an example, because a lot of lies have been told about disabled people. Medicaid does not work well enough for disabled people. We can make it work better. And part of that is by taking away some of the siphoning off of the program by people that shouldn’t be on it. There are illegals in the hundreds of thousands, at a minimum on Medicaid, taking billions of dollars out of that program, hurting disabled people. So we need to strengthen those programs, and we’re going to be working on that, too.“If you look at some of the other things, Spectrum sales, nobody talks about that. Everybody talks about $880 billion in energy and commerce as if it’s all health care. There’s probably $200 billion in non-health care-related programs before you even start talking about more savings and reforms, things like Spectrum sales. How do you go from 5G networks to 6G? It’s not just some clouds in the sky that you’re dealing with. It’s Spectrum, which is a federal asset that we auction off every few years. Well, it’s been too long. Any of these companies that spend billions of dollars building out networks will tell you we need more Spectrum made available, which means the federal government owns all of that, and we offer it up for sale every few years. We generate tens of billions, if not close to $100 billion for the taxpayers.”On stabilizing the tax code to allow for private investment in the US:“That yields, by the way, billions more private investment. It’s why you get economic growth when you lock in tax rates and make a more sane, common-sense regulatory structure because then you see private investment. I’ve heard these numbers, and you can talk to people in any walk of life in the private sector, in any industry. They will tell you there’s trillions, four, five trillion dollars of money sitting on the sideline not being invested in America now until they see what the tax code looks like. Everybody’s talking about tariffs right now. Most businesses are waiting to see what the tax code will look like before they make major investments. And they will tell you, if we just prevent a tax hike, which, by the way, every Democrat voted today to raise taxes, and they’ve said they wanted the tax rates to go up, we do not. And if we flatline and say no tax increases on American families, that alone will spur trillions of dollars more investment in our economy. You could see 3% GDP growth with the economy, more money in your pockets when you go to the grocery store, when you go to the gas station. But it also gives us, the federal treasury, more money coming in to lower the deficit. “The timeline to get this done is as quick as we can get it done. We’ve said by the end of May.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Foster Votes Against Republicans’ Attempt to Disenfranchise Americans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bill Foster (11th District of Illinois)

    Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) issued a statement following his vote against the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act.

    “Today, I voted against Republicans’ attempt to disenfranchise millions of Americans. Republicans claim that the SAVE Act makes it illegal for non-citizens to vote, but federal law already prohibits non-citizens from voting. Instead, this bill imposes unnecessary barriers to voter registration by requiring birth certificates or passports instead of driver’s licenses, state IDs, or military IDs. 

    “This would create a logistical nightmare for millions of voting-eligible citizens—including roughly 69 million women who changed their name after marriage. Under this bill, none of these women would be able to use their birth certificate to prove their citizenship, forcing them to either amend their birth certificate or pay $130 to obtain a passport. 

    “The SAVE Act would also eliminate mail and online voter registration services, instead requiring Americans to present their documentation in person to an election official. This places an unfair burden on the millions of Americans who rely on these services to vote, including members of the military stationed overseas, residents of rural communities, and seniors.

    “To maintain fair and secure elections, we need to protect voting rights—not create additional barriers for eligible U.S. citizens. I will continue to fight against these attacks on our democracy and work with my colleagues in Congress to ensure equal access to the ballot box.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Maxine Waters Slams Trump & Musk Mission to Dismantle Social Security

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Maxine Waters (43rd District of California)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43) issued the following statement as Donald Trump and Elon Musk dismantles the Social Security Administration’s infrastructure: 

    “Donald Trump claimed he would not cut Social Security. He’s lying. The same gangster tactics Donald Trump and Elon Musk have used to disrupt other federal agencies, such as the Department of Health and Human Services and Department of Education, are now being aimed at Social Security Administration (SSA). Musk has proposed slashing 7,000 employees and closing field offices across the country — jeopardizing access to critical services. As a result of DOGE infiltrating the agency, retirees are struggling to access their accounts, phone lines are jammed, and the Social Security website is frequently crashing. 

    “Let me be clear: this has absolutely nothing to do with improving efficiency. It’s sabotage. Trump and Musk have devised a plan they claim will eliminate “waste and fraud” within the agency. However, they have not provided any legitimate evidence of widespread fraud. In fact, this agency is one of the most efficiently run agencies in government. This is nothing more than an excuse to fully dismantle the agency. 

    “70 million retirees, widows, children, and disabled workers — including over 98,000 in my district — rely on Social Security as a lifeline to pay for food, medicine, and other essentials. Trump is putting them in a position where many will be waiting for Social Security checks that may be delayed or never arrive. Where many seniors will have to choose between putting food on the table and getting their medications.

    “I refuse to stand by while Trump and Co-President Musk destroy our country. We must protect Social Security at all costs.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Maxine Waters Sends Letter to Secretary Kennedy Demanding Answers on Reported Elimination of HIV Funding

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Maxine Waters (43rd District of California)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43) sent a letter to the U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. demanding answers regarding the reported complete elimination of $700 million in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) funding for HIV prevention.

    In the letter, Congresswoman Waters slams the agency’s drastic and irresponsible actions that would have catastrophic consequences for public health, including critical prevention and screening services in our battle against HIV/AIDS. 

    “This decision is not just reckless — it is deadly. By eliminating HIV prevention funding, lives will be lost. People who rely on outreach programs for testing will go undiagnosed. Individuals who depend on prevention services will be left unprotected. Health systems that have worked tirelessly to combat this epidemic will be overwhelmed with preventable cases. This is an unconscionable abdication of responsibility by the federal government,” wrote Congresswoman Waters.

    “NMAC is deeply grateful to Congresswoman Waters for her unwavering commitment to protecting HIV funding. The proposed cuts to HIV prevention would be catastrophic, threatening decades of progress in the fight against HIV. The community is deeply concerned by these potential reductions, but we take solace in knowing that Congresswoman Waters is on the frontlines, fiercely advocating for these critical resources,” said Harold Phillips, Deputy Director of Programs for NMAC.

    Read the full letter HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RELEASE: REPS. KHANNA, TLAIB, AND LEE INTRODUCE THE DRAIN THE SWAMP ACT TO REINSTATE KEY WHITE HOUSE ETHICS RULES

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Rep Ro Khanna (CA-17)

    Washington, DC – Today, Representatives Ro Khanna (CA-17), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), and Summer Lee (PA-12), introduced the Drain the Swamp Act, that includes bans on lobbying activities for former government officials and reinstates cooling-off periods and merit-based hiring requirements. 

    When President Trump returned to office, he rescinded key ethics rules that had been established by President Biden through executive order. These included restrictions on gifts from lobbyists and rules designed to reduce conflicts of interest. Nearly 70% of Americans view corruption as a major issue in the federal government. The Drain the Swamp Act is a response to this rollback, aiming to rebuild public trust and enshrine these ethics provisions into law so they cannot be undone by future executive actions.  

    “President Trump promised to drain the swamp, yet one of the first things he did in office was reverse President Biden’s executive order that banned White House officials from accepting gifts from lobbyists. The American people should feel confident that administration officials are working for them, not for special interests. Today, I’m introducing the Drain the Swamp Act to reestablish key ethics rules, including a ban on White House officials accepting gifts from lobbyists, not just for this administration, but for all administrations going forward,” said Rep. Ro Khanna. 

    “The American people are sick and tired of watching corporate lobbyists and political insiders trade public service for private gain while our communities are still fighting for the basics like housing, health care, clean air, safe schools, fair wages, and clean drinking water,” said Rep. Lee. “This bill is about putting people first and making sure our government answers to the people — not to the highest bidder, and not to the biggest check. If we’re serious about justice, about democracy, about restoring trust in our institutions, then we have to start by cleaning up the corruption that’s been allowed to rot it from the inside. Our communities deserve leaders who serve them — not themselves. We’re not here to protect power. We’re here to shift it back where it belongs: with the people,” said Rep. Summer Lee. 

    “In the Trump Administration, self-dealing and pay-to-play are not a bug, they’re a feature. Since being sworn in, Donald Trump has signed more than 110 executive orders, but the only action he’s taken on anti-corruption and lobbyist restrictions is to repeal them.  Public Citizen strongly supports this bill to put back in place the ban on gifts from lobbyists to presidential appointees, limits on the revolving door between lobbying and government, and strong ethics enforcement to ensure that our government serves the needs of the American people rather than enriching lobbyists, cronies, and corrupt officials,” said Jon Golinger, Democracy Advocate with Public Citizen.

    “Every day, we see new examples of how Donald Trump and his cronies are dismantling safeguards meant to protect our democracy – dissolving ethics rules on the executive branch and handing power over to billionaire donors. The Drain the Swamp Act codifies White House ethics rules that used to be standard practice, preventing any president from erasing them with the stroke of a pen. Nearly 7 out of 10 Americans believe corruption in our government is a critical issue. Without these ethics protections, we open the door to backroom deals, conflicts of interest, and corruption. We are grateful to Representatives Khanna, Tlaib, and Lee for leading this important legislative effort to restore ethics in the Oval Office,” said Brett Edkins, Managing Director, Policy and Political Affairs at Stand Up America. 

    “We are witnessing an unprecedented and dangerous unraveling of ethics rules and norms in an effort to profit off the presidency. We need meaningful guardrails to ensure the White House is never for sale. The Drain the Swamp Act codifies key ethics standards followed by previous administrations, like banning gifts from lobbyists and establishing cooling-off periods to curb the revolving door between industry and government. These are common-sense reforms to prevent corruption and safeguard our democracy. CREW applauds Rep. Khanna for his leadership on this issue and urges Congress to pass this bill without delay,” said Debra Perlin, Vice President for Policy of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW). 

    The Drain the Swamp Act codifies previous White House ethics rules, preventing any president from weakening them through executive action. Specifically, the bill will:

    • Lobbyist Gift Ban: Prohibits appointees from accepting gifts from registered lobbyists or lobbying organizations.
    • Revolving Door Ban – Entering Government: Appointees cannot participate in matters related to former employers or clients for two years.
    • Revolving Door Ban – Former Lobbyists & Foreign Agents: Prohibits former lobbyists or foreign agents from working on issues they previously lobbied on or within agencies they lobbied for two years before appointment.
    • Revolving Door Ban – Leaving Government: Former appointees must adhere to a two-year cooling-off period restricting agency communications.
    • Senior & Very Senior Officials Ban: Senior officials cannot assist lobbying efforts for one year after leaving government.
    • Lobbying Ban – Post-Government Service: Appointees cannot lobby executive branch officials or foreign entities for the remainder of the administration or two years post-service, whichever is longer.
    • Golden Parachute Ban: Prohibits appointees from accepting special payments or benefits from former employers as incentives for entering government service.
    • Merit-Based Hiring Commitment: Ensures hiring decisions are based on qualifications, competence, and experience—not political connections.

    For the full text of the bill, click here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Garamendi and Calvert Introduce the Bipartisan Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Garamendi – Representing California’s 3rd Congressional District

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representatives John Garamendi (CA-08) and Ken Calvert (CA-41) introduced the “Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act,” which would help permanently conserve privately owned working forestlands. They are joined by U.S. Representatives Jim Costa (CA-21), Josh Harder (CA-09), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01).

    The “Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act” (H.R.2771) would give States the option to designate accredited, nonprofit land trusts to hold conservation easements purchased with federal funding from the U.S. Forest Service’s Forest Legacy Program. Current law requires that federal or state governments hold conservation easements purchased under the Forest Legacy Program.

    “As the former Deputy Secretary of the Interior to President Clinton, I know that our national conservation goals cannot be achieved through public land ownership alone. Federal and state governments can, and must, do a better job of working with private landowners who want to conserve their land, as my family did for our cattle ranch in 1998. My bill would unlock millions in federal funding to help states conserve working forestlands, create good-paying jobs, and support sustainable forest management practices that reduce wildfire risk,” said Congressman Garamendi.

    “The Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act will provide new tools to help achieve our conservation, forest management, and economic goals. This bipartisan bill is an important step in strengthening partnerships between private landowners and public stakeholders interested in conserving forestlands,” said Congressman Calvert. 

    “We applaud Congressmen Calvert and Garamendi for introducing this bill.  This commonsense, practical, no-cost enhancement to the Forest Legacy Program will make it easier for private landowners and states to fulfill their goals of voluntarily conserving working forestlands for all their public benefits while maintaining private ownership. The flexibility provided in this bill will help many states, like California, Oregon, and Washington, leverage private-public partnerships to get better outcomes while saving money and resources,” said Laurie Wayburn, Pacific Forest Trust President. 

    Allowing States participating in the federal Forest Legacy Program the flexibility to partner with accredited, nonprofit land trusts will help permanently conserve more land by working with private landowners who want to choose conservation but do not want to sell the federal or state governments an easement on their property. The “Forest Legacy Management Flexibility Act” would save states money and time, increasing the impact and reach of the Forest Legacy Program.

    Endorsements: Partnership of Rangeland Trusts, American Farmland Trust, Pacific Crest Trail Association, Pacific Forest Trust, California Rangeland Trust, North Coast Land Conservancy, American River Conservancy, Colorado Cattlemen’s Agricultural Land Trust, Georgia-Alabama Land Trust, Northeast Wilderness Trust, Sequoia Riverlands Trust, Oregon Agricultural Trust, Placer Land Trust, Maine Coast Heritage Trust, Natural Lands, Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests, Forest Society of Maine, Lookout Mountain Conservancy, Saratoga PLAN.

    Garamendi previously served on the U.S. House of Representatives’ Committee on Natural Resources (2011-2012) and the Committee on Agriculture (2012-2014), which oversee both the U.S. Forest Service and the National Forest System. Garamendi served as the first Deputy Secretary of the Interior from 1995 to 1998 during the Clinton Administration. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Davids Fights to Restore Manufacturing Support Slashed by Trump Administration

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-3)

    In case you missed it, the Kansas City Star reported on Representative Sharice Davids’ new legislation to reverse devastating cuts made by the Trump administration to Kansas Manufacturing Solutions (KMS), a nonprofit that supports hundreds of Kansas manufacturers, including more than 500 in Kansas’ Third District alone.

    The decision to cut the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) contract — despite bipartisan support for bolstering domestic manufacturing — has already forced KMS to lay off over half its staff and threatens Kansas’ manufacturing ecosystem at a time of rising economic uncertainty and global supply chain challenges. 

    Davids’ bill, the Defend American Manufacturing Act, would ensure future MEP contracts are renewed and shield the program from politically motivated cuts, helping small and medium-sized manufacturers access the support they need to expand, improve operations, and create good-paying jobs.

    Read more in the Kansas City Star: Trump cut help for Kansas manufacturers. Sharice Davids wants to restore funds

    “KMS had been a part of the Manufacturing Extension Partnership, a nationwide federal program run by the National Institute of Standards and Technology. The institute, housed in the U.S. Department of Commerce, chose not to renew MEP contracts in Kansas and nine other states with program agreements that ended on March 31. 

    The non-renewals come even as Trump and his allies publicly emphasize the importance of American manufacturing and luring manufacturers into the country from overseas.

    […]

    ‘It was really a gut punch,’ Stovall said in an interview, adding later that tariffs don’t work without a strong manufacturing base to meet demand. ‘Cutting MEP now is like building a runway and then grounding the plane.’ 

    Rep. Sharice Davids, a Democrat who represents the Kansas 3rd Congressional District, will introduce legislation on Thursday to effectively reverse the cuts.

    […]

    Davids, who represents southern Wyandotte County, Johnson County and rural areas southwest of the Kansas City metro, said the measure, called the Defend American Manufacturing Act, would free the program’s funding from politically-motivated decision making. 

    ‘I’m very frustrated right now, actually, about this because we’re at this time where people are dealing with supply chain issues. By the hour, the economic uncertainty seems to grow,’ Davids told The Star in an interview on Tuesday. 

    ‘And I will say that having a president literally say he’s focused on bringing more manufacturing home to the United States, while nearly simultaneously imposing these tariffs, announcing these tariffs – this is an example of a politician saying one thing and doing another.’ 

    […]

    Roughly 4,400 manufacturers operate in Kansas, and 84% are owned by small and medium-sized enterprises, according to KMS’ 2024 annual report. Those small and medium-sized businesses represent the nonprofit’s target client – businesses who want assistance but aren’t large enough to afford high-end consulting. Kansas manufacturers employ some 173,000 people statewide, including over 30,000 in the 3rd District. 

    […]

    ‘Nationally, part of the point of the tariffs is to, in fact, drive more manufacturing back into the U.S.,’ Kindle said. ‘But if we tear down the structures that help make that happen, then it’s not helpful. We’re not going to have the result we anticipated if we aren’t ready when those companies come knocking.’ 

    […]

    The Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025, in a 2023 report, recommended privatizing the Manufacturing Extension Partnership. While Trump sought to distance himself from Project 2025 during his most recent campaign, his administration has taken steps to implement a number of its recommendations. 

    […]

    Davids said KMS acts as ‘boots on the ground’ patterns for small and medium-sized manufacturers. The businesses were already dealing with economic uncertainty. But the federal decision to cut the Manufacturing Extension Partnership was ‘absolutely the rug being pulled out from under them.’ 

    Davids’ legislation faces an uncertain future in the Republican-controlled U.S. House. Davids said she plans to seek Republican support, adding that many lawmakers may not yet be aware of the cuts to the MEP program. 

    At a time when cuts to Medicaid are on the table in Congress and significant job losses are possible at the Social Security Administration and other federal agencies, Davids said, “we shouldn’t have to worry about whether Donald Trump is going to continue to support our ability to have a strong economy.’” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Craig Blasts Administration for Using Trade Policy to Enrich Inner Circle

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Angie Craig (MN-02)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig joined her colleagues in expressing serious concerns that the Administration may be using trade policy to enrich the President’s inner circle.

    In a letter to President Trump and top cabinet officials, the Members of Congress noted that Cabinet Members and top officials connected with the Administration are in positions to directly benefit from stock market volatility, while everyday Americans stand to suffer financially. 

    “Our concern stems from the fact that Cabinet Members and top officials connected with the Administration—including members of the President’s family—are in positions to directly benefit from any manipulation of the stock market, while its volatility puts the financial security of everyday Americans at risk,” the Members wrote. “The volatility in the stock market has devastated the financial security of Americans… These are real losses from retirement accounts, 529 college savings plans, and Health Savings Accounts that families depend on for essential expenses.”

    They also raised questions about the President’s choice to post on social media encouraging his followers to buy stocks only hours before reversing his decision to impose sweeping tariffs on America’s trading partners.

    “This sequence of events raises serious concerns about the timing of public communications by the President and the use of executive authority in trade matters,” the Members continued. “The lack of transparency in decision-making—especially when so closely tied to significant market movements—undermines public trust and raises red flags about potential manipulation or self-dealing.”

    The Members also requested information to better understand the role of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) in overseeing trade policy decisions. 

    “The appearance that trade announcements or reversals may be timed in coordination with statements that influence markets—even implicitly—warrants immediate and thorough scrutiny,” the Members wrote. “If individuals within the Administration had advanced knowledge of trade actions or reversals and used that information for personal or political gain, such conduct would be deeply troubling —and potentially unlawful.”

    Representative Craig has led the charge to clean up Washington and prohibit Members of Congress from profiting off their service. She recently re-introduced her Halt Unchecked Member Benefits with Lobbying Elimination (HUMBLE) Act, which would ban Members of Congress from owning or trading individual stocks, prohibit the use of taxpayer funds for first-class airline tickets, prevent Members from serving on corporate boards while they are in Congress and eliminate access to Members-only perks for former Members. The bill also includes a new provision to eliminate automatic pay raises for Members of Congress.  

    You can read the full letter here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: García, Nadler Lead Colleagues in Opposing Attempted Firings of FTC Commissioners, Urging FTC to Address Nationwide Affordability Crisis

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jesús Chuy García (IL-04)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) and House Judiciary Antitrust Subcommittee Ranking Member Jerry Nadler (NY-12) and 53 of their colleagues sent a letter to President Trump and Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chair Andrew Ferguson strongly opposing Trump’s unlawful attempt to fire Commissioners Alvaro Bedoya and Rebecca Slaughter and urging the agency to use its authorities to address the “cost-of-living crisis” and “deliver emergency price relief” to working families. 

    The Members underscore in the letter how the attempted firing of Mr. Bedoya and Ms. Slaughter undermines the Commission’s ability to protect workers and consumers, as they provided crucial votes for cases and investigations that held pharmacy benefit managers accountable for artificially inflating insulin prices and stopped agricultural equipment companies from denying farmers the right to repair their own agricultural equipment. The Commissioners were also instrumental in the FTC’s regulatory efforts to end junk fees, abusive subscription practices, and ban non-compete agreements that limited workers’ employment opportunities.

    “President Trump ran a campaign promising to lower costs of living for working families, but instead he is illegally terminating leaders at the FTC, an independent agency whose mandate could be used to hold predatory corporations accountable, while the prices of food, housing, and services continue to rise,” said Congressman García. “I am proud to have partnered with Ranking Member Nadler on this effort; Commissioners Bedoya and Slaughter must be permitted to do their jobs, and the FTC should prioritize workers and consumers, not billionaires.”

    “The illegal attempted firing of Federal Trade Commissioners Bedoya and Slaughter is an affront not only to our Constitution but also the economic power of individuals, families, and small businesses across the country. The FTC is the body that ensures we have a fair market and it should not be politicized as President Trump has done. I am proud to join my colleagues in urging the President to reinstate the Commissioners and ensure that the FTC is focused on driving down costs for the American people,” said Ranking Member Nadler.

    “Following the Trump administration’s erratic policymaking and whipsaw tariff announcements, it’s more important than ever that Commissioners Bedoya and Slaughter get back to work to lower prices for working Americans that will bear the brunt of any economic fallout,” said Morgan Harper, Director of Policy and Advocacy at the American Economic Liberties Project. “In times of economic uncertainty, robust enforcement from the FTC is absolutely necessary to defend the interests of consumers, small businesses, and workers who are already struggling under a cost of living crisis. We’re pleased to join these Members of Congress in urging the administration to get the full Commission back to work as fast as possible.”

    “By illegally trying to fire Commissioners Bedoya and Slaughter, President Trump and Andrew Ferguson deliberately hobbled the FTC, one of the government’s most effective defenses against Big Tech and Wall Street abuses,” said Emily Peterson-Cassin, Corporate Power Director at Demand Progress. “Especially now when Americans are worrying about their retirement accounts and the price of household goods, we need a fully functional FTC to look out for Main Street. Chair Ferguson has talked a big game about standing up to the big fish and now is the time to actually use his power to curb corporate abuse and lower costs for everyday Americans.”

    “The out-of-control cost of housing is the number one economic issue facing most Americans and the number one driver of homelessness,” said Jesse Rabinowitz, Communications and Campaign Director at the National Homelessness Law Center. “That’s why it’s crucial to have a functional FTC with Commissioners who are committed to addressing corporate consolidation and other issues in the housing market that are driving up costs for families. When we solve homelessness and make housing affordable for all, we will be a safer, healthier, and more prosperous country.”

    A copy of the letter can be found here.

    Congressmen García and Nadler were joined by 53 colleagues: Reps. Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), Becca Balint (VT-AL), Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), Greg Casar (TX-35), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Gilbert R. Cisneros, Jr. (CA-31), Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Jimmy Gomez (CA- 34), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Hank Johnson (GA-04), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Ro Khanna (CA-17), John B. Larson (CT-01), Summer Lee (PA-12), Ted W. Lieu (CA-36), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Jim McGovern (MA-02), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Rob Menendez (NJ-08), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Adam Smith (WA-09), Darren Soto (FL-09), Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Mark Takano (CA-39), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Paul D. Tonko (NY-20), Norma J. Torres (CA-35), Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), and Nikema Williams (GA-05). 

    The letter is endorsed by: American Economic Liberties Project, Americans For Financial Reform, Center for Digital Democracy, Demand Progress, Groundwork Collaborative, Institute for Local Self-Reliance, National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC), National Homelessness Law Center, P Street, and Revolving Door Project.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Cleaver Votes Against Budget Resolution that Opens Door to Slashing Medicaid and SNAP, Exploding Deficit to Provide Another Handout to Wealthy

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II (5th District Missouri)

    (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) voted against the Republican Budget Resolution that would open the door to slashing essential programs like Medicaid, SNAP, and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) while exploding the federal deficit to finance another round of tax cuts that overwhelmingly benefit the wealthiest Americans. 

    “As Missouri families continue to struggle with the cost of living, as well as the economic chaos created by the president’s reckless tariff policies, my Republican colleagues are laser-focused on passing another round of tax cuts that overwhelmingly benefit the wealthiest Americans—paid for by slashing essential programs that working class Americans depend on like Medicaid, SNAP, CHIP, and more,” said Congressman Cleaver. “This isn’t just fiscally irresponsible, it’s a dangerous proposal that will drive up the cost of everything from healthcare and housing to groceries and energy, all while exploding the federal deficit.”

    According to estimates, the resolution would increase inflation, with the average American household’s purchasing power over the next five years falling by $300-$1,250. That does not include the average loss of $3,800 for the average American due to the president’s previously announced costly tariff plans.

    The Treasury Department found that the extension of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act would give an average annual tax cut of $32,118 for those in the top 1 percent and an average annual tax cut of $314,266 for those in the top 0.1 percent. Nearly half the net benefit of extending the law would go to the top 5 percent of households, or those making more than $450,000 per year.

    Meanwhile, working families will only receive a few hundred dollars in tax cuts a year while losing access to programs like Medicaid, SNAP, school meals, and more, as well as facing higher costs due to inflationary effects. According to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO), the Republican budget previously passed by House Republicans would result in the largest Medicaid cuts in American history—which would be particularly devastating to Missouri.

    In addition to the $880 billion in cuts to programs like Medicaid and CHIP, other devastating cuts to federal programs from the Republican budget include at least:

    • $330 billion in cuts targeting student loan programs, income driven repayment, Pell grants, and school meals;
    • $230 billion in cuts threatening nutrition assistance programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP);
    • $50 billion in cuts that endanger government employee retirement benefits and the federal workforce;
    • $10 billion in cuts to investments in local infrastructure made through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law;
    • $1 billion in cuts that jeopardize the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and federal financial regulators;
    • $1 billion in cuts to clean energy investments made under the Inflation Reduction Act.

    “Rather than pushing an extreme, partisan budget resolution that will take from the most vulnerable in our community and give to those in the top five percent, Congress should be focused on expanding tax cuts for working and middle class families, investing in healthcare and housing programs that will lower costs for Missourians, and ensuring the wealthiest among us pay their fair share,” said Congressman Cleaver. “As Republicans continue to pursue more reckless trickle-down economics, I will do everything in my power to put a stop to these reverse Robin Hood policies.”

    Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee’s Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Cleaver Votes Against GOP’s SAVE Act That Would Disenfranchise Voters

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II (5th District Missouri)

    (Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement ahead of vote on House Republican’s SAVE Act, troubling legislation that would impose harsh voter identification requirements, disenfranchising eligible voters.

    “I am compelled to express my strong opposition to the proposed SAVE Act, which seeks to impose stringent voter identification requirements under the guise of election security. This legislation is yet another example of Republican efforts to disenfranchise eligible voters, specifically women, military members, and minorities.

    “We have already fought these battles. As a nation, we stood up to the poll tax, literacy tests, and other discriminatory practices that sought to silence certain voices at the ballot box. The SAVE Act is a modern echo of those old tactics – dressed in new language, but rooted in the same intent: to make it harder for some Americans to vote. The claim that this legislation is necessary to combat noncitizen voting is not backed by any significant evidence. In fact, studies have shown that voter fraud, especially by noncitizens, is exceedingly rare. What is far more common – and far more dangerous – is the erosion of voting rights through laws like this one that chip away at access under the pretense of security.

    “We should be making it easier, not harder, for Americans to vote. Our democracy is strongest when every eligible citizen has a fair and equal opportunity to make their voice heard. I stand in firm opposition to the SAVE Act and any similar legislation that seeks to impose unnecessary barriers to voting.”

    ###

    Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee’s Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Crow Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Limit Foreign Interference in U.S. Elections

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06)

    WASHINGTON — Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO-06) has introduced new bipartisan legislation to crack down on corruption and limit the influence of foreign money in U.S. elections. 

    While campaign finance law limits foreign nations from contributing to campaigns or engaging in most political activity, there are currently few restrictions in place to prevent a foreign national or government from creating shell companies to covertly funnel money into American elections.

    Congressman Crow’s Shell Company Abuse Act would close this longstanding loophole by making it a felony to establish or use a corporation, company, or business entity to conceal illegal political activity by a foreign national. The legislation was also introduced by Representatives Wesley Bell (D-MO-01), Don Bacon (R-NE-02) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01).

    “American elections should be decided by American voters, not foreign citizens or governments,” said Congressman Crow. “I’ve long fought against corruption and special interests, and that’s why today I’m introducing bipartisan legislation to prevent foreign nationals and governments from covertly funneling money into our elections.”

    “Allowing foreign money to flow into our elections through anonymous shell companies is a threat to everything our democracy stands for,” said Congressman Bell. “Americans have the right to choose their leaders without interference from hidden foreign interests. This bill is about drawing a clear line — our elections belong to the people, and no one else.”

    “Foreign nationals are already prohibited from donating to federal elections, but some individuals have attempted to skirt this law by creating shell companies to conceal these illegal activities,” said Congressman Bacon. “I’m pleased to join Rep. Bell on this legislation to keep integrity in our political process.”

    Congressman Crow is a leading voice in the fight to end corruption. Recently, he introduced the End Dark Money Act, critical legislation to crack down on corruption and end dark money influencing U.S. elections. He previously served as the co-chair of the End Corruption Caucus, and has introduced several other pieces of legislation, including the SHINE Act, DISCLOSE Act, and TRUST in Congress, to end the influence of special interests in elections.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Adams Votes No on SNAP & Medicaid Cuts, Slashing Lifesaving Services for Americans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Alma Adams (12th District of North Carolina)

    WASHINGTON, DC—Today, Congresswoman Alma S. Adams Ph.D. (ND-12) voted against the disastrous GOP budget blueprint that will grow the deficit by $7 trillion, decimate Medicaid and SNAP, and worsen the cost-of-living crisis in the United States.

    “At a time when people are struggling to make ends meet, Republicans in Congress chose billionaire tax breaks over the needs of everyday Americans,” said Congresswoman Adams. “This reckless bill will force people to go hungry. It will cause families to go into debt. It will cost lives by stripping healthcare away from our most vulnerable communities. This budget is reckless and harmful, and anyone who voted for it has abandoned our working- and middle-class families.”

    “As we look forward, it is essential that our Charlotte, Mecklenburg, and North Carolina communities come together to take care of our neighbors,” Adams continued. “My office will continue working with state and local governments, non-profits, community and civic groups, and local leaders to discuss the needs of our community and how we can continue to provide for them when Republicans in Congress won’t. I want my constituents to know that they always have an ally and an advocate in me.”

    The GOP budget bill will slash some of the most critical services to Americans:

    • $230 billion in SNAP cuts, the largest food security program in the country.
    • Up to $880 billion in cuts to programs like Medicare, Medicaid, ACA, and CHIP.
    • $330 billion in cuts to education and workforce, cutting critical education services and programs like student loans, Pell grants, and school lunch.
    • At least $50 billion in cuts which will likely include government employee retirement benefits.

    In North Carolina’s 12th Congressional District, residents will feel the direct impact of these reckless cuts:

    • 160,000 Mecklenburg County residents receive aid from SNAP, with $500 million in economic impacts.
    • 400,000 Mecklenburg County residents rely on Medicaid for critical programs and services.
    • 17,000 Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools students with disabilities rely on Medicaid to fund special education programs.
    • Many NC-12 residents are part of the 638,000 North Carolinians covered under Medicaid expansion. Due to North Carolina’s Medicaid trigger law, these residents could all lose their healthcare.

    These cuts will only worsen the period of economic hardship that the United States is currently facing:

    • Around 30% of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. Slashing social safety nets will harm families struggling to get by.
    • The Trump Administration trade war has resulted in the worst stock market start to a presidential term in modern history, losing $9 trillion in wealth over the last several days.
    • Economists overwhelmingly agree that President Trump’s extreme tariffs will increase costs of living from groceries to housing to medical expenses.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cole Statement on Passage of Budget Resolution

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole released the following statement after voting in favor of the budget resolution:

    “Last November, the American people overwhelmingly voted for a secure border, American energy dominance, investment in the defense of America, a more efficient federal government, and an extension of the Trump Tax Cuts. Through the passage of this budget resolution, we will now be able to begin the drafting stage in order to deliver on these promises,” said Congressman Cole. “The American people are counting on us – and, today, we got one step closer to getting the job done!”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cole Votes to Restrict Non-Citizens from Voting in American Elections

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04)

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after voting in favor of the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, which would require an individual to provide proof of citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections, as well as remove non-citizens from its voter registration rolls:

    “As a result of the previous Administration’s radical open-border policies and lax voter registration laws, more illegal immigrants than ever have the opportunity to vote in federal elections across our nation. It is crucial to the future of America that we do not let this happen – and the SAVE Act does just that,” said Congressman Cole. “This legislation will not only secure our elections but will also stop illegal immigrants from influencing the outcome of our elections. I am proud to have voted in favor of the SAVE Act today, and I hope to see it become law.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: OSINT Subcommittee Chair Wagner Holds Industry Roundtable on Open-Source Intelligence

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO-02)

    Washington, D.C. – Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) Subcommittee Chair Ann Wagner (MO-02) hosted a roundtable of industry leaders to hear how private sector companies are working with the Intelligence Community (IC) to support the U.S. national security mission through the use of OSINT. The industry panel included representatives from WireScreen, Recorded Future, the Grist Mill Exchange, and Reality Defender. The goal of the event was for these private sector companies to showcase for the subcommittee members the capabilities they offer to the IC.

    This OSINT subcommittee roundtable served as another touchpoint in a series of events the newly established subcommittee is holding in its fact-finding mission to examine how the IC can more effectively and efficiently use Commercially Available Information (CAI) to create open-source intelligence products. 

    “OSINT is changing the way intelligence is being gathered and analyzed, unlocking new opportunities for the IC,” said Chair Wagner. “As a maturing discipline within the IC, we must be cognizant of how data is being purchased across the various agencies and ensure we are standardizing contract structures to meet necessary mission requirements. I appreciate the panel sharing their honest and valuable perspectives to help inform our subcommittee’s work. Open-source Intelligence is vitally important to the intelligence gathering process, and we must understand what is and is not working when doing business with the IC.”

    During the roundtable, WireScreen, a global intelligence platform with a focus on China and global supply chains, showcased how its platform enables the IC to proactively counter CCP influence efforts in a variety of ways.

    Recorded Future, a threat intelligence company explained how its platform provides complete coverage across adversaries, infrastructure, and targets. By combining its Intelligence GraphⓇ-powered AI with the world’s largest collection of specialized threat data, Recorded Future enables cyber teams to see the complete picture, and proactively act with confidence.

    Grist Mill Exchange, a commercial data marketplace that connects government agencies with thousands of commercial data sets from hundreds of data providers, underscored the opportunity for the IC to harness the rapid innovation happening in the private sector. By leveraging proven commercial data solutions, the IC can quickly advance its OSINT missions while strengthening its capacity to derive new insights for decision advantage. This approach positions the IC to stay ahead of future technological advancements by building on the momentum already underway in the private sector.

    Reality Defender, a deepfake detection startup that has developed a multi-model and multimodal AI detection platform, shared with the members how they support private companies and governments in detecting AI-generated content at scale.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Norton Vows to Fight Senator Mike Lee’s Anti-Home Rule Bill Addressing D.C. Council Meetings

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (District of Columbia)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – After Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) told the Washington Post that he would introduce an anti-home rule bill to repeal recently passed local emergency legislation that amends D.C.’s Open Meetings Act, Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) vowed to fight the bill’s advancement in Congress. The D.C. Council last week passed a measure to amend the Open Meetings Act. Emergency legislation in D.C. remains in effect for 90 days and is not subject to a congressional disapproval resolution. Lee threatened to introduce a disapproval resolution if the D.C. emergency legislation becomes permanent.

    “There are more than 700,000 D.C. residents who live in D.C., and they include neither Senator Lee nor the people of Utah, who he represents in Congress,” Norton said. “D.C. has a local legislature whose members are elected by D.C. residents. If D.C. residents do not approve of how the members vote, they can vote them out of office. That is called democracy.

    “The people of D.C. are worthy and capable of self-government without interference from members of Congress who are not accountable to D.C. I urge Senator Lee to turn his attention to his own constituents, and I will use all the tools at my disposal to fight his anti-home rule legislation’s advancement in Congress.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ways and Means Democrats introduce bill to end tariff chaos, reclaim Congress’s trade authority

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (38th District of CA)

    WASHINGTON – Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Ranking Member Linda T. Sánchez (D-Calif.), along with all Ways and Means Committee Democrats, today introduced the Stopping a Rogue President on Trade Act, a bill to end the constant chaos created by President Trump’s trade wars and reclaim Congress’s authority over tariffs.

    Video of today’s bill introduction press conference is available HERE.

    “President Trump’s reckless abuse of tariffs has sparked nothing but chaos,” said Trade Subcommittee Ranking Member Sánchez. “American families have been anxiously bracing for rising costs and small businesses are worried they won’t survive the economic strain – all while the president flip-flops on tariffs at a whim, doing backroom deals and keeping negotiations out of the public eye. It’s time to end this madness. Congress must step in and take the trade keys away from our rogue president and protect the American people.”

    “Over the years, Congress has entrusted more and more authority over trade to the Executive Branch, and recent events have made it clear we must reclaim that authority,” said Ranking Member Richard Neal (D-Mass.). “This president is willing to call anything an emergency to justify his every chaotic whim. The American people deserve better—they deserve stability and forethought. That’s why I’m proud to support Trade Subcommittee Ranking Member Sánchez’s legislation that will deliver just that.”

    The Stopping a Rogue President on Trade Act would:

    • Turn off the global tariffs imposed on April 2: The bill would permanently turn off the new baseline tariffs of 10 percent for all countries as well as the massive increases in tariffs for 60 trading partners, such as Europe, Israel, Japan, South Korea and Kenya. This would return most rates to the levels they were before the president’s tariff spree.
       
    • Turn off the tariffs imposed by executive order for Mexico and Canada: The president should not be able to use congressional trade authorities to extort our closest allies. If there are trade issues with those two countries, then there is a process in the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement that President Trump negotiated and Congress authorized.
       
    • Require congressional approval for all new tariffs: The Constitution gives Congress the authority over trade. Getting a vote on tariff actions should not be held hostage to political whim; votes would be treated as privileged measures that ensures that the American people get to have their say. Apolitical tariff actions – like trade remedies, safeguards and trade agreement dispute settlement – are already insulated from partisan abuse and would not require a congressional vote under the bill.

    The bill is cosponsored by Representatives Richard Neal (D-Mass.), Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas), Mike Thompson (D-Calif.), John Larson (D-Conn.), Danny Davis (D-Ill.), Terri Sewell (D-Ala.), Suzan DelBene (D-Wash.), Judy Chu (D-Calif.), Gwen Moore (D-Wisc.), Brendan Boyle (D-Pa.), Don Beyer (D-Va.), Dwight Evans (D-Pa.), Brad Schneider (D-Ill.), Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.), Jimmy Gomez (D-Calif.), Steven Horsford (D-Nev.), Stacey Plaskett (D-Virgin Islands), Tom Suozzi (D-N.Y.) and Adam Gray (D-Calif.).

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FACT SHEET: Republican Middle Class Betrayal in San Francisco

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Representing the 12th District of California

    From the Speaker Emerita’s Press Office:

    Today, House Republicans passed a budget that betrays the middle class with the largest cuts to Medicaid and SNAP in American history.  

    Republicans are taking away health care, increasing the cost of essentials like food and housing, and decimating services working families count on – all to pay for $7 trillion giveaways to Donald Trump’s billionaire donors, big corporations and the ultra-rich.

    Below is a fact sheet prepared by the Office of Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (CA-11) and the Democratic Staff of the House Committee on the Budget:

    This is what Republican budget plans would mean for San Francisco:

    • $7 trillion in giveaways to billionaires and big corporations
    • $314,266 in average annual tax cuts for the richest 0.1 percent

    Meanwhile, middle class families would be left holding the bag.

    Ripping Away Health Care

    The Affordable Care Act

    Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, tens of millions of Americans can afford high-quality health care. House Democrats built on the Affordable Care Act, delivering lower prices and expanding coverage.

    Under the Republican budget plan, the 32,000 people who receive coverage under the Affordable Care Act in San Francisco would see their average premium go up by $3,070 per year — a 112% increase.

    Many families would face even steeper consequences. A 60-year-old couple with a household income of $85,000 in San Francisco would see their health insurance costs increase by $22,193 per year — a 307% increase in premiums.

    Medicaid

    Nearly 80 million Americans receive health care through Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program, which provide critical care throughout all stages of life. Medicaid covers everything from childbirth to nursing home care and everything in between.

    In San Francisco, the 162,583 people on Medicaid (also known in California as Medi-Cal) are at risk of losing their health care under Republican budget plans.

    This includes 33,336 children under the age of 19 and 44,000 seniors over 65 in San Francisco.

    Raising the Cost of Living

    Food Assistance

    With many American families struggling to put food on the table, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program provides critical support for over 40 million Americans including children, seniors, veterans, and working parents.

    Extreme Republican budget plans threaten the 211,000 people in San Francisco who count on SNAP to put food on the table.

    School Lunches

    Every year, more than 23 million children receive healthy school meals thanks to the Community Eligibility Provision.

    Across California, the Republican budget threatens 2,452,931 children who rely on free school lunches.

    If Republicans are successful, their extreme budget will make it even harder for these children to get the meals they need to grow and learn.

    Pell Grants

    About one in three undergraduate students receive Pell grants, which have helped millions of students afford the cost of a college education. These investments in future generations help grow our economy and our middle class.

    The Republican budget would jeopardize the futures of 19,382 students in San Francisco who use Pell grants to help afford their education.

    And that’s only the beginning. Republicans are targeting even more critical services to fund their tax cuts for billionaires and big corporations.

    The Trump Administration is already undermining our nation’s economy by threatening essential public servants with reckless layoffs. In San Francisco alone, the federal government employs 7,602 people.

    Learn more about how the Republican budget betrays the middle class here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pelosi, Congressional Democrats Fight Back Against Trump’s Attacks on Independent Worker Protection Agencies

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Representing the 12th District of California

    Washington, D.C. — This week, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi joined House and Senate Democratic Leadership in filing an amicus brief opposing President Donald Trump’s unlawful attempts to fire members of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) and the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB). The individuals cited in this matter were duly appointed, congressionally confirmed board members at independent federal agencies. Illegal attempts to terminate them threaten the integrity of these institutions and their ability to protect American workers and uphold workplace democracy.
     
    The NLRB and MSPB play a critical role in protecting workers, both in public service and the private sector, in their right to seek better working conditions and in safeguarding a non-political, merit-based federal workforce.
     
    The brief was led by House Ranking Members Jamie Raskin, Gerry Connolly, and Bobby Scott, alongside House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Assistant Leader Joe Neguse, as well as Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senators Elizabeth Warren and Cory Booker – and was joined by 253 Congressional Democrats. 
     
    The amici curiae file their argument in the cases involving the attempted unlawful firings of Gwynne Wilcox, a member of the NLRB and Cathy Harris, a member of the MSPB. 

     
    The full brief is available HERE. 

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Biggs Issues Statement Following House Passage of Senate Budget Instruction

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Andy Biggs (AZ-05)

    Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H. Con. Res. 14, the U.S. Senate’s instructions for budget reconciliation, by a vote of 216-214. Congressman Biggs issued the following statement:

    “Today, I voted to approve the budget instruction bill from the Senate. Though the Senate’s instructions called for spending reductions of only $4 billion over 10 years—while the House’s resolution called for reductions of $2 trillion—circumstances changed over the last 36 hours.

    1. The White House committed to spending reductions of $1.5 trillion, including the Inflation Reduction Act, fraud and waste in federal programs like Medicaid, illegal student loan forgiveness, and numerous other programs.
    2. Senate Majority Leader Thune also committed to accept the framework of the House’s budget instruction bill.
    3. Speaker Johnson has reiterated that he will not bring a bill to the Floor that does not conform to the House’s framework—this means any proposed budget must contain spending cuts of at least $1.5 trillion, must pay for new tax relief programs, and must not increase the deficit or our national debt.

    These firm commitments from House and Senate Leadership and the White House will provide the chance for an historic reduction in federal spending and the size of the federal government.”

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Next steps for South Tuggeranong Health Centre

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The centre will ensure South Tuggeranong residents have access to more health services closer to home.

    Designs have been released for the new South Tuggeranong Health Centre in Conder.

    The Development Application (DA) has also been publicly notified.

    This marks a significant milestone in the project, which will ensure South Tuggeranong residents have access to more health services closer to home.

    This follows extensive consultation last year, with the designs reflecting community input.

    The DA lodgement gives the community another opportunity to provide feedback on the designs.

    South Tuggeranong Health Centre services

    The centre will feature consultation rooms and a multi-purpose space.

    These will support a range of specialities and non-government organisations to deliver services.

    These will include:

    • paediatrics
    • pathology collection
    • dementia care
    • diabetes clinics
    • falls and falls injury prevention
    • chronic disease programs
    • a virtual care space for people to access specialist services closer to where they live.

    A head contractor will soon be selected.

    Construction is expected to start early next year and be completed towards the end of 2025.

    More health centres for Canberra

    Early design work and planning is underway for new health centres in:

    • North Gungahlin
    • the Inner South
    • West Belconnen.

    The ACT Government recently completed consultation on the services for the centres in the Inner South and North Gungahlin.

    You can view the plans and provide feedback until 9 September 2024.

    Visit Planning ACT.

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