NewzIntel.com

Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Economics: EIA expects less oil demand and lower oil and gasoline prices in an uncertain market

    Source: US Energy Information Administration – EIA

    Headline: EIA expects less oil demand and lower oil and gasoline prices in an uncertain market

    U.S. ENERGY INFORMATION ADMINISTRATION
    WASHINGTON DC 20585

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    April 10, 2025

    The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) expects recent developments in global trade policy and oil production to contribute to lower global demand growth for petroleum products through 2026, which contributes to significantly lower oil prices than previously forecast.

    In its April Short-Term Energy Outlook (STEO), EIA points out significant uncertainties in energy supply, demand, and prices.

    The STEO is based on current market conditions, and in the first week of April, numerous developments affected the global market—especially oil markets. On April 2, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order announcing a minimum 10% tariff on imports from all countries, which also included higher tariffs on some countries. On April 4, China responded by imposing 34% tariffs on imports from the United States. Amid the tariff announcements, OPEC+ members announced on April 3 that some countries will start oil production increases in May that were originally set for July.

    These announcements caused the Brent crude oil spot price to fall by 12% on April 2 to $68 per barrel on April 4. EIA completed its forecasts on April 7, so the April STEO includes some of the recent changes in the energy market, but the agency expects continued volatility as market participants respond to further developments.

    U.S. energy market indicators 2024 2025 2026
    Brent crude oil spot price (dollars per barrel) $81 $68 $61
    Retail gasoline price (dollars per gallon) $3.30 $3.10 $3.10
    U.S. crude oil production (million barrels per day) 13.2 13.5 13.6
    Natural gas price at Henry Hub (dollars per million British thermal units) $2.20 $4.30 $4.60
    U.S. liquefied natural gas gross exports (billion cubic feet per day) 12 15 16
    Shares of U.S. electricity generation       
    Natural gas 42% 40% 40%
    Coal 16% 16% 15%
    Renewables 23% 25% 27%
    Nuclear 19% 19% 19%
    U.S. GDP (percentage change) 2.8% 2.0% 2.0%
    U.S. CO2 emissions (billion metric tons) 4.8 4.8 4.7
    Data source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Short-Term Energy Outlook, April 2025
    Note: Values in this table are rounded and may not match values in other tables in the STEO.

    Some key highlights from the April STEO include:

    • Global oil supply, demand, and prices: EIA expects continued growth in U.S. and global oil production as OPEC+ accelerates its previously announced production increases and the United States exempts energy from its recently announced tariffs. EIA expects global oil inventories to increase starting in the middle of 2025, but market uncertainty could lead to lower economic growth, which could lead to less growth in demand for petroleum products than EIA had previously forecast. The combination of growing supply and lower demand leads EIA to expect the Brent crude oil price to average less than $70 per barrel in 2025 and fall to an average of just over $60 per barrel in 2026. Those prices are about 10% lower than the March STEO forecast and reflect more uncertainty around global oil demand growth as well the potential for additional supply from OPEC+ in the coming months.
    • Other uncertainties in EIA’s oil price forecasts include existing sanctions on Russia, Iran, and Venezuela, which also could affect oil prices.
    • Gasoline prices: EIA forecasts the U.S. retail price for regular-grade gasoline to average about $3.10 per gallon this summer, mostly because of expected lower crude oil prices. If the forecast holds, this price would be the lowest inflation-adjusted summer average gasoline price since 2020.
    • U.S. propane markets: Among energy products, EIA expects China’s retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods will have the largest effect on propane because China is typically a major importer of U.S. propane. Some propane previously exported to China will likely find new destinations, but EIA expects that reduced propane export demand will cause propane inventories on the U.S. Gulf Coast to rise and put downward pressure on the Mt. Belvieu propane spot price.
    • Natural gas demand: EIA expects U.S. natural gas demand to grow by 4% in 2025, averaging just over 115 billion cubic feet per day. This increase is led by a 18% increase in exports and a 9% increase in residential and commercial consumption for space heating. The increase in natural gas exports is driven primarily by growth in liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports as two new LNG export facilities—Plaquemines Phase 1 and Golden Pass LNG—ramp up operations.
    • Although China announced on April 7 that it would no longer import U.S. LNG, EIA expects that ample global demand for LNG and flexible destination clauses in U.S. LNG contracts mean U.S. LNG exports will be largely unaffected by recent trade policy developments.
    • Natural gas inventories and prices: U.S working natural gas inventories ended the withdrawal season 6% below the five-year average because cold weather in January and February resulted in more natural gas than average being withdrawn from storage. EIA continues to expect higher natural gas prices this year, with the Henry Hub price averaging about $4.30 per million British thermal units (MMBtu) in 2025, up $2.10 per MMBtu from 2024. EIA expects the annual average price to increase in 2026 to about $4.60 per MMBtu.
    • Trade policy assumptions: The U.S. macroeconomic outlook used in the STEO is based on S&P Global’s macroeconomic model. Although that model was released in mid-March and does not completely reflect the trade policies announced the first week of April, its assumptions are partly in line with what the President announced on April 2. S&P Global’s forecast assumes an increasing universal tariff that will reach 10% by the end of 2025 and a higher rate on U.S. imports from China. We use Oxford Economics for our global GDP forecast, which was also completed in mid-March, prior to the most recent tariff announcements.

    The full April 2025 Short-Term Energy Outlook is available on the EIA website.

    The product described in this press release was prepared by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the statistical and analytical agency within the U.S. Department of Energy. By law, EIA’s data, analysis, and forecasts are independent of approval by any other officer or employee of the U.S. government. The views in the product and this press release therefore should not be construed as representing those of the U.S. Department of Energy or other federal agencies.

    EIA Program Contact: Tim Hess, STEO@eia.gov
    EIA Press Contact: Chris Higginbotham, EIAMedia@eia.gov

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Scholten Votes No on SAVE Act That Threatens Voting Rights for Millions

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Hillary Scholten – Michigan

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (MI03) voted against the SAVE Act, legislation passed by House Republicans that, despite its name, would make it harder for millions of eligible Americans to vote—especially women, service members, Native Americans, and rural voters.

    “Let me be clear: only United States citizens should be deciding our elections. Republicans are trying to sell the SAVE Act as a way to stop non-citizens from voting, but we know that’s already illegal. What this bill really does is make it harder for citizens to vote, especially women,” said Rep. Scholten. “This bill doesn’t solve a real problem—it creates one. A busy working mom juggling a job, kids, and everything else life throws at her shouldn’t have to jump through bureaucratic hoops just to exercise her fundamental right to vote. That’s not election security. That’s voter suppression.”

    The SAVE Act would hit married women particularly hard as it requires the name on one’s birth certificate to match the driver’s license exactly. As many as 69 million women could be impacted simply because they changed their last name when they got married. Under this bill, those women could be blocked from registering to vote without a passport, which costs $130. 

    In addition, Military and Tribal IDs would no longer be valid, which would put a steep burden on Native Americans and service members who would be required to submit sensitive military records just to cast a ballot. 

    West Michigan, in particular, is also home to many individuals who were born in the South and came North to find freedom during the Great Migration, who changed their names upon arrival to start a new, more liberated life. Many haven’t been back to the counties they were born in for decades. Under the SAVE Act, they would be forced to track down their original birth certificate from their birth county and jump through unnecessary hoops.  

    Scholten voted no to stand up for every American’s fundamental right to vote—no matter their name, background, or ZIP code. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Laurel Lee’s Statement on House Passage of the SAVE Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Laurel Lee – Florida (15th District)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Laurel Lee (FL-15) released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act. This bill will support state and local elections officials by providing them with data and tools necessary to help them verify the accuracy of voter rolls. Additionally, it will strengthen current law by requiring documentary proof of U.S. citizenship to register to vote in federal elections

    “Ensuring Americans have confidence in our election system is a top priority of mine, and one of the most effective ways we can do that is by guaranteeing that only citizens are voting in federal elections because the vast majority of Americans believe that only U.S. citizens should vote in our elections. Congress must commit to supporting elections officials and voters by making voting accessible and secure for American voters,” said Rep. Laurel Lee. “The SAVE Act will support state and local elections officials by providing them with data and tools necessary to help them verify the accuracy of voter rolls to help protect our elections and ensure that only American citizens are casting ballots. As someone who has worked in elections at both the state and national levels, I am proud to see this bill pass the House, and I look forward to working with President Trump to safeguard the integrity of our elections.”

    Watch Rep. Lee’s House Floor speech on the SAVE Act. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Deluzio Statement on House Passage of Republican Budget

    Source: US Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA)

    Today’s Deluzio put out the following statement after the passage of the House GOP Budget:

    President Trump and Republicans in Congress are already starting trade wars and driving up costs for people. Now, their budget would pillage our government and target peoples’ healthcare—all to gift $7 billion in tax giveaways to huge corporations and billionaires. It’s a cruel, fiscally reckless grift. I voted ‘no.’

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Hoyle Introduces Vote at Home Act to Improve Americans’ Access to the Ballot Box

    Source: US Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)

    April 10, 2025

    Introduction comes as House Republicans bring forward the SAVE Act, which threatens to jeopardize millions of Americans’ ability to vote

    For Immediate Release: April 10, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Today, Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04) introduced the Vote at Home Act to provide a new path forward on voting that makes elections more accessible, more secure, and more affordable. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) also intends to introduce a companion bill in the Senate.

    House Republican leadership also brought the SAVE Act to the floor for a vote today – a bill that threatens to put at risk the ability for millions of Americans to register to vote. This includes 69 million married women who have changed their last name, and 140 million Americans who do not have a passport.

    Conversely, the Vote at Home Act expands vote by mail initiatives which several states, including Oregon, have found successfully increases voter participation. This was also the case nationally in 2020, when despite a global pandemic, the general election had record high turnout as a result of more vote by mail options. Vote by mail also lowers the cost of holding elections. For example, after the state of Oregon adopted vote by mail, the cost of administering an election dropped nearly 30 percent.

    “Oregon was the first state to enact full vote by mail in 1995, an effort led by both Democratic and Republican Secretaries of State,” said Rep. Hoyle. “We have seen the positive impact that mail in voting has had in Oregon – not only does it improve access for eligible voters, but every ballot has a paper copy making it the most secure form of voting. Voting is a Constitutionally protected right and I’ll fight to make sure every eligible voter can make their voice heard. I am proud to introduce legislation that does exactly that.”

    “For years, Oregonians have been casting their ballot right from the comfort of their own home,” Sen. Wyden said. “Voting at home is not only efficient and secure, but it also gives working Americans who can’t afford to go off the clock the ability to exercise their fundamental right to vote. With Trump and his MAGA pals trying to take away voting rights for millions of Americans, it’s more important than ever for Congress to do right by the American people by ensuring they can make their voices heard in the 2026 elections and have a government that represents them.”

    The Vote at Home Act is endorsed by the National Vote at Home Institute, Stand Up America, End Citizens United/Let America Vote Action Fund, and the Institute for Responsive Government Action.

    Barbara Smith Warner, the Executive Director of the National Vote at Home Institute: “If you want to support and strengthen our democracy, there’s no better way than to support Vote at Home election systems. When every active registered voter automatically receives a mailed out paper ballot, several weeks before every election; can return them by postage-free mail or in person to a wide range of accessible, convenient and secure locations; and can track them online, in real time, to ensure their vote is counted, we all win.”

    Brett Edkins, Managing Director of Policy and Political Affairs at Stand Up America: “Voting by mail is essential for millions of Americans––including working people, college students, rural residents, and seniors––who rely on it to make their voices heard. It provides a secure and convenient way to cast our ballots, especially for those who face challenges getting to the polls due to long distances, hectic work schedules, and other barriers. The Vote at Home Act is a crucial step toward strengthening our democracy by ensuring every voter has the option to cast their ballot from home, return it with a pre-paid envelope, and be automatically registered at their local DMV. We are grateful to Senator Wyden and Representative Hoyle for continuing to champion the freedom to vote in Congress.”

    Tiffany Muller, President of End Citizens United Action Fund: “While Republicans in Congress and across the country try to make it harder for women, seniors, and young voters to cast a ballot, Congresswoman Hoyle and Senator Wyden are fighting to protect every American’s ability to vote without unnecessary barriers. The Vote at Home Act meets this moment by expanding access, increasing security, and making the voting process more convenient. This commonsense solution will ensure that more Americans can make their voices heard in government. We thank Congresswoman Hoyle and Senator Wyden for their continued leadership in defending our Constitutional right to the ballot box.”

    This bill is co-sponsored by 13 of Rep. Hoyle’s colleagues, including Reps. Bonamici (OR-01), Carson (IN-07), Chu (CA-28), Deluzio (PA-17), Dexter (OR-03), (Hank) Johnson (GA-04), Norton (DC-AL), Salinas (OR-06), Schakowsky (IL-09), Tlaib (MI-12), Tonko (NY-20), Veasey (TX-33), and Watson Coleman (NJ-12).

    The text of the Vote at Home Act is available here.

    Background

    The Vote at Home Act

    • Ensures all voters have a chance to research their ballots. By sending all registered voters their ballot weeks before Election Day, voters will have the opportunity to carefully study the candidates and issues before casting their ballots. 

    SAVE Act

    • Under the SAVE Act over 20 million Americans would become ineligible to vote and those who have changed their name, for example in marriage, could also be purged from voter rolls.

    • Last month, President Trump issued an Executive Order that included many of the SAVE Act’s prescriptions which makes it more difficult to vote and requires onerous additional verification when registering.

    • Many of the SAVE Act’s provisions can be found in a similar New Hampshire law that took effect this year. Under this law, women who had changed their name in marriage were forced to re-register to vote and provide proof of their name change before obtaining their registration.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM call with Prime Minister Ishiba of Japan: 10 April 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    PM call with Prime Minister Ishiba of Japan: 10 April 2025

    The Prime Minister spoke to the Prime Minister of Japan Shigeru Ishiba this morning.

    The Prime Minister spoke to the Prime Minister of Japan Shigeru Ishiba this morning.

    On trade, the leaders agreed that a trade war does not benefit anyone, and that now is the time for a cool, calm and pragmatic approach.

    They agreed on the importance of likeminded partners such as the UK and Japan to work closely together to lower trade barriers. Through trading blocs such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and working bilaterally, there are many options to accelerate growth.  

    The Prime Minister wished Prime Minister Ishiba success for the launch of the Osaka Expo next week, and they discussed the UK pavilion focussed on innovation, which underpins the UK-Japan bilateral relationship. 

    On defence and security, the leaders discussed deeper cooperation, welcoming the progress of the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) and reaffirmed their commitment to deliver the next generation of fighter jets.   

    The Prime Minister thanked Prime Minister Ishiba for Japan’s support for the Coalition of the Willing in support for Ukraine. 

    They agreed to keep in close touch.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Probationary licence issued to child-care program

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: BC Transit expands bus service in Whistler

    People using transit in Whistler this spring will see improved and expanded transit options with increased frequency and extended hours of service on several bus routes.

    “People use public transit when it is reliable and affordable, when it can get them around their community to their work, school or to connect with friends and family,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Transportation and Transit. “This service expansion will keep transit services accessible and convenient for people who need them, when and where they need them.”

    To support convenient and reliable transit service for people in Whistler and surrounding communities, BC Transit and the Province are partnering with the local government to expand services in the region with an additional 6,000 annual service hours. This builds on the work done in communities throughout B.C. to provide improved transit services and connect communities.

    “Expanding transit service in Whistler is an important step toward a more connected, equitable local economy and community,” said Jeremy Valeriote, interim leader of the BC Greens and MLA for West Vancouver–Sea to Sky. “More service hours and improvements to key routes mean better access to convenient, reliable, affordable transportation, and less road congestion. I’m pleased that this expansion will continue to improve public transit options for Whistler.”

    The additional service will begin on April 22, 2025, with year-round improvements on several routes, including 21 Spring Creek, 31 Alpine and 32 Emerald. Investing in the local transit system ensures that people in Whistler and its surrounding communities have continued access to the services they rely on. The additional 6,000 hours will help to reduce seasonal fluctuations in service levels previously experienced by transit riders in the region.

    The Province has committed approximately $184 million in operating funding to BC Transit in 2025-26 to protect existing transit services and allow for targeted expansions that will benefit more people throughout B.C.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Funding will strengthen emergency support for evacuees

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Local governments and First Nations throughout the province will receive funding to improve emergency support services (ESS) for people evacuated from their homes during emergencies in British Columbia.

    “Emergency support services can be a lifeline for people who have to leave their homes during disasters,” said Kelly Greene, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness. “By investing in training and equipment, we help to ensure people receive the support they need quickly and efficiently.”

    The Province is providing more than $5 million through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF), through the ESS equipment and training stream, for 113 projects. The funding will help communities expand their capacity to provide emergency support services, through volunteer recruitment and retention efforts, volunteer training and the purchase of ESS equipment.

    “The people who provide Emergency Support Services are often the first source of respite and help for those impacted most by emergencies,” said Trish Mandewo, president, Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM). “This funding will help make those services more robust and resilient so help is there when British Columbians need it. UBCM is pleased to administer this program in partnership with the Province.”

    Local community projects include:

    • boosting training and response capacity in the Strathcona Regional District, through emergency exercises and ESS volunteer training;
    • enhancing Quatsino First Nation’s emergency-support capacity through volunteer training, digital registration tools, portable generators and comfort kits, as well as volunteer engagement activities to strengthen and sustain local response teams;
    • strengthening emergency response in Fort St. James and Nak’azdli Whut’en by developing a new ESS program for Nak’azdli and building capacity within Fort St. James’s existing program, with a focus on co-ordinated training and mutual support during emergencies;
    • enhancing Pouce Coupe’s emergency preparedness with a fully equipped, self-sufficient mobile ESS trailer to support more effective on-site emergency response with power, communication tools and essential supplies; and
    • improving group lodging supplies, office equipment and registration systems for Kwikwetlem First Nation to enhance emergency shelter capacity and support staff and volunteers in the southwestern B.C.

    The CEPF is a suite of funding programs designed to help local governments and First Nations better prepare for disasters and reduce risks from natural hazards in a changing climate. These programs include public notification and evacuation-route planning, emergency operations centre equipment and training, volunteer and composite fire department equipment and training, and Indigenous cultural safety and humility training. Composite fire departments are those that have a mix of paid staff and volunteers.

    Since its establishment in 2017, the Province has committed $369 million into CEPF. To date, approximately $315 million has been provided for approximately 2,400 projects across all CEPF streams. This fund is administered through the Union of British Columbia Municipalities.

    Quotes:

    Danielle Veach, mayor, Village of Pouce Coupe –

    “This funding for our mobile emergency response trailer will significantly enhance Pouce Coupe’s emergency preparedness and regional response capacity, and the fully equipped unit will strengthen on-site emergency services with power, communication tools and vital supplies. Beyond local needs, it will support regional emergency training and collaboration between local governments and Indigenous partners. This investment is a critical step toward a more connected, resilient and inclusive emergency response network across northeastern B.C.”

    Chief Tom Nelson, Quatsino First Nation –

    “This funding is helping Quatsino First Nation strengthen emergency preparedness and local response capacity. Investments in equipment such as digital registration tools, portable generators and comfort kits, along with volunteer training and mock disaster exercises, are helping us build a strong, community-led ESS program. These resources ensure we can respond quickly and confidently when emergencies arise, while also engaging and supporting our members to lead emergency response efforts on the ground.”

    Chief Ron Giesbrecht, Kwikwetlem First Nation –

    “This funding will significantly enhance our capacity for emergency response. The allocation of these resources will enable us to acquire essential group lodging supplies, office equipment, and registration systems. These enhancements will support timely and effective assistance during emergencies, ensuring first responders are well-prepared to meet community needs during an evacuation. This funding represents a vital step toward strengthening local resilience and improving the overall effectiveness of regional emergency response efforts.”

    Ryan McVey, fire chief/protective services director, District of Fort St. James –

    “This funding for equipment, training and recruitment will help the Nak’azdli Whut’en–Fort St. James joint ESS team strengthen the region’s ability to respond to emergencies. By investing in co-ordinated training and mutual support, this project continues to ensure our joint effort can assist not only those living in our community, but anyone in our northern region who needs essential services during an emergency.”

    Mark Baker, chair, Strathcona Regional District Board –

    “The support and compassionate care provided to displaced individuals depends greatly on the commitment of volunteers who selflessly dedicate their time to SRD’s emergency support services program. This funding will enhance both recognition and training for emergency support teams across eight communities, strengthening the heart of the region’s emergency response.”

    Quick Facts:

    • Since 2017, the Province has provided more than $18 million to support approximately 598 projects through the ESS Equipment and Training stream.
    • This funding program covers 100% of eligible costs, as much as $40,000 per eligible applicant.
    • CEPF projects support the implementation of the Emergency and Disaster Management Act by enhancing community response and recovery efforts.

    Learn More:

    For a backgrounder with details about CEPF recipients under the ESS Training and Equipment stream, visit:
    https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/BKGRND_CEPF_Emergency_Support_Services_APRIL2025.pdf

    For more information about Emergency Support Services, visit:
    https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-management/local-emergency-programs/ess

    For more information about the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund, visit:
    https://www.ubcm.ca/funding-programs/local-government-program-services/community-emergency-preparedness-fund

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government Procurement 90 Per Cent from Saskatchewan; 99 Per Cent Canadian

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on April 10, 2025

    The Government of Saskatchewan’s commitment to procuring from Saskatchewan based companies remains strong. Historically, Saskatchewan has awarded nearly 90 per cent of all procurements to Saskatchewan companies over the past five years. When Saskatchewan companies bid, that number has jumped to 95 per cent. In the same period, the province has awarded more than 99 per cent of procurements to Canadian companies, with less than one per cent awarded to US companies. For SaskBuilds’ major projects, all general contractors were Canadian and the majority were from Saskatchewan.

    “Our government will always put Saskatchewan people and Saskatchewan companies first,” SaskBuilds and Procurement Minister David Marit said. “With the vast majority of our procurement going to local businesses, we will continue to support local contractors and industries during this turbulent time.”

    The Ministry of Highways is also committed to Saskatchewan companies. In the 2024-25 construction year, over 96 per cent of the value of awarded contracts went to Saskatchewan companies.

    Saskatchewan’s Crown Corporations’ record of buying Saskatchewan is also strong. In the first three quarters of 2024-25, the Crown sector awarded $1.2 billion, or 75 per cent, of procurements to Saskatchewan suppliers. About three per cent of procurement came from the United States over the same period.

    As previously announced, Lotteries and Gaming Saskatchewan will be ensuring that the $43 million worth of VLTs and slot machines they will be procuring in 2025-26 will not be sourced from the United States. To date, 720 VLTs have been ordered from a Canadian subsidiary of a multi-national company that will assemble the VLTs in Mexico using Canadian, Mexican and Asian inputs.

    The Crown sector’s commitment to supporting Saskatchewan workers and businesses is also reflected in the recent announcement that SaskPower is accelerating the procurement of 10,000 tons of steel from EVRAZ over the coming months.

    SaskBuilds and Procurement continues to work through the details of implementing reporting and remains committed to getting the best value for the taxpayer dollar through the fair and transparent procurement process.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Minnesota Couple Indicted in $15 Million Medical Billing Fraud Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MINNEAPOLIS – An indictment was unsealed today alleging that Gabriel Langford and Elizabeth Brown, a Minnesota couple, engaged in a $15 million scheme to defraud Medicare, Medicaid, and other insurers by overbilling for neurofeedback therapy, following the couple’s arrest and initial appearances in Las Vegas, Nevada, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.

    According to court documents, beginning in 2018, Gabriel Adam Alexander Luthor, a.k.a. Gabriel Adam Alexander Langford, 39, and Elizabeth Christine Brown, 40, intentionally devised and carried out a scheme to overbill Medicare, Medicaid, and other insurers for medical services provided through Golden Victory Medical, LLC (GVM). Luthor and Brown were in a relationship, and together founded GVM in 2018.

    According to court documents, one of the main medical services GVM claimed to provide was neurofeedback therapy. During neurofeedback therapy, a medical provider places sensors on a patient’s scalp to obtain images of the patient’s brain waves, for the purpose of indicating the effects of interventions meant to treat mental-health conditions. But according to the indictment, Luthor and Brown fraudulently overbilled insurers for GVM’s neurofeedback services using numerous inapplicable medical codes.

    For example, GVM repeatedly submitted claims to insurers using medical codes that did not cover the neurofeedback services that GVM provided, combinations of codes that by definition could not be combined, and codes that indicated that GVM’s patients received a longer duration of services than the company had actually provided. Luthor and Brown caused GVM to continue submitting false claims even after repeated warnings from insurers, an outside auditor, and the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

    In total, GVM submitted hundreds of thousands of false claims to insurers, many of which the insurers paid, resulting in an estimated loss of over $15 million. Millions of dollars in fraudulent proceeds were transferred from bank account to bank account and ultimately retained by Luthor and Brown. Luthor and Brown used the funds to purchase a mansion in Eden Prairie and to pay their living expenses and the living expenses of other girlfriends of Luthor’s, who lived with Luthor and Brown and assisted in the fraud scheme.  

    “Minnesota has a fraud problem,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.  “This case is yet another example of defendants defrauding government programs out of millions.  This type of widespread fraud is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”    

    “Defrauding critical healthcare programs like Medicaid and Medicare burden systems designed to serve patients and puts them at risk,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of FBI Minneapolis. “The FBI and our partners will not tolerate those who abuse the healthcare system for personal gain and will pursue justice on behalf of taxpayers and patients.”

    Luthor and Brown are each charged with six counts of wire fraud and one count of money laundering. They made their initial appearances in U.S. District Court in the District of Nevada earlier this week.

    This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Eden Prairie Police Department, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service’s Office of Inspector General, and the U.S. Marshals Service.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew D. Forbes is prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Carter Statement on SAVE Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (LA-02)

     

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) released the following statement:

     

    “My fellow Americans,

     

    “Let me be abundantly clear: the so-called SAVE Act is not about security. It is not about election integrity. It is about suppression — pure and simple. This bill is a modern-day poll tax cloaked in patriotic rhetoric, and it represents one of the most dangerous assaults on the right to vote in a generation.

     

    “As we sit on the House floor debating this bill — which attempts to make it more difficult for Americans to vote — I am reminded of the generations before us who bled, marched, and died to secure the right to the ballot. And now, in the year 2025, we are being asked to consider legislation that would undo that progress.

     

    “This legislation is not only unnecessary — it is un-American. It demands burdensome documentation under the false pretense of preventing a problem that does not exist. What it will actually do is disenfranchise millions of eligible voters — particularly the poor, the elderly, students, and communities of color.

     

    “One of the most outrageous elements of this bill is the requirement that eligible voters, who cannot readily produce certain forms of ID, may be forced to obtain a U.S. passport — at a cost of at least $130 — just to cast their ballot. Let that sink in: a $130 price tag to participate in democracy. That’s not security. That’s a poll tax. And we’ve seen it before.

     

    “Let’s not mince words: this is the return of Jim Crow in a tailored suit.

     

    “We have seen these tactics before. Literacy tests. Grandfather clauses. Intimidation at the ballot box. And now, voter ID mandates so stringent and convoluted that they effectively lock the ballot box for countless Americans. The SAVE Act is not saving anything. It is silencing voices.

     

    “This bill does not protect democracy — it perverts it. It weaponizes bureaucracy to block access to the most fundamental right in a free society: the right to vote.

     

    “Every American — regardless of party, race, or region — should rise up against this legislation. We must call it what it is: a blatant attempt to resurrect the discriminatory practices of our past and to roll back the hard-fought progress we’ve made.

     

    “I urge my colleagues in Congress to reject this legislation with the urgency it demands. I call on the American people to remain vigilant — to speak out, organize, and vote against those who would take us backward.

     

    “The right to vote is not a privilege for the few. It is a right for all. And we must defend it — not just for ourselves, but for the generations to come.

     

    “This is not just a policy debate. This is a moral fight. And we cannot — we must not — lose it.”

     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Home Secretary letter on the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Correspondence

    Home Secretary letter on the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee

    The Home Secretary has written to all police and crime commissioners and chief constables in England and Wales about the launch of the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee.

    Applies to England and Wales

    Documents

    Letter from the Home Secretary to police and crime commissioners and chief constables on the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee (accessible)

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    Letter from the Home Secretary to police and crime commissioners and chief constables on the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee

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    Request an accessible format.
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    Details

    Letter from the Home Secretary to police and crime commissioners and chief constables in England and Wales outlining the Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee.

    Updates to this page

    Published 10 April 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: World Court begins hearing Sudan’s ‘complicity in genocide’ case against the United Arab Emirates

    Source: United Nations 2

    By Vibhu Mishra

    Law and Crime Prevention

    The International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Thursday began hearing Sudan’s case against the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which it accuses of being complicit in acts of genocide against the Masalit community in West Darfur by backing the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

    The hearings in The Hague, focus on Sudan’s request for the court – the UN’s principal judicial organ – to impose provisional measures to prevent further alleged grave human rights violations.

    Brutal civil war

    Sudan’s military Government is alleging that the UAE has been directly supporting the RSF and allied militias, which have embroiled in a brutal civil war with the national army since April 2023.

    The conflict has triggered one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, claiming tens of thousands of lives and displacing over 12.4 million people – more than 3.3 million as refugees in neighbouring countries.

    Hunger has reached catastrophic levels, with famine declared in several regions, and disease outbreaks and the collapse of essential services have left millions, especially children at extreme risk.

    The case, formally titled Application of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in Sudan (Sudan v. United Arab Emirates), was initiated last month, when Sudan filed an application instituting proceedings against the UAE.

    Sudan’s allegations

    Khartoum claims the RSF and its affiliates are responsible for serious human rights violations including mass killings, rape and the forced displacement of the non-Arab Masalit people in West Darfur.

    The application claims the UAE “is complicit in the genocide on the Masalit through its direction of and provision of extensive financial, political, and military support for the rebel RSF militia.”

    Pending a final judgment in the case, the court is being asked to indicate provisional measures ordering the UAE to “take all measures within its power to prevent the commission of all acts” that could contribute to genocide.

    Additionally, Sudan is asking for the UAE to prevent any allied irregular armed units involved, directly or indirectly, from carrying out further alleged atrocities.

    The Court has the authority under Article 36(1) of the its Statute to hear and decide on disputes under international law – including international treaties and conventions – brought by one State against another, provided both have accepted the Court’s jurisdiction.

    The Convention

    The Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide was adopted by the UN General Assembly on 9 December 1948, in the aftermath of the atrocities of World War II. It entered into force on 12 January 1951.

    It defines genocide as any act “committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group”.

    Both Sudan and the UAE are a party to the Convention, making them legally bound by its provisions.

    More to come…

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: M. Night Shyamalan to direct Jake Gyllenhaal Supernatural Movie in R.I.

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    Providence, RI — The Rhode Island Film & TV Office is pleased to announce that Academy Award nominated writer/director, M. Night Shyamalan (The Sixth Sense, Signs, Unbreakable) and best-selling author Nicholas Sparks (The Notebook, A Walk to Remember) are teaming up on a supernatural romantic thriller that will be filmed this summer in the Ocean State. The original narrative is a collaboration between Sparks and Shyamalan, with Sparks writing a book and Shyamalan writing a screenplay independently, based on the same original love story. The Blinding Edge Pictures film will star Jake Gyllenhaal (Donnie Darko, Road House, Presumed Innocent).

    M. Night Shyamalan’s most recent feature “Trap”, a psychological thriller starring Josh Hartnett was released in August of 2024. His other films include “The Sixth Sense” which was nominated for 6 Oscars in 2000, “Signs” with Mel Gibson and Joaquin Phoenix, and the “Eastrail 177 Trilogy” with the films “Unbreakable”, “Split” and “Glass”, starring Bruce Willis, Samuel L. Jackson and James McAvoy. Shyamalan will produce the film with Blinding Edge Pictures president and producing partner Ashwin Rajan, Sparks’ longtime producer Theresa Park and Marc Bienstock.

    New York Times best-selling novelist Nicholas Sparks has published 23 novels and 2 works of nonfiction. A total of 11 of those novels have been adapted as films, most notably 2004’s hit “The Notebook” starring Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling.

    Steven Feinberg, Executive Director of the Rhode Island Film & TV Office, remarked, “It is a dream come true to have one of my favorite filmmakers making an original movie here in our beloved Ocean State. Night is a visionary who always attracts top-notch talent in front of and behind the camera. Rhode Island is a special location steeped in history, beauty and great mystery. With all of these amazing ingredients in the hands of a master filmmaker, we can expect M.Night Shyamalan and his outstanding team to tantalize our senses and make a movie we can all be proud of!”

    Governor Daniel J. McKee commented, “Rhode Island is excited to host the talented cast and crew of this high-quality film directed by such a master storyteller as M. Night Shyamalan. It’s great to see a new production that showcases our beautiful Ocean State. With our unique landscape and talented local artists, Rhode Island is an ideal location to film a motion picture or television series. Every time a production shoots here we see a positive impact on our local businesses. This is the type of energy that keeps moving our economy forward.”

    Speaker of the House K. Joseph Shekarchi (D-District 23, Warwick) commented, “I am proud to continue to promote the arts and filmmaking as a thriving industry in Rhode Island. Our state provides a beautiful backdrop for a variety of major motion pictures from comedies to love stories to suspense thrillers. Furthermore, this innovative industry has proven to be an economic catalyst for the talented artists and hard-working crew members, many of whom are based right here in Rhode Island. It also provides an introduction to first-time visitors who inevitably fall in love with our Ocean State.”

    Senate President Dominick J. Ruggerio (D-District 4, North Providence, Providence) said, “The Senate is pleased to welcome another major production to our state. This project will provide good paying jobs to the talented film industry professionals based in our state, indirect jobs to area small businesses, and tremendous exposure to the charm and diversity which make our state such an attractive setting to filmmakers and visitors alike.”

    The Rhode Island Film & TV Office is a government agency under the umbrella of the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts (RISCA)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal jury convicts South Dakota man of sexually abusing two victims on Fort Belknap Indian Reservation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    GREAT FALLS — A federal jury yesterday convicted a South Dakota man of multiple crimes involving the sexual abuse of two victims on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

    After a two-day trial, the jury found the defendant, Farron Gene American Horse, Sr., 40, guilty of sexual abuse and abusive sexual contact as charged in an indictment. On the more serious charge of sexual abuse, American Horse faces up to life in prison, a $250,000 fine and not less than five years to life of supervised release.

    Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The Court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for July 17, 2025. American Horse will remain in custody pending further proceedings.

    “Protecting the public on our Native American reservations has been, and remains, a top priority for the Department of Justice and the U.S. Attorney’s Office here in Montana, especially vulnerable victims like those in this case. The defendant’s decision to abuse the children he was supposed to be caring for, is abhorrent and tragic. The jury’s guilty verdict should serve as a warning to others who would abuse others that they will be caught and prosecuted to the full extent of the law. I want to thank the Assistant U. S. Attorneys and staff in our office, and the law enforcement agents from the FBI and Fort Belknap Law Enforcement Services for their hard work on the case.” U.S. Attorney Alme said.

    The government alleged at trial and in court documents that American Horse sexually abused the victims in September and October 2020 in Hays, on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation. In the summer of 2020, American Horse went to live with a woman and her family in Hays and helped look after the children. In October 2020, one victim, identified as Jane Doe 1, who had attained the age of 12 years but had not yet reached the age of 16 years, disclosed being sexually abused by American Horse while spending the night at the woman’s residence. About this time, another victim, identified as Jane Doe 2, who also had attained the age of 12 years but had not yet reached the age of 16 years, disclosed that American Horse had touched her while she was sleeping at the woman’s home weeks earlier.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The FBI and Fort Belknap Law Enforcement Services conducted the investigation.

    XXX

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Alm. Brand A/S – Results of the annual general meeting held on 10 April 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The annual general meeting of Alm. Brand A/S was held today. The general meeting was conducted in accordance with the agenda and the complete proposals submitted by the Board of Directors.

    The annual report for 2024 was approved, and discharge was granted to the Board of Directors and the Executive Management.

    The shareholders adopted the proposal submitted by the Board of Directors that a dividend of DKK 0.60 per share be paid in respect of 2024 for a total dividend payout of DKK 904 million. The remaining profit will be transferred to the company’s reserves.

    The resolution proposed by the Board of Directors that it be authorised in the period until 30 April 2026 to let the company acquire treasury shares within a limit of up to 10% of the share capital was adopted.

    The shareholders adopted the resolution proposed by the Board of Directors to extend the authorisation granted to the Board of Directors to increase the share capital with and without pre-emptive rights to the company’s existing shareholders until 9 April 2030. The authorisation to issue convertible debt instruments also with and without pre-emptive rights to the company’s existing shareholders was approved.

    The resolution proposed by the Board of Directors to reduce the share capital by a nominal amount of DKK 88,140,000 from DKK 1,541,140,000 to DKK 1,453,000,000 was approved. The capital reduction will be effected at an average price of DKK 14.70 per share. As a derivative effect thereof, the proposed resolution to amend the company’s articles of association with respect to the specification of the company’s share capital was also approved. 

    The remuneration report for 2024 was adopted at an advisory vote, and the remuneration policy was also approved.

    Jørgen Hesselbjerg Mikkelsen did not stand for re-election to the company’s Board of Directors. All other board members elected by the shareholders were up for election. Christian Høegh-Andersen was nominated for election to the Board of Directors.  Jais Valeur, Jan Skytte Pedersen, Tina Schmidt Madsen, Pia Laub and Anette Eberhard were re-elected to the Board of Directors. Christian Høegh-Andersen was elected to the Board of Directors. Furthermore, the remuneration of the Board of Directors for 2025 was approved.

    Ernst & Young Godkendt Revisionspartnerselskab was re-appointed as the company’s auditors and as sustainability auditors.

    At a board meeting held after the general meeting, the Board of Directors elected Jais Valeur as its Chairman and Jan Skytte Pedersen as its Deputy Chairman.

    Contact

    Please direct any questions regarding this announcement to:

    Investors and equity analysts:

    Head of IR, Rating & ESG Reporting
    Mads Thinggaard
    Mobile no. +45 2025 5469

    Press:

    Head of Communications and Media Relations
    Mikkel Luplau Schmidt
    Mobile no. +45 2052 3883

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Miller-Meeks Backed Legislation to Secure American Elections Passes House

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks’ (IA-02)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, the House passedH.R. 22, the SAVE Act, a critical piece of legislation to ensure that only American citizens can register to vote in federal elections. Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), a strong supporter of the bill and original cosponsor, praised the legislation’s passage and called on the Senate to follow the House’s lead.

    “American elections should be decided by American citizens—that’s what this bill guarantees,” said Miller-Meeks. “The SAVE Act is a commonsense measure that ensures proof of citizenship is required to register for federal elections and gives states the tools they need to keep non-citizens off the voter rolls. I’m proud to lead on this issue and help restore confidence in our elections.”

    The SAVE Act passedthe House with bipartisan support last Congress, only to be blocked by Senate Democrats. With President Trump back in the White House, House Republicans are committed to ensuring this commonsense legislation reaches his desk and is signed into law.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Tenney Applauds the Passage of the SAVE Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-22)

    Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24), Chair of the Election Integrity Caucus, applauded the passage of the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act today. This legislation amends the National Voter Registration Act of 1993, requiring individuals to provide proof of United States citizenship in order to register to vote in federal elections. 

    This legislation, which Rep. Tenney cosponsored, passed the House by a vote of 220-208. 

     “American elections, laws, and elected leaders should be decided by American citizens only. The SAVE Act is common-sense legislation that safeguards this principle by ensuring only U.S. citizens can vote in our elections. It protects our most fundamental right by requiring proof of citizenship to register and remove non-citizens from voter rolls. By passing the SAVE Act today, House Republicans took a historic step toward restoring trust and strengthening the integrity of our electoral process,” said Congresswoman Tenney.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Tenney Votes to Advance Budget Framework, Paving Way for Trump Tax Cuts and America First Agenda

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-22)

    Washington, DC – Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today released the following statement on the passage of the Senate Amendment of Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2025, which sets the top line numbers of the budget reconciliation process.

    This legislation passed the House by a vote of 216-214.

    “Americans gave Congressional Republicans a clear mandate: reduce out-of-control government spending, secure our borders, and reignite economic growth, and we will deliver,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “Today’s vote marks the next step in fulfilling that mandate: beginning the drafting process of the reconciliation bill. From here, we will begin writing the language for one big, beautiful bill. In this legislation, we are committed to preserving the historic tax cuts secured under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, enhancing border security, unleashing American energy production, reeling in our national debt, and locking in DOGE savings. In addition, by passing this bill today, House Republicans reiterate our commitment to finding at least $1.5 trillion in spending cuts, saving the American people money from fraud, abuse and waste, while preserving essential programs.”

    “Any effort to slow this momentum now would jeopardize our ability to deliver on what the American people overwhelmingly supported in the 2024 election, especially the Trump Tax Cuts. On December 31, 2025, the Trump Tax Cuts are set to expire, triggering an average 22% tax hike for American families. In addition, 2 million family-owned farms would have their death tax exemption slashed, and 40 million families would see their household child tax credit cut in half. Preserving and expanding these tax cuts is essential for the financial security of every hard-working American.”

    “By kicking off this reconciliation process, House Republicans are taking decisive steps toward fulfilling our promises and advancing President Trump’s America First agenda.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Kustoff Introduces the Small Business Taxpayer Bill of Rights Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative David Kustoff (TN-08)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN) introduced the Small Business Taxpayer Bill of Rights Act in the House of Representatives. This bill protects small businesses and taxpayers by bolstering taxpayer protections, prohibiting improper Internal Revenue Service (IRS) targeting of taxpayers, compensating taxpayers for IRS abuse, and lowering the regulatory burden on taxpayers.

    “Small businesses are the engine that runs our economy. As such, small businesses should be focused on what is important – growing and creating jobs. They should not have to deal with burdensome and costly IRS regulations,” said Congressman Kustoff. “I introduced the Small Business Taxpayer Bill of Rights Act to hold the IRS accountable and give small business owners the support they need.” 

    Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) introduced the companion bill in the United States Senate.

    “Each year, Tax Day reminds us that small business owners must spend thousands of hours conforming to IRS requirements instead of boosting the economy and creating jobs,” said Senator Cornyn. “This bill lowers the compliance burden, strengthens taxpayer protections, and ensures small businesses are not targeted for additional scrutiny based on their politics.”

     

    Click here to read the full text of the bill. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Babin Backs Budget Blueprint to Deliver Trump’s America First Agenda

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brian Babin (R-TX)

    Babin Backs Budget Blueprint to Deliver Trump’s America First Agenda

    Washington, April 10, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Brian Babin (TX-36) voted in favor of the Budget Resolution that paves the way for Congress to implement President Donald Trump’s agenda. 

    I proudly voted in support of the Budget Resolution because it keeps our promise to the American people and advances President Trump’s America First agenda. This plan delivers exactly what we need: serious border security, historic spending cuts, and permanent tax relief for working families,” said Congressman Babin. “House Republicans are paving the way for what President Trump rightly calls “THE ONE, BIG, BEAUTIFUL BILL.” It’s time to get this deal DONE and give the American people a government that works for them, not against them. This legislation secures our future, restores our economy, and puts America back on top.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Kelly, Health Subcommittee Democrats March to Health Department, RFK Jr. Refuses to Meet

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Robin Kelly IL

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02), Ranking Member Diana DeGette (CO-01), and five more members of the Energy & Commerce Health Subcommittee marched to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) today to demand a meeting with Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. After waiting in the lobby for almost half an hour, Secretary Kennedy nor his office responded to schedule a meeting to explain recent layoffs and restructuring of HHS.

    “RFK Jr. is a coward. He followed orders from Elon Musk to fire 10,000 HHS employees, eliminated half of the HHS regional offices – including the one in Chicago that serves the Midwest – and now refuses to answer questions,” said Rep. Kelly. “Americans’ health should not be in the hands of RFK Jr., who refutes basic scientific truths. These DOGE-led layoffs are cruel, politically motivated, and will irreversibly damage public health.”

    On March 27, Secretary Kennedy announced the termination of 10,000 employees, bringing the total number of layoffs to 20,000 at HHS. He has refused to brief the House health subcommittee and Senate committee.

    Five out of 10 HHS regional offices in Boston, New York City, San Francisco, Seattle and Chicago were closed, notably affecting liberal regions of the country. These offices served a total of 22 states and 166 million Americans.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Kelly, House Democrats Holds Hearing on Republican Cuts Targeting Veterans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Robin Kelly IL

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02), co-chair of the House Democratic Steering & Policy Committee, held a hearing on the Republicans’ damaging scheme to cut veterans’ benefits. Rep. Kelly heard directly from three veterans, including one who was recently fired by President Donald Trump from a senior post at Veterans Affairs (VA).

    Rep. Kelly asked witness Sharda Fornnarrino, who is a nurse at the VA, what she would tell President Trump and Elon Musk regarding their service cuts.

    “I would tell them, ‘We’re not going to give up on the VA,’” said Fornnarrino. “We’ll continue to organize and fight back against their attacks. Our nurses are really proud to work at the VA.”

    Rep. Kelly adjourned the hearing with the following full transcript:

    “Donald Trump’s extreme policies aren’t just tanking our economy and making life harder on the American people. Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and extremists appointed in their Administration are specifically targeting our nation’s veterans. They are denying veterans the care they deserve by defunding VA hospitals, closing offices, and taking a chainsaw to programs like Social Security. They are breaking the promise of the PACT Act. Freezing funding. Stopping hiring.

    “They have fired thousands of veteran workers from important jobs in our government—jobs that make sure Americans get their benefits on time, that air travel remains safe, and so much more.

    “With more than 16 million veterans in America, you would think—or at the very least hope—that Donald Trump and Elon Musk would have their best interests at heart.

    “But they don’t. Instead of standing up for those 16 million veterans, Trump and Musk are standing up for the handful of billionaire donors that are bankrolling the Republican Party.

    “And just as they do that, they are triggering a reckless economic disaster right before our eyes. Democrats stand with our veterans and the American people. We believe in protecting hard-earned benefits—not prioritizing a billionaire’s bottom line.

    “We know that we owe a debt to each and every single man and woman that has served our nation in uniform. Donald Trump might not care about repaying those debts, but Democrats absolutely do care. That is our job. George, James, Sharda, Will—know this: We will not stop fighting for you.”

    Watch the full hearing here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: House Passes the SAVE Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Allen (R-GA-12)

    House Passes the SAVE Act

    Requires Proof of Citizenship to Register to Vote

    Washington, April 10, 2025

    Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 22, the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act. The SAVE Act is commonsense legislation to uphold and strengthen current law to ensure only American citizens can vote in American elections.

    As an original cosponsor of the SAVE Act, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) issued the following statement after voting in support of the bill on the House floor:

    “During the Biden-Harris Administration, millions of illegal immigrants entered our country and many states continue to find non-citizens on their voter rolls. This is unacceptable to the highest degree. The SAVE Act ensures only American citizens decide American elections by requiring in-person proof of U.S. citizenship when individuals register to vote in federal elections. It is beyond disappointing to see 208 House Democrats oppose legislation to secure our elections and protect Americans’ constitutional right to vote. House Republicans will continue to work with President Trump to deliver the America First agenda.”

    BACKGROUND:

    • The SAVE Act requires states to obtain proof of citizenship – in person – before registering an individual to vote in an election.
    • Requires states to remove non-citizens from existing voter rolls, while giving them necessary tools to do so.
    • States are also directed to provide reasonable accommodations for disabled Americans and applicants that have discrepancies on their documentation due to a name change.
    • This legislation passed the House in a bipartisan vote (221 – 198) during the 118th Congress before being blocked by Senate Democrats.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Torres Condemns Republican Rejection of Key Amendments to SAVE Act to Protect Americans’ Right to Vote

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Norma Torres (35th District of California)

    April 10, 2025

    Ensuring Americans Continue to Have Access to Voting

    Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Norma Torres, a member of the House Administration Committee that oversees federal elections, condemned House Republicans’ refusal to consider series of important amendments to the SAVE Act aimed at ensuring all eligible Americans, regardless of zip code, financial situation, or choosing to change your name after marriage, can participate in our democracy and vote.

    The House Republican-led SAVE Act would disenfranchise countless American citizens and cause massive logistical roadblocks for the 69 million women who have changed their name and do not have a matching birth certificate. The SAVE Act would require every American citizen registering to vote – whether a new registration or an updated one based on a move, a party change, or a name change – to provide an election official with, for the most part, (1) a passport, or (2) a birth certificate paired with a current photo identification. 

    Alongside a few other uncommon documents, providing this documentary proof of citizenship, in person at an election office would be the only way for American citizens to register to vote under the SAVE Act.

    In response, Congresswoman Torres’ amendments reflect her commitment to making certain that every eligible voter, regardless of their circumstances, can fully participate in the democratic process.

    This amendment provides an exemption to states where residents lack access to voter registration sites or the financial means to acquire proof of citizenship, ensuring that States will not be burdened by the Act’s requirements. Regardless of zip code or financial means, all Americans deserve the equal right to vote and be heard in our democracy.

    This amendment affirms the longstanding authority of state and tribal governments to determine acceptable forms of identification for voting. It also makes voter list purges voluntary rather than mandatory, protecting eligible voters from being wrongfully removed from voter rolls. Additionally, the amendment requires states to notify individuals who are removed from the voter rolls and create an accessible online platform where citizens can verify their registration status.

    This amendment expands accommodations under the SAVE Act to not only include individuals with disabilities, but also accommodate family members who assist individuals with disabilities, individuals who lack access to transportation to registration sites, and individuals facing financial or other difficulties in acquiring proof of citizenship. These expanded provisions will help ensure that all voters, regardless of their personal challenges, continue to have access to the voting process.

    “Voting is the cornerstone of our democracy, and we must ensure that every eligible American has the ability to participate in elections without facing unnecessary barriers,” said Congresswoman Torres. “While I oppose this bill as it would suppress voters, especially women, these amendments are designed to protect those who might otherwise be excluded and to make sure that voter registration is accessible, especially those from marginalized and underserved communities. I’m disappointed, but not surprised, that Republicans refused to allow for their consideration, but I will continue to fight to protect the integrity of our elections while ensuring everyone has a voice.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Simpson Votes to Restrict Non-Citizens from Voting in U.S. Elections

    Source: US State of Idaho

    Rep. Simpson Votes to Restrict Non-Citizens from Voting in U.S. Elections

    Washington, April 10, 2025

    WASHINGTON—Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson voted in favor of H.R. 22, the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, a bill that would require proof of citizenship to register to vote in federal elections.
    “Only American citizens should decide American elections,” said Rep. Simpson. “Over the last four years, the American people watched President Biden and Vice President Harris welcome millions of illegal immigrants into our country. Due to these failed open border policies, Congress must take decisive action to safeguard the integrity of our elections by verifying United States citizenship when registering to vote in federal elections. Strengthening current election laws by requiring proof of citizenship is a common-sense solution. I look forward to getting this important bill across the finish line and sending it to President Trump’s desk.”
    The measure was approved with a vote of 220-208.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pittsburgh Resale Businesses Owner Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Operating Extensive Interstate Fencing Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court on April 9, 2025, to five years in prison on his conviction of money laundering and conspiracy in connection with the sale and interstate transportation of stolen goods, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Durrell Waters, 41, also ordering him to serve three years of federal supervised release following his imprisonment. A federal jury found Waters guilty on four counts of money laundering and one count of conspiracy in August 2024 (read the verdict news release here).

    Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Hornak stated that the evidence presented against Waters was extensive, and that the victims of this crime included people experiencing addiction, retail establishments, and all consumers. Judge Hornak noted that, unlike some crimes that take place in a single event, Waters’s criminal conspiracy took place over the course of years and “required [Waters] to decide every day to keep doing this.” Judge Hornak emphasized the need for members of the public to be deterred from similar conduct and remarked that “a sentence without substantial imprisonment would be insufficient.”

    According to information presented to the Court, Waters was one of the primary owners of a series of Pittsburgh and surrounding area second-hand or resale businesses called Trader Electronics, Last Call Entertainment, and The Outlet. From 2013 through 2016, Waters conspired with others to use these businesses as a front for a criminal fencing operation that sold over the internet a wide variety of health and beauty aids and over-the-counter medications like teeth whiteners, vitamins, hair and skin care products, makeup, and other similar items.

    Waters’s stores and similar stores in the area knowingly engaged in high-volume purchases of stolen brand-new retail health and beauty aids and other products, such as new-release DVDs, from walk-in sellers who had shoplifted, or “boosted”, the items. Store records reflected that Waters and his businesses purchased hundreds of thousands of brand-new items, sometimes for less than 10% of their value, from a group of repeat shoplifters. Waters and his businesses then resold that stolen property online via several Amazon and eBay storefronts, with the proceeds from the stores’s main Amazon account totaling over $4.3 million during the conspiracy.

    Evidence presented at sentencing highlighted the widespread and diverse economic and public health harms caused or aggravated by this conduct. Ripple effects from high-volume retail theft harm consumers by imposing more and more restrictive anti-theft measures in stores and costs every consumer hundreds of dollars per year. Additionally, many of the boosters were people experiencing drug addiction who used the money paid to them by Waters to finance their dependency and feed the drug epidemic.

    Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin C. Dobkin prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

    Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and United States Postal Inspection Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Waters. Police departments from the City of Pittsburgh, Ross Township, and Shaler Township also assisted in the investigation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Strategic Development Fund and QuantCube Launch JV to Drive Real-Time AI Data Analytics in the UAE

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates, April 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Strategic Development Fund (SDF), an Abu Dhabi based investment company wholly owned by EDGE Group PJSC, and QuantCube Technology, a Paris-based expert in real-time macroeconomic intelligence, announced today that they have entered into an agreement to establish a joint venture in Abu Dhabi. The announcement, made during the AIM Congress 2025, reflects a shared ambition to align with the UAE’s focus on artificial intelligence and data-driven decision-making.

    The joint venture, to be jointly owned by SDF and QuantCube Technology, will build on QuantCube’s advanced capabilities in alternative data and AI to deliver real-time, actionable economic and financial intelligence. Designed for institutional investors, corporates, financial institutions, and government agencies across the region, the platform will support strategic planning, forecasting, and data-driven decision-making.

    In addition to macroeconomic and financial analytics, the partnership will enable dynamic tracking of global supply chains and physical asset flows, leveraging QuantCube’s real-time nowcasting and geospatial data tools to support operational readiness and strategic insight. By combining powerful AI-driven analytics with deep regional integration, this collaboration aims to unlock new use cases and broaden access to advanced intelligence solutions for organizations navigating increasingly complex environments.

    “This joint venture with QuantCube reflects our commitment to introducing innovative technologies that can be customized, implemented, and delivered across different industries in the region through the UAE, providing them with strategic and financial value,” said Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Chief Portfolio Management Officer, SDF. “As a strategic investor in QuantCube, we recognized significant potential in applying this capability across various sectors to optimize supply chain management. This joint venture is an opportunity to unlock and bring advanced, AI-powered and customizable data & analytics solutions and insights to the UAE and regional markets – making timely intelligence more accessible to private and government clients.”

    “We are excited to collaborate with SDF, one of our strategic shareholders in QuantCube, to bring our nowcasting expertise to the UAE and wider region,” said Thanh-Long Huynh, Co-Founder & CEO, QuantCube. “Through this joint venture, we aim to deliver innovative solutions that provide institutions across various industries with timely, accurate insights and forecasting analytics. These capabilities will help drive their growth within the region’s thriving economy and support more informed, strategic decision-making in a rapidly evolving global landscape.”

    The joint venture builds on SDF’s initial investment in QuantCube in 2022, which was followed by further investments over the past few years, and reflects SDF’s continued confidence in the company’s capabilities. By establishing operations in the UAE, the partners aim to make AI-powered nowcasting tools and alternative data analytics available to decision-makers in the region.

    As the collaboration evolves, the joint venture is well positioned to enable data-informed strategies and broaden the use of advanced analytics as practical tools for organisations navigating an increasingly complex regional landscape.

    Media Contact: Abed el hadi Flaifel
    a.alhadifleifel@quant-cube.com
    +33698451270
    https://www.quant-cube.com/
    15 Bd Poissonnière
    France
    75002
    FR

    About Strategic Development Fund (SDF):
    Strategic Development Fund (SDF) is an Abu Dhabi-based investment company, wholly owned by EDGE Group PJSC. Established in 2019, SDF focuses on generating financial returns and fostering economic impact within the UAE’s strategic sectors. The company invests in dual-use and commercial technologies across areas such as aerospace, advanced mobility, autonomous systems, robotics, and artificial intelligence. By leveraging global partnerships, SDF accelerates the growth of its portfolio companies and fosters the development of cutting-edge technologies within the UAE. Additionally, SDF contributes to enhancing critical supply chain resilience, aligning with the UAE’s vision for innovation and economic diversification.

    About QuantCube Technology:
    QuantCube Technology uses artificial intelligence and big data analytics to deliver real-time macroeconomic insights. The firm operates one of the largest alternative data lakes in the world, processing more than 14 billion data end points. Sources encompass news, social media, satellite data, professional networks and consumer reviews, as well as international trade, shipping, real estate, hospitality, telecoms and goods and prices data. QuantCube’s macro nowcast indices, on variables including economic growth, inflation, employment and international trade, correlate highly with official data and significantly beat the consensus. Financial institutions using QuantCube data benefit from real-time insight, often ahead of official numbers, which they can use to inform their investment strategies.

    Headquartered in Paris, QuantCube employs a diverse international team of data scientists with expertise in multilingual NLP, deep learning and machine learning techniques. The company’s shareholders include SDF and Moody’s and its R&D in computer vision has been partially funded by the European Space Agency (ESA) and French government space agency CNES.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b3a494a2-3771-4dc8-a68a-a5c6dd3bd70f

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Leads Eight Lawyers on Judiciary Committee in Commending Law Firms that have Resisted Trump’s Unconstitutional Executive Orders

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution, this week led eight lawyers on the Senate Judiciary Committee in sending a letter to the American Bar Association (ABA), commending lawyers and law firms that are resisting President Trump’s illegal and unconstitutional attacks on the legal profession.  
    “As fellow members of the legal community, we applaud lawyers who are resisting President Trump’s illegal and unconstitutional attacks on the legal profession,” wrote the Democratic lawyers on the Senate Judiciary Committee. “These orders are unlawful—a tool of intimidation, and a weaponization of the federal government. The President’s actions existentially threaten essential rights guaranteed by our Constitution.  
    “The Sixth Amendment right to counsel is undermined when a President signals that choosing to represent his political opponents carries the risk of retribution. The First Amendment protection against viewpoint discrimination is imperiled when a president seeks to punish lawyers who advocate against his policies. By levying punishments outside the ordinary legal process, these orders violate Constitutional due process.” 
    The Senators concluded: “The American Bar Association has stalwartly supported lawyers that have resisted President Trump’s bullying. We join the ABA in commending these lawyers, who have taken financial and professional risks to fight for the rule of law and our constitutional rights. We urge others to join you.” 
    Between March 6th and March 27th, President Trump issued Executive Orders targeting four law firms against whom he has personal grievances—including representing his political opponents and associating with lawyers who have been critical of the President. The Executive Orders limit the targeted law firms’ access to federal buildings, suspend security clearances, and prevent federal agencies from engaging with firm lawyers. 
    Three law firms—Jenner & Block, WilmerHale, and Perkins Coie—have rightfully challenged the President’s Executive Orders in court, asserting that the orders are in violation of the Constitution and the principles that underlie it. In each of these cases, judges appointed by Presidents from both political parties have properly issued temporary restraining orders against the orders. 
    The letter was signed by nine lawyers on the Senate Judiciary Committee, including Senator Welch, Ranking Member Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), and Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.). 
    Read the full text of the letter. 

    MIL OSI USA News –