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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: NHRC, India takes suo motu cognisance of the difficulties being faced by the prisoners, including the women inmates and their children, in various jails across the country

    Source: Government of India

    NHRC, India takes suo motu cognisance of the difficulties being faced by the prisoners, including the women inmates and their children, in various jails across the country

    Issues notices to Chief Secretaries of all the States and Union Territories calling for reports within four weeks

    The reports to include the number of women prisoners & those with babies, convicted and under-trial women prisoners, as well as women and male under-trial prisoners languishing in Jails for more than a year

    Posted On: 08 APR 2025 5:21PM by PIB Delhi

    The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has taken suo motu cognisance of the various difficulties being faced by the prisoners, including the women inmates and their children, in the jails across the country. These include overcrowding, a lack of basic amenities and healthcare facilities in jails. The issues have been brought to its notice by its Special Monitors and Rapporteurs, through their reports after visiting various jails across the country, as well as the complaints.

    Some of the other concerns raised include the violation of the rights to dignity and safety of the women prisoners, increased violence against them causing mental distress, unhygienic conditions without adequate toilet, sanitary napkins, clean drinking water facilities, poor quality food resulting in malnourishment particularly in the pregnant women and lactating mothers, lack of educational opportunities to the children of women prisoners living in jails with them, non-implementation of their welfare programmes including legal aid, vocational training and rehabilitation.

    Therefore, the Commission has issued notices to the Chief Secretaries of all the States and Union Territories to submit a report within four weeks on the following:

    i.) The number of women prisoners lodged in Jails in their State,

    ii.) The number of women prisoners whose babies are lodged in Jails on account of the mothers being incarcerated;

    iii.) The number of women prisoners, who are convicted prisoners and those who are undertrial prisoners;

    iv.) The number of women undertrial prisoners who are languishing for more than a year in Jail;

    v.) The number of male undertrial prisoners and those who are languishing in Jail for more than a year.

    *****

    NSK

    (Release ID: 2120090) Visitor Counter : 115

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister of State (I/C), Ministry of Ayush, Shri Prataprao Jadhav to inaugurate the Homeopathic Convention at Gandhinagar on April 10th on the occasion of World Homeopathy Day

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister of State (I/C), Ministry of Ayush, Shri Prataprao Jadhav to inaugurate the Homeopathic Convention at Gandhinagar on April 10th on the occasion of World Homeopathy Day

    The Two-Day Convention is expected to witness participation from about 10,000 delegates from across the globe, making it the largest gathering in the history of homeopathy

    Posted On: 08 APR 2025 5:08PM by PIB Delhi

    On the occasion of World Homeopathy Day 2025, a two-day grand convention is set to be hosted at Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Organised under the aegis of the Ministry of AYUSH, the two-day convention will be jointly hosted by the Central Council for Research in Homeopathy (CCRH), the National Commission for Homeopathy (NCH), and the National Institute of Homeopathy (NIH) on April 10–11, 2025 at the Mahatma Mandir Convention and Exhibition Centre, Gandhinagar. This year, the theme of the convention is ‘अध्ययन, अध्यापन एवं अनुसंधान’, highlighting the three foundational pillars for the growth of Homoeopathy.

    Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Ayush; and Minister of State in the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare will inaugurate the convention. The event is expected to witness participation from about 10,000 delegates from across the globe, making it the largest gathering in the history of homeopathy.

    The aim of World Homeopathy Day 2025 is to strengthen global access to homeopathic research advancements, its practical applications, and its growing impact in both healthcare and industry. The convention will not only cater to academics and researchers but will also bring together policymakers and industry experts on one unified platform.

    A major highlight of the event will be India’s largest-ever “Live Materia Medica” competition and separate, thought-provoking sessions organised by the three collaborating organisations for exhaustive deliberations. With being home to the WHO’s first Global Traditional Medicine Centre in Jamnagar, this large-scale event will further position Gujarat as a frontrunner in endorsing traditional and complementary systems of medicine.

    Dr. Subhash Kaushik, Director General, Central Council for Research in Homeopathy (CCRH), stated that “We are proud to host World Homeopathy Day 2025 at Gandhinagar’s Mahatma Mandir Convention and Exhibition Centre. It will be the largest congregation of homeopathy professionals to date. With the theme ‘Education, Practice, and Research,’ the event will spotlight the collaborative efforts of India’s three key institutions; NCH, NIH, and CCRH, each playing a critical role in shaping homeopathy’s future.”

    Dr. Pinakin N. Trivedi, Chairperson-in-Charge, National Commission for Homeopathy (NCH), emphasized the academic significance of the event, and said “This year’s celebration will witness the largest representation from the education sector, paving the way for future generations of homeopathy professionals. We will also use the platform to sensitise the students about the new courses introduced by NCH.”

    Dr. Pralay Sharma, Director, National Institute of Homoeopathy also informed that they were proud to be associated with CCRH and NCH for this event, and there would be a large number of participants coming in from his institute, recognised as the best in India for Homeopathy education. Some of these participants are even contributing to the event as chairpersons or speakers in various sessions. He urged all educational institutes of homoeopathy to encourage student and faculty participation to make this congregation a success by massive participation.

    Last year, the event was celebrated in New Delhi with the gracious presence of the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu amid a huge delegation. In 2023, the event was graced by the Vice President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar. As this year’s celebrations unfold in Gandhinagar, the city will provide a monumental platform to Homoeopathy to celebrate, collaborate, and chart the course for the future of homeopathy.

    ***

    MV/AKS

    (Release ID: 2120080) Visitor Counter : 67

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong-Shenzhen Joint Working Group on Environmental Protection holds meeting in Hong Kong (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong-Shenzhen Joint Working Group on Environmental Protection holds meeting in Hong Kong (with photo) 
         Various topics of collaboration between Hong Kong and Shenzhen were discussed at the meeting, including landfill management, water quality improvement, marine ecological protection and sectoral co-operation of resources recycling. The two parties presented their work progress and shared experiences to deepen exchanges and co-operation on environmental protection. 

         Regarding the management of the North East New Territories Landfill, an additional eight hectares of landfill were restored and greened last year, and the number of odour complaints dropped by more than 90 per cent compared to the peak period. In terms of water quality improvement, relevant work to improve the water quality of the Shenzhen River has achieved noticeable results. The total phosphorus level in the Shenzhen River in 2024 reached the national surface water quality Class III standard. As for marine ecological protection, the HKSAR Government has established a number of marine parks in recent years, increasing the area of ​​protected sea areas from 3 400 hectares to more than 8 500 hectares, and subsidised local universities to conduct research on various coral restoration technologies. In terms of resource recycling, the HKSAR Government has been working hard to expand Hong Kong’s community recycling network and strengthen various waste reduction and recycling measures. At the same time, the Government actively assists the industry in developing local resource recycling facilities to maximise the resource utilisation of various recyclables. The Government also vigorously promotes discussions with various Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) cities on the construction of a “Zero Waste Bay Area” and regional recycling.
     
         Mr Tse expressed, “The Resolution on Further Deepening Reform Comprehensively to Advance Chinese Modernization of the Third Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China announced ‘Building a Beautiful China. We will ramp up the green transition in all areas of economic and social development and improve the environmental governance system. We will prioritise ecological protection, conserve resources and use them efficiently, and pursue green and low-carbon development with a view to promoting harmony between humanity and nature’. As part of our country and the GBA, the HKSAR Government will definitely work hand in hand with Shenzhen in this direction to make positive contributions to the ecological civilisation construction of our country and the GBA.”
     
         The Permanent Secretary for Environment and Ecology (Environment), Mr Eddie Cheung; the Director of Environmental Protection, Dr Samuel Chui; and representatives from the Environment and Ecology Bureau, the Environmental Protection Department and the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department also attended the meeting.
    Issued at HKT 18:59

    NNNN

    CategoriesMIL-OSI

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Opening remarks by SHYA at LegCo Finance Committee special meeting

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following are the opening remarks (English translation) by the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Miss Alice Mak, at the special meeting of the Legislative Council Finance Committee today (April 8):

    Chairman,
     
    I would like to brief Members on the key areas of work of the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau (HYAB) in 2025-26.

    On youth development, since the launch of the Youth Development Blueprint, the HYAB has been co-ordinating with various bureaux to implement at full steam some 160 measures as set out therein. To ensure that the Blueprint measures are progressing with the times, the bureaux have also introduced around 90 new measures subsequently.
     
    We will continue to take forward various exchange and internship programmes outside Hong Kong, helping young people broaden their horizons and explore our country and the world. Moreover, a new round of funded projects under two funding schemes on youth entrepreneurship will be rolled out gradually in 2025 to support aspiring youth entrepreneurs.

    Following the success last year, we will organise the second Youth Development Summit in the second half of 2025 to facilitate exchange among youths from different regions.
     
    To expand spaces and network for the youth, as announced in the 2024 Policy Address, the HYAB will set up, for “Youth Link” members, a physical platform for interaction in the Nam Cheong District Community Centre and the adjacent Tung Chau Street Temporary Market, and we will also establish a new interactive space and set up a video studio at the Youth Square, for rolling out the “Good Stories of Hong Kong Youth” Programme. The Government will also convert the Kai Tak Community Isolation Facility into a youth development facility, which includes setting up a “Youth Post” hostel and creating spaces for youth cultural, arts and sports exchanges. The HYAB has promptly enhanced our speed and efficiency in pressing ahead with these projects, in particular that we have completed the tender exercise and selected the operator of “Youth Post”. The operator will not only set up a youth hostel but also organise youth activities and international exchange programmes encompassing cultural, art and sports elements in accordance with a detailed five-year conceptual plan.
     
    As regards civic and national education, we will continue to work closely with the Committee on the Promotion of Civic Education in 2025-26 to promote civic and national education through various channels and diverse means, such as seminars, thematic exhibitions and interactive dramas, with a view to helping the general public develop positive values, civic awareness and sense of patriotism, as well as enhancing their awareness of the rule of law.
     
    On family and women’s development, to promote women’s workplace development, the HYAB will launch the “She Inspires” two-year pilot mentorship programme in the second quarter of this year, pairing local female university students who aspire to pursue a career in the professional or business sectors with women leader mentors, and provide related training and activities. The preparatory work is under way, and we have received enthusiastic responses and support from outstanding local women. We have successfully recruited about 50 mentors.
     
    On improving district governance, the achievements of the seventh-term District Councils in its first year are there for all to see. All the District Council members have focused on livelihood issues, liaised closely with members of the public, reflected public views inside and outside the District Councils, and assisted in boosting the local economy, improving the living environment as well as resolving problems people faced. I hope that District Council members will continue to carry out solid district work, serve people in innovative ways and build a better and harmonious community together.
     
    The 452 District Services and Community Care Teams in the 18 districts have been fully operational for a year and a half. As of end-January 2025, they have visited around 390 000 households in need, and provided about 43 000 times of support services. In addition to provision of caring services, Care Teams also assist in handling incidents and emergencies. The Government will increase the funding for Care Teams in their next term of service, with the estimated provision for 2025-26 amounting to $319.1 million, so that Care Teams can provide more in-depth and extensive caring services.
     
    As regards ethnic minorities (EMs), to further strengthen the support for EMs to integrate into the community, the Home Affairs Department will invite one more existing support service centre for EMs to provide interpretation and translation services for EMs to alleviate the inconvenience they face due to language barriers. The service is targeted to commence in 2025.
     
    The Government is committed to promoting good building management. We will launch, this June at the earliest, a one-year Pilot Scheme on Joint Property Management in the districts of Yau Tsim Mong, Sham Shui Po, Kowloon City and Tsuen Wan to help owners of “three-nil” buildings and aged single-block buildings engage the same property management company to jointly manage their buildings. The Government has earmarked $7 million for running the Pilot Scheme.
     
    On combating illegal betting, as stated in the Budget Speech in recent years, quite some members of the public have expressed concerns about the problem of illegal basketball betting in Hong Kong. According to the latest information provided by the Hong Kong Jockey Club, the illegal market turnover for basketball betting in 2024 was estimated to be at around $70 billion to $90 billion. To combat illegal betting activities in an effective manner, we launched a one-month public consultation last Wednesday (April 2) on the proposed regulation of basketball betting activities. We will decide the way forward having regard to public views.
     
    My colleagues and I are happy to answer questions from Members. Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Social welfare sector actively participates in symposium to raise awareness of safeguarding national security (with photos/video)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The symposium on safeguarding national security for the social welfare sector of Hong Kong, jointly organised by the Labour and Welfare Bureau (LWB) and the Social Welfare Department (SWD) of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the Connecting Hearts, was held today (April 8) to further enhance the sector’s awareness of safeguarding national security.

         Officiated by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, the symposium attracted over 8 000 participants from the social welfare sector of Hong Kong, who took part both online and offline. The Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun; the Director-General of the Social Work Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR, Mr Liu Songlin; and Vice-Chairman of the Connecting Hearts and head of the Connecting Hearts Academy, Professor Annie Tam, also attended the symposium.

         Addressing the symposium, Mr Chan said that the HKSAR Government has achieved fruitful results in safeguarding national security and promoting patriotic education over the past year or so, including the completion of the legislation on Article 23 of the Basic Law that ensures the smooth implementation of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance as well as the amendments to the Social Workers Registration Ordinance which foster a better environment for social welfare professionals to leverage their expertise.

         Mr Chan said that the social welfare sector is charged with the important and long-term responsibilities in serving the community and caring for members of the public. It is also their mission and duty to safeguard national security. He urged the social welfare sector to continue collaborating with the HKSAR Government to sustain efforts in safeguarding national security, thereby ensuring the healthy development of welfare services in Hong Kong and enhanced safeguards for public well-being.

         A sharing session was held at the symposium where Mr Sun was joined by six representatives from different fields of the social welfare sector, including professors from education institutions, management of social welfare organisations and professional social workers, to explore how the sector can fulfil the responsibility of safeguarding national security and promote patriotic education. Mr Sun said that the LWB and the SWD have been working closely with social welfare organisations in the previous year to promote national security education within the sector through organising symposiums, seminars and visits with a view to enhancing the sector’s understanding of national affairs. A dedicated fund of $500 million was rolled out last year, in which $100 million was allocated to non-governmental organisations operating subvented welfare services to arrange Mainland exchange tours and national studies programmes for their staff members. Among these tours and programmes, the “Thousands of Hong Kong Social Workers Exploring the Motherland” exchange tours organised by the Connecting Hearts have achieved remarkable results. Visits to Chaozhou, Shaoguan, Guangzhou and Foshan have attracted about 1 400 participants in total.

         Member of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, Ms Starry Lee, and the Director of the National Security and Legal Education Research Centre of the Education University of Hong Kong, Professor Gu Minkang, also shared their valuable insights on patriotic education as well as national security and the law at the symposium respectively, which enabled participants to have deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the relevant topics.

                  

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Final sentence imposed in multimillion-dollar money laundering conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HOUSTON – A 49-year-old naturalized citizen from Arlington has been ordered to prison for unlicensed money transmitting and money laundering, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Nhiem Thi Dan “Sam” Nguyen entered a guilty plea Oct. 5, 2021. 

    U.S. District Judge Keith Ellison has now sentenced Nguyen to serve 40 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by one year of supervised release. She will also forfeit $76,848 in cash seized at the time of her arrest and another $17,801.52 in seized accounts. Judge Ellison found Nguyen managed others in the conspiracy and did not commit the crimes inadvertently.

    “Money transmitters are regulated specifically to avoid the type of criminal facilitation that took place here,” said Ganjei. “Drug trafficking organizations spread misery, addiction, and violence, but they are fueled by cash. Money laundering schemes allow criminals to convert their ill-gotten gains into spendable currency, and so it’s always a win for the public when we can put one of these launderers out of operation.”

    “In any scheme, criminals have to get the money distanced from the crime to avoid detection, which is the criminal business Nguyen and her accomplices ran. They were big players in the deception and lies that allowed drug money and other cash to be moved almost undetected. I say ‘almost’, because we caught them,” said acting Special Agent in Charge Lucy Tan, of IRS Criminal Investigation’s Houston Field Office. “These conspirators set up various accounts, some even moved cash themselves. When you touch money, cash or virtual currency, you leave a trail for us to follow and that’s the expertise of IRS-CI special agents.”

    Nguyen was the top lieutenant in an unlicensed money transmitting business that Vinh and Diana Phan and others ran. The illegal business transmitted funds received in the form of bulk U.S. currency. During the course of the approximately 21-month conspiracy, the unlicensed money transmitting business received and transmitted more than $33 million in cash. 

    At least some of this cash had been earned from the trafficking, distribution and sale of controlled substances, including approximately $9 million received from Branden Denver Richards, Douglas Paul Michael Davis and Michael Dean Richards. All were members of a Dallas-area drug trafficking organization.

    The Phans and Nguyen introduced this bulk cash into the banking system through more than nine “money mules.” The Phans then used the funds to buy virtual currency which was sold for cash in California – the state where the controlled substances originated. The Phans used virtual currency to eliminate the risk of driving cash across the country.

    The Phans and Nguyen did not register their money transmitting business with the Department of the Treasury nor did the state of Texas license them to engage in money transmission.

    Nguyen was the last of six to be sentenced. Vinh Quang Phan and Diana Le Phan, 59, and 47, a Houston-area married couple, received prison terms of 10 years and were ordered to pay $80,000 in fines and forfeit their home and more than $486,000 in cash and seized accounts.

    Branden Richards, 33, Little Elm, was ordered to serve five years in prison, while Davis, 31, Keller, and Michael Richards, 36, Frisco, were both ordered to serve two years.

    Nguyen was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

    IRS Criminal Investigation-led South Texas High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Financial Crimes Task Force conducted the investigation with assistance from Drug Enforcement Administration, Houston Police Department and the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie Bauman and Eun Kate Suh prosecuted the case with assistance from Deputy Chief Brandon Fyffe of the Asset Recovery Section.  

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: World Liquid Gas Association Joins Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025, Driving Africa’s Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Market Growth

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    PARIS, France, April 8, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Michael Kelly, Chief Advocacy Officer, World Liquid Gas Association (WLGA) will speak at the Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025 Forum in Paris next month. As a key leader in global energy advocacy, Kelly’s participation will provide valuable insights into the growing role of liquid gas in the global energy transition, particularly within the African context.

    The WLGA is dedicated to promoting the use of liquid gas as a cleaner alternative to conventional fuels, advocating for policy reforms that support the global expansion of this energy source. In Africa, the association’s efforts focus on helping governments and businesses explore liquid gas solutions as part of the broader energy mix, driving both energy access and economic development across the continent. In December 2024, the WLGA launched a new roadmap aimed at expanding access to clean cooking solutions across Africa, specifically through increased availability and uptake of LPG. This comprehensive roadmap not only emphasizes the establishment of a clear regulatory framework to scale the LPG market, but also calls for the implementation of consumer financing and payment plans to address economic barriers and highlights the need for investment in infrastructure and roads.

    IAE 2025 (Invest-Africa-Energy.com) is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 13-14, 2025 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    Africa’s LPG sector is experiencing significant growth, with several large-scale projects focused on expanding production, storage and distribution capabilities. Last month, Nigeria commissioned its first modular LPG extraction plant and a 20 MW gas-to-power project, both of which are set to boost domestic gas utilization and enhance energy access. Sahara Group is developing a 12,000-ton LPG storage facility in Ivory Coast, which will increase the country’s LPG storage capacity by 60% and significantly improve imports and distribution for neighboring countries in the region. The company is also in talks with Kenya to construct a 30,000-ton facility for handling and storing LPG.

    Meanwhile, Petredec and South Africa’s state-owned Transnet announced a rail freight project in September 2024, featuring a dedicated train system and a modern LPG intermodal hub and storage facility. This hub will receive bulk LPG via rail, introducing the country’s first scheduled LPG train system. Other high-profile projects include the Dangote Refinery in Nigeria, a $20 billion initiative designed to meet the country’s fuel demands while reducing dependency on imports and introducing LPG into the Nigerian market. These projects reflect Africa’s growing commitment to leveraging its natural gas resources to enhance energy infrastructure, drive economic development and improve access to cleaner, more affordable energy across the continent.

    MIL OSI Africa –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The UK remains a steadfast supporter of UN peacekeeping as a vital tool in global peace and security: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    The UK remains a steadfast supporter of UN peacekeeping as a vital tool in global peace and security: UK statement at the UN Security Council

    Statement by Fergus Eckersley, UK Minister Counsellor, at the UN Security Council meeting on UN peacekeeping operations

    The UK remains a steadfast supporter of UN peacekeeping and of the unique contribution it makes to international peace and security.

    Mr President, implementing and monitoring ceasefires has been a key function of UN peacekeeping from its very beginning and UN peacekeeping operations continue to effectively support ceasefire agreements around the world. 

    The UN will not always be the right body for this, but in many cases it is, with a unique status and legitimacy for monitoring ceasefires effectively. 

    This has historically been an important part of UN mandates across the world, for example in Cyprus or the Golan Heights.

    We must consider each mandate on a case-by-case basis.

    Today, we would like in particular to address the situations in Lebanon and the DRC given the briefings we’ve had. 

    In Lebanon, the UK has welcomed the US’ announcement of talks to resolve key issues between Lebanon and Israel. 

    This is a big step forward. 

    We urge all parties to use the talks as a pathway towards securing lasting peace and security for the citizens of Israel and Lebanon, rather than returning to conflict. 

    UNIFIL is playing a key role in deescalating tension and monitoring the cessation of hostilities across the Blue Line. 

    The UK welcomes UNIFIL’s role in supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces deployment to southern Lebanon, consistent with the November ceasefire agreement and with resolution 1701. 

    We welcome UNIFIL’s adaptation plan and urge it to be ambitious in implementing it.

    The UK encourages consideration by this Council on conditions under which MONUSCO should be tasked to monitor a ceasefire.

    The UK encourages an immediate cessation of hostilities and a return to dialogue via the EAC-SADC process, in line with resolution 2773. 

    Once agreed, we believe that MONUSCO would be well-placed to provide ceasefire monitoring as part of its mandate.

    However, this also requires restoration of MONUSCO’s freedom of movement. 

    The UK condemns continued restrictions on MONUSCO which have constrained the mission’s ability to deliver key tasks mandated by this Council, including on the protection of civilians and the facilitation of aid.

    Mr President, let me finish with two more general comments.

    First, the safety and security of peacekeepers is essential to the successful monitoring of any ceasefire agreement.

    The UK strongly condemns all attacks on UN peacekeepers, who must never be targeted. 

    Second, enhanced technology such as early warning systems and improved surveillance can help mitigate threats, including those arising from misinformation and disinformation, while allowing peacekeepers to carry out their mandates safely. 

    And technology must be harnessed to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of ceasefire monitoring capabilities.

    So as we look ahead to the Peacekeeping Ministerial in Berlin next month, and building on the Pact of the Future, the UK reaffirms our commitment to strengthening peacekeeping operations, so that they remain capable of addressing the challenges they face in a changing world.

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Advancing cancer care and organ tissue services

    Alberta’s government is ensuring key health care services are well supported within the new refocused health care system. Significant progress has been made to achieve the goal of providing better care to all Albertans no matter where they live. Three of the four provincial health agencies are now operational: Primary Care Alberta, Acute Care Alberta and Recovery Alberta. Assisted Living Alberta will be operational later this year.

    As the work to transition AHS to a hospital-based service provider under the oversight of Acute Care Alberta continues, Alberta’s government is taking additional steps to ensure Alberta’s health care system has the proper oversight in place to support the newly formed integrated system. This includes transferring emergency health services from AHS to Acute Care Alberta and establishing a shared services entity to support provincial health agencies and service providers.

    Later this year, Alberta’s government intends to move cancer care and organ and tissue donation and transplantation services out of AHS and under the purview of Acute Care Alberta.

    “Integrating cancer care and organ and tissue services under Acute Care Alberta helps ensure Albertans receive the high-quality, coordinated care they deserve – delivered when and where they need it most.”

    Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health

    Creating specialized focus for cancer care and organ and tissue donation and transplantation will ensure the best care in these key areas that are important for a high-functioning health care system.

    “I’m pleased to see these next steps moving forward to support efforts to refocus the health care system to better meet the needs of Albertans. Acute Care Alberta will ensure improved and dedicated access to the best health care possible.”

    Dr. Chris Eagle, interim president and CEO, Acute Care Alberta

    Half of all Albertans will have cancer during their lifetime. Alberta’s government is committed to ensuring the best quality care for those dealing with the disease, and recently invested $800 million over eight years in a cancer innovation value partnership with Siemens Healthineers and the Alberta Cancer Foundation. This investment will help replace and update oncology treatment equipment, leverage artificial intelligence, create two centres of excellence in cancer care and establish a medical research and innovation fund to attract and retain global talent in Alberta.

    “This is an exciting opportunity to set a compelling vision for cancer care. We remain committed to working with our partners to accelerate innovation in cancer care to benefit patients and their loved ones.”

    Wendy Beauchesne, CEO, Alberta Cancer Foundation

    Acute Care Alberta will oversee cancer care services in Alberta by enabling Cancer Care Alberta to focus solely on providing timely, cutting-edge treatment and services for those with cancer. Cancer Care Alberta will have enhanced oversight and responsibility for managing its workforce and capital and operational funding related to cancer care. Cancer Care Alberta will also establish a dedicated process to address complaints.

    “This underscores the critical importance of cancer care for all Albertans. This approach will enable us to address the issues facing cancer care in Alberta today and grow a best-in-class cancer system that ensures Albertans receive the cancer care they expect and deserve.”

    Brenda Hubley, chief program officer, Cancer Care Alberta

    Each year, hundreds of Albertans receive an organ or tissue transplant. A single organ or tissue donor can save or improve the lives of up to 75 people. Having policy and oversight for organ and tissue donation and transplantation under Acute Care Alberta will streamline current processes, allowing for a dedicated plan, program development and vision for these critical life-saving services.  Clinical services will remain with AHS.

    “We applaud the establishment of an integrated provincial organ and tissue donation and transplantation service. This transformational change will positively impact thousands of Albertans into the future – saving lives and improving quality of life.”

    Linda Powell, chair, Alberta ORGANization Group

    Proposed legislative changes that would support completing the work to refocus the health care system are expected to be tabled this spring.

    Throughout the refocusing work, Albertans are accessing health care as they always have and there has been no impact to front-line health care workers and their continued dedication to delivering excellent health care to Albertans.

    Related news

    • Refocusing emergency services (March 10, 2025)
    • Refocusing continuing care for the future (Jan. 30, 2025)
    • Refocused health care: Continuing the conversation (Jan. 9, 2025)
    • Refocusing acute care leadership for the future (Jan. 8, 2025)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Norcross, Hirono Introduce Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Donald Norcross (1st District of New Jersey)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Representative Donald Norcross (D-NJ) and Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) reintroduced the Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act, bicameral legislation to guarantee the right of public sector employees to organize, act concertedly, and bargain collectively in states that currently do not afford these basic protections. The lawmakers were joined by Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Chris Deluzio (D-PA) in introducing the legislation.

    “I know the power of collective bargaining because I’ve lived it,” said Congressman Norcross, a union electrician, member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), and co-chair of the Congressional Labor Caucus. “I spent decades at the negotiating table standing up for working families—fighting for fair pay, safer jobs, and better benefits like health care and retirement. This bill ensures public-sector workers across the country have the same rights to a voice on their job and a seat at the table.”

    “Public sector workers teach our children, protect our safety, and keep our communities moving forward—they deserve the right to organize,” said Senator Hirono. “The Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act will help ensure that millions of public sector workers across our country have the federal protections they deserve as they fight for fair wages, benefits, and improved working conditions. Private sector workers are already guaranteed the right to organize under federal law, it should be common sense that public sector workers are afforded those same rights. As President Trump works to gut our public sector workforce, this bill is crucial to protect workers’ freedom to organize and bargain collectively. I’m proud to lead this important legislation with Representative Norcross to help ensure that every public employee has their voice heard in the workplace.”

    “No matter where they live, American workers in every sector should have the ability to form and join a union, or to collectively bargain to improve their workplace,” said Congressman Deluzio. “Public servants should have this right, just like other workers. Now is the time for solidarity: let’s come together and stand with hardworking Americans, defend the union way of life, and pass the bipartisan Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act.”

    “Passing this legislation has never been more urgent — especially now, as federal workers face unprecedented attacks on their collective bargaining rights,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. “We believe, as most Americans do, that every worker deserves a union — no matter who they work for. This bill is about something fundamental: respect. Respect for the public service workers who’ve devoted their careers to serving their communities. And respect means the freedom to negotiate.”

    “When workers stand together in a union, their jobs and lives improve. But in half of the country, the people who keep our cities and towns running are banned from collectively bargaining for a good union contract. Every day, the attacks on the fundamental freedoms of workers who keep our streets and water clean, our public transportation moving, and our children learning are increasing from the highest level of government. We need federal law to protect their rights to form a union and negotiate fair contracts that allow them to continue to do the work that is so essential to our communities. We call on every member of Congress to stand with working people and support the Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act,” said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler.

    “For years now, the rights of workers like nurses, librarians, educators, and all our essential public servants who dedicate themselves to our communities have been chipped away at, despite their dedication and selfless service to their communities,” said Claude Cummings Jr., president of the Communications Workers of America. “That’s why the Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act is so vital. It protects public sector workers’ fundamental right to join together, bargain for fair pay, and stand up for decent working conditions. Congress needs to step up and pass this now and push back against efforts trying to undermine these essential rights.”

    “As education, healthcare and public service workers, our members make a difference in the lives of others every day. But too many states don’t allow the people who do the work to have a voice,” said Randi Weingarten, President of AFT. “The Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act would change that, ensuring public servants, no matter where they reside, have a means to influence their own lives. Whether it’s higher wages, safer working conditions, or a secure retirement, the ability to organize a union and bargain collectively lifts working families, students, patients, and entire communities up. That’s why we enthusiastically support this legislation and are committed to moving it forward.”

    The Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act would establish baseline federal protections to ensure all public service workers can join a union and negotiate workplace conditions—regardless of state law. The bill comes at a critical time, as recent federal actions have renewed attention on the collective bargaining rights of public employees, including those serving in national security-related agencies.

    Specifically, The Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act would set a minimum nationwide standard of collective bargaining rights that states must provide, including allowing public service workers to join together and have a voice on the job to improve both working conditions and the communities in which they live and work. The legislation gives public service workers the freedom to:

    • Join together in a union selected by a majority of employees;
    • Collectively bargain over wages, hours and terms and conditions of employment;
    • Access dispute resolution mechanisms;
    • Use voluntary payroll deduction for union dues;
    • Engage in concerted activities related to collective bargaining and mutual aid;
    • Have their union be free from requirements to hold rigged recertification elections; and
    • File suit in court to enforce their labor rights.

    Read the full bill text here. 

    The bill is supported by the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME); the Communications Workers of America (CWA); American Federation of Teachers (AFT); AFL-CIO; Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU); Department for Professional Employees, AFL-CIO (DPE); International Brotherhood of Teamsters; International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM); International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE); International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE); International Union of Police Associations (IUPA); International Union of Painters & Allied Trades (IUPAT); Laborer’s International Union of North America (LiUNA); National Education Association (NEA); National Nurses United; Service Employees International Union (SEIU); Transport Workers Union of America (TWU); UNITE HERE!; United Autoworkers; United Steelworkers (USW).

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schweikert Scrutinizes Senate’s “Completely Unserious” Budget Resolution

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David Schweikert (AZ-06)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — “With just $4 billion in cuts— equal to less than a single day’s worth of borrowing— the Senate budget resolution is more business as usual at a time when that’s exactly what we’re trying to avoid,” said Arizona Congressman David Schweikert in a statement responding to Saturday’s release of the Senate’s Budget Resolution.
    During his weekly House Floor speech, Rep. Schweikert went even further by expressing his disappointment with his colleagues in the Senate’s willingness “to avoid doing what was difficult,” leaving the House to do the serious policy work. Ultimately, the Senate budget resolution functionally adds another $6.9 trillion in deficits— including $1.1 trillion dollars
    of interest— but only allows $4 billion in spending reductions over a ten-year period. Click on the video to view the full speech or click on any of the following blue boxes to view other excerpts from the speech.

    [embedded content]

    “So, this is what some of you hear a number of us fussing about — we can’t figure out what the Senate was thinking. Were they just in avoidance, saying, “We don’t want to tell anyone we’re going to try to do something,”? It shouldn’t even be that hard. Remember, [baseline is] $86 trillion in spending. The House was just trying to do $2 trillion, and I thought that $2 trillion was absolutely anemic— we should have covered all $4.5 trillion. One of the hardest votes I’ve made in my decade+ here was standing right there and swallowing, saying, “I’m going to vote for this, but I’m really unhappy because we are capable of doing more,” and if we don’t start to telegraph to the bond markets that we’re going to do something serious, at what moment do the bond markets say, “Screw these people— they’re just not serious. They’re consuming the world’s capital. Let’s charge them more.” Do you really think the United States, with our exorbitant privilege of having the world’s reserve currency — being the country that people want to come and do their business in, move to, put their capital in — do you think that’s our birthright? Remember, up until World War II, it was Great Britain that had the world’s reserve currency. We are squandering our place in the world. And people are running around saying, “Well, we need to push down the value of the dollar!” You have trillions and trillions of dollars around the world held by people — and you’re going to push down the value of their holdings? Just understand: every time someone says something like that, you can actually start to see the full faith in the United States start to taper away.”

    Key Quote: “And you wonder why some of us are cranky when our colleagues down the hall basically give us crap to work with.“

    “When we all got elected this last November, United States sovereign debt [held by the public] was around $28 trillion. When we finish this 10-year cycle, we’re going to add another $28 trillion if we do what the Senate sent us. What took us 240 years to build up, we’re going to double in the next ten budget years. Go team; that’s the morality of this place. “But it’s hard, David,” to explain to people that we need to modernize; we need to change the way we deliver services; we need to use technology. And some programs — we should just stop, because they’ve been outdated for decades. This is important here. This is all without any disaster aid, without the potential economic slowdown, and without a war. I mean, just using what are actually optimistic numbers over the next ten-year tax receipts — what we’re talking about doing right now, over the next ten years, is doubling what took us 240 years to build up in debt. Does anyone care about your retirement? Does anyone have kids? Think of this. It may be insane — and my wife’s my age — I have a nine-year-old daughter, and a functionally two-and-a-half-year-old little boy we’ve adopted. And yes, they’re brother and sister. When my little boy is functionally 24 or 25 years old, every tax in the United States — every single tax — would have to double just to maintain baseline services. That’s the morality here: we are raising kids who would be part of the first generation to be structurally poorer than their parents. Because when you borrow money — it is a tax. It just means you’re going to let someone else pay it, with interest. It’s not free money; It’s a tax.”

    “Functionally, 32.7 percent of the next decade— what they gave us— is borrowing… additional borrowing. They basically decided, over the next decade, “Let’s add another third of debt!” What are we going to do? For those of us in the House, who give these beautiful speeches about how it’s immoral to do this to our kids and crush people’s future retirements… what are we going to do? Are we going to step up and say, “Look, Republicans have priorities. The White House has priorities. We just have to find ways to finance them.” Are we that terrified to tell the truth?“

    Back to News

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Mourns Loss of TCU/IAM Legislative Leader, Rail Labor Activist Tony Padilla

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    The IAM is mourning the passing of Tony Padilla, TCU/IAM’s retired Assistant National Legislative Director.

    Padilla enjoyed a remarkable 43-year career in the rail industry, retiring in December 2009.

    His journey began in February 1967 as a General Clerk Freight and Passenger Agent with Southern Pacific Railroad. Padilla continued his dedication to the industry as an Amtrak Passenger Agent in both San Antonio and Austin, Texas. 

    He became a member of TCU Local 2503 in 1967 and transferred to Local 2512 in 1995. Padilla served as TCU Texas State Legislative Representative before working full-time for the TCU Grand Lodge. In 1991, he was named TCU Assistant National Legislative Director.

    Padilla was a force for TCU/IAM on Capitol Hill. His relentless advocacy, passion, and ability to work with any and all elected officials made him one of the most successful labor lobbyists in DC.

    “It was often said that Tony Padilla made TCU/IAM ‘punch above its weight’ in Washington,” said TCU/IAM National President Artie Maratea. “All of our members and retirees are better off – their retirement protected – because of the work Tony did. We lost a legend today.”

    “TCU/IAM members benefited from Tony’s relationships and knowledge on Capitol Hill,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “We truly appreciate the work he did for the membership. Our thoughts and condolences are with his family.” 

    Padilla’s efforts included keeping Amtrak funded and solvent during turbulent political times, and he helped spearhead legislative efforts to push through Railroad Retirement reform legislation that gave railroaders their “60, 30” retirement. 

    “Despite Tony retiring several years ago, across Washington DC people still to this day hear ‘TCU/IAM’ and think Tony Padilla,” said TCU/IAM National Legislative Director Dave Arouca. “Tony was a friend and a mentor to so many in DC, including me.” 

    Padilla’s willingness to mentor others across Capitol Hill and the labor movement left a sizeable legacy for those who came after. 

    The entire labor movement will remember and honor Padilla.

    “When I first arrived on Capitol Hill over 20 years ago, I didn’t know anything about the rail industry,” said IAM National Legislative and Political Director Hasan Solomon. “Tony Padilla, my brother, taught me everything I needed to know to be an effective lobbyist for the IAM and TCU/IAM.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Washington Man Indicted on 11 Counts of Sex Trafficking Children, Production of Child Sexual Abuse Material, and Forced Labor

    Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

    Richland, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that on April 2, 2025, a federal grand jury for the Eastern District of Washington returned an indictment charging Jonathan Michael Atkinson, age 34, with 11 criminal counts including Sex Trafficking Children, Production and Attempted Production of Child Pornography, Online Enticement of a Minor, and Forced Labor. The criminal charges against Atkinson carry a maximum sentence of up to a lifetime in prison.

    Atkinson was arrested on April 8, 2025, by the Southeast Regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, consisting of Homeland Security Investigations, Richland Police Department, Kennewick Police Department, and the Benton County Sheriff’s Office. Additional assistance was provided by Pasco Police Department, ATF and DEA. Atkinson will be arraigned in federal court on April 10, 2025.

    “The U.S. Attorney’s office for the Eastern District of Washington will continue to aggressively prosecute all versions of human trafficking,” stated Acting United States Attorney Richard Barker. “We will continue to work closely with our federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement partners to seek justice for the most vulnerable among us.”

    “Human trafficking is a heinous crime that preys on the most vulnerable members of our communities and the most effective way we can dismantle these criminal networks is through strong partnerships,” said Matthew Murphy, acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI Seattle. “HSI is proud to work alongside our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to protect victims, bring traffickers to justice, and put an end to this exploitation.”

    If members of the public have any information regarding this case, please contact the Pasco Police Department.

    This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Southeast Regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Laurel J. Holland and Stephanie A. Van Marter.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Fortinet Wins 2025 Google Cloud Technology Partner of the Year Award

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SUNNYVALE, Calif., April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Fortinet® (NASDAQ: FTNT), the global cybersecurity leader driving the convergence of networking and security, today announced it has won the 2025 Google Cloud Infrastructure Modernization Partner of the Year Award for Networking. As a five-time Google Cloud Technology Partner of the Year Award winner, Fortinet continues to be recognized by Google for creating industry-leading solutions and strong customer experiences with Google Cloud.

    “We’re honored to once again be recognized as a Google Cloud Technology Partner of the Year. This award highlights the strength of our application and infrastructure security solutions and reinforces our deep integration with Google Cloud services through the Fortinet Security Fabric, powered by our single operating system, FortiOS. As organizations navigate increasingly complex cloud environments, our commitment to security innovation ensures IT and security teams have the tools they need to scale securely, optimize performance, and stay ahead of evolving threats.” Jaime Romero, Executive Vice President of Marketing, Fortinet

    “Google Cloud’s Partner Awards recognize partners who have created outsized value for customers through the delivery of innovative solutions and a high level of expertise. We’re proud to announce Fortinet as a 2025 Google Cloud Partner Award winner and celebrate their impact enabling customer success over the past year.” Kevin Ichhpurani, President, Global Partner Ecosystem, Google Cloud

    Fortinet’s integration with Google Cloud delivers enterprise-grade security, enabling businesses to scale, optimize performance, and defend against evolving threats. FortiGate VM, Fortinet’s virtual next-generation firewall (NGFW), enforces consistent security policies across private, public, and telco clouds, forming the foundation of a hybrid mesh firewall infrastructure.

    As part of a broader cloud security platform that includes application security and cloud-native application protection platform (CNAPP) solutions, Fortinet delivers comprehensive, integrated code-to-security with 360-degree defense-in-depth protection for applications and data living in cloud and hybrid cloud environments.

    Fortinet also boasts a robust network of secure access service edge (SASE) locations that are scalable and globally available through Fortinet and Google Cloud. Fortinet Unified SASE simplifies operations while enabling low latency secure remote and on-prem access and protects networks, applications, data, network edges, and thin edges.

    Additionally, Fortinet offers a flexible, usage-based licensing program called FortiFlex that allows Google Cloud customers to optimize their deployments and investments in Google Cloud to perfectly match their dynamic needs. With FortiFlex, organizations can readily scale Fortinet solutions for Google Cloud at any time. Unused credit can be rolled over to subsequent years, further helping customers maximize their dollars. For customers with Google Cloud Committed Use Discount (CUD) agreements, FortiFlex also offers a quick and easy way to meet their committed spend obligations.

    This recognition reinforces Fortinet’s long-standing partnership with Google Cloud and its commitment to delivering innovative, enterprise-grade cybersecurity solutions.

    Additional Resources

    • Visit Google Marketplace for a complete list of Fortinet products on Google Cloud.
    • Visit fortinet.com/trust to learn more about Fortinet innovation, collaboration partners, product security processes, and enterprise-grade products. 
    • Learn more about Fortinet’s commitment to product security and integrity, including its responsible product development and vulnerability disclosure approach and policies. 
    • Learn about Fortinet’s free cybersecurity training, which includes broad cyber awareness and product training. The Fortinet Training Institute also provides training and certification through the Network Security Expert (NSE) Certification, Academic Partner, and Education Outreach programs.
    • Learn more about FortiGuard Labs threat intelligence and research and Outbreak Alerts, which provide timely steps to mitigate breaking cybersecurity attacks.
    • Learn more about Fortinet’s FortiGuard Security Services portfolio.
    • Read about how Fortinet customers are securing their organizations.
    • Follow Fortinet on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. Subscribe to Fortinet on our blog or YouTube.

    About Fortinet (www.fortinet.com)
    Fortinet (Nasdaq: FTNT) is a driving force in the evolution of cybersecurity and the convergence of networking and security. Our mission is to secure people, devices, and data everywhere, and today we deliver cybersecurity everywhere our customers need it with the largest integrated portfolio of over 50 enterprise-grade products. Well over half a million customers trust Fortinet’s solutions, which are among the most deployed, most patented, and most validated in the industry. The Fortinet Training Institute, one of the largest and broadest training programs in the industry, is dedicated to making cybersecurity training and new career opportunities available to everyone. Collaboration with esteemed organizations from both the public and private sectors, including Computer Emergency Response Teams (“CERTS”), government entities, and academia, is a fundamental aspect of Fortinet’s commitment to enhance cyber resilience globally. FortiGuard Labs, Fortinet’s elite threat intelligence and research organization, develops and utilizes leading-edge machine learning and AI technologies to provide customers with timely and consistently top-rated protection and actionable threat intelligence. Learn more at https://www.fortinet.com, the Fortinet Blog, and FortiGuard Labs.

    Copyright © 2025 Fortinet, Inc. All rights reserved. The symbols ® and ™ denote respectively federally registered trademarks and common law trademarks of Fortinet, Inc., its subsidiaries and affiliates. Fortinet’s trademarks include, but are not limited to, the following: Fortinet, the Fortinet logo, FortiGate, FortiOS, FortiGuard, FortiCare, FortiAnalyzer, FortiManager, FortiASIC, FortiClient, FortiCloud, FortiMail, FortiSandbox, FortiADC, FortiAgent, FortiAI, FortiAIOps, FortiAgent, FortiAntenna, FortiAP, FortiAPCam, FortiAuthenticator, FortiCache, FortiCall, FortiCam, FortiCamera, FortiCarrier, FortiCASB, FortiCentral, FortiCNP, FortiConnect, FortiController, FortiConverter, FortiCSPM, FortiCWP, FortiDAST, FortiDB, FortiDDoS, FortiDeceptor, FortiDeploy, FortiDevSec, FortiDLP, FortiEdge, FortiEDR, FortiEndpoint FortiExplorer, FortiExtender, FortiFirewall, FortiFlex FortiFone, FortiGSLB, FortiGuest, FortiHypervisor, FortiInsight, FortiIsolator, FortiLAN, FortiLink, FortiMonitor, FortiNAC, FortiNDR, FortiPAM, FortiPenTest, FortiPhish, FortiPoint, FortiPolicy, FortiPortal, FortiPresence, FortiProxy, FortiRecon, FortiRecorder, FortiSASE, FortiScanner, FortiSDNConnector, FortiSEC, FortiSIEM, FortiSMS, FortiSOAR, FortiSRA, FortiStack, FortiSwitch, FortiTester, FortiToken, FortiTrust, FortiVoice, FortiWAN, FortiWeb, FortiWiFi, FortiWLC, FortiWLM, FortiXDR and Lacework FortiCNAPP. Other trademarks belong to their respective owners. Fortinet has not independently verified statements or certifications herein attributed to third parties and Fortinet does not independently endorse such statements. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, nothing herein constitutes a warranty, guarantee, contract, binding specification or other binding commitment by Fortinet or any indication of intent related to a binding commitment, and performance and other specification information herein may be unique to certain environments.

    The MIL Network –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: SADA Wins 2025 Google Cloud Global Partner of the Year Award for Google Workspace

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LAS VEGAS, April 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SADA, An Insight company, a leading business and technology consultancy and award-winning Google Cloud Premier level Partner across several product and engagement models, announced today it has received the 2025 Google Cloud Global Partner of the Year Award for Google Workspace.

    SADA is recognized for its achievements in the Google Cloud ecosystem, helping joint customers across industries drive significant business value through successful Workspace deployments, focusing on work transformation and AI adoption.

    “We are proud to recognize SADA as our Global Google Workspace Partner of the Year,” said Kevin Ichhpurani, President, Global Partner Ecosystem, Google Cloud. “SADA’s proven expertise in large-scale Google Workspace deployments, combined with their focus on successful change management and high customer satisfaction, has enabled them to enhance workplace productivity and collaboration for enterprise customers.”

    SADA’s expertise in Workspace deployments has enabled organizations to substantially improve productivity, collaboration, and security. In one instance, SADA spearheaded a large-scale Workspace transformation for Cimpress, a global printing and mass customization company, migrating large amounts of data and billions of items onto Google Workspace.

    “This marks our eighth consecutive year being recognized by Google Cloud as a Partner of the Year, a distinction we are incredibly honored to receive and one that we certainly don’t take lightly,” said Dana Berg, CEO of SADA. “This continued recognition fuels our passion for delivering exceptional customer experiences and driving impactful business outcomes through Google Workspace. We remain dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with cloud technology and are excited to continue partnering with Google Cloud to empower organizations on their digital transformation journeys.”

    In 2024, SADA demonstrated its commitment to Google Workspace excellence for its customers by launching a Gemini Adoption program, resulting in a significant number of successful Gemini projects, which helped customers successfully and securely leverage all the AI that Google Workspace has to offer. To further accelerate customer adoption, SADA developed a comprehensive Gemini video library with tutorials and unique training materials and hosted a Gemini for Workspace Crash Course event. These initiatives underscore SADA’s dedication to ensuring customers seamlessly transition to and fully leverage the power of Google Workspace.

    SADA has helped key customers, including WeWork, Discovery, Evite, Sony Pictures Image Works, and The State of Georgia, transform their workplace and empower their workforce with Google Workspace. Read more about SADA’s Google Cloud Workspace customer success stories here.

    About SADA, An Insight company
    SADA, An Insight company, is a market leader in professional services and an award-winning solutions provider of Google Cloud. Since 2000, SADA has been committed to helping customers in healthcare, media, entertainment, retail, manufacturing, and the public sector solve their most complex challenges so they can focus on achieving their boldest ambitions. With offices in North America, India, and Armenia providing sales and customer support teams, SADA is positioned to meet customers where they are in their digital transformation journey. SADA is a 8x Google Cloud Partner of the Year award winner with 11 Google Cloud Specializations and was recognized as a Niche Player in the 2023 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Public Cloud IT Transformation Services. Learn more at www.sada.com.

    Media Contact
    Stephanie Krivacek
    press@sada.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/969419bf-2c73-4bf9-920d-ed3acb96778c

    The MIL Network –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo Statement at Hearing on President’s 2025 Trade Policy Agenda

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) delivered the following remarks at a hearing entitled, “The President’s 2025 Trade Policy Agenda.” 

    As prepared for delivery:

    “Members and the public have questions and concerns about the recent tariff actions.  That’s ok.  We should think about tariff impacts and ask questions.  Thoughtful and respectful debate on the issues is good and why we call hearings, like this one, with the United States Trade Representative, Ambassador Jamieson Greer. 

    “We need to think strategically about tariff policy, including how to minimize unnecessary costs on American families.  I also recognize that although it is easy to see the costs arising from tariffs, it is far more difficult to assess the cost of denied market access opportunities. 

    “Tariffs can advance American interests in market access.  In the first Trump Administration, we used tariff threats to stop France from imposing discriminatory digital services taxes. 

    “Tariffs also forced China to discuss the systemic challenges between our two nations.  Frankly, every enforcement action—whether it is a WTO dispute, a Section 301 investigation or a preference program review—ultimately relies on the threat of tariffs to secure objectives.

    “Accordingly, it is important to contextualize the tariffs in the design of the larger policy.  The real headline then becomes the fundamental shift in trade policy since President Trump’s inauguration—where the United States actually plans to do trade again. 

    “My colleagues and I in Congress want to pursue a real trade policy.  That was put on hold during the Biden years.   We now have a President who will partner with us in that effort.  Together, we will enforce our rights; we will negotiate again; and we will expand opportunities for Americans. 

    “This Administration is not deliberating endlessly over whether ‘trade can be a force for good,’ like the past Administration.  Trade today is the centerpiece of our international economic engagement and we have plenty of substantive trade ideas to discuss. 

    “Businesses want certainty from good policies that will continue so they can invest confidently in prospects that create jobs and wealth. 

    “That is one of the primary reasons that I am working so hard to make the Trump Tax Cuts permanent—to provide businesses with the certainty they need to make long-term investments, to drive growth and to increase prosperity across all segments of the economy.

    “Contrast this kind of certainty and forward thinking on trade with that of the last four years, where the only ‘certainty’ was that you were going to lose ground because your government fundamentally rejected free markets, free enterprise and free trade. 

    “The last Administration turned to industrial policy because it was certain that the free market failed in delivering what government planners believed necessary for climate and social agendas. 

    “Indeed, China’s central planners saw their own strategic thinking in the Inflation Reduction Act’s approach of bestowing massive subsidies to stimulate investments that the market would not.

    “We can restore faith in free markets by making it easier than ever to do business in America.  The President’s Executive Order last week to assist major investors to navigate our regulatory system efficiently is a good start.  We plan to do more.

    “The Biden Administration provided us with only the “certainty” that in the face of a foreign government’s discriminatory policies, like digital services taxes, data localization or other non-tariff barriers, it would not stand up for its citizens because it believed that the so-called ‘right to regulate’ trumped the principle of free enterprise. 

    “Respectfully, democratic governments do not have rights—they exist to secure them for their citizens.

    “One immediately welcome change, under the Trump Administration, appeared last week in USTR’s National Trade Estimate.

    “Last year, the Biden Administration deliberately cut from the Estimate a number of discriminatory measures imposed by foreign governments on American businesses because it sided with those governments over our citizens.  This year’s Estimate is exhaustive because the Administration carefully identified all of the ways Americans lose out in the global marketplace.

    “Finally, the validity of free trade will be seen again.  The last Administration did not pursue market access in its negotiations.  Instead, it demanded governments to undertake a number of social and environmental commitments, even ones Congress did not approve domestically.  Not surprisingly, our partners did not put their trust in such negotiations. 

    “While tariffs inherently may be seen at odds with free trade, we must also acknowledge that many of our trading partners deploy barriers that have gone unchallenged for too long.  Free trade, by definition, must be reciprocal.  We do not have it if others can impose barriers on us unchallenged.

    “Our failure to enforce our rights over the last four years lost a lot of ground for us.  This cannot continue because what I am certain about is American goods and services are innovative, high quality and globally competitive. 

    “Senior Administration officials say that a number of countries are ‘coming to the table’ to engage with USTR.  We look forward to hearing about this engagement and the steps toward better opportunities for Americans.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: AFSCME and union partners join with members of Congress to reintroduce bill to expand workers’ freedoms

    Source: American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Union

    As workers face unprecedented attacks despite support for labor unions remaining at near-historic highs, the bipartisan Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act is needed to protect and expand the freedom of public service workers to collectively bargain.

     

     

    WASHINGTON – On Tuesday, the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) and a coalition of union partners joined together with Senator Mazie Hirono and Representatives Donald Norcross, Brian Fitzpatrick and Chris Deluzio to introduce the bipartisan Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act. First introduced in 2019, this legislation would set a minimum nationwide standard of collective bargaining rights that states must provide – a right that public service workers are currently denied in 25 states.

    In the face of unprecedented, billionaire-led attacks on public service workers and their jobs, leaders and union members from AFSCME, the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), Communications Workers of America (CWA) and the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) spoke at a press conference about the importance of advancing this popular, pro-union legislation.

    “Passing this legislation has never been more urgent — especially now, as federal workers face unprecedented attacks on their collective bargaining rights,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. “We believe, as most Americans do, that every worker deserves a union — no matter who they work for. This bill is about something fundamental: respect. Respect for the public service workers who’ve devoted their careers to serving their communities. And respect means the freedom to negotiate.”

    “Because we were able to pass a bill to expand collective bargaining in Maryland, my co-workers and I negotiated a strong contract which will help us keep up the rising cost of living, effectively address issues in the workplace, and better serve the children of Howard County and their families,” said Eliana Holgate, an AFSCME Council 3 member and children’s instructor and research specialist in Maryland. “We should not have to rely on a patchwork of laws nationwide. Workers like our nurses, school bus drivers and library workers should have the freedom to join a union and have the union we choose recognized.”

    “When workers stand together in a union, their jobs and lives improve,” said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler. “But in half of the country, the people who keep our cities and towns running are banned from collectively bargaining for a good union contract. Every day, the attacks on the fundamental freedoms of workers who keep our streets and water clean, our public transportation moving, and our children learning are increasing from the highest level of government. We need federal law to protect their rights to form a union and negotiate fair contracts that allow them to continue to do the work that is so essential to our communities. We call on every member of Congress to stand with working people and support the Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act.”

    “Public sector workers teach our children, protect our safety, and keep our communities moving forward—they deserve the right to organize,” said Senator Hirono. “The Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act will help ensure that millions of public sector workers across our country have the federal protections they deserve as they fight for fair wages, benefits, and improved working conditions. Private sector workers are already guaranteed the right to organize under federal law, it should be common sense that public sector workers are afforded those same rights. As President Trump works to gut our public sector workforce, this bill is crucial to protect workers’ freedom to organize and bargain collectively. I’m proud to lead this important legislation with Representative Norcross to help ensure that every public employee has their voice heard in the workplace.”

    “I know the power of collective bargaining because I’ve lived it,” said Congressman Norcross, a former union electrician, member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), and co-chair of the Congressional Labor Caucus. “I spent decades at the negotiating table standing up for working families — fighting for fair pay, safer jobs, and better benefits like health care and retirement. This bill ensures public-sector workers across the country have that same right to a voice on the job and a seat at the table.” 

    “No matter where they live, American workers in every sector should have the ability to form and join a union, or to collectively bargain to improve their workplace,” said Congressman Chris Deluzio. “Public servants should have this right, just like other workers. Now is the time for solidarity: let’s come together and stand with hardworking Americans, defend the union way of life, and pass the bipartisan Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act.”

    “For years now, the rights of workers like nurses, librarians, educators, and all our essential public servants who dedicate themselves to our communities have been chipped away at, despite their dedication and selfless service to their communities,” said Claude Cummings Jr., president of the Communications Workers of America. “That’s why the Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act is so vital. It protects public sector workers’ fundamental right to join together, bargain for fair pay, and stand up for decent working conditions. Congress needs to step up and pass this now and push back against efforts trying to undermine these essential rights.”

    “As education, healthcare and public service workers, our members make a difference in the lives of others every day,” said Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers. “But too many states don’t allow the people who do the work to have a voice.  The Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act would change that, ensuring public servants, no matter where they reside, have a means to influence their own lives. Whether it’s higher wages, safer working conditions, or a secure retirement, the ability to organize a union and bargain collectively lifts working families, students, patients, and entire communities up. That’s why we enthusiastically support this legislation and are committed to moving it forward.”

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Oregon Department of Human Services launches Brain Injury Program

    Source: US State of Oregon

    he Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) launched a new Oregon Brain Injury Program. The program is designed to help individuals with brain injuries navigate and access the services and supports available to them. Services are free and available to anyone in Oregon affected by a brain injury, including family members or others seeking information.

    Free help is available through a toll-free phone line that accepts calls Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Services provided include:

    • One-on-one, free and confidential support.
    • Personalized referrals to resources specific to brain injury recovery and management.
    • Comprehensive resource information to help navigate available services and options.

    Brain injuries are occurring at more frequent rates in Oregon, according to data published on the Oregon Traumatic Brain Injury Safety Dashboard. In 2023 alone, there were 38,718 brain injuries that required hospital or emergency department intervention and 1,177 fatal brain injuries in Oregon.

    “Oregon’s Brain Injury Program is a step forward in ensuring people in Oregon are supported at every level of need and through every stage of life,” said Nakeshia Knight-Coyle, Director of the ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities. “This program will improve access to services for people with brain injuries and take the burden off families who are trying to find support.”

    The Brain Injury Program serves people with brain injuries through four key areas:

    • Advocacy: Helping people advocate for their needs and access essential supports.
    • Options Counseling: Offering guidance on understanding and comparing available services and programs.
    • Resource Navigation: Connecting individuals to the right resources, whether medical, therapeutic or social.
    • Service Coordination: Facilitating connections between different service providers to ensure coordinated care and support.

    Services are tailored to the needs of each person, ensuring they receive the help that best fits their situation.

    The program also reduces barriers that exist as people seek help. Assistance and supports to people with brain injuries are not centralized under one government agency or program. Case managers or social workers who serve as guides for the people they serve are in short supply. The Brain Injury Program helps address these issues by helping people access services across agencies and programs.

    “Without a resource like the Brain Injury Program help line, many individuals struggle to access services and resources that are available to them. Our goal with the program was to address the gaps,” said Jane-ellen Weidanz, Deputy Director of Policy for the ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities.

    Oregon’s Brain Injury Program was developed as a result of Senate Bill 420 (2023). Oregon’s Brain Injury Advocate Coordinator at the Center on Brain Injury Research and Training (CBIRT) at the University of Oregon was among many advocates and organizations behind development and adoption of Senate Bill 420. “This new program would not exist without the incredible dedication and hard work of hundreds of Oregonians throughout the state who fought tirelessly to make this program a reality. Oregon’s Brain Injury Program represents their commitment to making a better future for all of Oregon’s brain injury survivors, their families, loved ones, and caregivers,” said David Kracke, Oregon’s Brain Injury Advocate Coordinator at CBIRT.

    The bill also calls for creation of a Brain Injury Program Advisory Committee, which will advise on the development of programs and activities to address the needs of individuals with brain injuries across the state. The Advisory Committee will be made up of 12 people who have knowledge and experience in brain injuries and who represent all of the geographic areas of Oregon. At least one-third of the members must have experienced a brain injury. Recruitment for the Advisory Committee is open now. Individuals can apply by submitting an application.

    More information:

    • Brain Injury Program phone number: 1-833-685-0848 (toll-free). Interpreting services are available at no cost for people who need help in a language other than English. The Brain Injury Program accepts TTY calls by dialing 711.
    • Hours of operation: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
    • Learn more on the Brain Injury Program webpage

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Rep. Becca Balint Joins Bicameral Spotlight Hearing to Hold Trump Accountable

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Becca Balint (VT-AL)

    Washington, D.C. –  On Monday, Rep. Becca Balint (VT-AL), a member of the House Judiciary Committee, joined Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) and Rep. Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee, for a bicameral spotlight hearing to demand answers on the Trump Administration’s attacks on the rule of law. Rep. Balint questioned the witnesses on Trump’s attacks on the American legal system, the importance of judicial independence and the dangers of Trump’s authoritarian actions. 

    “It’s important to understand that Trump’s actions – while based on his personal grievances – are not only petty, they are designed to remove the checks on unlimited power, the guardrails that protect our democracy,” said Rep. Becca Balint. 

    “Trump and all his enablers in Congress seem to think laws do not apply to them. They don’t care about the Constitution, they don’t care about the rule of law, and they certainly don’t care about our rights. We need more courage like yours in order to stand up to this,” Rep. Balint concluded in her statement to the witnesses. 

    “ While my GOP colleagues passively watch Trump punish his critics and take a jack hammer to the work of anti-corruption fighters at the Department of Justice, Democrats are lifting up the tough Americans who are standing strong against the corruption and lawlessness of Trump,” said Ranking Member Raskin.

    Witnesses included: 

    • Ryan Crosswell, Former Trial Attorney, Public Integrity Section, Criminal Division, U.S. Department of Justice
    • Liz Oyer, Former Pardon Attorney, U.S. Department of Justice
    • Rachel Cohen, Former Senior Associate, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP 
    • Stacey Young, Former Senior Trial Attorney, DOJ Civil Rights Division, and Founder and Executive Director, Justice Connection

    Watch Rep. Becca Balint’s full remarks here. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Maxwell Frost Statement on Homeless Services Network’s Latest Report Revealing Rise in Homelessness

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Maxwell Frost Florida (10th District)

    April 08, 2025

    New Data from Orlando HSN Reveals More than 40 Percent of Those Experiencing Homelessness Are Children and Seniors

    ORLANDO, FL — Today, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10) released a statement on Homeless Services Network’s (HSN) new report which has found that more than 40% of Central Florida’s homeless population are children and seniors, 55 years and older. The data comes from HSN’s annual point-in-time count, a census that takes place in communities across the country, which Congressman Frost participated in back in February. 

    This was the first Point-in-Time count to take place following Florida’s new state law banning public camping and public sleeping.  

    In a statement, Rep. Frost says:

    “The latest report from Homeless Services Network revealing that 40% of our homeless population are children and seniors should alarm everyone. It’s unacceptable that in one of the richest countries in the world, thousands of children and seniors are sleeping on the street.    

    “This report comes at a time when Donald Trump and Elon Musk want to gut Social Security, Medicare/Medicaid, and food programs that our most vulnerable children and seniors count on to survive. For so many folks, these benefits are the difference between making rent and sleeping on the street. And while this Administration paves the way to make the rich richer, countless folks in Orlando and across the country have nowhere to sleep at night—and are even criminalized for it.

    “We have to address the homelessness crisis in our region with the urgency it demands— and the answer isn’t criminalizing homelessness or taking away federal funds from organizations like the Homeless Services Network. It’s finding and investing in solutions that lift people out of poverty and ensuring everyone has the dignity of having a safe place to call home.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Maxwell Frost Statement on Trump Admin. Kidnapping UF Student

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Maxwell Frost Florida (10th District)

    April 07, 2025

    UF Student Detained By ICE, Being Held at Krome Detention Facility Has Not Been Heard from Since April 1st

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10) slammed Donald Trump and his Administration’s cruelty as a University of Florida student has become the latest victim in ICE’s kidnapping spree. 

    Felipe Zapata Velasquez is a 27 year old, third-year international student attending the University of Florida on an F-1 visa. On March 28th, he was stopped by Gainesville Police for a traffic violation and was arrested and later detained by ICE. Zapata Velasquez’s family has not heard from him since April 1st after he was taken to the Krome Detention Center in Miami-Dade.

    In a statement, Rep. Frost says:

    “Donald Trump and ICE are running a government-funded kidnapping program. Showing up in unmarked vans, with plain clothes officers, they are kidnapping people off the streets and jailing them inside of detention centers without due process and with little cause.

    “Felipe Zapata Velasquez is just the latest victim of Trump’s disgusting campaign against immigrants. What should have been a routine traffic stop, resulted in a nightmare as Felipe is now forced to live in the hell on Earth that is the Krome Detention Center while he awaits deportation orders.

    “Donald Trump ran on the promise of deporting violent criminals and gang members. Instead we’ve seen him kidnap and detain American citizens, legal visa holders like Felipe, and anyone who has spoken out against this Administration. 

    “Donald Trump wants us to believe that deporting every single immigrant in this country will solve our problems and make us safer. But there’s only one criminal responsible for the harm happening to the American people every day, and that’s Donald Trump.

    “As a Member of the Oversight Committee, I vow to use every tool at my disposal to hold this Administration accountable.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Young Kim Bill to Promote Cost Transparency Passes Committee

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Young Kim (CA-39)

    Washington, DC – Today, the House Energy and Commerce Committee passed out of markup the Hotel Fees Transparency Act of 2025 (H.R. 1479), a bipartisan bill to improve cost transparency for stays in short-term lodging, such as hotels, motels, and inns. 

    The Hotel Fees Transparency Act of 2025 prohibits unfair or misleading price advertising for places of short-term lodging and requires accurate price listings that include all mandatory and resort fees. 

    Reps. Kim and Castor introduced this bill in the 118th Congress, which passed the House in June 2024. 

    “Deceptive fees add up and create more pain for families already struggling to make ends meet due to rising living costs. The last thing Americans need when planning a trip are costly, unexpected fees,” said Rep. Young Kim. “The Hotel Fees Transparency Act makes costs transparent so families can better budget. I thank the House Energy and Commerce Committee for supporting this bill, and I’ll keep fighting to get this through the finish line so we can make life more affordable.” 

    “Families shouldn’t have to play a guessing game when planning a trip. Sneaky hidden fees are a burden. They drive up costs and leave families frustrated at checkout,” said Rep. Castor. “Our bipartisan Hotel Fees Transparency Act will rein in out-of-control junk fees and lower costs, ensuring that the price you see for hotel stays is the price you pay—no hidden fees, no surprises. It’s about fairness, transparency and saving hardworking families both time and money so they can focus on making memories together, not worrying about unexpected charges. As a member of the Energy and Commerce Committee, I am happy to see this bill get passed and look forward to championing its passage on the House Floor.” 

    “Those planning a vacation shouldn’t be blindsided by hidden hotel fees when they check out,” said Congressman Russell Fry. “The Hotel Fees Transparency Act is about basic fairness—making sure the price you see is the price you pay. This legislation will give travelers the clarity they need and is a smart, commonsense solution that supports both consumers and businesses. I’m glad to see the House Energy and Commerce Committee supporting this effort to bring greater transparency and accountability to the tourism industry.” 

    “Families have to budget carefully for travel, and they deserve to know how much resort fees and taxes will add up before booking accommodations,” said Rep. Kevin Mullin, CA-15. “I co-led the Hotel Fees Transparency Act because consumers have a right to know what they’ll be paying for upfront and not get caught off guard with hidden fees. As a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, I am pleased this bipartisan, common-sense bill is moving forward.” 

    Read the bill here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada announces entry into force of countermeasures against auto imports from the United States

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    April 8, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Department of Finance Canada

    The Minister of Finance, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, today confirmed that Canada’s new countermeasures announced last week in response to the unjustified tariffs imposed by the United States on the Canadian auto industry will come into force at 12:01 a.m. EDT on April 9.

    As the Prime Minister indicated on  April 3, this includes:

    • Twenty-five per cent tariffs on non- Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) compliant fully assembled vehicles imported into Canada from the United States.
    • Twenty-five per cent tariffs on non-Canadian and non-Mexican content of CUSMA compliant fully assembled vehicles imported into Canada from the United States.

    A remission framework for auto producers that incentivizes production and investment in Canada, and helps maintain Canadian jobs, will also be implemented. Further details of this framework will be announced shortly.

    Minister Champagne also announced that the government has granted a special exemption from previous tariff countermeasures on U.S. consumer and household products to the residents of Campobello Island, New Brunswick. This special exemption is in recognition of the island’s unique situation, which is only accessible by road via the United States year-round.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: UBC’s new biomedical engineering building will advance health, biotech

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    From the University of British Columbia:
    https://news.ubc.ca/2025/04/ubc-opens-gordon-b-shrum-biomedical-engineering-building/

    On April 8, 2025, the University of British Columbia officially opened the doors to the Gordon B. Shrum Building, the new home for the School of Biomedical Engineering (SBME). As Canada’s first purpose-built facility for biomedical engineering, the new building brings together researchers, students, and industry partners under one roof to advance biomedical research, education, and innovation.

    The five-storey, 158,000-square-foot facility includes specialized labs, collaborative research spaces, and teaching facilities to support biomedical engineering and life-sciences innovation. Researchers will use the space to develop new medical devices, artificial intelligence-driven diagnostics, and lifesaving treatments. Meanwhile, students will gain hands-on training experience to prepare them for careers in B.C.’s rapidly growing life sciences sector.

    The $139.4-million project was funded through $25 million from the Government of B.C., $114.4 million from UBC, and more than $30 million in philanthropic support for SBME from donors, including the Gordon B. Shrum Charitable Fund, the Conconi Family Foundation, United Therapeutics Corporation, Dr. Jim McEwen, and Paul and Nicole Geyer.

    The building is named in honour of the philanthropic legacy of Gordon B. Shrum, who graduated from UBC in 1958. Shrum, who passed away in 2018, supported novel approaches to addressing community needs. He left nearly all of his estate to charity, leading to gifts with transformational impact on health care, the environment, education, and social justice.

    “We are grateful to the Government of British Columbia and our generous donors for helping make this building a reality,” said Dr. Benoit-Antoine Bacon, UBC’s president and vice-chancellor. “B.C.’s life sciences sector has emerged as a global leader, and the Gordon B. Shrum Building will play a central role in supporting critical research and the next generation of biomedical engineers who will fuel the sector’s continued growth and bring innovative health solutions to Canadians.”

    Anne Kang, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills, said: “This is much more than a building. This is an important milestone in medical innovation and reflects our government’s commitment to improving health care in our province. I am excited for students and the future workers of our medical technology sector to use these state-of-the-art spaces to develop and design the groundbreaking treatment therapies and life-changing medical devices that will improve health outcomes for all British Columbians.”

    Bowinn Ma, Minister of Infrastructure, said: “This world-class facility will play a crucial role in shaping the future of biomedical engineering. We’re making record investments like these that drive innovation, support industry and create important jobs right here in British Columbia.”

    Designed by Canadian architecture firm Patkau Architects, the building provides a dedicated home for SBME, replacing its previously scattered locations across UBC’s Vancouver campus.

    “The School of Biomedical Engineering has been transforming health care through cutting-edge research, education, and partnerships since it was established in 2017,” said SBME Director Dr. Peter Zandstra. “This state-of-the-art facility allows us to take our work to the next level—creating an environment where our faculty and partners can collaborate seamlessly and create transformative new health technologies.”

    Complementing forward-looking architecture and collision spaces, the building’s visual centerpiece is a four-storey mural by biomedical artist Jen Ma.  The artwork represents the multiscale nature of SBME’s research, illustrating how biology, medicine, and engineering intersect—from molecular to cellular to systems levels—to advance human health.

    The new facility includes:

    • biomechanics labs that have robots and machinery for crash-testing research to study how head, spine, and hip injuries happen. This research, led by Dr. Peter Cripton, will help develop new ways to prevent serious trauma from falls, sports, and vehicle accidents;
    • the Conconi Family Biodevice Foundry, a first-of-its-kind in Western Canada, made possible by a donation from the Conconi Family Foundation, which provides tools for designing and testing medical devices. Here, Dr. Govind Kaigala and his team are developing lab-on-a-chip devices, miniature medical tools that allow researchers and doctors to detect and diagnose diseases faster;
    • state-of-the-art digital labs where researchers are using the power of artificial intelligence to improve diagnostic accuracy to enhance treatment outcomes. Here, Dr. Ali Bashashati is advancing AI in medical imaging to improve cancer diagnoses, helping doctors detect diseases earlier and with a greater degree of accuracy;
    • wet labs with specialized equipment and advanced microscopes provided by industry partnerships, where researchers like Dr. Nika Shakiba are working in stem-cell engineering to better understand diseases like cancer and diabetes, potentially leading to new cell-based therapies for these conditions;
    • the Jim McEwen Zone for Innovators, Creators, and Entrepreneurs — supported by UBC double alum Dr. Jim McEwen — a space equipped with 3D printers, prototyping tools, and electronic testing equipment, where students and researchers can prototype and develop new medical technologies.

    Philanthropic support is also enabling SBME to recruit research expertise through the Sir Magdi Yacoub Professorship in Tissue Regeneration, made possible by a donation from the United Therapeutics Corporation. This position will drive collaborative research, education, and training in cell differentiation and tissue regeneration, with the goal of making transplantable organs and organ alternatives accessible to everyone who needs them.

    With the opening of the Gordon B. Shrum Building, UBC is growing its impact in B.C.’s life sciences sector — making room for up to 10 new UBC spin-off ventures each year through SBME Innovates at the Biomedical Research Centre. SBME has already secured $10.2 million in partnership funding and helped launch several biomedical start-ups, including ScopeSys and SeraGene.

    “By fusing the fields of medicine, biology and engineering, SBME is bringing new perspectives and a solutions-focused mindset to some of society’s greatest medical challenges,” said Dr. Dermot Kelleher, Vice-President of Health and Dean of the Faculty of Medicine. “This new facility will elevate B.C.’s biotech sector to new heights, shaping the talent, research, intellectual property and partnerships needed to translate discoveries into lifesaving medicines.”

    Dr. James Olson, Dean of the Faculty of Applied Science, said: “This building is more than just a space for education and research — it’s an engine for innovation that will drive life-altering solutions. By providing cutting-edge facilities and fostering deep industry partnerships, we are empowering our SBME community to bring new health technologies from concept to reality, creating a healthier and more equitable future for all.”

    For Sogand Golshahian, a fourth-year biomedical engineering student specializing in cellular bioengineering and bioinformatics, the new facility represents new opportunities to bridge classroom learning with hands-on experience in biomedical innovation.

    Through SBME’s co-op and research opportunities, Golshahian has been able to apply her skills to real-world projects, from machine learning applications in neuroscience to designing a muscle spasm detection system for intensive care patients in Tanzania.

    “Biomedical engineering offers a unique blend of creativity, innovation, and impact in health care,” she said. “This new facility will provide students with even more opportunities to work at the forefront of medical technology and collaborate with researchers and industry partners to solve global health challenges.”

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: List of vehicle products from the United States subject to 25 per cent tariffs effective April 9, 2025

    8703.22.00

    Motor cars and other motor vehicles principally designed for the transport of persons (other than those of heading 87.02), including station wagons and racing cars.

    – Other vehicles, with only spark-ignition internal combustion piston engine: Of a cylinder capacity exceeding 1,000 cc but not exceeding 1,500 cc

    8703.23.00

    Motor cars and other motor vehicles principally designed for the transport of persons (other than those of heading 87.02), including station wagons and racing cars.

    – Other vehicles, with only spark-ignition internal combustion piston engine: Of a cylinder capacity exceeding 1,500 cc but not exceeding 3,000 cc

    8703.24.00

    Motor cars and other motor vehicles principally designed for the transport of persons (other than those of heading 87.02), including station wagons and racing cars.

    – Other vehicles, with only spark-ignition internal combustion piston engine: Of a cylinder capacity exceeding 3,000 cc

    8703.31.00

    Motor cars and other motor vehicles principally designed for the transport of persons (other than those of heading 87.02), including station wagons and racing cars.

    – Other vehicles, with only compression-ignition internal combustion piston engine (diesel or semi-diesel): Of a cylinder capacity not exceeding 1,500 cc

    8703.32.00

    Motor cars and other motor vehicles principally designed for the transport of persons (other than those of heading 87.02), including station wagons and racing cars.

    – Other vehicles, with only compression-ignition internal combustion piston engine (diesel or semi-diesel): Of a cylinder capacity exceeding 1,500 cc but not exceeding 2,500 cc

    8703.33.00

    Motor cars and other motor vehicles principally designed for the transport of persons (other than those of heading 87.02), including station wagons and racing cars.

    – Other vehicles, with only compression-ignition internal combustion piston engine (diesel or semi-diesel): Of a cylinder capacity exceeding 2,500 cc

    8703.40.10

    Motor cars and other motor vehicles principally designed for the transport of persons (other than those of heading 87.02), including station wagons and racing cars.

    – Other vehicles, with both spark-ignition internal combustion piston engine and electric motor as motors for propulsion, other than those capable of being charged by plugging to external source of electric power: Of a cylinder capacity not exceeding 1,000 cc

    8703.40.90

    Motor cars and other motor vehicles principally designed for the transport of persons (other than those of heading 87.02), including station wagons and racing cars.

    – Other vehicles, with both spark-ignition internal combustion piston engine and electric motor as motors for propulsion, other than those capable of being charged by plugging to external source of electric power: Other

    8703.50.00

    Motor cars and other motor vehicles principally designed for the transport of persons (other than those of heading 87.02), including station wagons and racing cars.

    – Other vehicles, with both compression-ignition internal combustion piston engine (diesel or semi-diesel) and electric motor as motors for propulsion, other than those capable of being charged by plugging to external source of electric power

    8703.60.10

    Motor cars and other motor vehicles principally designed for the transport of persons (other than those of heading 87.02), including station wagons and racing cars.

    – Other vehicles, with both spark-ignition internal combustion piston engine and electric motor as motors for propulsion, capable of being charged by plugging to external source of electric power: Of a cylinder capacity not exceeding 1,000 cc

    8703.60.90

    Motor cars and other motor vehicles principally designed for the transport of persons (other than those of heading 87.02), including station wagons and racing cars.

    – Other vehicles, with both spark-ignition internal combustion piston engine and electric motor as motors for propulsion, capable of being charged by plugging to external source of electric power: Other

    8703.70.00

    Motor cars and other motor vehicles principally designed for the transport of persons (other than those of heading 87.02), including station wagons and racing cars.

    – Other vehicles, with both compression-ignition internal combustion piston engine (diesel or semi-diesel) and electric motor as motors for propulsion, capable of being charged by plugging to external source of electric power

    8703.80.00

    Motor cars and other motor vehicles principally designed for the transport of persons (other than those of heading 87.02), including station wagons and racing cars.

    – Other vehicles, with only electric motor for propulsion

    8703.90.00

    Motor cars and other motor vehicles principally designed for the transport of persons (other than those of heading 87.02), including station wagons and racing cars.

    – Other

    8704.21.90

    Motor vehicles for the transport of goods.

    – Other, with only compression-ignition internal combustion piston engine (diesel or semi-diesel): g.v.w. not exceeding 5 tonnes: Other

    8704.31.00

    Motor vehicles for the transport of goods.

    – Other, with only spark-ignition internal combustion piston engine: g.v.w. not exceeding 5 tonnes

    8704.41.90

    Motor vehicles for the transport of goods.

    – Other, with both compression-ignition internal combustion piston engine (diesel or semi-diesel) and electric motor as motors for propulsion: g.v.w. not exceeding 5 tonnes: Other

    8704.51.00

    Motor vehicles for the transport of goods.

    – Other, with both spark-ignition internal combustion piston engine and electric motor as motors for propulsion: g.v.w. not exceeding 5 tonnes

    8704.60.00

    Motor vehicles for the transport of goods.

    – Other with only electric motor for propulsion

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Moore and Senator Lee Introduce Legislation to Protect Stay-at-Home-Parents

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Riley Moore (WV-02)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Riley M. Moore (R-WV) and Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the Fairness for Stay at Home Parents Act, which closes a loophole in the Family and Medical Leave Act to ensure employers can’t claw back the cost of health insurance premiums from an employee should he or she choose not to return to work after the birth of a child.

    With health insurance premiums for family coverage averaging $25,000 per year, this current loophole can compel parents to return to work even if they feel unready or would prefer to stay home. 50% of mothers who return to work after the birth of their child experience feelings of guilt about not being with their newborn. This bill strengthens families by giving new parents the option to raise their children without having to worry about their employer clawing back their healthcare premiums.

    The legislation has been endorsed by the American Principles Project, the Bull Moose Project, and the Human Coalition.

    Congressman Moore issued the following statement:

    “Being pro-life means being pro-family. That means ensuring families aren’t penalized for deciding to have a parent stay home with their new baby.

    “Our bill ensures families won’t face a huge bill for insurance premiums simply for choosing what’s best for their family.”

    Senator Mike Lee added:

    “Our legislation rectifies a problem with the Family and Medical Leave Act that unfairly impacts mothers who decide to stay home with their newborns after maternity leave. Each additional financial burden we can remove from growing American families is a victory, and this bill will make it easier for hundreds of thousands of new parents to care for their kids.”

    Brad Wilcox, Senior Fellow at the Institute for Family Studies, further added:

    “Family policy should give parents the choice to care for their young children. The Fairness for Stay-at-Home Parents Act does this, which is why I think it is a smart idea.”

    This story was first covered by the Daily Wire. Read more here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Dems Demand that President Trump Abandon National Sales Tax on the American People, Work with Congress to Lower Costs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Don Beyer (D-VA)

    Today, following President Trump’s decision to institute sweeping taxes on American consumers and businesses and engage in a global trade war with every single ally and trading partner, New Dems wrote to President Trump and his top advisors imploring the administration to change course on his erratic and unilateral tariff strategy. 

    The letter from New Democrat Coalition Chair Brad Schneider, Economic Growth and Cost of Living Working Group Chair Chrissy Houlahan, and Trade Task Force Chair Don Beyer reads in part: 

    Rather than engaging in an erratic and unilateral tariff strategy, we urge you to pursue a strategic and sustainable approach that strengthens our alliances, upholds international trade rules, and ensures fair competition through robust enforcement mechanisms. We urge you to focus on bringing down prices and implementing policies that support U.S. manufacturing, build supply chain resilience, and strengthen relationships with our trading partners. 

    Since President Trump announced this national sales tax, global markets have crashed, companies have begun laying off workers, small businesses are considering closing their doors, and American consumers are seeing higher prices on everything from groceries to electronics and more. 

    You can read the letter here or below: 

    Dear President Trump,

    As Members of the New Democrat Coalition, we write to express our deep concerns regarding your Administration’s approach to trade policy, particularly the imposition of sweeping tariffs on imports that are already raising costs for American consumers and businesses, undermining American competitiveness, and creating uncertainty that is stifling business investment and threatening jobs. We write on behalf of our constituents who were previously struggling to make ends meet and will now be forced to pay more for groceries, for new cars, for home appliances, and so much more. We can expect consumers to pause purchases, big and small, which will be a drain on our economy and diminish our children’s future prospects. 

    When used thoughtfully, strategic and targeted tariffs can be a tool to protect American workers, ensure fair trade practices, and defend U.S. economic interests. Unfortunately, your latest announcement of capricious and sweeping universal and reciprocal tariffs undermines these goals, and in fact, moves us in the opposite direction. American workers, families, and businesses will pay the price. 

    Tariffs function as taxes on American consumers and businesses, raising the costs of goods and materials essential for domestic manufacturing and production. Industries that rely on global supply chains, including agriculture, technology, and manufacturing, have already reported higher costs due to the tariffs in addition to increased sourcing challenges—both factors that are leading to price increases for American consumers. Many small businesses have made the difficult decision to pass these costs, which are a direct result of new tariffs, on to their customers and face significant challenges that will impact their ability to operate. Additionally, retaliatory tariffs from our trading partners have further restricted market access for American products, uniquely harming exporters and rural economies that depend on foreign markets to sell world class products. 

    The unpredictability of your Administration’s trade agenda, characterized by on-again, off-again tariffs imposed on our closest allies in violation of trade agreements that your own administration negotiated has created an environment of uncertainty for American businesses. Businesses of all sizes depend on certainty to thrive. That certainty comes in the form of policy continuity, a clear regulatory framework, and an equitable and transparent system to resolve trade disputes. Absent this certainty, businesses cannot invest in innovation, American workers, or expanding their operations to international markets. Make no mistake, your Administration’s trade agenda is slowing economic growth and job creation, weakening U.S. global leadership, and increasing the cost of doing business with the United States. 

    Rather than engaging in an erratic and unilateral tariff strategy, we urge you to pursue a strategic and sustainable approach that strengthens our alliances, upholds international trade rules, and ensures fair competition through robust enforcement mechanisms. We urge you to focus on bringing down prices and implementing policies that support U.S. manufacturing, build supply chain resilience, and strengthen relationships with our trading partners. 

    The Constitution clearly states that no president, Democrat or Republican, has the power to raise taxes on the American people without the consent of Congress. We call on your administration to engage in meaningful consultation with Congress to ensure that trade policy reflects the interests and values of the American people. Given the dire consequences of an escalating trade war, we underscore Congress’s constitutional role in trade policy and respectfully request a meeting with the United States Trade Representative, Ambassador Jamieson Greer, to discuss your Administration’s trade strategy. We urge your administration to focus on policies that advance American interests without burdening consumers, isolating our trusted trading partners, and harming U.S. global leadership. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine & Banks Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Support Mental Health Care and Substance Use Disorder Recovery

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Jim Banks (R-IN), members of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, introduced the Providing Empathetic and Effective Recovery (PEER) Support Act, bipartisan legislation to support mental health care and substance use disorder recovery. Specifically, the bill would elevate peer support specialists—individuals with lived experience with a mental health condition or substance use disorder who are certified to assist individuals and their families in recovery through advocacy, relationship and community building, resource sharing, mentorship, goal setting, and more. Although peer support specialists have been shown to decrease substance use for individuals with substance use disorders and reduce re-hospitalization for individuals with mental health conditions, they often face significant barriers to entering or staying in the profession. The PEER Support Act would help remove these barriers, address workforce shortages in the field, and support access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment.

    “Peer support specialists play an important role in mental health and substance use disorder treatment teams, and provide valuable support to individuals in recovery,” said Kaine. “At a time where we need to expand access to mental health care and substance use disorder treatment, this bipartisan legislation is critical to helping peer support specialists enter the field.”

    “As millions of Americans struggle to overcome addiction, access to peer support specialists saves lives. This bipartisan bill helps better connect these experts—who have overcome addiction themselves—to those in recovery,” said Banks.

    “Fifty-two million adults in the U.S.—or 1 in 5 adults—have a mental health condition, and we lack the workforce to help provide much-needed services. The Bipartisan Policy Center has recommended policies advancing peer support specialists and boosting recovery services, and we believe the reintroduction of the PEER Support Act is a critical step toward addressing the shortage of behavioral health workers in this country,” said Michele Stockwell, President of Bipartisan Policy Center Action.

    “Trained peer supporters make an incredible difference in helping people recover, and this bill positions peer support specialists to be a lifeline throughout the behavioral health care system,” said Bruce Curser, Executive Director of Mental Health America of Virginia.

    “I’m both excited and incredibly grateful to see the reintroduction of the PEER Support Act, as it highlights the real and significant barriers faced by Peer Recovery Specialists in our communities. For many of us, including myself, entering this workforce can be an unnecessarily difficult challenge after overcoming the obstacles created by our lived experiences with substance use and mental health diagnoses. The PEER Support Act is essential in creating more job opportunities, fostering professional growth, ensuring recognition as equal professionals, and enabling the collection of crucial data that supports this evidence-based practice,” said Rachel Alderman, AAS, RPRS, CCHW, Community Health Center of the New River Valley (Christiansburg, Virginia).

    “I am more than happy to see advocates stepping up to support Peer Recovery Specialists in this way. Having personally faced barriers in this field due to past charges, I know how discouraging it can be to be turned away from a position despite a commitment to recovery and helping others. I almost gave up, but I am so grateful for the opportunity to prove that a past does not define one’s future. Peer support is built on connection, understanding, and lived experience—showing others that recovery is not only possible but sustainable. This bill is vital to ensuring that those who have walked the path of recovery can continue to uplift and guide others on their own journeys,” said Kellie Simpkins, CPRS, Community Health Center of the New River Valley (Christiansburg, Virginia).

    Specifically, the PEER Support Act would:

    • Codify the Office of Recovery in the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to
      • Train, educate, and support the professional development of peer support specialists.
      • Research and publish best practice recommendations for the training, certification, and supervision of peer support specialists for entities that employ these professionals.
      • Recommend career pathways for peer support specialists.
      • Provide leadership in the identification of new and emerging issues related to recovery support services.
    • Instruct the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Department of Justice (DOJ) to conduct a study to research states’ screening processes for prospective peer support specialists that may pose undue barriers to their certification, and provide evidence-based recommendations for overcoming those barriers. Some prospective peer support specialists cannot get a license because of their past interactions with law enforcement related to their substance use disorder (such as convictions for possession of drugs that occurred prior to recovery).
    • Direct the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to revise the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) system to recognize peer support specialists as a profession, which would help ensure accurate data reporting on the field.

    The PEER Support Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

    The PEER Support Act is supported by American Association for Psychoanalysis in Clinical Social Work, American Association on Health and Disability (AAHD), American Association of Suicidality, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), American Psychological Association Services (APA Services), Anxiety & Depression Association of America, Ballad Health, Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC), Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD), Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, Face and Voices of Recovery, Fountain House, International Society for Psychiatric Mental Health Nurses, Lakeshore Foundation, Mental Health America (MHA), Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance (MMHLA), NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), National Association for Peer Supporters (NAPS), National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors (NASMHPD), National Council for Mental Wellbeing, National Federation of Families, Overdose Prevention Initiative, Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health, Psychotherapy Action Network, RI International, SMART Recovery, and Trust for America’s Health (TFAH).

    Full text of the PEER Support Act is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell Comments on Colby Nomination

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) issued the following statement today on the nomination of Elbridge Colby to be Under Secretary of Defense for Policy:

    “Preparing to deter or defeat an historic alignment of adversaries must be the top priority for the United States and the West. But the more we indulge the fiction that these threats are not linked, and the longer we delay overdue investments in the national defense, the more difficult the task of restoring our credibility, our military capability, and our industrial capacity will become.

    “Elbridge Colby’s long public record suggests a willingness to discount the complexity of the challenges facing America, the critical value of our allies and partners, and the urgent need to invest in hard power to preserve American primacy. The prioritization that Mr. Colby argues is fresh, new, and urgently needed is, in fact, a return to an Obama-era conception of a la carte geostrategy. Abandoning Ukraine and Europe and downplaying the Middle East to prioritize the Indo-Pacific is not a clever geopolitical chess move. It is geostrategic self-harm that emboldens our adversaries and drives wedges between America and our allies for them to exploit.

    “Mr. Colby’s confirmation leaves open the door for the less-polished standard-bearers of restraint and retrenchment at the Pentagon to do irreparable damage to the system of alliances and partnerships which serve as force multipliers to U.S. leadership. It encourages isolationist perversions of peace through strength to continue apace at the highest levels of Administration policymaking.

    “As I have expressed repeatedly, I remain committed to supporting national security nominees whose records and views make them assets, not liabilities, in the restoration of U.S. hard power. As he gets to work, Mr. Colby will need to work swiftly to advance policy that conforms to the President’s recognition of U.S. interests from Europe to the Middle East to the Indo-Pacific. I hope he will come to appreciate the essential role our allies play in advancing our collective interests, the urgent need for enduring investments in our national defense, and the linked and simultaneous challenges we face.

    “Make no mistake: America will not be made great again by those who are content to manage our decline.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell in Wall Street Journal: Executive Order Invites Leftwing Election Takeover

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) submitted the following op-ed to The Wall Street Journal, printed in today’s edition, on voting and election integrity:

    Easier to vote, harder to cheat. That was the pitch the last time Washington passed major updates to the way America votes.

    After 2000 saw one of the closest presidential elections in American history, there was a bipartisan appetite to make sure states were equipped to count votes correctly. In 2002, Sen. Chris Dodd (D., Conn.) and I developed a plan to give state election authorities more resources and expert help as they navigated new technologies and reformed voting procedures. When we wrote the Help America Vote Act, we took care to reinforce—not undermine—the limits of federal involvement in America’s elections.

    As a result, HAVA and the Election Assistance Commission it created are still on the books today, and thank goodness for that. Challenges to America’s elections aren’t slowing down, they’re speeding up. The Trump administration is right to focus national attention on election-security issues that enjoy wide support, from voter roll maintenance to voter I.D. requirements.

    But the way measures like these are implemented matters. And the administration’s executive order on voting and election integrity risks setting them back.

    In the near term, Executive Order 14248 will face constitutional scrutiny. That isn’t because the citizenship requirement for participation in elections is unclear but because the delegation of authority over election administration is crystal clear. Elections may have national consequences but the power to conduct them rests in state capitols. No public mandate, real or perceived, lets Washington tamper with this authority, not even for a worthy cause like election integrity.

    In the longer term, last month’s executive order carries grave risks. The Trump administration can, and should, support state-led efforts to authenticate voter rolls, train election officials, upgrade voting technologies, and combat voter fraud. But they ought to be careful. Even a targeted federal mandate to strengthen election integrity today could make it easier for a future Democratic president and Congress to use more sweeping mandates to carry out a complete federal takeover of American elections.

    In that case, expanding Washington’s role wouldn’t be a side effect, it would be the entire point. This isn’t speculation. We know exactly what Democrats want to do because they’ve tried before.

    As it was first introduced in 2019, H.R. 1, the “For the People Act” was designed to gut state laws that upheld widely popular voter-I.D. requirements as well as open the door for rampant fraud with mandates for ballot drop boxes and unlimited ballot harvesting. It would hoover up state authority over redistricting, make it harder to clean inaccurate and duplicate voter registrations from the rolls, give the Internal Revenue Service sweeping new authority to consider political ideology in determining the tax-exempt status of advocacy groups, and turn even-split governance at the Federal Election Commission into a partisan majority.

    Over the years, Washington Democrats’ rationale for their federal takeover evolved. Initially, with President Trump’s first election still consuming the Democratic Party’s consciousness, H.R. 1 was sold as an urgent cure for a broken system. After subsequent Democratic victories, the plan was portrayed instead as preventive maintenance.

    In each iteration, it was a jaw-dropping affront to states’ authority to administer elections. We mustn’t forget how narrowly America avoided it. Had two Democratic senators not broken ranks with their party, the demise of the Senate’s legislative filibuster and the submission of American elections to the whims of unelected bureaucrats would have come as a package deal.

    Unfortunately, reasonable Americans can’t expect that sort of courage the next time a Democratic president and Congress have a chance to tilt the electoral playing field in their favor. The current administration has better ways to spend its time than laying the groundwork for a leftwing election takeover.

    Mr. McConnell, a Republican, is a U.S. senator from Kentucky.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 9, 2025
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