NewzIntel.com

Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI USA: Newhouse Votes to Boost Nuclear Energy, Achieve Energy Dominance

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Dan Newhouse (4th District of Washington)

    Headline: Newhouse Votes to Boost Nuclear Energy, Achieve Energy Dominance

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) released the following statement upon committee passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act.  

    “The United States is at a critical point regarding the future of domestic energy production, and this legislation makes clear the prominent role nuclear energy and small modular reactors will play as we work to become truly energy dominant,” said Rep. Newhouse.  

    Newhouse continues, “It also makes new investments into the Office of Science, which supports the mission at PNNL, and delivers the necessary resources to the Army Corps of Engineers to manage and maintain our critical hydroelectric dams. While there are further changes and funding increases that I would like to see in this legislation, specifically for Hanford and for PNNL, it serves as a strong starting point as we prepare to work with the Senate to support our nation’s energy needs.” 

    The Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill provides a total discretionary allocation of $57.300 billion, which is $766.4 million below the Fiscal Year 2025 enacted level. The defense portion of the allocation is $33.223 billion, and the non-defense portion of the allocation is $24.077 billion. 

    The bill prioritizes funding for agencies and programs that safeguard U.S. national security, unleash American energy dominance, and advance economic competitiveness.

    American Energy 

    • Supports one of the largest investments focused on mining production technologies 
      for critical minerals extraction in decades, reducing reliance on foreign sources.
    • Robustly funds small modular reactor and advanced reactor demonstration projects, as well as increases funding for the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to expand capacity for the review, licensing, and oversight of new nuclear reactors.
    • Facilitates the efficient transport of goods and commodities through improvements 
      and maintenance of America’s ports and waterways.
    • Increases investments to develop new baseload geothermal energy sources to capitalize on our vast domestic resources.
    • Maintains funding for cybersecurity efforts that enable a resilient, reliable, and secure electric grid.

    Nuclear Deterrent and National Security

    • Provides $20.662 billion for the continued modernization of the nuclear weapons 
      stockpile and infrastructure.
    • Provides $2.171 billion to support the U.S. Navy’s nuclear fleet by investing in 
      infrastructure and new technologies to maintain America’s advantage over our adversaries.
    • Provides $1.984 billion to reduce the danger of hostile nations or terrorist groups acquiring nuclear weapons.
    • Prohibits the sale of crude oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to the Chinese Communist Party.
    • Prohibits access to U.S. nuclear weapons production facilities by citizens of China and Russia.
    • Prohibits the Department of Energy from providing financial assistance to any foreign entity of concern.
    • Prohibits the purchase of technology and telecommunications equipment from China and other adversaries.

    Bill text before amendments can be found here. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Newhouse Secures $23 Million for Central Washington Infrastructure Projects

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Dan Newhouse (4th District of Washington)

    Headline: Newhouse Secures $23 Million for Central Washington Infrastructure Projects

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) released the following statement upon committee passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act.  

    “Across Central Washington, there is a need to modernize, upgrade, and expand various infrastructure projects. I am proud to have secured over $23 million that will go directly to the Wenatchi Landing project, the Port of Quincy rail expansion, and recovery housing in Benton County. These projects will boost economic development, improve public safety, and allow local entities to provide quality services to those who rely on them. I look forward to working with Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole, House leadership, and our Senators to get this funding signed into law,” said Rep. Newhouse.  

    The Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill provides a total discretionary allocation of $89.910 billion, which is $4.458 billion (4.7%) below the Fiscal Year 2025 enacted level. This legislation prioritizes air traffic control infrastructure, controller hiring, and transportation safety while maintaining essential housing assistance for our nation’s most vulnerable. 

    Rep. Newhouse secured funding for the following projects in Washington’s Fourth District in this legislation. 

    The Wenatchi Landing Interchange Improvement Project 

    Amount Secured: $10,000,000 

    The project aims to address transportation and safety issues in Douglas County, an area experiencing rapid growth, technological advancements, and commerce, while maintaining its agricultural roots. The goal of the project is to improve safety and connectivity between local communities and the broader regional transportation network. The funding will provide key safety upgrades will include a separated pedestrian and bicycle path, improved sidewalks, and better connectivity to U.S. Highway 2, State Route 28, and the county’s broader transportation network. These improvements will reduce accidents, enhance safety for all road users, and support sustainable transportation needs.

    Port of Quincy Rail Infrastructure Expansion Project 

    Amount Secured: $2,500,00 

    Funding will expand the rail infrastructure on the northeast side of Quincy, WA, both within the Port’s current rail terminal and to nearby industrial zoned properties in the Port District. Once complete, the project will provide more freight mobility options to Pacific Northwest and Washington State agricultural and food shippers and exporters, attract industrial and manufacturing projects that will create family wage jobs, lessen wear and tear on freeways, highways and mountain passes by converting over-the-road freight to rail intermodal freight, and decrease fuel consumption and carbon emissions.

    The Port of Warden Truck Access/Bypass Road Project 

    Amount Secured: $2,500,000 

    This project is a multi-phase infrastructure initiative aimed at improving freight mobility, enhancing public safety, and supporting economic development in Warden, WA. The project involves constructing a dedicated truck access and bypass road that connects State Route 170 to the Port of Warden’s industrial properties in southwest Warden. This new roadway is designed to provide a more efficient route for trucks transporting goods to and from industrial facilities, allowing them to bypass residential neighborhoods. 

    Three Rivers Recovery Housing Project 

    Amount Secured: $3,000,000 

    Funding would be used to convert a portion of the old Kennewick General Hospital into residential apartments for transitional housing to ensure safe and stable housing exists for people coming out of treatment facilities to ensure smooth re-entry into the community. The building is currently owned by Benton County, Seasons Housing will enter a long-term lease for the space. The completed project will contain up to 17 residential units which can house up to 35 residents. The project will also include spaces for individual and group counseling, entertainment for the residents, and training spaces for social skills and job placement assistance. Benton County is in the process of developing a comprehensive behavioral health recovery program that will serve its residents and those in the surrounding region and this project will help residents achieve lifelong recovery and avoid homelessness that often plagues people recovering from substance use disorders.

    Village of Hope 

    Amount Secured: $4,265,000

    Funding will be used to renovate 25 warehouse units, which currently serve up to 100 homeless individuals, and construct nine new units, which will serve up to 40 additional homeless individuals within the Village of Hope. The current application waiting list is up to 46 chronically homeless families within the community, and the number is rising. The project completion would address the unmet needs of the chronically homeless and provide vulnerable individuals and families on the Yakima reservation with resources, support, and guidance to minimize their barrier to finding permanent housing and improving their quality of life.

    Port of Moses Lake Infrastructure Development Project 

    Amount Secured: $600,000 

    Funding will be used to construct access to common areas surrounding Port of Moses Lake ramp access. Project elements include the construction of aircraft taxi lanes, vehicle access roads, and other site preparation. This work will facilitate public and private development in partnerships to meet the current and accelerating demand, which will in turn create new jobs and generate additional revenue, as well as supporting life and safety operations.

    Reconstruction of US 97, Phase 2 

    Amount Secured: $948,000 

    Funding will be used to support the reconstructing of US 97 through the City of Tonasket. Specifically, funding will be used to add features to increase pedestrian safety and decrease vehicular travel speeds, improve street and pedestrian lighting, replace existing sidewalks with full ADA compliance, correct adverse elevations slopes for ADA crossing compliance, replace existing stormwater structures and conveyance systems to pass design storm events and limit flooding to the adjacent businesses and inflow to the wastewater treatment plant, replace existing 80-year-old cast iron with lead joint watermains, and installation of stormwater treatment to protect the quality of water of the Okanogan River.

    Bill text before amendments can be found here. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Manual Resuscitator Recall: SunMed Holdings, LLC Removes Adult Manual Resuscitator Devices Due to Incorrect Assembly of B/V Filter

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    This recall involves removing certain devices from where they are used or sold. The FDA has identified this recall as the most serious type. This device may cause serious injury or death if you continue to use it. 
    Affected Product

    Product Names: Adult Manual Resuscitator with Medium Adult Mask, Bag Reservoir, Filter, Manometer and 7 ft Oxygen Tubing
    Unique Device Identifier (UDI)/Model: Each: 10884389164822, Case: 40884389164823
    Lot/Serial Numbers: 526782, 526790, 526796, 526797, 526798, 526800, 526802, 526804, 526805, 526806, 26807, 526808, 526809, 526810, 526814, 526815, 526816, 526811, 526817, 526818  

    What to Do  

    Stop using and quarantine all affected product immediately.
    Document quantity on hand and arrange to return or destroy affected units.

    On May 1, 2025, SunMed Holdings, LLC sent all affected customers an Urgent Medical Device Recall notice recommending the following actions:

    Check your inventory for the affected product.
    Stop using the product immediately and quarantine it.
    Document the amount of product on hand and return or destroy affected units.
    Distribute the recall notice to any customers who received the product from you.
    Complete and return response form via e-mail to productquality@myairlife.com as soon as possible.
    If you need urgent assistance or replacement, contact SunMed directly.
    Notify all affected personnel in your organization of recall.

    Reason for Recall
    SunMed Holdings, LLC is recalling Adult Manual Resuscitator devices due to incorrect assembly of the B/V filter.
    The use of affected product may cause serious adverse health consequences, including lack of oxygen to the body (hypoxia), build-up of carbon dioxide in the blood (hypercapnia), organ failure, and death.  
    There have been no reported injuries. There have been no reports of death.  
    Device Use  
    The manual resuscitator is used to provide emergency respiratory support to adult patients. It includes a face mask, bag reservoir, filter, manometer, and oxygen tubing, and is used during situations such as cardiac arrest or respiratory failure to manually deliver breaths.
    Contact Information  
    Customers in the U.S. with questions about this recall should contact SunMed Holdings, LLC at 1-800-433-2797.
    Additional FDA Resources (listed in order of most to least recent):    

    Unique Device Identifier (UDI)  
    The unique device identifier (UDI) helps identify individual medical devices sold in the United States from manufacturing through distribution to patient use. The UDI allows for more accurate reporting, reviewing, and analyzing of adverse event reports so that devices can be identified, and problems potentially corrected more quickly.  

    How do I report a problem?  
    Health care professionals and consumers may report adverse reactions or quality problems they experienced using these devices to MedWatch: The FDA Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program.

    Content current as of:
    07/18/2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chetak LLC Group Recalls Sprouted Moth and Mung Due to Multi-State Salmonella Outbreak

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) is advising consumers that Chetak LLC Group recalled frozen Deep Sprouted Mat (Moth) and Deep Sprouted Moong (Mung), and RIDOH is advising businesses to not sell or serve the recalled products. These products are associated with a multi-state salmonella outbreak. Currently, there are no Rhode Island cases associated with this recall.

    Product The recalled products were distributed nationwide in retail stores and through mail orders and include: — Deep Sprouted Mat (Moth) in 1-pound (16 oz.) packages with the following lot codes printed on the back of the bag: IN 24330, IN 25072, IN 25108, IN 24353, IN25171, IN 24297, IN 25058,IN 25078, IN 24291, IN 25107, IN 24354, and IN 24292. — Deep Sprouted Moong (Mung) in 1-pound (16 oz.) packages with the following lot codes printed on the back of the bag: IN 24330, IN 25072, IN 25108, IN 24353, IN 25171, IN 24297, IN 25058, IN 25078, IN 24291, IN 25107, IN 24354, and IN 24292.

    Symptoms of Salmonella infection Illness usually occurs within 12 to 72 hours after eating food that is contaminated with Salmonella, and the symptoms usually last four to seven days. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. Children younger than five, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to have severe infections.

    Recommendations — Consumers, restaurants, and retailers should not eat, sell, or serve recalled products. — Consumers, restaurants, and retailers who bought or received the recalled products should wash hands, utensils, and surfaces with hot, soapy water before and after handling the recalled products. Follow FDA’s safe handling and cleaning advice and use extra care in cleaning and sanitizing any surfaces and containers that may have come in contact with these products to reduce the risk of cross-contamination. — Check your refrigerators and freezers for recalled products. If you have any recalled products, throw they away or return them to the store where you bought them. — Contact your healthcare professional if you think you may have symptoms of a Salmonella infection after eating the recalled products.

    More information and pictures of the recalled products are available on FDA’s website.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The One Big Beautiful Bill Delivers Tax Relief, Family Affordability, Healthcare Security, and Economic Growth for Montana

    Source: US Congressman Ryan Zinke (Western Montana)

    Congressman Zinke voted to pass the Big Beautiful Bill after successfully leading an effort to remove public land sales from the legislation

    Washington, D.C – On July 3rd, Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke voted to pass the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB), a historic piece of legislation delivering major wins for Montana families, workers, seniors, and small businesses. The bill was signed into law by President Donald Trump on July 4th, cementing expanded tax relief, protection for critical healthcare and food security programs, strengthened border security, and a growth economy for Montanans and all American citizens. 

    “From protecting Montana jobs to increasing take-home pay and supporting small businesses, the One Big Beautiful Bill will deliver real results for Montana,” said Zinke. “This bill not only prevented the largest tax hike in American history but expanded tax relief for Social Security recipients, overtime earners, and tipped service industry workers. It reflects the core American promise: if you work hard, you should get what you earn. This legislation keeps that promise, while also reaffirming our support for those who need it most.”

    Key Wins for Montana in the OBBB:

    Wage Growth – Due to legislative provisions and tax cuts in the bill, wages in Montana will rise by an inflation-adjusted amount of $3,400 to $6,100 over the next four years.

    Take Home Pay – A typical family with two children can expect $7,000 to $9,900 more in take-home pay with the OBBB in place.

    Jobs Protected – The bill helps safeguard 22,000 full-time Montana jobs that would have been at risk if previous tax cuts were allowed to expire.

    No Taxes on Social Security – With new deductions, the average Montana senior will pay zero taxes on their Social Security benefits, delivering tax relief to over 200,000 seniors in the state.

    No Taxes on Overtime – Roughly 24% of Montana workers regularly work overtime and will see real benefits in their paychecks. As much as 64% of Montana workers are eligible for this relief.

    No Taxes on Tips – About 4% of Montana’s labor force work in tipped industries and will see direct tax relief.

    Death Tax Relief – The bill extends higher estate tax exemptions, protecting Montana’s family farms, ranches, and small businesses from being unfairly taxed at death.

    No Sale of Public Lands – Congressman Ryan Zinke was successful in stripping a provision selling more than 450,000 acres of public land from the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”.  

    Protecting Healthcare Access and Food Security for Rural and Vulnerable Montanans:

    No Cuts to Medicare – The OBBB does not touch Medicare benefits. Not a single dollar is cut from services seniors rely on.

    Strengthening Medicaid and SNAP– The bill protects Medicaid and SNAP for pregnant women, children, seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income families. By removing illegal aliens from the rolls and requiring able bodied adults to work part time to receive benefits, it eliminates pathways for fraud and abuse, ensures only eligible Americans receive coverage, and strengthens the system for the truly vulnerable, not illegal immigrants and fraudsters.

    Support for Rural Hospitals – OBBB includes expanded protections for rural hospitals with $50 billion in targeted rural health grants under the “Rural Health Transformation Program” and gives states flexibility to support local providers, ensuring continued access to care in small towns and underserved areas. 

    Boosting Montana’s Economy:

    Small Business Support – The bill extends the 199A small business tax deduction to about 29,000 Montana firms, nearly 45% of all businesses in the state.

    Manufacturing Incentives – Targeted provisions support Montana’s manufacturing sector, which makes up 5% of total employment.

    Opportunity Zones Made Permanent – Montana has 25 Opportunity Zones, including 10 on tribal land, which have already created 3,000 jobs and led to the construction of 500 new housing units.

    Protecting the Northern and Southern Borders:

    Tackles the Opioid Epidemic – Fights the flow of illicit fentanyl and deadly drugs across the southern border, helping combat the opioid crisis devastating Montana families and tribal communities.

    Builds and Secures the Border Wall – Constructs hundreds of miles of new border wall and barriers to stop drug smuggling and human trafficking operations that reach Montana communities and Tribal Nations.

    Funds Immigration, Customs, and Border Agencies at Record Levels – Provides resources for over 18,000 new frontline enforcement personnel, including 10,000 new ICE officers, 5,000 Customs officers, and 3,000 Border Patrol agents. This will helping secure both the southern and northern borders, which were left dangerously exposed under the Biden administration.

    For additional information on the OBBB, visit: https://www.whitehouse.gov/obbb/

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 2285, DHS Basic Training Accreditation Improvement Act of 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 2285 would require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to report annually to the Congress on whether its basic training programs for law enforcement positions are accredited by an independent organization. The reporting requirement would end after all programs are accredited. The bill also would require DHS to inform the Congress when a program’s accreditation lapses. Lastly, H.R. 2285 would require the department to carry out research and development of technologies to enhance the preparedness of state, local, tribal, and territorial law enforcement agencies to respond to terrorist threats.

    Based on the costs of similar activities, CBO estimates that implementing the reporting requirements in H.R. 2285 would cost less than $500,000 over the 2025-2030 period. Under current law, DHS already conducts research and development activities similar to those required in the bill. On that basis, CBO estimates that any costs to implement that provision would be insignificant. Any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Jeremy Crimm. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 1569, CATCH Fentanyl Act

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 1569 would require Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to establish a pilot program to test technological enhancements for inspecting vehicles and cargo at land ports of entry. The bill would require CBP to evaluate the effectiveness of at least five technologies, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and quantum information sciences, to detect contraband and increase the efficiency of inspections. H.R. 1569 also would require CBP to report to the Congress on the effectiveness of the technologies in the program and their effect on privacy and civil rights and liberties.

    Using information from CBP, CBO estimates that the agency currently deploys three technologies that are compliant with the bill’s requirements and would need to evaluate two additional types of technologies. Based on the costs of similar projects, CBO estimates that CBP would incur additional costs of about $8 million annually to procure, deploy, and evaluate those technologies. Additionally, CBO estimates that it would cost less than $500,000 to comply with the bill’s reporting requirements. In total, CBO estimates that implementing H.R. 1569 would cost $42 million over the 2025-2030 period. Any related spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    The costs of the legislation, detailed in Table 1, fall within budget function 750 (administration of justice).

    Table 1.

    Estimated Increases in Spending Subject to Appropriation Under H.R. 1569
     

    By Fiscal Year, Millions of Dollars

    		  
     

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    2029

    2030

    2025-2030

    Estimated Authorization

    *

    8

    8

    9

    9

    9

    43

    Estimated Outlays

    *

    7

    8

    9

    9

    9

    42

    * = between zero and $500,000.

    The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Jeremy Crimm. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: G20 members commit to addressing debt vulnerabilities

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Members of the G20 have pledged to address the mounting debt pressures in low and middle-income economies amid the global financial turbulence.

    This is according to Deputy Finance Minister Dr David Masondo who addressed a media briefing on Friday following the third G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors (FMCBG) Meeting held in Kwa-Zulu Natal this week.

    Developing and emerging economies – particularly those in Africa – are grappling with high and rising debt vulnerabilities, shrinking fiscal flexibility and high borrowing costs.

    “[Members]…reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen the implementation of the G20 Common Framework. To give effect to this, the G20 FMCBG endorsed the G20 Note on Lessons Learned from the Initial Common Framework Cases and the G20 Note on Steps of a Debt Restructuring under the Common Framework.

    “These documents have been published on the G20 website. In addition, fact sheets on the Common Framework country cases for Chad, Zambia and Ghana have also been published on the G20 and Paris Club websites to improve information sharing,” he said.

    WATCH | Closing media briefing

    [embedded content]

    In further discussions, the members also acknowledged the G20 Note on Special drawing rights [SDRs] which, the Deputy Minister said, “highlights the achievement of exceeding $100 billion in voluntary channelling of SDRs or equivalent contributions for countries in need.”

    The pledges to this currently stand at some $113.8 billion coming from 35 countries. 

    “Members also underscored the need for enhancing the representation and voice of developing countries in decision-making in MDBs [Multilateral Development Banks]and other international economic and financial institutions.

    “Members recognised the relative resilience of capital flows in Emerging Market and Developing Economies [EMDEs] despite heightened global policy uncertainty – underscored by strong macroeconomic fundamentals and sound policy frameworks.

    “They also highlighted the growing influence of non-bank financial institutions [NBFIs] and stressed the importance of gaining a deeper understanding of their impact on these flows. Members further emphasised the significance of structural reforms in fostering long-term sustainable capital flows to EMDEs,” said the Deputy Minister.

    Energy transitions

    Regarding energy transitions, Masondo said during the meeting, Ministers and central bank Governors considered key recommendations for “enhancing collaboration among Vertical Climate and Environment Funds, Multilateral Development Banks, National Development Banks and the private sector”.

    “Members reaffirmed the urgency of scaling up financing for adaptation and just transitions and reflected on key recommendations emerging from a comprehensive analysis undertaken by multiple knowledge partners. These included guidance on integrating adaptation into voluntary transition planning, addressing insurance protection gaps, scaling financing mechanisms, and strengthening enabling environment.

    “[They] also received an update on the work of the Climate Data Steering Committee, which has developed a set of principles for the development of a Common Carbon Credit Data Model aimed at promoting interoperability and improving transparency of carbon markets. 

    “They noted that the draft data model is currently undergoing a public consultation with both the private and public sectors,” the Deputy Minister said.

    The full communique of the third FMCGB meeting is available at https://www.treasury.gov.za/comm_media/press/2025/3rd%20G20%20FMCBG%20Communique.pdf and on the g20.org website. 

    READ | Fair trade is key cog in global economy 

    The Third Meeting of the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors (FMCBG) took place on 17 and 18 July 2025 in Durban.

    READ | Global challenges require ‘bold, cooperative leadership’ – Godongwana

    The National Treasury and the South African Reserve Bank are jointly responsible for overseeing the work of the G20 Finance Track under the co-chairship of Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana and Reserve Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago.
    – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: EB5 Capital’s Aspen Mountain Hotel (JF43) Project Receives I-956F Approval from USCIS

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WASHINGTON, July 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EB5 Capital is excited to announce that its Aspen Mountain Hotel (JF43) project was approved by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on May 19, 2025, after pending for approximately three months. This Form I-956F approval confirms that USCIS has assessed and verified the compliance of the project and its related documents. Now that the project is approved by USCIS, investors who filed I-526E conditional green card petitions in this project can anticipate receiving individual petition adjudications in the coming months. This marks EB5 Capital’s 14th I-956F approval from USCIS.

    Located in a Rural TEA, Aspen Mountain Hotel (JF43) is a redevelopment project in Aspen, Colorado, transforming the iconic Mountain Chalet Aspen into a 59-key luxury hotel. The project will preserve the original chalet’s historic charm while incorporating modern features. Positioned near the center of town and close to the Aspen Mountain Ski Resort, the hotel will offer year-round access to Aspen’s fine dining, shopping, and outdoor activities.

    “We are pleased with this quick project approval from USCIS and are especially excited about this project,” said Natalia Pronina, Vice President of Investor Relations at EB5 Capital. “We’ve had the opportunity to experience the improvement in processing times for I-956F applications firsthand and look forward to future approvals.”

    To date, EB5 Capital has raised investor funds across over 45 EB-5 projects throughout the United States. JF43 is EB5 Capital’s fourth rural TEA project and third in the state of Colorado.

    About EB5 Capital

    EB5 Capital provides qualified foreign investors opportunities to invest in job-creating commercial real estate projects under the United States Immigrant Investor Program (EB-5 Visa Program). As one of the country’s oldest and most active Regional Center operators, the firm has raised more than one billion dollars of foreign capital across over 45 EB-5 projects. Headquartered in Washington, DC, EB5 Capital’s distinguished track record and leadership in the industry has attracted investors from over 75 countries. Please visit www.eb5capital.com for more information.

    Contact:

    Katherine Willis
    Director, Marketing & Communications
    media@eb5capital.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: EB5 Capital’s Aspen Mountain Hotel (JF43) Project Receives I-956F Approval from USCIS

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WASHINGTON, July 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EB5 Capital is excited to announce that its Aspen Mountain Hotel (JF43) project was approved by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on May 19, 2025, after pending for approximately three months. This Form I-956F approval confirms that USCIS has assessed and verified the compliance of the project and its related documents. Now that the project is approved by USCIS, investors who filed I-526E conditional green card petitions in this project can anticipate receiving individual petition adjudications in the coming months. This marks EB5 Capital’s 14th I-956F approval from USCIS.

    Located in a Rural TEA, Aspen Mountain Hotel (JF43) is a redevelopment project in Aspen, Colorado, transforming the iconic Mountain Chalet Aspen into a 59-key luxury hotel. The project will preserve the original chalet’s historic charm while incorporating modern features. Positioned near the center of town and close to the Aspen Mountain Ski Resort, the hotel will offer year-round access to Aspen’s fine dining, shopping, and outdoor activities.

    “We are pleased with this quick project approval from USCIS and are especially excited about this project,” said Natalia Pronina, Vice President of Investor Relations at EB5 Capital. “We’ve had the opportunity to experience the improvement in processing times for I-956F applications firsthand and look forward to future approvals.”

    To date, EB5 Capital has raised investor funds across over 45 EB-5 projects throughout the United States. JF43 is EB5 Capital’s fourth rural TEA project and third in the state of Colorado.

    About EB5 Capital

    EB5 Capital provides qualified foreign investors opportunities to invest in job-creating commercial real estate projects under the United States Immigrant Investor Program (EB-5 Visa Program). As one of the country’s oldest and most active Regional Center operators, the firm has raised more than one billion dollars of foreign capital across over 45 EB-5 projects. Headquartered in Washington, DC, EB5 Capital’s distinguished track record and leadership in the industry has attracted investors from over 75 countries. Please visit www.eb5capital.com for more information.

    Contact:

    Katherine Willis
    Director, Marketing & Communications
    media@eb5capital.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: On the road in war-torn Gaza

    Source: United Nations 2

    Moving around Gaza has become ever more difficult amid the ongoing 21-month-long war.

    Mr. Saad, who was displaced from the town of Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip, was waiting for the vehicle pulling the cart he was sitting in to move.

    “Transportation is very difficult and unsafe,” he told UN News. “The roads are exhausting. We pray to God to grant us patience and to return home.”

    This was on Rashid Street, west of the city, which connects the north and south of the Strip. It is crowded with carts, cars and three-wheeled motorcycles that have also been converted into means of transportation.

    The area is interspersed with tents of displaced people, all surrounded by the rubble of buildings destroyed by war on both sides of the road.

    War and evacuation orders have left many in Gaza scrambling for transportation to safety.

    A luxury not for everyone

    “People can barely find enough to eat, so how will they pay for transportation?” Umm Haytham Al-Kulak asked while waiting in a passenger compartment attached behind a motorcycle,

    “We walk mostly; we can’t take public transportation,” she said.

    “May God help the drivers. Fuel prices are high, and all the people are exhausted and overwhelmed.”

    In Gaza, many people have no choice but to use risky ways to get around during the ongoing war.

    Sky high fuel costs

    Drivers are paying skyrocketing prices for fuel, which is a heavy burden, Abdel Karim Abu Asi said as he waited for his car to be fully loaded with passengers.

    “The price of a litre of diesel has reached 100 shekels [around $27],” he said. “What should we do? We’re trying to use locally produced fuel, but it causes significant damage to cars and a lot of problems.”

    This isn’t the only problem facing drivers. Mr. Abu Asi said the prices of spare parts are very high. A part that used to cost around 100 shekels now sells for around 2,000 shekels, or around $560.

    “We also suffer from the destruction of the streets, and no matter how hard the municipalities try to repair them, the problem is not solved because they require a large number of bulldozers to clear them,” he said.

    “People must be helped with transportation costs and many other aspects.”

    Fuel vendors sell their products at sharply inflated prices, with a litre of fuel reaching around 100 shekels.

    Only option

    Despite all the challenges, people there continue to go about their daily lives, even if it takes all day to get from one place to another. That’s what happened to Hussein Al-Hamarneh, who was waiting in a car to travel to the southern Gaza Strip.

    Mr. Al-Hamarneh believes that most of these means of transportation are “uncomfortable, such as tuk-tuks [three-wheeled motorcycles] and carts pulled by cars, which are primarily designed to transport goods or animals, not people”.

    “This is the only option for those who do not own cars,” he said.

    Tayseer Abu Asr, who arranges for passengers to board a cart pulled by a car, stood on the section of the road.

    “We’re trying to help people get around,” he said. “These carts have become our only means of transportation after the destruction of buses and taxis.”

    On top of these challenges during the ongoing war, the Gaza Strip is facing a fuel crisis.

    UN agencies warned earlier this week that the fuel shortage in Gaza has reached critical levels. They said if supplies run out, it will place an unbearable new burden on the population.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Behind bars, not beyond rights: UN Peacekeeping & the Nelson Mandela Rules

    Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping

    Written by Maya Kelly, a Strategic Communications Consultant and Social Media Coordinator for the UN Department of Peace Operations. She has a background in media, communications, technoculture, and education policy

    Human rights belong to everyone – including prisoners.  

    Nelson Mandela once said, “A nation should not be judged by how it treats its highest citizens, but rather its lowest ones.” Imprisoned for 27 years under apartheid, the late president of South Africa saw firsthand the injustices faced behind bars. He spent his life advocating for the fair and human treatment of all people, including prisoners. 

    His fight continues today. Around the world, prisons hold individuals convicted of violent or non-violent offences, political prisoners, juveniles, and pre-trial detainees held for months or years without any conviction – and who accounted for nearly a third of the world’s 11.5 million prison population as of 2022. 

    In many places, these prisoners’ rights are still not upheld. Many are subjected to violence. Many are denied humane treatment, clean water, adequate food, proper sanitation, healthcare, and legal protections. Overincarceration, overcrowding, underfunding, poor conditions and the serious neglect of prison services threaten the lives of prisoners, the safety of communities, and the global community’s efforts to advance human rights, sustainable development, and peace. 

    The Nelson Mandela Rules, adopted by the UN General Assembly 10 years ago, seek to change this by establishing minimum standards for the treatment of prisoners. In the countries where we operate, UN peacekeeping helps host governments put these rules into practice in countries like South Sudan, the Central African Republic, and Kosovo*. Our efforts protect the rights of detainees, improve the safety and security of communities, and help advance sustainable peace in regions affected by conflict.

    What are the Nelson Mandela Rules?

    The UN first adopted rules for the treatment of prisoners in 1955. They were not updated again until 2015, when after five years of revisions, the UN General Assembly unanimously adopted the revised United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners – known today as the Nelson Mandela Rules.  

    The new resolution was named to honour the legacy of Mandela’s lifelong struggle for global human rights, equality, democracy, and the promotion of a culture of peace. 

    The Nelson Mandela Rules are the universally recognized blueprint for effective and humane prison management in the 21st century.

    While there are 122 rules in total, they are guided by a set of key principles, which seek to create prison systems that ensure humane treatment for prisoners and help prevent repeat offences:

    1. Humane treatment: Every prisoner is a human being whose rights and dignity must be respected. This includes protection from torture and from cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment, and the right to food, water, and medical attention.
    2. Non-discrimination: The rules should be applied equally and without discrimination based on race, gender, language, religion, sexuality or another other status.
    3. Normalisation: Life in prison should be as similar as possible to life in the wider community, with access to resources and regular family contact, to support reintegration and deter repeat offences.
    4. Safety and security: Prisons should provide a safe and secure environment for prisoners, prison staff, service providers and visitors, including protecting prisoners from violence.
    5. Tailored rehabilitation: Rehabilitation opportunities, including education and vocational training, should meet prisoners’ individual needs to prepare them to live a law-abiding and self-supporting life upon release. Rehabilitation reduces the likelihood of repeat offences upon prisoners’ release. 

    Ensuring prisons meet these standards protects the prisoners and personnel inside and improves the safety of surrounding communities.

    Why are the Mandela Rules Important?

    When the Nelson Mandela Rules are applied, we’re all better off: the rules improve both prisoner and community safety and security.

    Humane, rehabilitative prisons lower reoffending rates upon release, improving public safety. Overcrowding and poor sanitation in prisons accelerates the spread of disease, threatening the health of inmates and the wider community. Improving prison health protects public health. Incarceration disrupts families and communities for generations, while prison alternatives and maintained family contact during incarceration leads to stronger social and community cohesion. Incarceration is not only expensive for governments but has long lasting economic costs for families and communities who lose economic potential. 

    While the Mandela Rules establish the minimum standards in countries where United Nations peace operations are present, chronic underfunding, overcrowding, and outdated infrastructure severely limit governments’ abilities to meet even the most basic standards of detention. If left unchecked, prisons become breeding grounds for communicable disease, violence, and radicalization with social, economic and political costs that are felt well beyond the prison walls. We, therefore, work together with national authorities and partners to implement and uphold the Mandela Rules in prisons in some of the world’s toughest conflict environments.

    How UN Peacekeeping helps countries put the Mandela Rules into practice

    UN Peacekeeping deploys Justice and Corrections experts to improve how prisons are run, support programs that help prisoners reintegrate into society, and train national prison staff to strengthen justice for prisoners and wider community members.

    We support host governments implement the Nelson Mandela Rules, building safer, fairer prisons that respect human rights, reduce the risk of violence and radicalization, and strengthen public trust in justice institutions. These are key foundations for building lasting peace, security, and stability in conflict and post-conflict settings.

    In prisons in South Sudan, climate shocks, regional conflict, stalled imports and overcrowding in prisons mean that prisoners do not have enough to eat. The peacekeeping mission UNMISS is working with the Food and Agriculture Association (FAO) to train inmates in agriculture and let them grow food on “prison farms” to supply the prisons. The results have been transformative: food insecurity has been reduced, and prisoners have gained vocational skills that give them hope for their futures. “This farm helps us produce food, gives us the physical exercise we need, but above all, gives us hope for rebuilding our lives once we finish our sentences,” says Jakor Kuron, an inmate.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Behind bars, not beyond rights: UN Peacekeeping & the Nelson Mandela Rules

    Source: United Nations – Peacekeeping

    Written by Maya Kelly, a Strategic Communications Consultant and Social Media Coordinator for the UN Department of Peace Operations. She has a background in media, communications, technoculture, and education policy

    Human rights belong to everyone – including prisoners.  

    Nelson Mandela once said, “A nation should not be judged by how it treats its highest citizens, but rather its lowest ones.” Imprisoned for 27 years under apartheid, the late president of South Africa saw firsthand the injustices faced behind bars. He spent his life advocating for the fair and human treatment of all people, including prisoners. 

    His fight continues today. Around the world, prisons hold individuals convicted of violent or non-violent offences, political prisoners, juveniles, and pre-trial detainees held for months or years without any conviction – and who accounted for nearly a third of the world’s 11.5 million prison population as of 2022. 

    In many places, these prisoners’ rights are still not upheld. Many are subjected to violence. Many are denied humane treatment, clean water, adequate food, proper sanitation, healthcare, and legal protections. Overincarceration, overcrowding, underfunding, poor conditions and the serious neglect of prison services threaten the lives of prisoners, the safety of communities, and the global community’s efforts to advance human rights, sustainable development, and peace. 

    The Nelson Mandela Rules, adopted by the UN General Assembly 10 years ago, seek to change this by establishing minimum standards for the treatment of prisoners. In the countries where we operate, UN peacekeeping helps host governments put these rules into practice in countries like South Sudan, the Central African Republic, and Kosovo*. Our efforts protect the rights of detainees, improve the safety and security of communities, and help advance sustainable peace in regions affected by conflict.

    What are the Nelson Mandela Rules?

    The UN first adopted rules for the treatment of prisoners in 1955. They were not updated again until 2015, when after five years of revisions, the UN General Assembly unanimously adopted the revised United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners – known today as the Nelson Mandela Rules.  

    The new resolution was named to honour the legacy of Mandela’s lifelong struggle for global human rights, equality, democracy, and the promotion of a culture of peace. 

    The Nelson Mandela Rules are the universally recognized blueprint for effective and humane prison management in the 21st century.

    While there are 122 rules in total, they are guided by a set of key principles, which seek to create prison systems that ensure humane treatment for prisoners and help prevent repeat offences:

    1. Humane treatment: Every prisoner is a human being whose rights and dignity must be respected. This includes protection from torture and from cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment, and the right to food, water, and medical attention.
    2. Non-discrimination: The rules should be applied equally and without discrimination based on race, gender, language, religion, sexuality or another other status.
    3. Normalisation: Life in prison should be as similar as possible to life in the wider community, with access to resources and regular family contact, to support reintegration and deter repeat offences.
    4. Safety and security: Prisons should provide a safe and secure environment for prisoners, prison staff, service providers and visitors, including protecting prisoners from violence.
    5. Tailored rehabilitation: Rehabilitation opportunities, including education and vocational training, should meet prisoners’ individual needs to prepare them to live a law-abiding and self-supporting life upon release. Rehabilitation reduces the likelihood of repeat offences upon prisoners’ release. 

    Ensuring prisons meet these standards protects the prisoners and personnel inside and improves the safety of surrounding communities.

    Why are the Mandela Rules Important?

    When the Nelson Mandela Rules are applied, we’re all better off: the rules improve both prisoner and community safety and security.

    Humane, rehabilitative prisons lower reoffending rates upon release, improving public safety. Overcrowding and poor sanitation in prisons accelerates the spread of disease, threatening the health of inmates and the wider community. Improving prison health protects public health. Incarceration disrupts families and communities for generations, while prison alternatives and maintained family contact during incarceration leads to stronger social and community cohesion. Incarceration is not only expensive for governments but has long lasting economic costs for families and communities who lose economic potential. 

    While the Mandela Rules establish the minimum standards in countries where United Nations peace operations are present, chronic underfunding, overcrowding, and outdated infrastructure severely limit governments’ abilities to meet even the most basic standards of detention. If left unchecked, prisons become breeding grounds for communicable disease, violence, and radicalization with social, economic and political costs that are felt well beyond the prison walls. We, therefore, work together with national authorities and partners to implement and uphold the Mandela Rules in prisons in some of the world’s toughest conflict environments.

    How UN Peacekeeping helps countries put the Mandela Rules into practice

    UN Peacekeeping deploys Justice and Corrections experts to improve how prisons are run, support programs that help prisoners reintegrate into society, and train national prison staff to strengthen justice for prisoners and wider community members.

    We support host governments implement the Nelson Mandela Rules, building safer, fairer prisons that respect human rights, reduce the risk of violence and radicalization, and strengthen public trust in justice institutions. These are key foundations for building lasting peace, security, and stability in conflict and post-conflict settings.

    In prisons in South Sudan, climate shocks, regional conflict, stalled imports and overcrowding in prisons mean that prisoners do not have enough to eat. The peacekeeping mission UNMISS is working with the Food and Agriculture Association (FAO) to train inmates in agriculture and let them grow food on “prison farms” to supply the prisons. The results have been transformative: food insecurity has been reduced, and prisoners have gained vocational skills that give them hope for their futures. “This farm helps us produce food, gives us the physical exercise we need, but above all, gives us hope for rebuilding our lives once we finish our sentences,” says Jakor Kuron, an inmate.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Automatic voter registration: a huge step forward for democracy – and a chance to bring missing millions into elections

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Toby James, Professor of Politics and Public Policy, University of East Anglia

    Shutterstock/Melinda Nagy

    The UK government has announced planned changes to elections which it claims to be “the boldest and most ambitious change to our democracy for decades”. This includes extending the franchise to 16- and 17-year-olds at parliamentary elections – but also other important reforms such as automatic voter registration.

    At the moment, everyone needs to fill in an individual voter registration application at least 12 days before an election. Automatic registration would enable electoral officials to update the electoral rolls without people having to make an application to register to vote. They could use other reliable data to make the electoral register as accurate and complete as possible.

    Electoral officials would then write to the potential voter to inform them that they had been added to the register. They would have the opportunity to make any corrections needed.

    The details are still to be worked out and the change would not come overnight. The process may be semi-automated to begin with – with the individual process sitting alongside some automation.

    Why is automatic registration needed?

    Many people don’t register in time for elections. Some don’t intend to vote, but others assume that they’re already registered. Some are also just busy.

    The result is that there are around 7-8 million people who are not correctly registered when the polling stations open on election day. A significant number are then turned away. The problem is getting worse as the number of people who are not registered is also rising at an alarming rate.

    Estimated number of people missing from the electoral register at UK general elections, 1945-2024.

    The number of people missing from the voter .
    James, Bernal and Berry, CC BY-ND

    What is especially troubling is that there are large gaps in registrations by age, gender, ethnicity and socioeconomic status. Nearly all over-65-year-olds are on the register, but younger people are increasingly missing. Only 60% of 18-to-19-year-olds are on the electoral rolls – and 16% of the soon-to-be-enfranchised 16- to 17-year-olds (you can currently register to vote at 16).

    Automatic registration will therefore be crucial to making votes at 16 a success. Asking and reminding young people to register would inevitably involve an enormous administrative effort. But if data could be transferred from schools and government departments to election officials to put them straight onto the roll, it would save both time and money – and bring about a higher participation rate.

    Does automatic voter registration work?

    Roughly half of countries around the around the world use automatic voter registration – including Germany, the Netherlands, Iceland and Finland. Countries which have historically not had automatic registration, such as the US, Malta, Canada and Australia, have all moved to at least partially implement it over recent years.

    The UK is thought have one of the more difficult voter registration systems compared to other countries. The evidence is that automatic voter registration leads to more accurate and complete electoral registers. It can therefore reduce the opportunity for fraud and increase convenience for citizens.

    What data might be used?

    In a recent report with colleagues, I set out how this can be implemented and suggested a range of datasets that could be securely used.

    Electoral rolls could be updated when people apply for a passport, register to pay council tax, update their driving licence details, register at university or claim benefits. Electoral officials could also be authorised to update the electoral rolls with data such as council tax data and information held by the Department for Work and Pensions.

    One option would be to register people to vote when they apply for a passport.
    Shutterstock/ClimbWhenReady

    Data sharing is already used in electoral registration. Every time a voter registration application is made, it is checked against another government dataset. There is therefore already the data infrastructure to enable automatic registration to work.

    Electoral officials already use such data to register, remove or re-register people. This has enabled a lot of savings and less administrative hassle for many people.

    Voter identification changes

    The government’s election bill proposals will also extend the forms of identification that voters can present at polling stations to include bank cards. It clears the path for future digital forms of ID to be accepted.

    The last government introduced a requirement for everyone to provide photographic identification at polling stations at UK general elections and some local elections. Accepted forms of identification include passports and driving licences but also a range of other options. If citizens don’t have identification, then they can apply for a free voter authority certificate, provided that they do so before the deadline.

    However, our research found that many people were turned away in polling stations as they did not have required identification. Poll workers reported that the impact particularly affected some groups, such as students and women.

    The UK is now ranked in the bottom half of countries in the UK by election quality. The proposed changes to electoral law are therefore urgent, important and will strengthen elections in areas where they are weak.

    They may not, however, go far enough. The previous government restricted the independence of the Electoral Commission and these changes have not been reversed by the Labour government. The Electoral Commission will play an important role in automatic registration, so the government could renew its independence to help build confidence and trust in elections.

    Nonetheless, the move to automatic registration would be a major step forward for a changing democracy – as long as the government now puts on the afterburners to power the effort needed to make these changes work effectively in time for the next election.

    Toby James has previously received funding from the AHRC, ESRC, Joseph Rowntree Reform Trust, British Academy, Leverhulme Trust, Electoral Commission, Nuffield Foundation, the McDougall Trust, Unlock Democracy, International IDEA and the Canadian SSHRC.

    – ref. Automatic voter registration: a huge step forward for democracy – and a chance to bring missing millions into elections – https://theconversation.com/automatic-voter-registration-a-huge-step-forward-for-democracy-and-a-chance-to-bring-missing-millions-into-elections-261489

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Speaker Johnson on Squawk Box: This is the Beginning of a Great Run for America

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04)

    WASHINGTON — This morning, following House passage of landmark crypto legislation and the first spending rescission in 25 years, Speaker Johnson joined CNBC’s Squawk Box to discuss how the House Republican economic agenda is delivering for American families.

    Watch the full interview here

    On the pocketbook benefits of the One Big Beautiful Bill:

    The reason we named it the One Big Beautiful Bill is because there’s so much in it for everyone. And I’m delighted to hear the former HUD Secretary sing the praises of the bill. There are a lot of praises to sing, and everyone will be singing that tune, and certainly the voters will when they come to the midterms in 2026. And the reason for that is because we wrote this bill for the lower- and middle-class earners in America. We’re the working-class party, the Republican Party is, and we delivered for them. And it’s important to point out, all the Democrats in Congress voted against all those great provisions.

    You’re talking about historic tax cuts, historic savings at the same time. But what it means for the typical family in America, an additional average $13,000 in their pocket at the end of the year in take home pay, you’re talking about the child tax credit. 91% of Americans will benefit from the increase that we did there. Seniors got tax relief, no tax on tips and overtime, things that are really going to mean a lot to people, and it’s going to be jet fuel the US economy. You’re beginning to see just the enthusiasm that the passage of the bill has sparked. This is the beginning of a great run for America. President Trump called me early this morning, we were doing a victory lap together on the phone about the passage of the rescission bill late here last night. And he said, Mike, we’re just winning. We’re going to continue to win. This is a great moment for America. I said, sir, it’s historic and there’s much more to come.

    On Jerome Powell’s job as Fed Chairman:

    I’m as anxious to see how that plays out as you are. I will tell you that the sentiment here, my opinion is that we should reduce interest rates. The American economy is hot, and we have so many good things going on. We’re delivering over and over. The Republican majority here for the American people, not just the One Big Beautiful Bill, not just with the rescissions package that we passed last night, clawing back with $9 billion of wasted taxpayer funds…the sectors of the economy right now that are giving us the most concern is, as the president has discussed, home ownership, you know, you’ve got a lot of young people and people of all ages who are having a hard time getting into the real estate market because they can’t afford the interest rates on a home. And it affects purchases of automobiles and all large ticket items. If you reduce that, I don’t say slash interest rates but do something that’s meaningful to get that humming again, because that will last. It’ll have a lasting effect. And if you combine that with the other things that are happening, I think we’ll have the greatest economy in the history of the world.

    On House Republicans pushing for maximum transparency regarding the Epstein Files:

    I believe in maximum transparency. And so does President Trump, and that’s what he said. He says it many different ways. Many different times. But we want all credible evidence to be put out there for the American people. Reagan used to remind us to trust the American people. They’re smarter than anybody gives them credit for. And I believe people can draw their own conclusions about that, but they have to have the documents. Now, at the same time, I think the interest here and the concern, and frankly the duty, the responsibility is to protect the innocent, right? If you have minors who are victims of sex trafficking, heaven forbid, predatory activity, you can’t have their names out there, right?

    So, the courts and law enforcement and government agencies have a custom of protecting the innocent [and] bogus allegations that would be made against people that can’t be authenticated. So that’s the concern. They’re trying to thread that needle because the Department of Justice does have a responsibility to make sure those people’s lives are not destroyed.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Strong Votes to Bolster American Military Strength

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Dale Strong (Alabama)

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Dale Strong, member of the Appropriations Committee, voted last night in support of H.R. 4016, the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2026. The vital legislation provides funding that underscores a steadfast commitment to reinforcing America’s military superiority, shapes a more efficient and effective Department of Defense (DoD), protects U.S. assets at home and abroad, and takes care of troops and their families. The legislation passed the U.S. House of Representatives on a 221-209 vote. 

    “This legislation makes essential, strategic investments to defend and protect the American people from growing global threats. The best deterrence is readiness. As the aggressive postures of Russia, China, and Iran continue to grow, we must prioritize the development of defense capabilities to provide our men and women in uniform with the very best resources and training,” said Representative Dale Strong. “This funding bolsters America’s military superiority and invests in missile defense and space programs to support the Golden Dome initiatives – a workforce that is part of the very fabric of North Alabama while remaining laser-focused on our military’s warfighting mission.” 
     
    SUPPORTS OUR TROOPS & FAMILIES 

    • Provides a 3.8% pay increase for America’s dedicated service members.
    • Funds comprehensive training and equips an agile, highly capable force.
    • Takes measures to reduce permanent change of station (PCS) moves, fostering greater stability and predictability for military personnel and their families.

    ENSURES MILITARY SUPERIORITY AND AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL DOMINANCE 

    • Allocates $13 billion towards advanced initiatives in support of the Golden Dome for America. 
    • Invests billions in national security missile and space programs, including missile warning and tracking, to ensure the military has real-time global situational awareness.
    • Commits to the modernization of America’s nuclear triad, a cornerstone of strategic deterrence.
    • Directs each military service to provide a report listing the service’s total munitions requirements and capacity. 

    INVESTS IN THE FUTURE FORCE  

    • Encourages the DOD to continue and expand partnerships with academia to create a pipeline of students with security clearances, enabling immediate employment across ranges, laboratories, and installations upon graduation.
    • Expresses Congressional support for the DoD’s use of Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) within various programs.
    • Provides a $400 million funding increase for the Accelerate the Procurement and Fielding of Innovative Technologies (APFIT) program. 

    STRENGTHENS BORDER SECURITY 

    • Allocates $1.15 billion to efforts combating international cartel drug trafficking to enhance national security at our borders.
    • Increases funding for the National Guard counterdrug program, reinforcing interdiction capabilities to stop harmful drugs before they reach the homeland. 

    DEFENDS OUR VALUES BY ENDING WOKE FUNDING  

    • Reaffirms the DoD’s core mission by prohibiting funding for non-essential programs, including Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives and Critical Race Theory (CRT).
    • Eliminates funding to support abortion travel and censorship, ensuring all DoD resources are concentrated on direct defense objectives.
    • The Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2026, is the second of 12 annual appropriations bills to pass the House of Representatives.   

     

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • India-UAE Partnership Eyes Nuclear Energy and Advanced Technology as Next Breakthrough Sectors

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India and the United Arab Emirates are solidifying their strategic partnership, setting their sights on nuclear energy and advanced technology as the next frontiers for collaboration. This move comes as bilateral trade has already surged past the $100 billion mark, five years ahead of schedule, cementing the UAE’s position as India’s third-largest trade partner. Speaking at an Observer Research Foundation Middle East event in Dubai, Indian Ambassador to the UAE, Sunjay Sudhir, highlighted how both nations are leveraging their unique strengths to forge resilient supply chains and foster sustainable growth, moving beyond traditional trade ties.

    Intensified high-level diplomatic engagement since September 2024, including visits from Sheikh Khalid and Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan to India, has focused on substantive economic cooperation. Discussions during Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan’s visit with Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal underscored the significant role of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in accelerating bilateral trade, particularly progress on the Virtual Trade Corridor, a foundational element of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC). UAE investments in India have reached $23 billion, with a notable $4.5 billion committed in 2024 alone, following the finalization of the Bilateral Investment Treaty last year. Furthermore, local currency trade settlement now accounts for 10 percent of all bilateral transactions, reducing dependence on dollar-denominated exchanges.

    A significant stride in financial technology integration is the UAE’s Jaywan card, built entirely on India’s rupee card stack. Plans are also underway to connect banking messaging systems, offering an alternative to SWIFT networks, and to integrate India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) with the UAE’s Aani platform by November 2025, enabling Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) interoperability. Educational cooperation has also seen tangible results with the launch of IIT Abu Dhabi’s PhD program this year, alongside IIM Ahmedabad’s Dubai campus and IIFT Dubai. Defense collaboration has been elevated to the secretary level, featuring joint exercises such as Desert Cyclone, Desert Flag, and the India-France-UAE Trilateral Exercise, and extends to participation in major defense exhibitions like IDEX and Dubai Airshow, with 25 Indian companies actively involved. Hardware integration initiatives include components for the Tejas fighter aircraft and the development of drone and anti-drone systems.

    Nuclear cooperation is emerging as a transformative area, with the UAE currently generating 25 percent of its energy from nuclear sources (5.6 GW capacity) and aiming to double this by 2030. The Partnership for Accelerating Clean Energy (PACE) initiative involving the US, UAE, , coupled with synergies with France, positions nuclear energy as a key growth sector. The advanced technology partnership gained momentum at the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024.

    Discussions are also underway for collaboration in critical minerals and the space sector, including polar initiatives. The IMEEC project envisions a comprehensive connectivity corridor for containers, data, and energy through connected grids and subsea cables. The I2U2 framework (India, Israel, UAE, US) is expanding its focus to food security, with plans for two food parks in Gujarat and renewable energy projects targeting 60 GW capacity in Gujarat and Rajasthan. Ambassador Sudhir emphasized the potential benefits for India from the UAE’s 25 other Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs), which could provide diversified market access and manufacturing advantages, particularly for energy-intensive industries. The UAE’s recent inclusion in BRICS further enhances its role as a strategic gateway for India’s engagement with Africa through initiatives like Bharat Africa Setu. The legal predictability and stable environment in the UAE also make it an attractive destination for Indian manufacturing investments requiring significant energy inputs.

    Culturally, the BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi stands as a powerful symbol of the shared ethos, religious tolerance, and cultural inclusivity underpinning the broader strategic relationship, a testament to the graciousness of the Abu Dhabi government. As both nations navigate global economic uncertainties, their partnership exemplifies how complementary strengths can foster resilient supply chains and sustainable growth models, with nuclear energy and advanced technology at the forefront of their expanding cooperation.

  • PM Modi launches ₹5,400 crore development projects in Durgapur, boosting West Bengal’s infrastructure and economic growth

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone, inaugurated, and dedicated development projects worth over ₹5,400 crore in Durgapur, West Bengal, marking a significant step toward strengthening the region’s infrastructure and economic growth. Addressing a gathering in the Steel City, known for its robust labor force, the Prime Minister highlighted Durgapur’s pivotal role in India’s development journey. He emphasized that the projects launched will enhance connectivity, promote a gas-based economy, and reinforce Durgapur’s industrial identity while aligning with the vision of “Make in India, Make for the World.” The initiatives are expected to create numerous employment opportunities for the youth of West Bengal.

    PM Modi underscored that India’s resolve to become a developed nation by 2047, or Viksit Bharat, is a focal point of global discussions, driven by transformative changes in infrastructure. He highlighted the government’s achievements over the past decade, including the construction of over 4 crore pucca houses, crores of toilets, more than 12 crore tap water connections, thousands of kilometers of new roads and highways, new railway lines, airports in small towns, and widespread internet access reaching villages and households. In West Bengal, he noted significant advancements in rail connectivity, with the state leading in operating Vande Bharat trains, expanding the Kolkata Metro, and modernizing railway stations. The inauguration of two road overbridges in Paschim Bardhaman under the Setu Bharatam Programme, worth over ₹380 crore, will further ease travel and enhance safety by reducing accidents at railway crossings.

    The Prime Minister emphasized the integration of Durgapur’s airport into the UDAN scheme, which has facilitated over 5 lakh passenger journeys in the past year. He noted that such infrastructure not only improves convenience but also generates employment, with even the production of raw materials for these projects creating substantial job opportunities.

    In the energy sector, PM Modi highlighted India’s unprecedented progress in gas connectivity over the past decade, with LPG reaching households nationwide and earning global recognition. He outlined the government’s “One Nation, One Gas Grid” vision through the Pradhan Mantri Urja Ganga Yojana, which includes laying gas pipelines across six eastern states, including West Bengal. The Durgapur to Kolkata section of the Durgapur-Haldia Natural Gas Pipeline, worth over ₹1,190 crore, was dedicated to the nation, passing through Purba Bardhman, Hooghly, and Nadia districts. This pipeline will supply natural gas to lakhs of households, enable CNG for vehicles, and support gas-based industrial technologies. Additionally, the foundation stone for Bharat Petroleum Corp. Ltd’s City Gas Distribution project in Bankura and Purulia, worth around ₹1,950 crore, was laid to provide piped natural gas to households, commercial establishments, and industries, further boosting employment.

    The Prime Minister also dedicated retrofitting pollution control systems (Flue Gas Desulphurization) at the Durgapur Steel Thermal Power Station and Raghunathpur Thermal Power Station, worth over ₹1,457 crore. These upgrades enhance efficiency, support cleaner energy production, and position the plants to compete globally. The doubling of the Purulia-Kotshila Rail Line, worth over ₹390 crore, was also dedicated, improving connectivity for industries in Jamshedpur, Bokaro, Dhanbad, Ranchi, and Kolkata, reducing travel time, and streamlining logistics.

    PM Modi reiterated that India’s progress in factories and fields is driven by a unified resolve to achieve a developed nation by 2047. He outlined the government’s approach: empowerment through development, self-reliance through employment, and good governance through responsiveness. The Prime Minister expressed confidence that these efforts will position West Bengal as a strong engine of India’s development journey.

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CS chairs storm response meeting

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    With Tropical Storm Wipha approaching Hong Kong, Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki chaired a meeting of the steering committee on inter-departmental handling of typhoons this afternoon to ensure comprehensive and adequate preparations and response planning by the Government.

     

    At the meeting, members were briefed by the Director of Hong Kong Observatory on the latest assessments of Wipha.

     

    According to the present forecast, Wipha will enter within 800km of Hong Kong around midnight tonight, at which point the Hong Kong Observatory will issue the Standby Signal No. 1. It will consider issuing the Strong Wind Signal No. 3 during the day tomorrow.

     

    As Wipha comes close to the vicinity of the Pearl River Estuary on Sunday, there will be heavy squally showers and thunderstorms. The observatory will assess, on Saturday afternoon, the need for issuing higher tropical cyclone warning signals. The public is advised to pay close attention to weather forecasts and warnings from the Observatory.

     

    The Chief Secretary co-ordinated preparatory work by relevant departments in view of possible adverse weather conditions.

     

    The Security Bureau’s Emergency Monitoring & Support Centre will be fully activated upon the issuance of Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8. Leveraging the Common Operational Picture, the centre will conduct real-time citywide monitoring, and integrate updates from various departments to swiftly assess risks and formulate response plans and measures. Various emergency response teams will be on standby to handle possible emergencies.

     

    The Transport Department’s Emergency Transport Co-ordination Centre will work with public transport agencies to closely monitor traffic and transport conditions, and will disseminate emergency traffic information and public transport service arrangements.

     

    Meanwhile, the Development Bureau is responsible for co-ordinating preparatory work to deal with flooding, landslides and fallen trees, and to ensure the safety of building structures. Emergency control centres in various departments are fully prepared to respond.

     

    The Drainage Services Department (DSD) today completed a special inspection and carried out necessary clearance at about 240 locations which are prone to flooding due to blockages.

     

    For coastal low-lying or windy residential areas at high risk, the DSD and the Civil Engineering & Development Department have advance management measures in place. These include early warning systems and emergency response arrangements.

     

    The Geotechnical Engineering Office and the Hong Kong Observatory closely monitor weather conditions and will issue a landslip warning when appropriate. Relevant departments have completed inspections of government man-made slopes which have relatively higher potential impacts.

     

    Additionally, the Highways Department (HyD) inspected again the flood warning systems installed at Kwun Tong Road Underpass and 16 pedestrian subways along Shing Mun River in Sha Tin, Lam Tsuen River in Tai Po, and Tai Po River, from July 16 to 18, to ensure normal operation.

     

    In collaboration with the DSD, the HyD carried out special inspections and clearance of public road sections which are prone to flooding due to blockages. It also inspected and cleared the drainage channels at roadside man-made slopes.

     

    District Offices have also initiated response measures, including co-ordinating with other departments and organisations to enhance preparedness, and preparing sandbags and water-stop boards. They will also mobilise District Council members, members of the “three committees”, and the District Services & Community Care Teams, to disseminate the latest weather information to residents in flood-prone areas.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CS chairs storm response meeting

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    With Tropical Storm Wipha approaching Hong Kong, Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki chaired a meeting of the steering committee on inter-departmental handling of typhoons this afternoon to ensure comprehensive and adequate preparations and response planning by the Government.

     

    At the meeting, members were briefed by the Director of Hong Kong Observatory on the latest assessments of Wipha.

     

    According to the present forecast, Wipha will enter within 800km of Hong Kong around midnight tonight, at which point the Hong Kong Observatory will issue the Standby Signal No. 1. It will consider issuing the Strong Wind Signal No. 3 during the day tomorrow.

     

    As Wipha comes close to the vicinity of the Pearl River Estuary on Sunday, there will be heavy squally showers and thunderstorms. The observatory will assess, on Saturday afternoon, the need for issuing higher tropical cyclone warning signals. The public is advised to pay close attention to weather forecasts and warnings from the Observatory.

     

    The Chief Secretary co-ordinated preparatory work by relevant departments in view of possible adverse weather conditions.

     

    The Security Bureau’s Emergency Monitoring & Support Centre will be fully activated upon the issuance of Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8. Leveraging the Common Operational Picture, the centre will conduct real-time citywide monitoring, and integrate updates from various departments to swiftly assess risks and formulate response plans and measures. Various emergency response teams will be on standby to handle possible emergencies.

     

    The Transport Department’s Emergency Transport Co-ordination Centre will work with public transport agencies to closely monitor traffic and transport conditions, and will disseminate emergency traffic information and public transport service arrangements.

     

    Meanwhile, the Development Bureau is responsible for co-ordinating preparatory work to deal with flooding, landslides and fallen trees, and to ensure the safety of building structures. Emergency control centres in various departments are fully prepared to respond.

     

    The Drainage Services Department (DSD) today completed a special inspection and carried out necessary clearance at about 240 locations which are prone to flooding due to blockages.

     

    For coastal low-lying or windy residential areas at high risk, the DSD and the Civil Engineering & Development Department have advance management measures in place. These include early warning systems and emergency response arrangements.

     

    The Geotechnical Engineering Office and the Hong Kong Observatory closely monitor weather conditions and will issue a landslip warning when appropriate. Relevant departments have completed inspections of government man-made slopes which have relatively higher potential impacts.

     

    Additionally, the Highways Department (HyD) inspected again the flood warning systems installed at Kwun Tong Road Underpass and 16 pedestrian subways along Shing Mun River in Sha Tin, Lam Tsuen River in Tai Po, and Tai Po River, from July 16 to 18, to ensure normal operation.

     

    In collaboration with the DSD, the HyD carried out special inspections and clearance of public road sections which are prone to flooding due to blockages. It also inspected and cleared the drainage channels at roadside man-made slopes.

     

    District Offices have also initiated response measures, including co-ordinating with other departments and organisations to enhance preparedness, and preparing sandbags and water-stop boards. They will also mobilise District Council members, members of the “three committees”, and the District Services & Community Care Teams, to disseminate the latest weather information to residents in flood-prone areas.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tax credits drive carbon capture deployment in our Annual Energy Outlook

    Source: US Energy Information Administration

    In-brief analysis

    July 18, 2025

    Data source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Annual Energy Outlook 2025 (AEO2025)

    In our recently published Annual Energy Outlook 2025 (AEO2025), we introduce our new Carbon Capture, Allocation, Transportation, and Sequestration module (CCATS), which allows us to model carbon capture in the coming decades.

    The CCATS module allocates projected supply of captured CO2 across the energy system for either enhanced oil recovery or geologic storage using a network representation of capture facilities, transshipment points, and sequestration sites.

    In AEO2025, we project CO2 capture at electric power and industrial facilities will increase through the 2030s, primarily due to increased tax credit values. Captured emissions peak at 1.5%–3.5% of energy emissions in the late 2030s in most cases.

    In most of our cases, we considered laws and regulations in place as of December 2024, which meant including tax credit values implemented under the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). We did not include changes in the recent One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), which essentially preserved tax credits for carbon capture but made them more generous in the case of utilization.

    Under the IRA, developers could claim the tax credits, known as 45Q, for projects that begin construction before January 1, 2033, for up to 12 years once placed in service. The 12-year period will end between the late 2030s through the mid-2040s. We project CO2 capture will decrease as the tax credits expire through 2050 across all AEO2025 cases.

    How do CO2 capture rates look through 2050?
    Projected peak CO2 capture amounts vary by AEO2025 case. In the Reference case, CO2 capture peaks at just under 71 million metric tons (MMmt) in 2039, or about 2% of overall energy emissions. Projected peak captured emissions are lowest in the Alternative Electricity case, at 56 MMmt in 2037, and highest in the High Oil Price case, at 122 MMmt in 2039.

    Our Alternative Electricity case has less carbon capture activity because it does not model Clean Air Act 111 regulations implemented in 2024, which effectively require carbon capture for coal and natural gas power plants. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently proposed to repeal the rule.

    Data source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Annual Energy Outlook 2025
    Note: ZTC= Zero-Carbon Technology Cost

    Historically, most CO2 capture has occurred at ethanol and natural gas processing plants. We project CO2 capture at coal power plants, natural gas power plants, and hydrogen facilities to surpass these industries across many of the AEO2025 cases. In addition, we project that no bioenergy with carbon capture and storage is deployed in any of our cases, and CO2 capture at cement facilities remains small—between 1 MMmt and 2.5 MMmt in 2035.

    How will CO2 be sequestered?
    We modeled CO2 sequestered in saline storage—deep underground formations containing saltwater—and injected into oil fields to increase output, a process known as enhanced oil recovery (EOR). The 45Q tax credit under the IRA was $60 per metric ton of CO2 for EOR and $85 per metric ton for saline storage. The recently passed OBBBA increased the value of the credit for EOR to $85 per metric ton, but the new value is not included in our analysis.

    In all our cases, we project captured CO2 sent to saline storage will increase through the mid- to late-2030s. In the Reference case, we project CO2 sequestered in saline storage will increase from essentially none in 2024 to 52 MMmt in 2040. Less CO2 is sequestered in saline formations after 2041 as the 45Q tax credits expire because we do not model other sources of revenue.

    We project CO2 sequestered for EOR sites will increase in the Reference case from 12 MMmt of CO2 in 2024 to 26 MMmt of CO2 in 2044. The amount of CO2 sequestered at EOR sites through the projection period stays relatively steady because revenue from increased oil production supports the projects even after 45Q tax credits expire.

    What portion of emissions is captured and sequestered?

    Data source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Annual Energy Outlook 2025

    CO2 capture remains small relative to overall energy emissions across AEO2025 cases. We project that for the electric power sector, gross emissions decline in all cases while CO2 capture increases. Peak CO2 capture in the electric power sector ranges from 2.8% to 15.6% of sector emissions, depending on the AEO2025 case. In the industrial sector, we project that gross CO2 emissions increase in most cases and captured CO2 emissions remain low. Peak CO2 capture ranges from 2.6% to 3.9% of industrial sector emissions in our projections.

    Previous Today in Energy articles for the AEO2025 presented key findings on crude oil and natural gas exports, energy consumption growth, and electricity use for commercial computing.

    Principal contributors: Will Sommer, Jeff Bennett, Kendyl Partridge, Anna Cororaton

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New axolotl study gives researchers a leg up in work towards limb regeneration

    Source: US Government research organizations

    Researchers supported by the U.S. National Science Foundation have discovered that it is not how much of a key molecule that allows axolotls to regenerate limbs properly, it is how little. This new knowledge moves researchers closer to enabling tissue repair and, possibly, limb regeneration in humans.

    “Axolotls are a species of salamander that have the ability to regrow limbs and repair organ tissue,” said Anna Allen, a program officer in the NSF Directorate for Biological Sciences. “Based on previous work, researchers knew that a particular molecule told cells to start the process of regrowth but how cells knew where they were along a limb and, therefore, what structure to build in that location remained a mystery.”

    The new work, led by James Monaghan, a professor of biology and director of the Institute for Chemical Imaging of Living Systems at Northeastern University, shows that the key is how that critical molecule, retinoic acid, degrades. An enzyme whose only job is to destroy retinoic acid is extremely prevalent at the far end of the limb (the wrist) but much less prevalent at the shoulder, meaning the reverse for retinoic acid. It is this decreasing amount of retinoic acid that allows the cells to know if they are at the shoulder, mid-limb, or wrist.

    Building on their findings, the researchers used CRISPR technology to turn off certain genes to help identify which genes were involved in various aspects of limb regeneration. They found one gene, Shox, which has a role in human height, was critical in directing the shaping of parts of a limb near the shoulder. Other genes are important in shaping further out portions. When these genes were deactivated, limbs still regenerated but not to the proper length. Because axolotls and humans share these same genes and it is only whether or not they can be accessed at the right time, this information provides a genetic and molecular instruction manual that moves scientists closer to enabling tissue repair — and, maybe, limb regeneration — in humans.

    “We are still a long way from humans regrowing limbs,” added Allen. “But, while that may still be science fiction, we are now one step closer to repairing lost or damaged tissue rather than just having it scar over.”

    NSF has funded other work looking at the regenerative properties of axolotls, including to understand the function of genes involved in regeneration in the species and fish that can regrow their fins and how cells convert stimuli into electrochemical activity during regeneration.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VA to extend caregiver support program eligibility for “legacy” Veterans, caregivers

    Source: US Department of Veterans Affairs

    WASHINGTON — The Department of Veterans Affairs today announced that it will soon propose a rule to extend Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers eligibility for certain Veterans and their family caregivers through Sept. 30, 2028.

    The new rule will extend program eligibility for legacy participants, legacy applicants and their family caregivers for three years while VA continues the rulemaking process to refine the program. The extension will ensure that legacy participants and applicants can maintain their benefits and stability during this time.  

    Legacy participants are Veterans, service members, and their family caregivers who were participating in PCAFC as of Sept. 30, 2020, and legacy applicants are Veterans, servicemembers, and their family caregivers who applied for PCAFC before Oct. 1, 2020, and were accepted into the program on or after Oct. 1, 2020.

    “Legacy caregivers have helped shape VA’s Caregiver Support Program for many years,” said VA Secretary Doug Collins. “This decision underscores VA’s commitment to Veterans and caregivers across the nation and will help provide consistency and stability to nearly 15,000 legacy participants for years to come.”

    PCAFC is part of VA’s broader Caregiver Support Program, and offers enhanced clinical support for family caregivers of eligible Veterans who incurred or aggravated a serious injury in the line of duty, and meet other eligibility criteria. PCAFC benefits include education and training, respite care, counseling, technical support, a monthly stipend and access to health care through the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs and certain travel expenses. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: A Week in Photos: Governor and First Lady Stein Tour Western North Carolina as Part of the “Rediscover the Unforgettable” Tourism Initiative

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: A Week in Photos: Governor and First Lady Stein Tour Western North Carolina as Part of the “Rediscover the Unforgettable” Tourism Initiative

    A Week in Photos: Governor and First Lady Stein Tour Western North Carolina as Part of the “Rediscover the Unforgettable” Tourism Initiative
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Governor and First Lady Stein spent the past week in western North Carolina to promote the “Rediscover the Unforgettable” initiative and encourage tourists to visit our mountains. The Governor and First Lady visited small businesses, explored towns, enjoyed adventures, and met with residents and small business owners across the mountains, showcasing so much of what the region has to offer travelers. 

    “Whether you’re taking in the grandeur of the mountains, feeling a spark of creativity in Asheville’s art and music scene, or meeting the everyday heroes of western North Carolina, you’ll see how truly special this place is,” said Governor Josh Stein. “No matter if it’s your first time or fiftieth time, you will always uncover something unforgettable in western North Carolina.” 

    📍 Spruce Pine: The ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new YMCA stands as testament to Mitchell County’s commitment to not only bouncing back but also moving forward. 
     

    📍 Catawba Falls Trail: The Governor and First Lady spent a morning hiking and taking in the sights.
     

    📍 Asheville River Arts District: Governor and First Lady Stein took an e-bike tour, stopping by local studios, galleries, and other small businesses. 
     

    📍Highland Brewing Company: The Governor and First Lady stopped to grab a drink and learn from local content creators about how to better introduce the world to western North Carolina. 
     

    📍Asheville Regional Airport: Travelers often take their first steps into western North Carolina at AVL. Governor Stein toured the new terminal and encouraged travelers to book their flights!  
     

    📍Nantahala River: The Governor and First Lady caught some waves while white water rafting. 
     

    📍 Dolly’s Dairy Bar & Gift Shop in Brevard: The Governor grabbed a scoop of Gwynn Valley vortex and the First Lady got Rockbrook Chocolate Illusion to beat the heat. 
     

    📍 Mud Dabbers Pottery of Brevard: At Stephen Colbert’s favorite destination in western North Carolina, Governor and First Lady Stein picked out some pottery at a whopping 0.00% discount. 
     

    📍Hot Springs: The Governor visited downtown to check out local businesses and spread the news that western North Carolina is open for business.

    Governor Stein’s travels are a part of the “Rediscover the Unforgettable” tourism initiative, a partnership with Visit NC to encourage people from around the world to visit western North Carolina and support its businesses and communities. Governor Stein announced the initiative at the reopening of Chimney Rock State Park, which is now open to the public with limited hours. This campaign is available to local chambers of commerce, tourism boards, and small businesses for their joint promotional efforts as businesses in cities and towns across western North Carolina welcome travelers back with open arms. 

    Jul 18, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: A Week in Photos: Governor and First Lady Stein Tour Western North Carolina as Part of the “Rediscover the Unforgettable” Tourism Initiative

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: A Week in Photos: Governor and First Lady Stein Tour Western North Carolina as Part of the “Rediscover the Unforgettable” Tourism Initiative

    A Week in Photos: Governor and First Lady Stein Tour Western North Carolina as Part of the “Rediscover the Unforgettable” Tourism Initiative
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Governor and First Lady Stein spent the past week in western North Carolina to promote the “Rediscover the Unforgettable” initiative and encourage tourists to visit our mountains. The Governor and First Lady visited small businesses, explored towns, enjoyed adventures, and met with residents and small business owners across the mountains, showcasing so much of what the region has to offer travelers. 

    “Whether you’re taking in the grandeur of the mountains, feeling a spark of creativity in Asheville’s art and music scene, or meeting the everyday heroes of western North Carolina, you’ll see how truly special this place is,” said Governor Josh Stein. “No matter if it’s your first time or fiftieth time, you will always uncover something unforgettable in western North Carolina.” 

    📍 Spruce Pine: The ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new YMCA stands as testament to Mitchell County’s commitment to not only bouncing back but also moving forward. 
     

    📍 Catawba Falls Trail: The Governor and First Lady spent a morning hiking and taking in the sights.
     

    📍 Asheville River Arts District: Governor and First Lady Stein took an e-bike tour, stopping by local studios, galleries, and other small businesses. 
     

    📍Highland Brewing Company: The Governor and First Lady stopped to grab a drink and learn from local content creators about how to better introduce the world to western North Carolina. 
     

    📍Asheville Regional Airport: Travelers often take their first steps into western North Carolina at AVL. Governor Stein toured the new terminal and encouraged travelers to book their flights!  
     

    📍Nantahala River: The Governor and First Lady caught some waves while white water rafting. 
     

    📍 Dolly’s Dairy Bar & Gift Shop in Brevard: The Governor grabbed a scoop of Gwynn Valley vortex and the First Lady got Rockbrook Chocolate Illusion to beat the heat. 
     

    📍 Mud Dabbers Pottery of Brevard: At Stephen Colbert’s favorite destination in western North Carolina, Governor and First Lady Stein picked out some pottery at a whopping 0.00% discount. 
     

    📍Hot Springs: The Governor visited downtown to check out local businesses and spread the news that western North Carolina is open for business.

    Governor Stein’s travels are a part of the “Rediscover the Unforgettable” tourism initiative, a partnership with Visit NC to encourage people from around the world to visit western North Carolina and support its businesses and communities. Governor Stein announced the initiative at the reopening of Chimney Rock State Park, which is now open to the public with limited hours. This campaign is available to local chambers of commerce, tourism boards, and small businesses for their joint promotional efforts as businesses in cities and towns across western North Carolina welcome travelers back with open arms. 

    Jul 18, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: UPDATE: Met reiterates warning on support for proscribed organisations ahead of Saturday protests

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    There will be an increased police presence in Westminster on Saturday when a number of protests are due to take place.

    A march organised by the Palestine Coalition will go from Victoria Embankment to Whitehall via Westminster Bridge, Waterloo Bridge and the Strand. Speeches will take place in Whitehall following the march.

    A static protest organised by Stop the Hate, in opposition to the Palestine Coalition march, will take place at the junction of the Strand and Waterloo Bridge.

    Discussions are ongoing with the organisers of both protests and details of any conditions in place will be published on Friday.

    We are also expecting further protest activity in support of Palestine Action which is a group now proscribed under the Terrorism Act. Similar protests have taken place in Parliament Square for the past two weekends, with 70 arrests made.

    The location of any such protest has not yet been confirmed.

    Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan, who is charge of the Met’s policing operation this weekend, said: “Our policing plans for the sort of protest activity we expect on Saturday are tried and tested, with officers working hard to achieve the balance of allowing people to exercise their right to peaceful protest while avoiding serious disruption to the community and ensuring incidents and offences can be swiftly dealt with.

    “This Saturday’s Palestine Coalition protest is the first large scale eventof its kind since the proscription of Palestine Action and I want to make sure the implications of that change in the law are fully understood.

    “Nobody will be committing an offence by simply supporting the Palestinian cause, taking part in the march or carrying flags, banners or other signs providing they don’t stray into hate speech or other offences.

    “However, those who see this as an opportunity to test the limits of the law by expressing support for Palestine Action, whether at a standalone protest or as part of the Palestine Coalition protest, will likely be committing an offence and will very likely be arrested.

    “I would urge those people to consider the seriousness of being arrested under the Terrorism Act and the very real long term implications – from travel, to employment, to finances – that such an arrest is likely to have for their future.

    “This is also the first large scale protest on this issue since Glastonbury Festival where offensive chanting led by an artist on one of the stages prompted a police investigation. Investigations are also underway, led by Met officers, following similar uses of the same chant in London.

    “Those investigations are ongoing and it would not be appropriate to prejudge the outcomes, but I can say a bit more about our approach to similar chanting at this weekend’s protest.

    “We have said before that whether chants cross the line from free speech to a potential criminal offence depends on the specific circumstances.

    “For example, there will be words that when chanted in the middle of the Palestine Coalition march, and not directed at individuals who might be caused harassment, alarm or distress as a result, might not lead an officer to reasonably suspect an offence has been committed.

    “But directing the same words at a group of people for whom the words would very likely cause harassment, alarm or distress, could well give rise to grounds for arrest.

    “At previous protests, the area between the main march and any counter protest has seen the most heated exchanges. Officers will be particularly alert to conduct, including chanting, in this area and will be working with stewards to ensure crowds keep moving past this point.

    “Where they become aware of behaviour that crosses the line from protest into criminality they will intervene and take appropriate action.

    “All participants are responsible for their own behaviour. Avoiding the use of threatening, abusive and insulting language, or language that is supportive of proscribed organisations, is the surest way to stay on the right side of this line.”

    Further details of these protests, including any conditions in place, will be published at news.met.police.uk and on the Met’s X account.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: UPDATE: Met reiterates warning on support for proscribed organisations ahead of Saturday protests

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    There will be an increased police presence in Westminster on Saturday when a number of protests are due to take place.

    A march organised by the Palestine Coalition will go from Victoria Embankment to Whitehall via Westminster Bridge, Waterloo Bridge and the Strand. Speeches will take place in Whitehall following the march.

    A static protest organised by Stop the Hate, in opposition to the Palestine Coalition march, will take place at the junction of the Strand and Waterloo Bridge.

    Discussions are ongoing with the organisers of both protests and details of any conditions in place will be published on Friday.

    We are also expecting further protest activity in support of Palestine Action which is a group now proscribed under the Terrorism Act. Similar protests have taken place in Parliament Square for the past two weekends, with 70 arrests made.

    The location of any such protest has not yet been confirmed.

    Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan, who is charge of the Met’s policing operation this weekend, said: “Our policing plans for the sort of protest activity we expect on Saturday are tried and tested, with officers working hard to achieve the balance of allowing people to exercise their right to peaceful protest while avoiding serious disruption to the community and ensuring incidents and offences can be swiftly dealt with.

    “This Saturday’s Palestine Coalition protest is the first large scale eventof its kind since the proscription of Palestine Action and I want to make sure the implications of that change in the law are fully understood.

    “Nobody will be committing an offence by simply supporting the Palestinian cause, taking part in the march or carrying flags, banners or other signs providing they don’t stray into hate speech or other offences.

    “However, those who see this as an opportunity to test the limits of the law by expressing support for Palestine Action, whether at a standalone protest or as part of the Palestine Coalition protest, will likely be committing an offence and will very likely be arrested.

    “I would urge those people to consider the seriousness of being arrested under the Terrorism Act and the very real long term implications – from travel, to employment, to finances – that such an arrest is likely to have for their future.

    “This is also the first large scale protest on this issue since Glastonbury Festival where offensive chanting led by an artist on one of the stages prompted a police investigation. Investigations are also underway, led by Met officers, following similar uses of the same chant in London.

    “Those investigations are ongoing and it would not be appropriate to prejudge the outcomes, but I can say a bit more about our approach to similar chanting at this weekend’s protest.

    “We have said before that whether chants cross the line from free speech to a potential criminal offence depends on the specific circumstances.

    “For example, there will be words that when chanted in the middle of the Palestine Coalition march, and not directed at individuals who might be caused harassment, alarm or distress as a result, might not lead an officer to reasonably suspect an offence has been committed.

    “But directing the same words at a group of people for whom the words would very likely cause harassment, alarm or distress, could well give rise to grounds for arrest.

    “At previous protests, the area between the main march and any counter protest has seen the most heated exchanges. Officers will be particularly alert to conduct, including chanting, in this area and will be working with stewards to ensure crowds keep moving past this point.

    “Where they become aware of behaviour that crosses the line from protest into criminality they will intervene and take appropriate action.

    “All participants are responsible for their own behaviour. Avoiding the use of threatening, abusive and insulting language, or language that is supportive of proscribed organisations, is the surest way to stay on the right side of this line.”

    Further details of these protests, including any conditions in place, will be published at news.met.police.uk and on the Met’s X account.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Escape Financial Instability: EarnMining Delivers Free Bitcoin Cloud Mining Right to Your Pocket

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Los Angeles, California, July 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EarnMining, a next-generation cloud mining platform, has officially announced the global launch of its mobile app, offering free Bitcoin cloud mining and simplified access to passive crypto income. The app removes traditional mining barriers by eliminating the need for expensive hardware, technical setup, or complex configurations.

    As part of its launch initiative, EarnMining is providing all new users with a $15 mining credit bonus, enabling instant entry into the world of digital asset earnings — straight from their smartphone.

    Revolutionizing Crypto Accessibility Amid Economic Uncertainty

    In response to growing global interest in alternative income streams, EarnMining delivers a cost-effective and scalable solution to cryptocurrency mining. Built to serve users across 180+ countries, the platform democratizes access to Bitcoin and altcoin mining by leveraging cloud-based infrastructure and a mobile-first approach.

    “At EarnMining, we believe financial opportunity should be accessible to all,” said the company’s spokesperson. “Our platform is designed to empower everyday users with real earnings potential in the crypto space—without needing technical expertise or upfront capital for hardware.”

    Seamless Onboarding: Mine Crypto in 5 Simple Steps

    1. Register a Free Account
    New users can sign up at www.earnmining.com in under a minute. A $15 welcome bonus is instantly credited to their account to begin mining right away.

    2. Choose a Mining Plan
    The platform offers flexible cloud mining packages suitable for both short-term testing and long-term passive income strategies. Users can select a plan tailored to their goals and budget.

    3. Deposit Your Crypto
    Funding the EarnMining wallet is quick and secure. Users can deposit BTC, ETH, USDT (ERC20/TRC20), XRP, LTC, DOGE, BCH, or SOL. All transactions are encrypted and processed efficiently.

    4. Start Mining Automatically
    No hardware is required. Once funded, mining starts instantly in the background. Users can monitor earnings and contract performance via the app’s intuitive dashboard.

    5. Withdraw or Reinvest Earnings
    Mining profits are added to the balance daily. When the user reaches $100, they can choose to withdraw their earnings or reinvest to scale up their mining power.

    User-Friendly Interface Designed for All Experience Levels

    The EarnMining AWS mobile application is specifically designed for infra-crypto advanced miners and non-crypto miners and users alike. With a simple configuration, undeviating/consistent earnings record,  and 1-touch options, the application is sure to be a pleasant experience. It makes contract management, performance and income viewership, revenue optimizations and overall tracking seamless for all users

    Unmatched Security Standards and Data Protection

    Security is a top priority at EarnMining. The platform is protected by Cloudflare® DDoS protection and McAfee®-based security technology that make sure your data, transactions, and funds are safe. End-to-end encryption, multiple firewalls, and constant monitoring create ongoing security against threats.

    “Our platform operates under a strict security-first approach,” the company noted. “We’re committed to protecting both the digital assets and the trust of our users worldwide.”

     Stable Returns Through USD-Pegged Contracts

    Volatility is one of the biggest challenges in crypto. To safeguard user profits, EarnMining pegs all contracts to the U.S. Dollar (USD). Users deposit crypto based on real-time exchange rates, mine under a USD-based value model, and withdraw in the cryptocurrency of their choice. This approach offers a more stable, predictable earning experience — even during market downturns.

    Over 6 Million Users and Counting

    With over 6 million registered users in more than 180 countries, EarnMining is fast becoming a global leader in cloud-based cryptocurrency mining. Its user-friendly design, solid infrastructure, and flexible earning model resonates with anyone wanting to generate wealth in the age of digital assets.

    EarnMining is a low-risk way to start crypto mining for anyone from students to freelancers, investors, or retirees – all through a secure, mobile platform that can easily fit in your pocket.

    About EarnMining

    EarnMining is a cloud mining company that is also decentralized on the blockchain, and it is designed to make cryptocurrency mining easier for every user around the globe. EarnMining is creating secure and efficient access to digital assets for all user types through a platform that is simple and easy for beginners to navigate. EarnMining is facilitating the next evolution of crypto mining — it has never been easier, safer, or more accessible to create passive income.

    Official Website: https://earnmining.com

    App Download: https://earnmining.com/xml/index.html#/app

    Disclaimer: This press release is for informational purposes only and does not offer investment advice, financial guidance, or recommendations for transactions. Cryptocurrency mining and staking carry market volatility, regulatory uncertainty, and technical risks that can lead to financial loss. Investors should perform thorough due diligence and seek independent financial or legal advice before making any decisions.

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Auditor Compliance Program results for 2024–25

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    We’ve completed more than 200 SMSF auditor reviews in 2024–25. Our goal remains the same – supporting a high-quality audit profession that underpins confidence in the SMSF sector.

    As a result of these reviews, we referred 41 auditors to our co-regulator ASIC (Australian Securities and Investments Commission) and 36 voluntarily cancelled their registration during our reviews.

    The main reason for a referral was due to an auditor failing to comply with the auditing and assurance standards. Most auditors reviewed did not obtain sufficient and appropriate audit evidence to form an opinion on the fund’s financial statements and compliance with the super laws.

    A number of auditors were also referred as a result of failing to meet the independence requirements by conducting in-house audits and by failing to demonstrate they had the necessary practical experience to carry out SMSF audits.

    We’ve also focused on educating auditors through market valuation and disqualified trustee reviews, 51 auditors received targeted guidance to help them meet their obligations.

    The most common compliance issues we identified from our auditor reviews were a lack of evidence to support that:

    • fund transactions were at arm’s length (section 109)
    • fund assets were correctly reported at market value (regulation 8.02B)
    • there were no charges over fund assets (regulation 13.14)
    • the fund’s limited recourse borrowing arrangement had met the borrowing exceptions (section 67, 67A).

    We also found many auditor’s files contained unsigned financial statements (section 35B).

    For more information, see Compliance audit of an SMSF or SMSF auditors.

    Our high-volume auditor program continues to be effective, with ACR lodgments rising from 2.2% to 3.6% following our reviews.

    We’ll keep a strong focus on this group in 2025–26, along with high-risk auditors, auditors conducting in-house audits and auditors who may be failing to conduct adequate compliance checks in relation to ensuring trustees value their assets at market value each year.

    Looking for the latest news for SMSFs? You can stay up to date by visiting our SMSF newsroom and subscribingExternal Link to our monthly SMSF newsletter.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Zinke’s $20 Million to-do list for Western Montana water, roads, and bridges advances in Transportation Appropriations Bill

    Source: US Congressman Ryan Zinke (Western Montana)

    Washington, D.C. – Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke released this statement after Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations Bill passed full committee markup. As a member of the Appropriations Committee and THUD subcommittee, Zinke has an early hand in crafting the bill. The bill is next headed to the House floor for a vote.

    “Not every dollar spent by D.C. is a waste, much of it is needed investment and infrastructure is investments. The Montana investments secured in this year’s transportation appropriations bill includes some of my top priorities. These are projects I’ve been working on with community leaders and county commissioners for months and in some case years,” said Zinke. “Noxon Bridge has holes the size of trash can lids, and Pyramid Lumber shut down largely because of the lack of infrastructure to support housing in Seeley Lake. These funds are desperately needed, and our communities won’t be ignored any longer. I’m glad to see this bill move out of committee and head to the House floor for a vote.”

    See Congressman Zinke’s Community Project Funding Requests included in the bill below:

    • $10,000,000 for the Seeley Lake Wastewater Treatment Plant
    • $2,500,000 for the Sanders County Noxon Bridge Replacement Project Phase 1
    • $2,500,000 for the Ravalli County Wastewater Treatment Plant
    • $454,000 for Rural Airport Reconstruction and Emergency Services Expansion
    • $1,150,000 for repaving Marten Creek Road
    • $1,000,000 for Flathead County North Fork Road guardrails
    • $1,000,000 for Groff Lane Bridge Replacement
    • $1,000,000 for Old Corvallis Road Repair

    Read the full text of the bill HERE.

     

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    MIL OSI USA News –