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Category: Taxation

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pressley Joins Neal, Massachusetts Delegation Demanding Answers on Sudden Closure of HHS Regional Office in Boston

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

    Text of Letter (PDF)

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) joined Congressman Richard E. Neal, Ranking Member of the House Ways and Means Committee, and the entire Massachusetts Congressional delegation – Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), and Representatives Jim McGovern (MA-02), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Jake Auchincloss (MA-04), Katherine Clark (MA-05), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Stephen Lynch (MA-08), and Bill Keating (MA-09) – in demanding answers from the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. after the abrupt shuttering of the entire HHS Regional Office (RO) in Boston, Massachusetts, on April 1, 2025.

    In the letter, the lawmakers write, “It is impossible to overstate the lasting consequences this reckless action will have on every single person in this region—whether the families who rely on Region 1 employees dutifully overseeing child care licensing systems to ensure they deliver quality care to our children, or the coordination these civil servants conduct with state survey agencies to make sure all our nursing homes meet federal safety standards. Through steadfast commitment to the programs they oversee, employees of ROs provide a service to all of us whether we know it or not.”

    The HHS Boston RO employs hundreds of workers who serve Americans from Maine to Connecticut. As the economic catastrophe caused by Trump’s Tariff Tax devastates communities and businesses across the country, the administration continues to make senseless layoffs, adding even more individuals to the ranks of the unemployed. These job losses will have trickle-down effects on other businesses in the area during an already challenging time.

    The Boston RO specializes in health care innovation, partnering with drug companies, biotech groups, and other innovators to ensure gaps in research are being filled and the cures of tomorrow come to fruition. Eliminating the Boston RO will both deny the people of New England access to public health officials with expertise in our local communities and halt innovation in its tracks, with ramifications felt by the whole country for generations to come.

    The ROs are also on the front lines of fighting fraud, waste, and abuse alongside local law enforcement, as well as the vanguard coordinating responses against disease and outbreaks. Its closure will leave our communities and our programs less safe.

    The lawmakers continue, “It could open our region to massive risks of fraud and abuse of our vital federal programs. And it could provide the pathway for another pernicious disease to sweep the nation, absent vital on-the-ground detection and coordination among public health experts. We do not take lightly this attack on the health of our constituents and the unceremonious termination of thousands of experts living in our communities who make us all safer.”

    The Boston Regional Office property is desirable real estate and appeared on an early list of properties Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) group wished to “auction off”, raising questions about whether this action has ulterior motives – enabling Trump acolytes to cash in on real estate deals while ordinary Americans suffer from loss of services. The Trump Administration has shown a complete disregard for Americans’ needs, closing Social Security offices and curtailing customer service. This RO closure is just another effort to make it more difficult for our constituents to access the health and safety protections they count on the federal government to provide.

    The lawmakers are demanding detailed answers as to the basis of this decision, its effect on constituent health, and how HHS will continue serving individuals in the region. They request answers to the following questions by April 18:

    • Please provide a list of each division within the Boston RO that was eliminated, a description of its core functions, a summary of staff expertise, program staff caseloads for each overseen program at the time of closing, and all documentation justifying the Department’s decision to close each division within the RO.
    • Please provide the Department’s analysis of the impact this regional closure will have on costs and health outcomes for the 15 million residents of New England, as well as the local economy.
    • Please provide a detailed analysis of how the remaining five ROs will take over the responsibilities of the Boston RO, including total caseloads, in beneficiaries served and dollars managed, for the staff taking over New England responsibilities, and any anticipated hirings or training to offset the caseload inundation and loss of regional expertise.
    • Please provide a detailed analysis of anyways responsibilities of the Boston RO which will be absorbed by HHS headquarters, including the current and new responsibilities of any headquarters staff assuming responsibilities and any anticipated hirings to offset the caseload inundation and loss of regional expertise.
    • Please provide a detailed analysis of the anticipated additional wait times for services previously provided by staff at the Region 1 RO, such as the approval of Medicaid State Plan Amendments, enrollments of new providers into Medicare, surveys of nursing homes, child care licensing inspections, state plan approvals, and cost allocation agreements.
    • Please explain the Administration’s plan for the now-vacant real estate that previously housed the Boston RO.

    Congresswoman Pressley has been a leading voice in Congress speaking out against Elon Musk and Donald Trump’s unprecedented assault on our democracy and federal agencies, and she has been a steadfast advocate for protecting the essential services that federal workers and agencies provide.

    • On April 9, 2025, Rep. Pressley led lawmakers in sending a letter to Trump’s trade official demanding he resign from holding multiple positions with clear conflicts of interest that would further harm federal workers.
    • On March 28, 2025, Rep. Pressley issued a statement slamming Trump’s executive order to end collective bargaining rights for hundreds of thousands of federal employees.
    • On March 21, 2025, Rep. Pressley led Massachusetts lawmakers in a letter to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) sharply criticizing and demanding answers about the impact of the Musk-Trump Administration’s mass firings of federal workers in Massachusetts.
    • On March 11, 2025, Rep. Pressley spoke out against the U.S. Department of Education’s mass layoffs of over 1,300 workers, which effectively guts the agency.
    • On March 11, 2025, Rep. Pressley voted against Republicans’ shameful government budget bill, which would harm vulnerable families and provide a blank check for Elon Musk and Donald Trump to continue their unprecedented assault on our democracy. She later issued a statement condemning its final passage in the Senate.
    • On March 11, 2025, Rep. Pressley joined 13 of her colleagues on a letter to the Department of Homeland Security demanding answers and the immediate release of Columbia student Mahmoud Khalil, whose illegal abduction is an attack on his constitutional right to free speech and due process.
    • On March 4, 2025, Rep. Pressley walked out of the House chamber in protest during Donald Trump’s presidential joint address to Congress.
    • On March 4, 2025, Rep. Pressley welcomed Claire Bergstresser, an Everett constituent, dedicated public servant, AFGE union member, and former HUD worker who was unjustly terminated as part of Musk and Trump’s assault on federal agencies as her guest to the presidential joint address to Congress.
    • On February 28, 2025, Rep. Pressley led 85 lawmakers in a letter urging the Office of Special Counsel to immediate reinstate and expand protections for all unfairly fired federal workers.
    • On February 28, 2025, Rep. Pressley joined over 200 Democrats in filing an amicus brief defending the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau before a U.S. District Court.
    • On February 26, 2025, in a House Oversight Committee hearing, Rep. Pressley discussed what true government efficiency looks like and denounced Elon Musk and Donald Trump for utilizing DOGE to gut the essential services that keep people safe, fed, and housed.
    • On February 25, 2025, in a House Oversight Committee hearing, Rep. Pressley condemned Elon Musk’s abuse of government efficiency through the fraudulent Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
    • On February 25, 2025, Rep. Pressley delivered a floor speech in which she railed against Republicans’ cruel budget resolution that would slash Medicaid by nearly $1 trillion.
    • On February 20, 2025, Rep. Pressley and her Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs issued a statement condemning the Trump Administration’s decision to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti.
    • On February 13, 2025, in a House Financial Services Committee hearing, Rep. Pressley emphasized the critical role of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) in safeguarding consumers and sharply criticized Donald Trump and Elon Musk for halting the critical work of the agency.
    • On February 10, 2025, Rep. Pressley rallied with Senator Elizabeth Warren, Ranking Member Maxine Waters, and advocates to protest Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s unlawful takeover of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
    • On February 11, 2025, in a House Financial Services Committee hearing, Rep. Pressley criticized the Trump-Musk administration for halting the critical work of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) with crypto scams on the rise.
    • On February 10, 2025, Rep. Pressley issued a statement slamming the Trump Administration’s harmful cuts to National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding to support hospitals, universities, and research institutions conducting lifesaving research.
    • On February 10, 2025, as Trump and Musk threaten to dismantle the essential work of the U.S. Department of Education, Rep.  Pressley delivered a powerful floor speech to affirm the role of public education in American democracy.
    • On February 6, 2025, in a House Oversight Committee hearing, Rep. Pressley delivered a powerful rebuke of Republicans’ efforts to gut diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and eliminate essential services for vulnerable communities.
    • On February 5, 2025, Rep. Pressley rallied outside the U.S. Department of Treasury to protest Elon Musk’s unlawful assault on federal agencies and our democracy.
    • On January 30, 2025, Rep. Pressley slammed Donald Trump for blaming the tragic plane crash at Reagan National Airport, which killed over 60 people, including some families from Massachusetts, on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.
    • In January 2025, Rep. Pressley issued a statement slamming Trump’s illegal freeze on federal grants and loans and its harmful impact on vulnerable communities.
    • On January 23, 2025, Rep. Pressley delivered an impassioned floor speech condemning Republicans’ cruel anti-abortion bill that criminalizes providers and denies families care.
    • On January 23, 2025, Rep. Pressley joined her colleagues to reintroduce the Neighbors Not Enemies Act, a bill to repeal an outdated law that has been used to target innocent immigrants without due process rights.
    • On January 22, 2025, Rep. Pressley issued a statement condemning the Trump Administration’s harmful executive actions on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: PHILADELPHIA COUNTY – Governor Shapiro to Tour Port of Philadelphia, Highlight Negative Impacts of the Trump Administration’s New Taxes on Businesses and Consumers

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    April 10, 2025 – Philadelphia, PA

    ADVISORY – PHILADELPHIA COUNTY – Governor Shapiro to Tour Port of Philadelphia, Highlight Negative Impacts of the Trump Administration’s New Taxes on Businesses and Consumers

    Governor Josh Shapiro will visit the Port of Philadelphia to learn more about how they’re adapting to the federal government’s new tariffs and highlight how Pennsylvania businesses and consumers will be impacted by rising costs as a result of President Trump’s new tax increase.

    Over the last week, Governor Shapiro has met with farmers, small business owners, and workers across Pennsylvania to hear firsthand about the challenges they are facing and share how his Administration is helping them innovate, grow, and stay competitive.

    WHO:
    Governor Josh Shapiro
    Michael Pearson, Port of Philadelphia Chairman
    Representative Ed Neilson

    WHEN:
    TOMORROW, Thursday, April 10, 2025 at 11:30 AM

    WHERE:
    Philadelphia Port
    **Press must RSVP for exact location and arrival logistics.

    LIVE STREAM:
    pacast.com/live/gov
    governor.pa.gov/live/

    RSVP:
    Press who are interested in attending must RSVP with the names and phone numbers for each member of their team to ra-gvgovpress@pa.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Government meeting (2025, No. 12)

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    1. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to Articles 162 and 264 of Part Two of the Tax Code of the Russian Federation”

    The bill proposes not to impose value added tax on funds received by an energy sales organization authorized to carry out the purchase and sale of electrical energy (capacity) for the purpose of supplying electrical energy (capacity) in the territories of new constituent entities of the Russian Federation until January 1, 2028.

    2. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to the Budget Code of the Russian Federation and Certain Legislative Acts of the Russian Federation” (in terms of budget monitoring and other issues of organizing the budget process)

    The draft law is aimed, among other things, at implementing certain instructions of the President of Russia in terms of organizing control over the inclusion in state (municipal) contracts, agreements, contracts (contracts) of provisions on treasury support in cases established by the budget legislation of the Russian Federation.

    3. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to the Code of the Russian Federation on Administrative Offenses”

    The bill is aimed at establishing administrative liability for violations of the provisions on treasury support.

    4. On the draft amendments of the Government of the Russian Federation to the draft federal law No. 107057-7 “On Amendments to the Housing Code of the Russian Federation”

    The draft amendments were developed in connection with the need to create a mechanism for legal regulation of state registration of the housing stock.

    5. On the allocation to the Ministry of Construction of Russia in 2025 from the reserve fund of the Government of the Russian Federation of budgetary appropriations for the provision of subsidies from the federal budget to the budgets of the Donetsk People’s Republic and the Zaporizhia region for the purpose of co-financing the expenditure obligations of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation arising from the implementation of measures to build apartment buildings, the developers or owners of which have not been determined

    The draft order is aimed at ensuring the completion of construction and commissioning of multi-apartment residential buildings in the territories of the Donetsk People’s Republic and Zaporizhia Oblast, the developers or owners of which have not been identified.

    6. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to Article 2516–1 of the Federal Law “On the Procedure for Leaving the Russian Federation and Entering the Russian Federation”

    The development of the bill was dictated by the need to create favorable conditions for increasing the number of foreign citizens entering the country for tourism, business, humanitarian and guest purposes, while maintaining the proper level of migration control and national security requirements.

    7. On the draft amendments of the Government of the Russian Federation to the draft federal law No. 810019-8 “On Amendments to the Federal Law “On Fisheries and Conservation of Aquatic Biological Resources””

    The draft amendments are aimed at clarifying certain provisions of the bill concerning the procedure for re-registering and terminating agreements for the use of fishing areas.

    8. On amending the Resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation of June 15, 2018 No. 682 (in terms of amending the Regulation on the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation)

    The draft resolution is aimed at bringing the powers of the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia into line with Article 179.1 of the Budget Code of the Russian Federation.

    9. On the allocation by the Ministry of Education of Russia in 2025 from the reserve fund of the Government of the Russian Federation of budgetary appropriations for the provision, within the framework of the state program of the Russian Federation “Development of Education”, of a subsidy from the federal budget to the budget of the Arkhangelsk Region for the purpose of co-financing the expenditure obligations of the Arkhangelsk Region arising from the construction of schools

    The adoption of the Government order will help resolve a socially significant issue for the Arkhangelsk region in terms of increasing the availability of general education in the region.

    10. On the allocation to the Ministry of Transport of Russia in 2025 from the reserve fund of the Government of the Russian Federation of budgetary appropriations for the provision of one-time financial assistance in the form of a subsidy from the federal budget to the budget of the Saratov Region in order to reimburse the expenses incurred by the budget of the Saratov Region arising from the implementation of measures to update public transport

    The draft order provides for the allocation of funds to provide financial assistance to the budget of the Saratov region in order to reimburse part of the costs incurred in the acquisition of two-section trams.

    Moscow, April 9, 2025

    The content of the press releases of the Department of Press Service and References is a presentation of materials submitted by federal executive bodies for discussion at a meeting of the Government of the Russian Federation.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Expanding Transportation Innovation: Gov. Polis Announces Swisspod Expansion in Colorado

    Source: US State of Colorado

    COLORADO SPRINGS – Today, Governor Polis and the Global Business Development Division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) announced that Swisspod, a company pioneering high-speed, emission-free Hyperloop transportation, is expanding in Colorado Springs. As a designer and manufacturer of high-speed vehicles and subsystems for transportation assets, Swisspod aims to transform the way people and goods move.

    “I’m excited to see Swisspod expand its presence in Colorado, the best place to live and do business. Colorado’s future is one where people can have more transportation options and expanded transit services at a lower cost. Swisspod will bring new, good-paying jobs to Colorado Springs while supporting the future of transportation infrastructure,” said Governor Polis.

    In 2024, Governor Polis announced Colorado Transportation Vision: 2035, which includes new goals and strategies to reduce transportation-related air pollution and GHG emissions by increasing transportation options, expanding transit services, and building more housing near train and bus stops.

    Swisspod develops technology that can revolutionize the transportation sector, making it faster, more reliable, and more sustainable. The company has developed patents for propulsion and levitation technologies that have the potential to transform current track-based transportation systems and extend into industries like aerospace, automotive, and more.

    Now, the company is expanding its North American presence with a new manufacturing and assembly facility in Colorado Springs. There, access to talent, supply chain connectivity, and proximity to partners, as well as the development of a prototype of its hyperloop transportation system in Pueblo, Colorado, will support the company’s growth.

    “We’ve built deep ties to Colorado. This is the home to our full-scale hyperloop infrastructure in Pueblo. And now, our newest R&D hub in Colorado Springs, a city that’s on the rise, an innovation powerhouse packed with bold thinkers and exceptional engineers ready to build the future. Setting up an operational office and a manufacturing & assembly space here was a natural next step. We’re excited to shape the future of transportation in a city that’s evolving full speed ahead,” said Swisspod CEO and Co-Founder Denis Tudor.

    In Colorado Springs, the company expects to create 107 net new jobs at an average annual wage of $67,952.38, which is 108% of the average annual wage in El Paso County. The positions will include roles in engineering and design, production, marketing, operations, and administrative support.

    “Companies like Swisspod are creating the technologies of tomorrow while creating good-paying jobs for Coloradans. We are thrilled to see them expand in Colorado Springs, enhancing our state’s commitment to innovation and diversifying our thriving economy,” said OEDIT Executive Director Eve Lieberman.

    The Colorado Economic Development Commission approved up to $918,000 in a performance-based Job Growth Incentive Tax Credit for the company over an eight-year period. These incentives are contingent upon Swisspod, referred to as Project Chocolate throughout the OEDIT review process, meeting net new job creation and salary requirements.

    The Colorado Springs City Council approved $5,250 over a four-year period in performance-based incentives. The sales and use tax rebates apply to the purchases of construction materials, equipment, machinery, furniture, and fixtures.  The City’s Economic Development Department also offered to support the company through its Rapid Response Program, as well as talent and workforce development support. Additionally, El Paso County approved $1,041,609 in incentives.

    “Swisspod’s expansion will significantly enhance Colorado Springs’ advanced manufacturing sector, diversify our transit systems, and open our region to new business opportunities across North America,” said Johnna Reeder Kleymeyer, President & CEO of Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC. “Our region’s diverse industries, robust economy, and highly skilled workforce create strong supply chains, allowing deep tech companies like Swisspod to thrive.”

    “We are proud to welcome Swisspod Technologies to Colorado Springs as they open their first North American headquarters. Their forward-thinking approach to technology and transportation aligns with our goals of creating vibrant economic growth, high-quality jobs, and positioning our community as a hub for cutting-edge industries. Hyperloop transportation has captured the attention and imagination of the world, and Colorado Springs is proud to be home to the people who are leading this innovative and ambitious work,” said Mayor Yemi Mobalade, City of Colorado Springs.

    “El Paso County remains committed to creating a business-friendly environment where private enterprise can thrive,” said Commissioner Carrie Geitner, Chair of the Board of County Commissioners. “By supporting initiatives like the Pikes Peak Enterprise Zone, we’re making it easier for job creators to invest, grow, and hire right here in our community. We’re proud to welcome Swisspod Technologies to El Paso County and look forward to the positive impact this investment will have on our region.”

    In addition to Colorado, Swisspod considered New Mexico for expansion. The company already has 10 employees in Colorado and is looking to expand its team here.

    About Swisspod

    Swisspod is a Swiss-American transportation technology company leading the development of the most sustainable, efficient, and comprehensive Hyperloop solution. The company was founded in 2019 by Denis Tudor, CEO, and Cyril Dénéréaz, CTO, two multiple-award winners of the SpaceX Hyperloop Competition. Swisspod aims to change the way people travel by connecting every major city using sustainable, carbon-neutral, energy-efficient, and high-speed transportation solutions. The company envisions a continental map of connections between major cities that will facilitate collaboration, accelerate human progress, and create a more prosperous future for the generations to come. For more information, visit www.swisspod.com and follow Swisspod on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X.com, and YouTube for ongoing updates.

    About Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade

    The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) works to empower all to thrive in Colorado’s economy. Under the leadership of the Governor and in collaboration with economic development partners across the state, we foster a thriving business environment through funding and financial programs, training, consulting and informational resources across industries and regions. We promote economic growth and long-term job creation by recruiting, retaining, and expanding Colorado businesses and providing programs that support entrepreneurs and businesses of all sizes at every stage of growth. Our goal is to protect what makes our state a great place to live, work, start a business, raise a family, visit and retire—and make it accessible to everyone. Learn more about OEDIT.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hagerty Reintroduces Legislation to Reverse IRS Snooping of Third-Party Payment Platforms

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty

    SNOOP Act would strike the Biden Administration’s intrusive American Rescue Plan provision requiring thousands of small businesses to provide their personal information to the IRS

    WASHINGTON—United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, today reintroduced the Stop the Nosy Obsession with Online Payments, or SNOOP, Act, a bill to strike the tax code provision inserted by the Biden Administration in the American Rescue Plan (ARP) that requires third-party payment platforms to report businesses’ gross transaction volumes totaling more than $600 to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

    Prior to the ARP, payment providers were only required to report information when a payee had over 200 commercial transactions per year that exceeded $20,000. As a result of the new provision, thousands of small businesses will have to fill out 1099-Ks to provide their personal information to the IRS, despite the IRS’ poor history of safeguarding Americans’ personal data.

    “The Biden Administration proved to be relentless in its attempt to invade the privacy of Americans’ lives and finances,” said Senator Hagerty. “It is regrettable that the Biden Administration insisted on advancing their perilous and oppressive political agenda to the detriment of taxpayers’ privacy, heedless of the IRS’s failed track record of protecting Americans’ confidential data and the deep concern of the American people that they served. Though Republican efforts to repeal these new requirements were ignored for years, the Trump Administration is thankfully now looking out for the small business owners the Biden Administration ignored. It is past time we stand up for our small business owners and put an end to this egregious and unwarranted overreach for good.”

    Background:

    • During the 117th Congress, Hagerty led his colleagues in introducing the SNOOP Act, and Representative Michelle Steel (R-CA-45) led the effort in the House of Representatives.
    • In 2022, the Washington Examiner reported that third-party payment processors, like Venmo and PayPal, will be required to report these business transactions. 
    • During the 117th Congress, Democrats used the IRS to target conservative political organizations and private citizens to further their political agenda. 
    • Although the effort ultimately failed, the Biden Administration attempted to force banks to report data on all bank accounts with more than $600 in annual transactions, which would have allowed them to pry even further into Americans’ lives.
    • In December 2022, the IRS announced a one-year delay in increasing reporting thresholds for third-party payment platforms.
    • In January 2023, Hagerty led his colleagues in reintroducing the SNOOP Act during the 118th Congress.
    • In November 2023, the IRS announced a delay in the 1099-K reporting threshold for third-party platform payments in 2023 and plans for a threshold of $5,000 for 2024 as part of a phased implementation.

    Full text of the legislation can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kelly, Strickland, Harrigan, Williams announce relaunch of House Small Brewers Caucus

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representatives Mike Kelly (R-PA), Marilyn Strickland (D-WA), Pat Harrigan (R-NC), and Nikema Williams (D-GA) announced the reintroduction of the House Small Brewers Caucus in the 119th Congress. These members will serve as caucus co-chairs.

    “Small breweries are also small businesses. They employ thousands of people across Pennsylvania and contribute more than $5 billion to the commonwealth’s economy,” said Rep. Kelly. “As Co-Chair of the House Small Brewers Caucus, I look forward to working on policy that keeps Pennsylvania’s beer industry brewing for years to come.”

    “Small brewers are a critical part of the Washington and South Sound economy,” said Congresswoman Strickland. “Relaunching this caucus means that this industry, small businesses, and their workers are supported across our region, and our country.” 

    “North Carolina is home to some of the most innovative and hard-working brewers in the country,” said Congressman Harrigan. “These small businesses create jobs, attract investment, and strengthen the fabric of our communities. I’m proud to support them and to help lead this caucus as we work to cut red tape and keep this industry growing.”

    “In Georgia’s Fifth District and across the country, small brewers are making a big splash. With a market value of $715 million in Georgia, small brewers demonstrate the impact small businesses can have on a community. These establishments create jobs, engage with their local neighborhoods, and promote economic and structural development. I am proud to help small brewers grow everywhere,” said Congresswoman Williams.

    BACKGROUND

    The House Small Brewers Caucus advocates for the 9,736 small and independent breweries in the United States. Craft breweries are vital small businesses and focal points of the communities in which they reside. In 2024, craft breweries supported nearly 460,000 jobs nationwide and contributed $77.1 billion to the U.S. economy, according to the Brewers Association.

    Pennsylvania ranks third nationally with 530 craft breweries calling the Keystone State home.

    Previously, as Co-Chair of the House Small Brewers Caucus, Rep. Kelly led the Craft Beverage Modernization and Tax Reform Act. This legislation would make permanent the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act’s (TCJA) excise tax reduction on breweries, wineries, and distilled spirits producers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Mast, GOP Send No Tax Dollars for Taliban Bill to House Floor

    Source: US House Committee on Foreign Affairs

    Media Contact 202-321-9747

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House Foreign Affairs Committee voted in favor of a bill sponsored by Rep. Tim Burchett (R-TN) to ensure no more U.S. tax dollars fall into the hands of the Taliban after the Biden administration paid the terrorist regime millions of dollars following the disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan.

    This issue has been a key focus for House Republicans since last Congress when lawmakers were made aware that weekly cash shipments of nearly $40 million were being sent to Afghanistan’s Taliban-controlled Central Bank.

    Additionally, the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction reported in May 2024 that more than $10 million had been paid to the Taliban in the form of taxes since the they over Afghanistan in August 2021. Secretary of State Antony later admitted that around $10 million had been paid to the Taliban in the form of taxes after testifying before the committee in December 2024.  

    “The United States has sent over $5 billion in cash to Kabul,” Rep. Burchett said. “This money has been taxed and stolen by the Taliban, yet we continue to send it oddly enough. That definitely needs to end. The State Department needs to ensure that that any aid, whether financial or material, does not go to terrorists in Afghanistan. We need to have a clear understanding of the influence the Taliban has on, not just international aid, but the Afghan banking system as well.”

    Republicans, led by Rep. Burchett, introduced H.R. 6586 last Congress to oppose financial and material support from falling into the hands of the Taliban. The measure passed unanimously both in committee and on the House floor, but Senate Democrats refused to bring the bill up for final passage.

    This Congress, Republicans introduced H.R. 260 –  No Tax Dollars for Terrorist Act which builds upon H.R. 6586 to ensure no U.S. taxpayer dollars end up in the hands of the Taliban.

    “This bill requires the Department of State to develop and implement a strategy to discourage foreign countries and non-government organizations, NGOs, from providing financial and material support to the Taliban,” House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast said. “That’s important for the United States of America. We don’t have an embassy there. We don’t have diplomatic relations with the Taliban – they are a terrorist organization.

    “This includes by using U.S.-provided foreign assistance to discourage countries and organizations from providing support to the Taliban,” Chairman Mast added. “We don’t want American tax dollars, in any way, shape or form, going to the Taliban.”

    The bill, which has 23 co-sponsors, advanced to the House floor alongside several other measures during the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s first full committee markup of the 119th Congress.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Here’s how a ‘silent’ tax hike is balancing the budget – with the heaviest burden on the lowest paid

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Chris Murphy, Visiting Fellow, Economics (modelling), Australian National University

    With just over three weeks to go until the federal election, both major parties are trying to position themselves as Australia’s better economic managers.

    Labor was able to hand down two consecutive budget surpluses in its current term. But the most recent federal budget shows a return to deficit this financial year.

    After the deficit peaks – at 1.5% of gross domestic product (GDP) next financial year – it will then take a decade to balance the budget. My own economic forecasts also imply the budget can return to balance in this time frame.

    However, this slow budget repair work is done silently by “bracket creep”, not by policy actions of the government.

    Under a progressive tax system, as incomes rise with inflation, the additional income is taxed more heavily.

    For example, a worker on average, annual wages of A$79,000 pays 20.3% of that in tax. But they pay tax of 32% (including the medicare levy) on any wage increases, even if those wage increases are only just enough to keep pace with inflation.

    The higher tax rate on additional wages pushes up average tax rates – known as bracket creep. This piece explains it well.

    Bracket creep has the political advantage of being a silent way of gradually increasing average tax rates. Both major parties are heavily relying on it. But is it good economic policy?

    The ‘silent’ tax hike

    Though Australia’s personal income tax system is progressive, it’s possible to work out the average tax rate faced by Australians collectively. This is total personal income tax paid as a percentage of total taxable income.

    In the first two decades of this century, personal income tax accounted for an average of 22.9% of taxable incomes. There was no clear trend.

    Since then, the trend has been up, because announced tax cuts haven’t been enough to offset silent bracket creep.

    The average tax rate this financial year, 2024-25, is estimated to be 24.3%.

    In the latest budget, the government reduced the lowest marginal tax rate – from 16% to 15% in 2026-27, then to 14% in 2027-28 and beyond.

    This almost stabilises the average tax rate for two years. However, it then resumes its upward trend under the silent influence of bracket creep, reaching 28.1% in 2035-36.

    This will be an all-time high average tax rate. Living standards will be squeezed and incentives to work and save will diminish.

    Some countries limit bracket creep by indexing personal income tax brackets to price inflation. This stops price inflation alone pushing workers into higher tax brackets.

    To illustrate how indexing could work, if inflation was 2%, all of the tax thresholds would move up by 2%. For example, the tax free threshold of $18,200 would increase to $18,564.

    A worker whose pay had increased by 2% would similarly pay only 2% extra tax, keeping their average tax rate unchanged.

    However, most of the time wages rise faster than prices because of productivity growth.

    Why bracket creep is unfair

    The unfairness of bracket creep can be illustrated with examples.

    Under the budget, the average rate of tax (for everyone) rises over the next 11 years by 3.8% points of income.

    The average wage earner with an annual income of $79,000 fares a little better. Their average tax rate goes from 20.3% in 2024-25 to 23.6% in 2035-36, an increase of 3.3% points of income, as noted in the recent budget.

    However, a low wage earner, with an annual income of $45,000 fares worse. Their average tax rate jumps from 10.8% to 17.3%, an increase of 6.5% points of income.

    Do we think it is fair that someone with an annual income of only $45,000 today should have to pay about 17% of their income in income tax in 11 years time?

    While this is an extreme example, it illustrates the fact that bracket creep is regressive and has serious unintended consequences.

    Less of a “Robin Hood” effect

    All of this has implications for the fairness of our tax system overall.

    To measure how much a country’s personal income tax system reduces inequality in income distribution, economists use something called the “Reynolds-Smolensky redistribution index”. Let’s call it the “R” index.

    A higher R index for a country means a stronger “Robin Hood” element in its tax system – that the system is doing more to redistribute income.

    Bracket creep disproportionately affects those on low incomes.
    muse studio/Shutterstock

    The International Monetary Fund reports that in 2018, the R index for Australia was 6.8%, compared to the average for OECD countries of under 5%. In 2024-25, the Australian R index is already a little lower at 6.5%.

    The R index can also be used to measure how benefits reduce inequality, but here, we’re only using it for personal income tax.

    Without any budget measures, the regressive nature of bracket creep would have caused the R index to fall further to a value of 6.3% in 2035-36.

    However, this budget’s “top-up tax cut” to the lowest marginal tax rate limited this fall to 6.4%, because it was a progressive tax change.

    Time for indexation

    Politicians from both major parties should stop relying so much on their silent partner, bracket creep, to slowly repair budget deficits.

    Instead of misleading announcements of tax cuts in only some budgets, my modelling shows how we could benefit from automatically indexing the tax brackets to prices in every budget.

    This will mean that the average rate of personal income tax will rise more modestly over the next 11 years, from 24.3% to 25.5%, instead of to 28.1%. Indexation also limits the fall in the R index to a value of 6.4%.

    The resulting revenue shortfall could be filled in ways that are more transparent, efficient and fairer than bracket creep.

    Possible ways include better priorities and higher efficiency in government spending, more reliance on indirect taxes such as the GST and expanding the tax base itself through reforms to boost productivity.

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

    – ref. Here’s how a ‘silent’ tax hike is balancing the budget – with the heaviest burden on the lowest paid – https://theconversation.com/heres-how-a-silent-tax-hike-is-balancing-the-budget-with-the-heaviest-burden-on-the-lowest-paid-253442

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Merkley Slam OPM for Failing to Provide Health Care Benefits to Reinstated Federal Workers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)

    April 09, 2025

    Senators: “This situation is not only unjust but represents a fundamental failure to uphold the obligations owed to the dedicated public servants who serve their country with integrity.”

    Washington D.C.—U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today demanded the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) address its ongoing failure to provide federal health benefits to reinstated federal employees, despite continued paycheck deductions toward insurance premiums.  

    In a letter to OPM Acting Director Charles Ezell, the senators wrote, “This issue has directly impacted Oregonians working at government agencies such as the Internal Revenue Service, Bureau of Land Management, and the VA Health System – individuals who committed their careers to public service. We have heard from constituents who, during this lapse in coverage, required life-saving surgeries for serious illnesses such as cancer but were left without the health insurance necessary to afford those procedures.”

    “Many of these employees, after being wrongfully terminated, have now returned to their positions only to find that they cannot access the health coverage they have paid for,” the lawmakers continued. “To reinstate these employees without providing access to the health care they’ve earned is misleading, and detrimental to the health of these employees and their families. Some have already incurred significant out-of-pocket medical expenses—amounting to hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars—due to a lapse in coverage that should never have occurred. This undue financial and emotional strain is entirely preventable and must be rectified without delay.”

    The full letter is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Score the new Pixel 9a and Google One AI Premium perk at Verizon and save big!

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Score the new Pixel 9a and Google One AI Premium perk at Verizon and save big!

    [TL;DR]

    • Pixel 9a now at Verizon: Available in Obsidian and Iris for $13.88/month or “on us” with any myPlan for new lines.
    • Google AI Premium Perk: Verizon customers can get Google One AI Premium for $10 a month ($9.99 a month in savings), unlocking Gemini Advanced and 2TB of storage.
    • Price lock guarantee: Verizon is the first and only carrier in the industry offering new and existing customers a three-year price lock guarantee on all myPlan and myHome network plans. Price guarantee excludes taxes and fees.

    [The big news]

    The Google Pixel 9a is coming to Verizon, featuring everything you love about Pixel, including AI-power with Gemini, an amazing camera, a durable design, robust security features, Pixel Drops and seven years of Pixel updates from Google.

    Pixel 9a will be available on April 10 in Obsidian and Iris colors for $13.88 a month for 36 months (0% APR, $499.99 retail). Verizon mobile and home subscribers can also take full advantage of the Pixel 9a when they add the Google One AI Premium perk to their account. This complements the various savings Verizon offers on entertainment and productivity services. Whether it’s YouTube Premium, Travelpass or many more, you know we are giving you the best value.

    [Why Verizon is the best place to get your Google Pixel 9a]

    Three years. Free phone. Zero price hikes on network plans. It’s control, value and simplicity for all. Get the new Google Pixel 9a, on us, with a new line on any myPlan plan — no trade-in required. Also, switch to Verizon and get plans as low as $30 a line per month with four lines on Unlimited Welcome and Auto Pay (plus taxes and fees). Verizon continues to provide value for its customers with an industry-leading guarantee — a 3-year price lock on all myPlan and myHome network plans and free satellite texting. Price guarantee applies to base monthly rate only.

    Business offers. Now every business can get the new Google Pixel 9a on us, with select data plan and device payment purchase agreement..

    Epic Gemini AI perk. Verizon customers can choose Google One AI Premium as a perk on their myPlan (mobile) or myHome (internet) plan for just $10 a month — that’s half the price of the usual $19.99. This new perk unlocks access to Gemini Advanced, 2 TB of storage, and more benefits across Google — all in one incredible package, making everyday tasks easier.

    Try Verizon for free. Want a new Pixel 9a, but not yet a Verizon customer? Sign up for the Verizon Free Trial and enjoy unlimited premium data on 5G Ultra Wideband, our fastest 5G network, free for 30 days without disrupting your current service. Download the My Verizon app on your unlocked iOS or Android phone and start your free trial today.

    [How to get your Google Pixel 9a]

    The Google Pixel 9a will be available on April 10 at Verizon stores and at Verizon.com. Verizon Business customers can visit Verizon Business online for business-specific pricing and promos. Upgrade to the new Google Pixel 9a, Google’s affordable AI-powered smartphone, and take advantage of the special deals and offers from Verizon.

    Pixel 9a on us offer: $499.99 (128 GB only) purchase w/new smartphone line on Unlimited Ultimate, postpaid Unlimited Plus, or Unlimited Welcome plan for 36 mos. req’d. Less $499.99 promo credit applied over 36 mos.; promo credit ends if eligibility req’s are no longer met; 0% APR. Offer may not be combined with other offers.

    Business offer: (New / Upgrades): Taxes & fees apply. New line or device upgrade w/device payment purchase agmt, Business Unlimited Plus or Unlimited Pro plan req’d. New line offer is also available with Business Unlimited Start plan. $499.99 credit applied to acct. over the term of your agmt (up to 36 mos, 0% APR); promo credit ends when eligibility requirements are no longer met. Credits begin in 2-3 bills & will include appropriate credit amounts from order date. Cannot be combined with other device offers. Pixel 9a monthly fee after credit: $0. Offer available 4.10 through 6.30.2025.

    3-yr price guarantee: myPlan: Applies to the then-current base monthly rate for your talk, text, and data. Excludes taxes, fees, surcharges, additional plan discounts or promotions, and third-party services. Void if any of the lines are canceled or moved to an ineligible plan. Plan perks, taxes, fees, and surcharges are subject to change. myHome: Price guarantee for 3-5 years, depending on internet plan, for new and existing myHome customers. Applies only to the then-current base monthly rate exclusive of any other setup and additional equipment charges, discounts or promotions, plan perk and any other third-party services.

    Google One AI Premium perk requires line subscribed to myPlan. Must be 18 yrs or older. Cancel anytime. One offer per eligible Verizon line; add’l terms apply.

    Pixel updates for 7 years from when the device first became available on the Google Store in the US. See g.co/pixel/updates for details.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Michigan Business Owner Pleads Guilty to Filing False Tax Return and Employment Tax Crime

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    A Michigan man pleaded guilty today to filing a false tax return for his international vehicle shipping business along with not paying taxes on cash wages he paid to his employees.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, Ali Kassem Kain owned and operated a business called Specialized Overseas Shipping that arranged for vehicles to be shipped to West Africa and other destinations for third parties. For tax years 2017 through 2020, Kain underreported the company’s gross receipts by $6.4 million on the business’ tax returns. Kain also did not collect and pay over to the IRS taxes on $249,000 in cash wages he paid to his employees.

    Kain faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for the employment tax offense and a maximum penalty of three years in prison for filing a false tax return. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    U.S. District Judge Matthew F. Leitman for the Eastern District of Michigan scheduled sentencing for Aug. 14.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation and the FBI Detroit Field Office are investigating the case.

    Trial Attorneys Richard J. Kelley and Jeffrey A. McLellan of the Tax Division are prosecuting the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Michigan Business Owner Pleads Guilty to Filing False Tax Return and Employment Tax Crime

    Source: United States Attorneys General 9

    A Michigan man pleaded guilty today to filing a false tax return for his international vehicle shipping business along with not paying taxes on cash wages he paid to his employees.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, Ali Kassem Kain owned and operated a business called Specialized Overseas Shipping that arranged for vehicles to be shipped to West Africa and other destinations for third parties. For tax years 2017 through 2020, Kain underreported the company’s gross receipts by $6.4 million on the business’ tax returns. Kain also did not collect and pay over to the IRS taxes on $249,000 in cash wages he paid to his employees.

    Kain faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for the employment tax offense and a maximum penalty of three years in prison for filing a false tax return. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    U.S. District Judge Matthew F. Leitman for the Eastern District of Michigan scheduled sentencing for Aug. 14.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation and the FBI Detroit Field Office are investigating the case.

    Trial Attorneys Richard J. Kelley and Jeffrey A. McLellan of the Tax Division are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SEE’s opening remarks on environment and ecology at LegCo Finance Committee special meeting

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    SEE’s opening remarks on environment and ecology at LegCo Finance Committee special meeting 
    Thank you, President and Honourable Members.
     
    As the Financial Secretary stated in the Budget, “Development of green industries is a major international trend and key to addressing global climate change.” To align with our country’s dual carbon targets, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government strives to halve Hong Kong’s carbon emissions before 2035 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2050. After years of effort, carbon emissions in Hong Kong peaked in 2014. In 2023, Hong Kong’s carbon emissions have decreased by about a quarter compared to the peak level, and per capita carbon emissions have also dropped by nearly 30 per cent from 2014 levels, approximately one-quarter of that of the United States and 60 per cent of that of the European Union.
     
    Innovative technology can bring new industries and business models to Hong Kong, fostering economic diversification and developing new quality productive forces. Thirty-three research and development projects have been approved by the Green Tech Fund, involving a total grant of about $147 million. The projects cut across a wide array of subjects, such as production and storage of hydrogen fuel, and technology of turning waste into resources. With the support of these measures, we will leverage Hong Kong’s distinctive advantages of enjoying strong support of the motherland and being closely connected to the world to develop Hong Kong into a demonstration base for green technologies, helping our country go global and attract foreign investment.
     
    As for new-energy transport, the Government announced in December last year the Green Transformation Roadmap of Public Buses and Taxis, and reserved $470 million to subsidise franchised bus operators to procure about 600 electric buses, as well as $135 million to subsidise taxi owners to purchase 3 000 electric taxis. Following the announcement of the $300 million fast charger incentive scheme in the 2024 Policy Address, the scheme is planned to be launched in the middle of this year to subsidise the private sector to install an additional 3 000 fast chargers, thereby providing support to an additional 160 000 electric vehicles. This would further expand the charging infrastructure. In addition, as part of the implementation of the Strategy of Hydrogen Development in Hong Kong, the Funding Scheme to Trial of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Heavy Vehicles also started accepting applications in December 2024. We will also introduce into the Legislative Council a bill to amend the Gas Safety Ordinance within the second quarter of this year to regulate the use of hydrogen as fuel.
     
    As regards the promotion of waste reduction and recycling, the current-term Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has put in an unparalleled level of efforts in promoting waste reduction at source, turning around the rising trend of the disposal amount of municipal solid waste (MSW) in recent years. Since 2021, the average disposal of MSW has continued to decrease for three consecutive years under the current-term Government, with the daily amount of MSW disposed of at landfills decreasing by a total of 7.5 per cent from 11 358 tonnes in 2021 to 10 510 tonnes in 2024. To continuously enhance the community recycling network, the Government will allocate an additional $180 million to increase the number of residential food waste smart bins or food waste collection facilities across Hong Kong to 1 600 within this year. Moreover, to turn waste into resources, the Government recently submitted an amendment bill to the Legislative Council last Wednesday (April 2) to establish a common legislative framework for producer responsibility schemes (PRSs). We will extend PRSs to different products gradually in the light of the actual situation.
     
    Regarding waste to energy, Hong Kong is building its first waste-to-energy (WtE) facility, I·PARK1, for treating MSW, which is expected to commence operation this year. We are also pressing ahead with the development of the second WtE facility, I·PARK2, for which an open tender was launched in December last year. With an expected MSW treatment capacity of 6 000 tonnes per day, I·PARK2 will become one of the largest advanced WtE facilities in Asia upon completion. I·PARK1 together with I·PARK2 will be able to treat 9 000 tonnes of MSW per day, marking Hong Kong’s progress towards achieving “zero landfill”.
     
    On the promotion of energy saving and green buildings, we submitted an amendment bill for the Building Energy Efficiency Ordinance to the Legislative Council on March 26 to strengthen our building energy efficiency management regime. Upon the Legislative Council’s passage, it is estimated that an additional 500 million kilowatt-hours of electricity, equivalent to the annual electricity consumption of about 150 000 three-person households, will be saved in 2035 when the proposed amendments take full effect. Furthermore, we are reviewing the scale and mode of delivery of district cooling systems in new development areas, such as Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen and San Tin Technopole, to tie in with the development of the area with greater cost-effectiveness. We expect to report the review results to the Panel on Environmental Affairs in this April.
     
    On nature conservation, we officially established the North Lantau Marine Park and the Long Valley Nature Park in November last year, and plan to launch the new Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan this year to strengthen ecological safeguarding. We will commence the construction of the Sam Po Shue Wetland Conservation Park in the Northern Metropolis in two years’ time at the earliest. The Park will be five times larger than the existing Hong Kong Wetland Park, and will enrich outdoor ecological education and recreation experiences, as well as promote the modernisation of aquaculture industry. We will also continue to enhance the attractiveness of Hong Kong’s countryside, including the Po Pin Chau Viewing Platform in the Sai Kung East Country Park and the Lin Ma Hang Lead Mine Cave Revitalisation Project in the Robin’s Nest Country Park, which were opened to the public at the end of last year. The first Countryside Harvest Festival: Kuk Po “Sound, Sight, Taste Fusion” Tour was also held from January to February this year, attracting over 12 000 participants.
     
    My colleagues and I are happy to listen to Members’ views and respond to questions.
    Issued at HKT 19:34

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Casten, Stevens File Discharge Petition to End Musk’s Access to Taxpayer Data

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Sean Casten (IL-06)

    April 09, 2025

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Sean Casten (IL-06) and Haley Stevens (MI-11) filed a discharge petition to start the process to force a vote on the Taxpayer Data Protection Act, House Democrats’ landmark legislation to ensure US private citizens’ data is not subject to reckless and unlawful interference from people like Elon Musk. 

    “Elon Musk has no business accessing American taxpayers’ private data,” said Rep. Sean Casten. “Congress has the tools to serve as a check on this unlawful abuse of power. But so far, Speaker Johnson has shown he is completely unwilling to stand up for the American people. All it takes is a handful of Republicans to join House Democrats, sign this discharge petition, and defend their constituents from Musk’s hack of the Treasury Department.”

    “Elon Musk and other special government employees without the proper training, clearances, and accountability, should not have access to the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s most sensitive payment systems,” said Rep. Stevens. “That’s why I’m encouraging all my colleagues to do the right thing and bring the Taxpayer Data Protection Act to the House Floor so we can make sure that only qualified individuals have access to our constituents’ most personal information.”

    The discharge petition needs to receive 218 signatures to compel floor consideration. The House discharge rule is Rule XV, Clause 2, and provides a means for Members to bring to the floor for consideration a public bill or resolution that has been referred to a committee but not reported.

    In February, Reps. Casten and Stevens introduced the Taxpayer Data Protection Act alongside Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark, and Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar. The legislation will:

    • Protect the nation’s payment system from reckless and unlawful interference.
    • Ensure that anyone accessing the system has lawful authorization and
      • Has a reliable track-record of professional service
      • Has the necessary security clearance
      • Has made an ethics commitment and has no conflicts of interest
      • Has appropriate cyber security training
    • Ensure that anyone who accesses the system with a personal financial conflict faces criminal penalties. 
    • Ensure that Congress and the public have notice of any unauthorized access and an assessment of any cyber and national security risks or interference with federal payments.

    Text of the Taxpayer Data Protection Act can be found here

    Earlier this year, Rep. Casten led 154 House Democrats in a letter to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressing concern regarding Elon Musk and his allies’ access to the federal government’s payments system, which also includes sensitive personal data of U.S. citizens, and demanding answers as to the extent of Musk’s access.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: King, Welch Introduce Legislation to Prevent Costly Falls

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Angus King (I-ME) and Peter Welch (D-VT) are introducing legislation to help prevent dangerous and costly falls. The Home Accessibility Tax Credit Act would establish a refundable tax credit for eligible home modifications designed to improve accessibility — saving both Americans with the highest risk of falling, as well as taxpayers, from the high medical costs associated with falls.
    “I often say, ‘an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,’ and the cheapest way to treat a broken hip is to prevent it from happening in the first place,” said Senator King. “The Home Accessibility Tax Credit Act is important legislation that would ease the financial burden of accessibility-focused home improvement projects — such as modifying doorways or installing grab bars. This is a commonsense step forward to help save Maine people from the physical danger and financial costs that can result from all-too-common falls.”
    “Accessible living spaces can make a big difference when it comes to preventing falls — but making structural changes to a home doesn’t come cheap. We need to do more to meet the needs of aging Vermonters, including helping folks pay for lifesaving home modifications that keep them safe,” said Senator Welch. “I’m proud to partner with Senator King on this legislation to ensure New Englanders can live safely in their homes.” 
    The tax credit would be equal to 35% of the cost of the qualified home modification, with a cap of $10,000 per taxable year and $30,000 in lifetime limit across all taxable years. The tax credit is targeted toward middle income families and will become phased out in generosity above $400,000 for joint filers and $200,000 for single filers or heads of households.
    Eligible home modifications would include zero-step entrances, ramps, widened doors and hallways, modified counters, bathroom accessibility improvements, and the installation, replacement, or modification of appliances to make them more accessible to individuals with a vision impairment. The list of approved modifications could be updated by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and Health and Human Services (HHS).
    Three groups would be eligible to receive the tax credit:
    Individuals 60 and older; 
    Individuals under retirement age but entitled to social security disability insurance (SSDI), supplemental security income (SSI) or veterans disability compensation; or
    Individuals at any age with a disability certification.
    As an extension of his longtime focus on prevention efforts, Senator King has been leading the charge in the “Stand Strong” space. He previously introduced a legislative package to encourage proactive home modifications and to increase access to preventative screenings for older Americans to keep them thriving while avoiding costly injuries. The package included the reintroduction of the Preventative Home Visits Act and the WELL Seniors Act to expand Medicare benefits to cover home modifications, ensure the accessibility of telehealth services and include comprehensive screenings during Medicare Annual Wellness Visits. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Nerdio Announces Annual Partner of the Year Award Winners at NerdioCon 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nerdio, a premier solution for organizations of all sizes looking to manage and cost-optimize native Microsoft cloud technologies, today announced the winners of its annual Partner of the Year Awards at NerdioCon. These awards recognize MSPs and enterprise partners who have demonstrated exceptional expertise, growth, and commitment to delivering cutting-edge Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) and Microsoft 365 solutions using Nerdio’s technology.

    Nerdio’s partner-first approach sets it apart by equipping MSPs and enterprise IT teams with powerful automation, cost optimization, and streamlined management of cloud environments in Microsoft Azure. These winners exemplify what’s possible when organizations fully leverage Nerdio’s advanced capabilities to simplify and scale virtual desktop and cloud IT deployments.

    MSP Partner of the Year Winners:

    • North America Partner of the Year: Red River – Recognized for its innovative approach to delivering scalable, cost-effective cloud solutions to government and commercial customers. Red River grew its Microsoft 365 practice with Nerdio by onboarding over 200 customers, ensuring efficient endpoint management through native Microsoft technologies.
    • International Partner of the Year: Sogeti Nederland B.V. – Honored for its leadership in helping European organizations modernize their IT infrastructure with Nerdio. Sogeti grew desktops under management by over 500% last year and rapidly rolled out Intune management across its managed service customer base.
    • Growth Partner of the Year: Premier One – Awarded for its rapid expansion and public sector impact by streamlining secure, cloud-based IT environments. Premier One deployed Nerdio for over 29 customers and nearly 2,000 Azure Virtual Desktop users, realizing significant cost and time savings for IT teams.

    Enterprise Partner of the Year Winners:

    • North America Partner of the Year: Alchemy Technology Group – Recognized for its leadership in helping enterprise organizations seamlessly transition from legacy solutions to Azure Virtual Desktop. In the past year, Alchemy grew its MRR by 66% year-over-year and more than doubled deal registrations, showcasing a strong commitment to driving modernization at scale.
    • International Partner of the Year: Softcat – Honored for its continued success in empowering global enterprises to embrace Modern Work and Azure. Softcat grew its deal registrations by over 100% year-over-year and increased billings more than fourfold, reflecting its ability to deliver impactful, enterprise-grade cloud solutions with Nerdio.
    • Growth Partner of the Year: Proact UK – Awarded for its rapid growth and expanding footprint in the enterprise space. Proact saw a 40% increase in validated deal registrations and drove meaningful cloud transformation efforts by helping organizations simplify and scale cloud management with Nerdio.

    “These partners are raising the bar for how IT services are delivered in the cloud,” said Joseph Landes, Co-Founder and Chief Revenue Officer of Nerdio. “They’ve not only adopted our platform but have used it to fundamentally transform how businesses operate in the cloud—whether that’s helping enterprises modernize their workforce technology or enabling MSPs to scale their offerings with efficiency and automation. Their success is a testament to the power of strategic partnership, deep technical expertise, and a shared vision for the future of cloud IT.”

    To learn more about Nerdio’s Partner Program and how it accelerates cloud adoption, operational efficiency, and profitability, visit www.getnerdio.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tillis, Warnock Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Modernize Capital Tax Treatment for Life Insurers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) introduced the Secure Family Futures Act, bipartisan legislation that would repeal the outdated capital tax treatment of debt investments held by life insurers, such as bonds, and apply ordinary tax treatment to them.  
    “This commonsense legislation ensures debt investments made by insurance companies are treated equally under our tax code,” said Senator Tillis. “By making these critical changes, insurance companies will be able to promote economic growth and investment in communities in North Carolina and across our country.” 
    “Life insurance provides peace of mind, and we should make that peace of mind more accessible and affordable, especially when there’s a commonsense fix in our tax code,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “That’s why the bipartisan Secure Family Futures Act is so important, and I’m proud to partner with Senator Tillis on this bill.”
    “Life insurers protect families and help power the American economy,” said David Chavern, President & CEO, American Council of Life Insurers. “The $8 trillion they invest in businesses, infrastructure, and job creation adds life to communities across the United States. And the returns from these investments help families and businesses access the financial protection they need to succeed and thrive. Senator Tillis’s and Senator Warnock’s bill offers much needed changes to the tax treatment of life insurers’ bond investments that will foster further economic growth and help more people and businesses secure their financial futures.”
    “Principal Financial Group, a leading financial institution with a workforce of nearly 1,000 dedicated employees across the state of North Carolina, wholeheartedly supports the efforts of Senators Tillis and Warnock to bring about pragmatic and much-needed change to the U.S. Tax Code,” said Chris Payne, Senior Vice President of Government Relations, Principal Financial Group. “The proposal to assign ordinary treatment to debt investments, such as bonds, is a pivotal step towards rectifying the existing tax mismatch within the Code. It will pave the way for insurers like us to excel in our primary mission: creating opportunities for families and small businesses to achieve financial security.” 
    A letter of support from MetLife is available HERE. 
    Full text of the legislation is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Florida Businessman Sentenced to Prison for Tax Evasion

    Source: US State Government of Utah

    A Florida man was sentenced yesterday to 30 months in prison for evading more than $5.5 million in taxes, interest, and penalties that he owed the IRS.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, David Albert Fletcher, of Deltona, owned and operated furniture liquidations businesses, including Century Liquidators. For tax years 2004 through 2013, Fletcher did not timely file his federal income tax returns or pay the taxes he owed. After an audit, the IRS assessed a total of $1.7 million in taxes, interest, and penalties against him.

    To evade collection of these taxes, Fletcher concealed his income and assets from the IRS. For example, Fletcher used nominees to hide his purchases of luxury vehicles, including Rolls Royces. Fletcher also filed false income tax returns that understated his income by several million dollars, and when an IRS special agent interviewed him, Fletcher falsely represented the amount of income he earned.

    In addition to his prison sentence, U.S. District Judge Wendy Berger for the Middle District of Florida ordered Fletcher to serve three years of supervised release and to pay approximately $7,112,689 in restitution to the United States.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.

    Trial Attorneys Zachary A. Cobb and Charles A. O’Reilly of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Testerman for the Middle District of Florida prosecuted the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Florida Businessman Sentenced to Prison for Tax Evasion

    Source: United States Attorneys General 1

    A Florida man was sentenced yesterday to 30 months in prison for evading more than $5.5 million in taxes, interest, and penalties that he owed the IRS.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, David Albert Fletcher, of Deltona, owned and operated furniture liquidations businesses, including Century Liquidators. For tax years 2004 through 2013, Fletcher did not timely file his federal income tax returns or pay the taxes he owed. After an audit, the IRS assessed a total of $1.7 million in taxes, interest, and penalties against him.

    To evade collection of these taxes, Fletcher concealed his income and assets from the IRS. For example, Fletcher used nominees to hide his purchases of luxury vehicles, including Rolls Royces. Fletcher also filed false income tax returns that understated his income by several million dollars, and when an IRS special agent interviewed him, Fletcher falsely represented the amount of income he earned.

    In addition to his prison sentence, U.S. District Judge Wendy Berger for the Middle District of Florida ordered Fletcher to serve three years of supervised release and to pay approximately $7,112,689 in restitution to the United States.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.

    Trial Attorneys Zachary A. Cobb and Charles A. O’Reilly of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Testerman for the Middle District of Florida prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Signs SB 4 into Law, Securing Missouri’s Energy Future and Economic Growth

    Source: US State of Missouri

    APRIL 9, 2025

    Today, Governor Mike Kehoe signed Senate Bill (SB) 4 into law, taking a major step forward in strengthening Missouri’s energy infrastructure and supporting long-term economic development.

    “With this legislation, Missouri is well-positioned to attract new industry, support job growth, and maintain affordable, reliable energy for our citizens,” said Governor Mike Kehoe. “This is about powering Missouri for Missourians and not relying on other states and countries to produce our power. This legislation strengthens our economic development opportunities, helps secure our energy independence, and provides consumer protections to build a resilient energy future for generations to come.”

    The legislation is designed to respond to skyrocketing energy demand and outdated energy policy, introducing vital reforms to ensure Missouri can meet its growing electricity needs and includes some of the strongest consumer protections in the nation. SB 4, sponsored by Senator Mike Cierpiot and Representative Josh Hurlbert, includes the following provisions:

    • “Watt for Watt”: Requires utilities to replace current capacity with dispatchable sources of energy prior to decommissioning an existing power plant, ensuring Missouri continues to have reliable power generation resources.
    • Construction Work in Progress (CWIP) Accounting: Incentivizes new power generation facilities and reduces financing costs, saving Missourians money in the long run and expanding Missouri’s electrical grid capacity.
    • Plant in Service Accounting (PISA): Allows utilities to recover certain depreciation expenses from new natural gas power plants over a 20-year period, incentivizing the construction of new power generation facilities and helping to avoid rate shocks for consumers.
    • Hot and Cold Weather Rule: Extends the disconnection grace period during extreme weather from 24 to 72 hours to protect vulnerable customers.
    • Special Residential Customers Rates: Authorizes the Public Service Commission (PSC) to create tailored utility rates for seniors, low-income families, and other overly burdened customers.
    • Advanced Meters and Time-of-Use Rates: Provides residential customers the option whether to participate in time-of-use rates or advanced meters programs.
    • Lowering of the Revenue Requirement Impact Cap: Places stricter limits on recoverable deferred costs to help keep utility rates in check.

    The bill’s significance is further emphasized by the Missouri’s recent selection by the National Governor’s Association and the U.S. Department of Energy to convene an in-state nuclear summit, underscoring Missouri’s commitment to develop new reliable energy.

    For more information on SB 4, click here. To view photos from the bill signing, click this link.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Virginia Man Indicted for Obstructing the IRS and Failing to File Tax Returns

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    A federal grand jury in Alexandria, Virginia, returned an indictment yesterday charging a Virginia man with obstructing the IRS and willfully failing to file tax returns.

    According to the indictment, Omini Tete Riman, of Woodbridge, was an information technology specialist. He allegedly filed false 2013 and 2014 tax returns, reporting that he earned nearly $2 million in income and had almost $1 million withheld in taxes. Based on those false statements, Riman allegedly claimed nearly $400,000 in refunds, which the IRS paid.

    The indictment states that starting in 2016, after notifying Riman about his outstanding tax liabilities, the IRS attempted to recover the funds from him. However, Riman allegedly took numerous steps to frustrate the IRS’s collection efforts. For example, it is alleged he transferred his property to a trust, opened bank accounts in the trust’s name and directed that his wages be deposited into the trust’s bank account. It is further alleged that he also submitted false documents to the IRS, including false documents which purported to show that an IRS employee owed him money and that Riman had canceled the debt, which, if accurate, would have caused the IRS employee’s own tax liability to increase.  

    In addition, the indictment alleges that for tax years 2018 through 2023, Riman knew he was legally required to file tax returns but willfully did not do so timely. In fact, after being notified that he was the target of a grand jury investigation in 2025, Riman allegedly filed tax returns for 2017 through 2020 which falsely reported that he had earned no income during those years. 

    If convicted, Riman faces a maximum penalty of three years in prison for each count of obstructing the IRS and a maximum penalty of one year in prison for each count of failing to file a tax return. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert for the Eastern District of Virginia made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of the Inspector General are investigating the case.

    Trial Attorneys Isaiah Boyd III and Daniel Lipkowitz of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Harvey for the Eastern District of Virginia are prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pennsylvania Man Sentenced to Federal Prison in Large-Scale COVID-19 Pandemic Loan Scheme

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    A Pennsylvania man who organized a large scheme to defraud the federal government out of COVID-19 pandemic loan moneys in 2021 was sentenced today to more than six years in federal prison.  Alhaji Kundu Aly, age 35, from Chester, Pennsylvania, formerly of Liberia, received the prison term after a June 14, 2024, guilty plea to one count of wire fraud.

    In a plea agreement, and at the sentencing hearing, Aly admitted that, in 2021, he and others recruited and assisted various individuals in the Northern District of Iowa and elsewhere to apply for Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) loans for which they did not actually qualify, in exchange for a fee.  False, fraudulent, and fictitious documents and statements were submitted to various lending institutions in support of the PPP loans for the PPP applicants.  After the PPP applicants received the fraudulent PPP loans, it was part of the scheme to demand a portion of the PPP moneys from the PPP applicants and, if necessary, Aly traveled to demand payment in person.  Aly traveled to Iowa and demanded payment in person from a PPP applicant.  Aly admitted at his sentencing hearing that he was responsible for approximately $3.5 million in loss based on more than 170 fraudulent PPP loans as a result of the scheme to defraud.

    Aly was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams.  Aly was sentenced to 78 months’ imprisonment.  He was ordered to make $3,478,781 in restitution the Small Business Administration and two PPP lenders.  Aly must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term.  There is no parole in the federal system.         

    Aly was released on a bond previously set and is to surrender to the United States Marshal on April 28, 2025, at 10 a.m., in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Timothy L. Vavricek and was investigated by the Small Business Administration, Office of Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations, and U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration assisted the investigation.

    Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.

    The case file number is 23-CR-9.

    Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Virginia Man Indicted for Obstructing the IRS and Failing to File Tax Returns

    Source: United States Attorneys General 8

    A federal grand jury in Alexandria, Virginia, returned an indictment yesterday charging a Virginia man with obstructing the IRS and willfully failing to file tax returns.

    According to the indictment, Omini Tete Riman, of Woodbridge, was an information technology specialist. He allegedly filed false 2013 and 2014 tax returns, reporting that he earned nearly $2 million in income and had almost $1 million withheld in taxes. Based on those false statements, Riman allegedly claimed nearly $400,000 in refunds, which the IRS paid.

    The indictment states that starting in 2016, after notifying Riman about his outstanding tax liabilities, the IRS attempted to recover the funds from him. However, Riman allegedly took numerous steps to frustrate the IRS’s collection efforts. For example, it is alleged he transferred his property to a trust, opened bank accounts in the trust’s name and directed that his wages be deposited into the trust’s bank account. It is further alleged that he also submitted false documents to the IRS, including false documents which purported to show that an IRS employee owed him money and that Riman had canceled the debt, which, if accurate, would have caused the IRS employee’s own tax liability to increase.  

    In addition, the indictment alleges that for tax years 2018 through 2023, Riman knew he was legally required to file tax returns but willfully did not do so timely. In fact, after being notified that he was the target of a grand jury investigation in 2025, Riman allegedly filed tax returns for 2017 through 2020 which falsely reported that he had earned no income during those years. 

    If convicted, Riman faces a maximum penalty of three years in prison for each count of obstructing the IRS and a maximum penalty of one year in prison for each count of failing to file a tax return. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert for the Eastern District of Virginia made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of the Inspector General are investigating the case.

    Trial Attorneys Isaiah Boyd III and Daniel Lipkowitz of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Harvey for the Eastern District of Virginia are prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kelly, Thompson introduce bipartisan Mental Health Research Accelerator Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Last week, Ways and Means Tax Subcommittee Chairman Mike Kelly (R-PA) and Ranking Member Rep. Mike Thompson (D-CA) re-introduced the bipartisan Mental Health Research Accelerator Act to incentivize private companies with financial resources to collaborate with academic or nonprofit research institutions on neurological and mental health research to tackle the root causes of mental health conditions.

    “When it comes to addressing mental health access and care, we must utilize every tool in our toolbox,” Rep. Kelly said. “This new legislation allows us to make America’s tax system work for the American people by incentivizing research partnerships into brain health. I’m proud to work with my Ways and Means Committee colleague, Rep. Mike Thompson, on this vital legislation.”

    “Investing in brain research is key to addressing the root causes of mental health conditions, not just managing the symptoms,” Rep. Thompson said. “Mental illness is often at the core of challenges like homelessness, substance abuse, and workplace struggles. Simply funding symptom management isn’t enough—we must get ahead of the problem by advancing research that can prevent these issues from arising in the first place. I’m proud to partner with Rep. Kelly to support this critical work and help drive meaningful progress.”

    “Today, more than 60 million Americans suffer from a mental illness. Recent work by Price Water House Coopers estimated that the economic burden of mental illness was more than $1 trillion annually, not counting the value of human life associated with the almost 50,000 deaths by suicide. Research from the pharmaceutical industry has moved away from mental illness drugs because of the cost and risks involved. H.R. 2085 will provide necessary economic incentives for industry to partner with research universities across our country to engage in public-private partnerships that will have the potential to find new drugs and treatments but also to provide new jobs. This is a non-partisan issue and merits the support of everyone,” said Garen Staglin, Founder of the One Mind Foundation.

    BACKGROUND

    The Mental Health Research Accelerator Act provides $10 billion in allocable tax credits over a six-year period. The credits are available to nonprofits, state and local agencies, and private companies who collaborate on neurological research.

    Because of the high cost of neurological research, and the challenges in producing market-viable products, there is not enough investment in cutting edge neurological research. The credit is capped at 25 percent of allowable expenses and is a competitive credit to be allocated based on merit, as determined by the Treasury Department. Any credits not allocated by the end of the window are simply deemed moot and returned to Treasury unless the credit is extended by Congress.

    Read the full text of the bill here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Xage Security Appoints Susanto Irwan as President and Chief Technology Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALO ALTO, Calif., April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Xage Security, a global leader in zero trust access and protection, today announced the promotion of cofounder Susanto Irwan to the role of President and Chief Technology Officer (CTO). In this expanded role, Irwan will continue leading Xage’s technology vision while scaling the company’s efforts across product and R&D investments.

    Irwan has led Xage’s technical strategy since its founding in 2017, playing a pivotal role in developing the company’s product portfolio. As President and CTO, he will deepen his engagement with customers and partners while continuing to spearhead platform innovation.

    At the heart of Xage’s next wave of growth and innovation is the protection of AI infrastructure and the integration of AI as a foundational capability. Breakthroughs in AI are enabling Xage to deliver a faster path to protection and productivity—without disrupting existing operations. By embedding intelligence directly into the platform, Xage is creating an intuitive user experience for more accessible and effective zero trust enforcement than ever before.

    “Building the company and product at Xage is my passion,” said Susanto Irwan. “What we’ve accomplished is a source of personal pride—and, more importantly, it’s making a real impact. My focus will remain on advancing our mission: innovating to stay ahead of evolving cyber threats and protecting the systems that matter most to society.”

    The company also announced that Duncan Greatwood, Chairman of the Board of Directors (BOD), will resume the role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Greatwood, who previously served as Xage’s CEO from 2017 to 2023, rejoins the company following a leave of absence. Geoffrey Mattson, who served as CEO during Greatwood’s leave, will continue to work with the company as an advisor.

    “Xage is at a pivotal inflection point,” said Duncan Greatwood. “With accelerating market demand, a robust product roadmap, and the transformational potential of AI embedded into our innovation strategy, I’m excited to return and help lead the company into its next chapter of growth. I want to thank Geoff Mattson for his leadership, under which the company has continued to secure major new customers and to expand its product portfolio to position us strongly for our next phase. The momentum we’re seeing—and the critical need for intelligent, adaptive cybersecurity—point to tremendous upside. As attackers increasingly leverage AI to scale threats, our commitment to building AI-powered protection and productivity into our platform is more important than ever.”

    Other recent executive hires further underscore Xage’s momentum, including the appointments of Russell McGuire as Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) and Ashraf Daqqa as Vice President of the META Region.

    Xage continues to experience rapid growth, driven by rising demand for zero trust solutions across critical sectors. The company has achieved 2x growth in annual recurring revenue (ARR), alongside strong customer acquisition—growing its customer base across energy, defense, utilities, manufacturing, transportation, and supply chain & logistics sectors. Recent customer wins include major contracts with the U.S. Navy, U.S. Air Force, and multiple Global 2000 enterprises.

    In parallel, Xage continues to build strong momentum with strategic partners, further expanding its reach and impact across critical markets. Key partnerships with industry leaders such as SAIC, Darktrace, Optiv, World Wide Technology (WWT), CyberKnight Technologies, and Orange Cyberdefense are driving broader adoption of Xage’s zero trust solutions and accelerating customer success across both commercial and public sector verticals.

    “We’ve had strong conviction in Xage from the beginning, and that belief has only deepened as the company begins to scale,” said Sumant Mandal, Managing Partner at March Capital. “Congratulations to Susanto for his expanded role and we are excited to have Duncan resume as CEO.”

    “Xage has demonstrated exceptional traction across critical sectors, fueled by a product that’s both visionary and practical,” said Mark Gudiksen, Managing Partner at Piva Capital. “With a leadership team deeply rooted in both innovation and execution, we’re pleased to back a company with such potential.”

    About Xage Security
    Xage Security is a global leader in zero trust access and protection on a mission to pioneer a secure tomorrow. Control access and prevent attacks in the cloud, in the data center, at the remote operational edge anywhere on Earth, and even in orbit with the Xage Fabric Platform. Xage is easy to manage and can be deployed in a day, giving users easy and secure access to the assets they need from anywhere, while preventing advanced adversaries and insider threats at every stage of the attack chain. Learn why organizations like the U.S. Space Force, PETRONAS, and Kinder Morgan choose Xage at xage.com.

    Media Contact
    press@xage.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens call for crackdown on property-hoarding tax avoiders

    Source: Scottish Greens

    09 Apr 2025 Finance Housing

    The UK has become the world’s biggest destination for overseas property investors.

    More in Finance

    Scotland must act to crack down on property-hoarding tax avoiders to tackle the housing crisis, says the Scottish Greens’ finance spokesperson Ross Greer MSP.

    Mr Greer will shortly lodge proposals in Parliament to end the tax breaks currently enjoyed by two types of companies infamous for buying up and hoarding property – open-ended investment companies and residential property holding companies. He will also propose an additional charge for overseas buyers to crack down on property speculators based in tax havens buying up homes across Scotland. The proposals will be lodged as amendments to the Housing (Scotland) Bill.

    It was recently revealed that buy-to-let housing firms have become the biggest type of business in the UK, outnumbering fast food shops by four to one. A report by the Common Wealth think tank also found that the UK has become the world’s biggest destination for overseas property investors. At the same time, a housing emergency has been declared in Scotland, with thousands of children currently homeless and in temporary accommodation.
    [1][2]

    Mr Greer said:

    “Scotland is in the grips of a housing emergency, yet we still allow homes to be bought and hoarded by overseas speculators without them even paying the same tax that anyone else would. These companies are only interested in making a profit, even if it means the property sitting empty for months or even years at first.

    “Ideally these nonsense companies should be banned from buying homes in Scotland at all, but at the very least they should face a hefty tax bill for the privilege. That should at least put some of them off. We can be a society where everyone has somewhere to call home, but that won’t happen for as long as we have a broken market, one tilted in favour of the speculators, the tax avoiders and the super-rich.”

    “Most people will never have access to the kind of tax wheezes and loopholes that these wealthy buyers have access to. My proposals would force them to either pay their fair share or make way and free up more homes for people and families who really need them.”

    Notes:

    Mr Greer’s amendments will end the exemption from Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT) currently enjoyed by two types of companies, open-ended investment companies and property holding companies. An additional amendment will apply an LBTT surcharge when the buyer of a property which will not be their primary residence is based outside of the UK.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: NANO Nuclear Announces Sponsorship and Executive Speaking Engagements at the Upcoming Innovation Zero World Congress 2025 on April 29-30th in London

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, N.Y., April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) (“NANO Nuclear” or “the Company”), a leading advanced nuclear energy and technology company focused on developing clean energy solutions, today announced its sponsorship of the Innovation Zero World Congress 2025, to be held on April 29th and 30th, 2025 at Olympia London, UK.

    NANO Nuclear Chief Executive Officer, James Walker, will deliver a presentation titled “Finding Opportunities in the Resurgent Nuclear Energy Industry” on April 30th at 11:05 a.m., London time, followed by his participation in the panel discussion “Fixing Fission: Green Taxonomies and Red Tape in Nuclear” at 11:35 a.m., London time, the same day.

    Supported by the U.K. Government, the Innovation Zero World Congress 2025 provides a space and opportunity for collaboration and overcoming obstacles to drive large-scale, impactful progress towards global emissions reduction. Approximately 10,000 attendees are expected to arrive at Olympia London, providing an excellent platform for networking, investment exploration, and knowledge sharing. With over 250 sessions taking place across 13 dedicated forums, Innovation Zero is an essential meeting place for anyone looking to keep up with the latest trends, investment opportunities, and announcements.

    Figure 1 – NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. Sponsors Innovation Zero World Congress, held on April 29th– 30th, 2025 at Olympia London, UK.

    “NANO Nuclear is off to a strong start to 2025, and this year’s Innovation Zero conference is an ideal platform to share our recent progress and upcoming plans with stakeholders and fellow clean-tech industry leaders,” said Jay Yu, Founder and Chairman of NANO Nuclear. “Our UK-based technical team, responsible for advancing our proprietary ODIN™ microreactor technology, will also attend, and I anticipate this event will provide valuable insights and meaningful interactions for everyone involved.”

    “We’re delighted to be heading back to London for this year’s Innovation Zero conference,” said James Walker, Chief Executive Officer of NANO Nuclear. “We view this event as a key part of our global growth conference schedule. It brings together many experts in carbon-neutral energy technologies and I’m looking forward to an insightful and productive gathering.”

    About NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc.

    NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) is an advanced technology-driven nuclear energy company seeking to become a commercially focused, diversified, and vertically integrated company across five business lines: (i) cutting edge portable and other microreactor technologies, (ii) nuclear fuel fabrication, (iii) nuclear fuel transportation, (iv) nuclear applications for space and (v) nuclear industry consulting services. NANO Nuclear believes it is the first portable nuclear microreactor company to be listed publicly in the U.S.

    Led by a world-class nuclear engineering team, NANO Nuclear’s reactor products in development include patented KRONOS MMR™Energy System, a stationary high-temperature gas-cooled reactor that is in construction permit pre-application engagement U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in collaboration with University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (U. of I.), “ZEUS”, a solid core battery reactor, and “ODIN”, a low-pressure coolant reactor, and the space focused, portable LOKI MMR™, each representing advanced developments in clean energy solutions that are portable, on-demand capable, advanced nuclear microreactors.

    Advanced Fuel Transportation Inc. (AFT), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is led by former executives from the largest transportation company in the world aiming to build a North American transportation company that will provide commercial quantities of HALEU fuel to small modular reactors, microreactor companies, national laboratories, military, and DOE programs. Through NANO Nuclear, AFT is the exclusive licensee of a patented high-capacity HALEU fuel transportation basket developed by three major U.S. national nuclear laboratories and funded by the Department of Energy. Assuming development and commercialization, AFT is expected to form part of the only vertically integrated nuclear fuel business of its kind in North America.

    HALEU Energy Fuel Inc. (HEF), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is focusing on the future development of a domestic source for a High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel fabrication pipeline for NANO Nuclear’s own microreactors as well as the broader advanced nuclear reactor industry.

    NANO Nuclear Space Inc. (NNS), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is exploring the potential commercial applications of NANO Nuclear’s developing micronuclear reactor technology in space. NNS is focusing on applications such as the LOKI MMR™ system and other power systems for extraterrestrial projects and human sustaining environments, and potentially propulsion technology for long haul space missions. NNS’ initial focus will be on cis-lunar applications, referring to uses in the space region extending from Earth to the area surrounding the Moon’s surface.

    For more corporate information please visit: https://NanoNuclearEnergy.com/

    For further NANO Nuclear information, please contact:

    Email: IR@NANONuclearEnergy.com
    Business Tel: (212) 634-9206

    PLEASE FOLLOW OUR SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES HERE:

    NANO Nuclear Energy LINKEDIN
    NANO Nuclear Energy YOUTUBE
    NANO Nuclear Energy X PLATFORM

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

    This news release and statements of NANO Nuclear’s management in connection with this news release contain or may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this context, forward-looking statements mean statements related to future events, which may impact our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “plans”, “believes”, “potential”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would” or “may” and other words of similar meaning. In this press release, forward-looking statement relate to the anticipated benefits to NANO Nuclear of its attendance at the Innovation Zero World Congress 2025. These and other forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this news release and represent management’s current views and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For NANO Nuclear, particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include but are not limited to the following: (i) risks related to our U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”) or related state or non-U.S. nuclear fuel licensing submissions, (ii) risks related the development of new or advanced technology and the acquisition of complimentary technology or businesses, including difficulties with design and testing, cost overruns, regulatory delays, integration issues and the development of competitive technology, (iii) our ability to obtain contracts and funding to be able to continue operations, (iv) risks related to uncertainty regarding our ability to technologically develop and commercially deploy a competitive advanced nuclear reactor or other technology in the timelines we anticipate, if ever, (v) risks related to the impact of U.S. and non-U.S. government regulation, policies and licensing requirements, including by the DOE and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, including those associated with the recently enacted ADVANCE Act, and (vi) similar risks and uncertainties associated with the operating an early stage business a highly regulated and rapidly evolving industry. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement, and NANO Nuclear therefore encourages investors to review other factors that may affect future results in its filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov and at https://ir.nanonuclearenergy.com/financial-information/sec-filings. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Prospect Capital Corporation Announces Launch of Cash Tender Offer For Any and All of its Outstanding 3.706% Notes due 2026

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Prospect Capital Corporation (the “Company”) today announced that it has commenced a cash tender offer (the “Tender Offer”) to purchase any and all of the outstanding notes listed below. The Tender Offer will expire at 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on April 17, 2025, or any other date and time to which the Company extends the Tender Offer (such date and time, as it may or may not be extended, the “Expiration Time”). The Tender Offer is made pursuant to an Offer to Purchase dated today and related notice of guaranteed delivery, which set forth the terms and conditions of the Tender Offer.

    Title of Security CUSIP / ISIN Nos. Outstanding Principal Amount Tender Offer Consideration(1)
           
    3.706% Notes due 2026 (the “Notes”) 74348TAU6 / US74348TAU60 $342,947,000 $990.00
           

    (1)   Per $1,000 principal amount of 2026 Notes validly tendered on or prior to the Expiration Time and accepted for purchase by the Company.

    The consideration to be paid for each $1,000 principal amount of Notes that are validly tendered and not validly withdrawn on or prior to the Expiration Time will be as set forth in the table above, plus accrued and unpaid interest on the Notes, if any, from the applicable last interest payment date up to, but not including, the Settlement Date (as defined herein). The Company will purchase any Notes that have been validly tendered at or prior to the Expiration Time and accepted for purchase, subject to all conditions to the Tender Offer having been either satisfied or waived by the Company, promptly following the Expiration Time. Assuming the Tender Offer is not extended, the Company expects that the Tender Offer will settle and payment will be made on April 22, 2025 (the “Settlement Date”).

    As described in the Offer to Purchase, tendered Notes may be validly withdrawn at any time prior to or at, but not after, the Expiration Time, unless the Company amends the Tender Offer, in which case the withdrawal rights may be extended as the Company determines, to the extent required by law. The Tender Offer is not conditioned on any minimum amount of Notes being tendered. If any Notes remain outstanding after the consummation of the Tender Offer, the Company may, to the extent permitted by applicable law or the relevant terms and conditions of the Notes, continue to acquire, from time to time, the Notes, including through open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions, one or more tender offers, redemptions, exchange offers or otherwise, upon such terms and at such prices as the Company may determine, which may be more or less than the price to be paid pursuant to the Tender Offer and could be for cash or other consideration or otherwise on terms more or less favorable than those contemplated in the Tender Offer.

    If certain requirements set forth in the Offer to Purchase are met, the Company has agreed to pay a retail processing fee of $1.00 for each $1,000 principal amount of the Notes that are validly tendered and accepted for purchase pursuant to the Tender Offer to retail brokers that are appropriately designated by their tendering holder clients to receive this fee, provided that such fee will only be paid with respect to tenders by Holders whose aggregate principal amount of Notes validly tendered and accepted for purchase is $100,000 or less.

    The Company has retained RBC Capital Markets, LLC to serve as the Dealer Manager for the Tender Offer. Questions and requests for assistance regarding the Tender Offer should be directed to RBC Capital Markets, LLC at +1 (212) 618-7843 (collect) or +1 (877) 381-2099 (toll free).

    The Company intends to fund the purchase price for the Notes tendered in the Tender Offer with cash on hand and borrowings under the Company’s revolving credit facility.

    The Company has retained D.F. King & Co., Inc. to serve as the Information and Tender Agent for the Notes in the Tender Offer.

    The Tender Offer is being made pursuant to the terms and conditions contained in the Offer to Purchase, a copy of which may be obtained from D.F. King & Co., Inc. at (212) 269-5550 (Banks and Brokers) or (800) 967-5068 (toll free), or via psec@dfking.com.

    Copies of the Offer to Purchase and Retail Processing Fee From are also available at the following web address: http://www.dfking.com/psec.

    This announcement is for informational purposes only and is not an offer to purchase or sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase or sell, with respect to any securities. The solicitation of offers to buy the Notes is only being made pursuant to the terms of the Offer to Purchase, as it may be amended or supplemented. The Tender Offer is not being made in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction. None of the Company, the Dealer Manager, or the Information and Tender Agent are making any recommendation as to whether or not holders should tender their Notes in connection with the Tender Offer.

    About Prospect Capital Corporation

    Prospect Capital Corporation is a business development company that focuses on lending to and investing in private businesses. Prospect’s investment objective is to generate both current income and long-term capital appreciation through debt and equity investments.

    Prospect has elected to be treated as a business development company under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (“1940 Act”). Prospect is required to comply with a series of regulatory requirements under the 1940 Act as well as applicable NASDAQ, federal and state rules and regulations. Prospect has elected to be treated as a regulated investment company under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.

    Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, whose safe harbor for forward-looking statements does not apply to business development companies. These forward-looking statements include statements regarding expectations as to the completion of the transaction contemplated by the Tender Offer. Any such statements, other than statements of historical fact, are highly likely to be affected by other unknowable future events and conditions, including elements of the future that are or are not under our control, and that we may or may not have considered; accordingly, such statements cannot be guarantees or assurances of any aspect of future performance. Actual developments and results are highly likely to vary materially from any forward-looking statements. Such statements speak only as of the time when made, and we undertake no obligation to update any such statement now or in the future.

    For further information, contact:

    Grier Eliasek, President and Chief Operating Officer
    grier@prospectcap.com
    Telephone (212) 448-0702

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: PubMatic and Spectrum Reach Partner to Enhance Demand, Efficiency and Curation Across CTV Marketplace

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    REDWOOD CITY, Calif. and NEW YORK, April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PubMatic (Nasdaq: PUBM), an independent technology company delivering digital advertising’s supply chain of the future and Spectrum Reach, the advertising sales business of Charter Communications, today announced a new partnership that will bring increased demand and efficient buying to Spectrum Reach’s advertising inventory while strengthening PubMatic’s curated packages with local news and live sports offered through its Connected TV (CTV) Marketplace.

    Through this partnership, PubMatic will connect advertisers to audiences across Spectrum Reach’s entire footprint. Spectrum Reach offers access to more than 450 streaming and traditional networks and publishers and is already a leading streaming solution in its footprint, reaching nearly 90 percent of viewers watching, based on Comscore CTV household viewing data of content accessed through televisions connected to the internet. This partnership also will tap into PubMatic’s strong supply path optimization partnerships, bringing Spectrum Reach even closer to buyers with streamlined efficiency and advanced AI-driven technology, and providing access to additional high-quality, highly performant inventory sources.

    “Our partnership with PubMatic gives brands and agencies a new path to execute their campaigns and allows us to transact with marketers in their preferred marketplace of choice,” said Jason Brown, Senior Vice President, Chief Revenue Officer for Spectrum Reach. “The combination of our premium streaming ad inventory across entertainment, live sports and news and PubMatic’s programmatic marketplace strengthens our ability to deliver more value and efficiency for our advertisers.”

    Key benefits of the partnership include:

    • Enhanced Curation: By integrating Spectrum Reach’s robust advertising inventory into PubMatic’s CTV Marketplace, advertisers will gain access to highly engaged audiences across Spectrum Reach’s linear and digital footprint.
    • Increased Transparency: Spectrum Reach’s privacy-focused data will provide buyers transacting in PubMatic’s marketplace with industry-leading transparency into where their ads are running.
    • Higher Fidelity Data: Buyers will gain access to first-party and audience data from Spectrum Reach, enhancing their addressable targeting and measurement capabilities at scale in a privacy-focused manner.
    • Access to a Broader Network of Buyers: Spectrum Reach will benefit from PubMatic’s extensive network of buyers, including major brands and agencies, which will drive higher demand.
    • Increased Efficiency and Optimization: PubMatic’s supply path optimization (SPO) capabilities will further streamline the ad buying process, bringing buyers and Spectrum Reach even closer together.
    • Advanced Technology and AI capabilities: PubMatic’s AI tools for publishers will offer Spectrum Reach the ability to enhance monetization, reduce infrastructure demands, streamline workflows and enable smarter, faster decision-making and improved audience engagement.

    “We are thrilled to join forces with Spectrum Reach, a true innovator in the advertising space,” said Abbie Reichner, Regional VP, Customer Success, CTV at PubMatic. “As a trusted source of news and entertainment across the U.S., we are excited to help Spectrum Reach maximize their advertising revenue so they can continue to invest in valuable content creation. This collaboration will enable us to elevate programmatic advertising by providing advertisers with even more capabilities to reach their target audiences effectively and efficiently.”

    The new offering creates added value for agency partners like leading global marketing company dentsu, which partners with PubMatic for its supply path optimization, media curation, sell-side data and identity solutions and will now have direct access to Spectrum Reach’s premium ad inventory through PubMatic. “We are excited to see how this partnership with PubMatic will amplify the reach and impact of Spectrum Reach’s inventory,” said Cara Lewis, Chief Investment & Activation Officer for dentsu. “Streaming has unleashed powerful audience engagement opportunities, and by integrating Spectrum Reach’s premium CTV and addressable linear inventory with PubMatic’s advanced technology, we are poised to deliver unparalleled value to our clients.”

    More information is available at www.pubmatic.com.

    About Spectrum Reach:
    Spectrum Reach®, the advertising sales business of Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ: CHTR), provides custom advertising solutions for local, regional and national clients. Operating in 36 states and 91 markets, Spectrum Reach creates scalable advertising and marketing services driven by aggregated and de-identified data insights and award-winning creative services. Spectrum Reach helps businesses of all sizes reach anyone, anywhere, on any screen. Additional information about Spectrum Reach can be found at https://www.spectrumreach.com.

    About PubMatic:
    PubMatic (Nasdaq: PUBM) is an independent technology company maximizing customer value by delivering digital advertising’s supply chain of the future. PubMatic’s sell-side platform empowers the world’s leading digital content creators across the open internet to control access to their inventory and increase monetization by enabling marketers to drive return on investment and reach addressable audiences across ad formats and devices. Since 2006, our infrastructure-driven approach has allowed for the efficient processing and utilization of data in real time. By delivering scalable and flexible programmatic innovation, we improve outcomes for our customers while championing a vibrant and transparent digital advertising supply chain.

    Press Contact:
    For PubMatic:
    Ashley Jacobson, Director of Corporate Marketing
    press@pubmatic.com

    Broadsheet Communications for PubMatic
    pubmaticteam@broadsheetcomms.com
    (917) 826-1103

    For Spectrum Reach:
    Andrew.Russell@charter.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – [ADVANCED MEDICAL SOLUTIONS GROUP PLC – 08 04 2025] – (CGAML)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: CANACCORD GENUITY ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED (for Discretionary clients)
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		 N/A
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 ADVANCED MEDICAL SOLUTIONS GROUP PLC
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree: N/A
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 08 APRIL 2025
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 N/A

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 5p ORDINARY
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 4,690,000 2.1511    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        
    TOTAL: 4,690,000 2.1511    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    5p ORDINARY PURCHASE 40,000 202.4313p

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
    NONE        

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
    NONE              

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)
    NONE      

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 09 APRIL 2025
    Contact name: MARK ELLIOTT
    Telephone number: 01253 376539

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –