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  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Padilla Proposes Resolution on the Floor to Limit the Use of Tariffs to Offset Republicans’ Tax Cuts

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    WATCH: Padilla Proposes Resolution on the Floor to Limit the Use of Tariffs to Offset Republicans’ Tax Cuts

    WATCH: Padilla demands transparency from Republicans’ partisan budget planWASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), a member of the Senate Budget Committee, spoke on the Senate floor to propose a concurrent resolution to limit President Trump’s use of tariffs to offset $5.3 trillion in Republicans’ tax cuts for the wealthy. The resolution would simply demand basic transparency by requiring that any tariff used to offset tax cuts for the wealthy be explicitly written into the Republicans’ partisan reconciliation bill. Senator Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) objected to the resolution, which required unanimous consent to pass.
    In his remarks, Padilla blasted President Trump’s sweeping global tariffs, which will raise costs across the board for millions of working-class families. He called out Trump’s comments last week that he “couldn’t care less” if tariffs raise prices for American consumers. Padilla also highlighted the staggering hypocrisy of Republicans’ cuts to critical services like Medicaid, nutrition assistance, and public education while trying to pass trillions in tax cuts for billionaires.
    Full text of Senator Padilla’s resolution is available here.
    Key Excerpts:
    We have finally made it to Donald Trump’s promised and self-proclaimed “Liberation Day.” But here’s what I also observe. The stock market is down since the beginning of the year. The cost of everything from groceries to housing continues to rise. Americans’ retirement funds have shrunk. And the chances of a recession is up. That sure doesn’t feel like a liberation to me.
    Donald Trump campaigned on a promise to “lower prices on day one” of his Administration. But he’s done the exact opposite. His policies and his rhetoric are raising the cost of living for hundreds of millions of Americans.
    Let’s be clear: a tariff is a tax on the American people — plain and simple. Trump’s tariffs equate to the biggest tax hike on Americans in decades.
    American companies will have to pay more to import goods. And in turn, the American people will have to pay more to buy those products. Donald Trump knows this. It’s not that he doesn’t know; it’s that he doesn’t care. And those aren’t my words — they’re his.
    If nothing else, the Republican party’s economic plan has been consistent. They want to bleed the working class to benefit the rich. And they’re gonna lie to our faces as they try to do it. That’s unacceptable.
    My resolution would simply require that they be transparent with the American people. It would require that any tariff used to offset tax cuts for the wealthy must be explicitly written into the text of the Republican reconciliation bill. If Republicans want to increase prices on hardworking Americans to give handouts to billionaires, then own it. You should not be allowed to hide behind President Trump as you do it.
    Be transparent. Be honest. Put these price increases into the bill. Tell the American people what you really stand for. Because when Americans ask why their grocery bills and their energy bills and all their other bills go up, they deserve to know why — and they deserve to know who caused it. And then we’ll see who’s really on the side of the working class.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ahead of Vote on Resolution to Undo Trump’s Taxes on Canadian Goods, Shaheen Highlights the Devastating Consequences for Small Businesses on Senate Floor

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    (Washington, DC) – Following President Trump’s announcement of sweeping new tariffs, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) took to the Senate floor to highlight the devastating economic impacts that President Trump’s tariffs and trade war will have on American families and the economy. The speech came ahead of a vote on U.S. Senator Tim Kaine’s (D-VA) joint resolution with U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Mark R. Warner (D-VA) to end Trump’s tariffs on Canada. Some estimates have shown that Trump’s tariffs could raise costs for the average American household by up to $2,000 per year. You can watch Senator Shaheen’s speech here. 

    Key quotes from Senator Shaheen:

    • “On Monday I visited a bakery in Derry, New Hampshire, that may have to go out of business due to what President Trump is proposing on tariffs on Canada. […] Mr. Chatila said to me, and I quote, ‘When I came, this was the American dream, which is why we built it. But now you see it in front of your eyes. It’s just melted like ice.’” 
    • “Imposing tariffs against Canada is not the way to fight fentanyl and other drugs. This kind of legislation, like the HALT Fentanyl Act, is something that is going to have much more of an impact.” 
       
    • “The message to the American people from this administration is increasingly clear: they do not care about you and what your needs are.”
    • “He is taxing all of the goods that people buy every day and what he doesn’t tell you is that the reason he’s doing this is so that he can give more money to provide tax cuts for the top 1% of the income earners in the country, so the billionaires.”

    You can read Shaheen’s remarks as delivered below:

    I came to the floor to join my colleagues because I am so concerned about the damaging impact of President Trump’s tariff taxes—and I call them taxes because that’s what they really are—about those tariffs particularly on Canada, although we heard today that he’s announced a number of others.

    On Monday, I’ve been hearing from a lot of small businesses in New Hampshire, but on Monday I visited a bakery in Derry, New Hampshire, that may have to go out of business due to what President Trump is proposing on tariffs on Canada. 

    Now, the owner of Chatila’s Bakery moved to the United States 36 years ago.

     He’s a cardiologist and with his brother, a PhD. Scientist, they’re from Lebanon. 

    He became a citizen.

    He raised his family and sent his daughter to college, and he and his brother got interested in sugar free desserts and candies because their mother was diabetic. 

    So he spent the last 36 years building his business, and now he might have to sell his factory because of the trade war that President Trump has started with Canada. 

    Chatila’s Bakery makes sugar free desserts.

    They get some of their ingredients from Canada. 

    All of those ingredients are now more expensive and while I was there, he showed me a fuel bill he had just gotten, that said that because of the tariffs, his fuel bill was going up. 

    But more important than that, 85% of his business comes from exporting to Canadian customers. 

    Most of his sales contracts in Canada were canceled after these tariffs went into effect last month.

    So he says he’s going to lose between $400,000 and $500,000 this year in the business. 

    Now, President Trump says he’s worried about trade imbalances and that he wants to support exporters.

     Well, here is an American small business and an exporter and because of what this president is doing with his reckless trade war, this small business owner might go out of business.

    So Mr. Chatila said to me, and I quote, “When I came, this was the American dream, which is why we built it. But now you see it in front of your eyes. It’s just melted like ice.”

    And I asked him what he would like to ask President Trump if he had the opportunity, and he said his question was to the president, “What do you want me to do? If you really care about your country, why don’t you support small businesses which are the backbone of every community?”

     I think that said it about as well as anybody I’ve heard. 

    And we know, sadly, that his business is not the only one. 

    Many of our small businesses in New Hampshire are reliant on travel and tourism. 

    I’ve heard from businesses across our state about Canadian tourists canceling plans already, about bookings that they rely on that are not going to come through.

    Last week, we saw that airline tickets for travelers coming from Canada this summer are down more than 70% from this time last year. 

    That represents lost business for my constituents and for businesses and communities across this country. 

    All of this will put their businesses at risk, and it will do so when they are also facing higher costs for inputs because of these tariff taxes.

    Two weeks ago, I visited a bus company, runs bus lines between the seacoast of New Hampshire and Boston and New York. 

    They’re facing $500,000 in added costs because of these tariffs and now, on top of that, he stands to lose business because fewer people are visiting the United States—He also goes between the seacoast and Logan Airport.

    All of that because the president has damaged the relationship we have with one of our closest allies.

    It doesn’t make sense to me. 

    What is the logic of antagonizing those allies and partners that we rely on? 

    And lest anyone forget, the president is claiming that the flow of fentanyl from Canada justifies all this.

    Well, fentanyl and other drugs are serious issues, and I’ve spent much of my time in the Senate doing what I can to help stop those drugs from entering the United States and to getting help for those who need it.

    Just last month, the Senate passed the HALT Fentanyl Act, which is legislation that I co-sponsored along with a lot of my colleagues, which would permanently schedule fentanyl related substances. 

    Imposing tariffs against Canada is not the way to fight fentanyl and other drugs. 

    This kind of legislation, like the HALT Fentanyl Act, is something that is going to have much more of an impact.

    CBP statistics show that all the fentanyl seized along the northern border from the beginning of 2022 until now is 71 pounds. 

    Now, that’s a lot of fentanyl, and that could kill a lot of people, so I don’t endorse that by any means. 

    But you compare that with the 67,966 pounds that have been seized along the US-Mexico border for the same period of time.

    Wouldn’t it make more sense to focus on where most of this fentanyl is coming from? 

    Instead of imposing tariffs, we should be working cooperatively with our allies and partners, and Canada has taken a number of steps to crack down and to stop drugs from coming into the United States. 

    The tariffs that are in place before today are likely to raise costs by nearly $2,000 for the average household.

    That’s money many families in New Hampshire and across this country can’t afford to pay when they’re trying to cover the cost of groceries, of housing, of child care, of energy, all of those things that President Trump, when he was running for president, said he was going to address.

    I’ve heard from many New Hampshire families about how these tariffs will raise prices for keeping their homes warm, for putting gas in their cars.

    And now the Trump administration has reportedly fired the entire staff of the LIHEAP program that helps families and seniors heat their homes when they can’t afford to pay. 

    The message to the American people from this administration is increasingly clear: they do not care about you and what your needs are. 

    So voting for Senator Kaine’s resolution presents an opportunity for Congress to help Americans who are worried about higher costs.

    I intend to vote for this resolution to end the tariffs on Canada, to lower costs for Americans and to help our small businesses and I hope all my colleagues will do the same. 

    Now, I just want to add that in the last hour, President Trump announced a new tax of 10% on everything Americans import with far higher taxes on many countries.

    Everything from the EU will now face a 20% tax. 

    Japan and South Korea 25%. 

    I mean, again, the rationale for why we are going after our allies and partners makes no sense. 

    And this is a tremendous tax increase on American business and families. 

    Likely the largest peacetime tax increase in U.S. history. 

    This new Trump tariff tax will add at least another $3,000 to the costs for an average household.

    And again, this president promised he was going to lower costs for families.

    This does nothing to do that. 

    He is taxing all of the goods that people buy every day and what he doesn’t tell you is that the reason he’s doing this is so that he can give more money to provide tax cuts for the top 1% of the income earners in the country, so the billionaires. 

    I don’t think this tax increase is going to help the small business owner I visited on Monday, or the families in my state and across this country who are trying to afford groceries, and I intend to vote to end those tariffs on Canada today when I have the opportunity. 

    I hope my colleagues will join me.

    Thank you.

    Senator Shaheen is leading efforts in Congress to mitigate the harmful impacts of President Trump’s tariffs. Earlier today, Shaheen released a statement condemning President Trump’s announcement that he will impose 10 percent tariffs on all imported goods, with far higher taxes on many more countries at midnight. In January, Shaheen introduced the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes on Imported Goods Act which would limit the president’s ability to leverage sweeping tariffs that increase costs for American consumers and families. Her effort to pass this bill by unanimous consent was blocked by Senate Republicans. In recent weeks, Shaheen has traveled across the Granite State to visit businesses including Chatila’s Bakery, C&J, DCI Furniture, Mount Cabot Maple and American Calan Inc. to hear directly from Granite Staters impacted by the looming tariffs.   

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Christchurch Akaroa Road, Little River

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    One person has died following a single-vehicle crash near Little River this morning.

    Emergency services were called to Christchurch Akaroa Road at around 10.40am.

    Two people were transported to hospital in a serious condition, where sadly one person died a short time later.

    The second person is now in a critical condition in hospital.

    The Serious Crash Unit have conducted a scene examination and a crash investigation is underway.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pingree, Blumenthal, Murkowski Lead Bipartisan Push to Support Survivors of Military Sexual Trauma

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (1st District of Maine)

    In honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Ranking Member Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), and Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) are teaming up to introduce bipartisan, bicameral legislation to help survivors of military sexual trauma (MST) more easily access care and benefits—as well as boost MST claims processing. 

    The Servicemembers and Veterans Empowerment and Support Act would expand the evidentiary standard for survivors applying for disability benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), ensuring MST survivors are provided equal access to the benefits and care they have earned. Given how many instances of MST go unreported during service, the bill would require VA to consider non-Department of Defense evidence sources when reviewing MST claims, and would expand this standard to all mental health conditions related to MST. The bill would also ensure all National Guardsmen, Reservists, and service academy students can receive MST-related care and counseling from VA. 

    “Survivors of military sexual trauma have endured unimaginable pain and deserve the highest quality care and services,” said Ranking Member Blumenthal. “They should have clear access to every tool needed to heal from their trauma. Our bipartisan bill will afford survivors a stronger voice in filing claims and expand VA treatment.”

    “I’ve heard from countless veterans whose profound harm is compounded by a system that repeatedly fails them. Their stories reveal a dual injustice—first from experiencing devastating abuse, and then again when navigating a claims process ill-equipped to support survivors. This goes far beyond administrative shortcomings at the VA; it’s a fundamental breach of our moral and constitutional duty to those who served,” said Congresswoman Pingree. “Our bipartisan, bicameral Servicemembers and Veterans Empowerment and Support Act directly confronts these systemic failures. It modernizes outdated evidentiary standards to recognize all trauma responses, expands critical access to MST-related health care regardless of discharge status, and establishes rigorous oversight to ensure genuine accountability. When our institutions fail and re-traumatize those who sacrificed in service to our country, we violate a sacred commitment. Veterans deserve better, and it’s our responsibility to deliver.”

    Staunch advocates for strengthening benefits and care for MST survivors, the lawmakers introduced the Servicemembers and Veterans Empowerment and Support Act in the 118th, 117th, 116th, and 115th Congresses. Building on the Ruth Moore Act from previous Congresses, the legislation addresses issues uncovered by the VA Office of Inspector General in 2021 by requiring VA to process all MST claims via specially trained teams, conduct annual accuracy reviews for MST claims processing, and study the quality of Veterans Benefits Administration training on MST claims processing.

    The lawmakers’ efforts to improve MST survivors’ care and benefits has strong backing from the nation’s leading Veterans Service Organizations.

    “MOAA is grateful to Senators Blumenthal and Murkowski for reintroducing the Servicemembers and Veterans Empowerment and Support (SAVES) Act,” said Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) President and CEO Lt. Gen. Brian Kelly, USAF (Ret), “This important legislation aims to strengthen the coordination of benefits and health care services, benefiting not only those impacted by military sexual trauma (MST) but all veterans seeking VA support. MOAA remains committed to working with Congress and the VA to ensure passage and effective implementation of this bill.”

    “The Servicemembers and Veterans Empowerment and Support Act makes critical and overdue changes to the Department of Veterans Affairs’ disability compensation and claims process for survivors of military sexual trauma, a cause Service Women’s Action Network (SWAN) has championed for years. By broadening access for military sexual trauma survivors in the veterans’ healthcare system, this act acknowledges and addresses that MST survivors often feel vulnerable and forgotten; it is our nation’s responsibility to support these victims and provide the highest level of care during and after their service to our country. Service Women’s Action Network wholeheartedly endorses this legislation.” – Elisa Cardnell, Chief Executive Officer, Service Women’s Action Network

    “VA offers benefits and health care to veterans who have experienced military sexual trauma (MST), but survivors often encounter barriers in accessing these necessary services. The Servicemembers and Veterans Empowerment and Support (SAVES) Act would improve the claims process, codify evidentiary support, and increase access to mental health care for MST survivors. PVA strongly supports the SAVES Act and thanks Senator Blumenthal and Senator Murkowski for reintroducing this legislation.” – Heather Ansley, Chief Policy Officer, Paralyzed Veterans of America 

    “The VFW supports the Servicemembers and Veterans Empowerment and Support Act of 2025, that would assess gaps in health care and compensation eligibility related to military sexual trauma (MST). The adverse effects of MST can remain with service members well after their time in service. This comprehensive bill would ensure they receive dignified care and appropriate compensation as they rejoin the civilian world. We thank Senators Blumenthal and Murkowski for their bipartisan leadership on this issue and look forward to the passage of this bill into law.” – Nancy Springer, Associate Director, National Legislative Service, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States

    “The Servicemembers and Veterans Empowerment and Support Act is about doing right by the men and women who’ve sacrificed for this country,” said Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) CEO Allison Jaslow. “For too long, survivors of military sexual trauma have faced a VA system that fails them—after the military has already failed them. IAVA is grateful for the leadership of Senator Blumenthal (D-CT) and Senator Murkowski (R-AK) in standing up for these veterans. Now, it’s time for Congress to step up, do the right thing, and pass this bill—because our veterans have waited long enough.”

    “For too long, military sexual trauma (MST) survivors have faced significant hurdles in accessing the VA care and benefits they have rightfully earned. The Servicemembers and Veterans Empowerment and Support Act of 2025 offers a pathway to justice by ensuring their claims are handled with the care, sensitivity and expertise required to address this issue accurately and appropriately. DAV proudly supports this crucial legislation and the dignity it restores to those who have served, and we appreciate Sens. Blumenthal and Murkowski for incorporating the voices of MST survivors in crafting this important legislation.” – Joy Ilem, National Legislative Service Director, Disabled American Veterans

    “Military Sexual Trauma (MST) is an experience that can have a complex and long-lasting impact on a veteran’s life,” said Wounded Warrior Project Chief Program Officer Jennifer Silva. “As our community continues to find ways to support MST survivors, the Servicemembers and Veterans Empowerment and Support Act recognizes that more can be done to expand access to care, improve the benefits claims process, and ultimately make the system work better for them. Wounded Warrior Project is proud to support this effort and we are grateful to Senators Blumenthal (D-CT) and Murkowski (R-AK) for their leadership on this issue.”

    The legislation is also supported by the National Alliance to End Sexual Violence, Protect Our Defenders, and Vietnam Veterans of America.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scalise Applauds Hyundai Investment in Louisiana

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) joined Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.), Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.), and Congressman Pat Harrigan (R-N.C.) to discuss the need for the Senate to move on budget reconciliation now that Republicans successfully kept the government open, despite Democrats’ efforts to shut it down. Additionally, Leader Scalise highlighted Hyundai’s multibillion-dollar investment in Louisiana thanks to President Trump’s leadership and pro-growth agenda.

    Click here or the image above to view Leader Scalise’s full remarks. 
    On the unity of the Republican party: “While the Democrat Party continues to show the country that they’re a leaderless, rudderless ship, Republicans have been uniting to lead this country out of the doldrums from the Biden Administration. You can just look at the actions we’ve taken in the House, working with the Senate and with President Trump to start getting our country back on track. And that hard work is already paying off for American families. You’re seeing gas prices start to come down, egg prices are starting to come down.”On private investment moving to the United States under President Trump:“What’s really important for long-term growth – billions and now trillions of dollars of private investment are coming back home to America to create really good high-paying jobs for American workers. The Speaker and I were proud to attend a White House ceremony yesterday with our governor and other leaders, where Hyundai announced a multibillion-dollar plant that they’re building in the United States of America – going to create about 1,400 jobs in Louisiana. This is just one of many examples that we’re seeing that we call the Trump effect, where we’re seeing so many companies invest heavily in Louisiana and other states. In our state alone, we’ve had probably over $40 billion of private investment announced since President Trump took office again. And that’s not only really good jobs, it’s things like energy security, building more car manufacturing plants, and the resources that go along with it will no longer have to source those materials from other countries. Hostile countries, in many cases, will now be able to refine those materials here in the United States as well with American workers. That would not have happened without the leadership of President Trump. We’ve totaled up when you look at all the private investment that’s come into the United States just in the two months since Donald Trump has taken office, it’s nearly $4 trillion in new jobs and investment in the United States of America. That’s historic, it’s unprecedented, and we’re just getting started.”On Democrats voting to shut the government down:“We’ve been talking to President Trump. I talked to him twice over the weekend about budget reconciliation. Now that we got government funding out of the way, and the Speaker did a phenomenal job of uniting Republicans, imagine a CR to fund government passed exclusively by Republicans. One Democrat came along after we had the votes to pass it in the House, and then the Senate ultimately had to finally take that bill up and pass it themselves, which is what caused the Democrats to go into yet another tailspin because Democrats wanted to shut the government down. Almost every Democrat voted against that bill, which also, by the way, had a 40-year largest increase pay raise for our military. Our men and women in uniform who deserved that massive raise. Almost every Democrat voted no on that as well as trying to shut the government down. So, they still don’t want to be serious. They’re not going to be taken seriously by the American people. But we’re going to keep doing our job.”On budget reconciliation: “The next job is budget reconciliation. That is number one on President Trump’s priority list now to get Congress to work together with him to pass that one big, beautiful bill that we’ve been talking about – a bill that not only locks in tax rates, creates more investment in the United States, but also allows us to produce more energy in America, lowering costs for families, creates more border security for America, allows President Trump to continue the great work he’s done. We’ve seen over a 95% drop in illegal crossings. We need to build out the wall. We need to give more technology to our Border Patrol agents that President Trump has asked for, strengthening our national defense and bringing common sense back into the rule and regulatory process in Washington. These are just the first few months of what’s going to be a historic majority working for the American people, delivering results for the American people. “And the man who’s leading this cause and uniting Republicans, even with just a two-seat majority, hopefully not for much longer, we’re going to grow that number. But even with that, our Speaker has been keeping us together, moving our agenda.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Scalise Encourages Senate Passage of House Budget Reconciliation Bill

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

    WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) joined Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.), Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.), and Congressman Derek Schmidt (R-Kan.) to discuss the Senate taking up the House’s budget bill, bringing us one step closer to fulfilling President Trump’s agenda of helping American families who previously struggled under Biden’s disastrous economic policies. Leader Scalise also highlighted the importance of the Trump Administration’s work to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse in the federal government and slammed Democrats for being more concerned with Elon Musk than the wasting of taxpayers’ hard-earned dollars.

    Click here or the image above to view Leader Scalise’s full remarks. 
    On the Senate taking up budget reconciliation:“We have another full week working through our legislative agenda while we also are urging the Senate to continue moving on the budget reconciliation process. This week, they will be taking up the budget that we sent over weeks ago. Of course, when you look at where the budgets are, we went through a lot of work within our conference, meeting with members that represent all different factions within our conference to come up with the ultimate targets that were laid out in our budget to direct 11 different committees in the House to take action in reconciliation. The Senate needs to go through that same process. They’ve got similar dynamics in the Senate. They’ve got fiscal hawks, moderates, the same kind of issues that they’re going to have to resolve. But ultimately, it’s only when the House and Senate come together, are we going to be able to deliver that big package for President Trump to get this economy back on track for the American people. And ultimately, that’s who we’re fighting for.“We’re fighting for those hardworking families who have been struggling too long under the weight of the failed far-left policies of President Biden that are still lingering. The Democrats, when they were in charge, when they added trillions in spending, inflation, interest rates, all the things that are still crushing families. We are finally starting to address those things one at a time. And it’s taken time, but we’re two months in, and you can already see the progress, but there’s a lot more work to do. And so we’re not slowing down in our majority.”On House Republicans holding Democrat overreach accountable on the floor this week:“We’re not slowing down with the bills we’re bringing. Of course, this week, the No Rogue Judges Act. And I think it’s been laid out really well, the abuses that we’ve been seeing with some of these district court judges that just feel their role is to try to stop the duly elected President of the United States and Donald Trump because they disagree with his policies, as opposed to carrying out their duty to interpret the Constitution and the laws of this country. If they’re going to overstep their boundaries, should they be able to have, literally at a district level, an ability to change the law for the entire country, when ultimately the US Supreme Court is going to have to decide many of these big issues? But we’re taking that up.“We’re also, of course, going to continue to fight for the integrity of the vote to make sure that people that have come here illegally by the millions cannot register and vote, and that there will be actual safeguards and consequences for people who come to this country and vote illegally. We’re going to bring that bill again, give everybody an opportunity to state their position on that as well.”On rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse in the federal government:“As you look at reconciliation, one of the things we’re looking to do is to finally start to root out waste, fraud, and abuse in government spending. Obviously, the mandatory spending side is what we look at heavily on the reconciliation side. But we’ve been working closely with the President’s DOGE Commission. For anybody who didn’t see it, I thought it was a very refreshing exercise to watch Elon Musk and all the other leaders of DOGE come together and do, in essence, a town hall meeting talking about the methods, the methodology, and the sophistication that is being used to root out waste, fraud, and abuse in government spending. When people fill out their taxes in just two weeks, there’s a lot of anger and frustration when people send their money into Washington, and they wonder when they hear these stories of the billions of dollars in wasteful programs.“These aren’t just anecdotes. As Elon and the DOGE commission members have been finding out, it’s rampant throughout every agency in federal government, whether it’s just inefficiencies, which is bad enough, or flat-out fraud, abuse, and corruption. They’re identifying billions and hundreds of billions of dollars in waste that can and should be rooted out because every dollar of waste here in Washington, number one is deficit spending that we would not be adding to our deficit, but it’s money that can be reinvested to make programs work the way they were intended by Congress and by the President – to see how serious they take these jobs. Many of these people are very accomplished in their own rights, people that have their own careers and are stepping aside and doing this work to make government work better for all the people of this country. I was very encouraged by it. I wish everybody in the country saw it because when you watch how the left is trying to demonize not the waste in government, I wish the left was as fervent at going after waste in government as they’re going after the people that are trying to root out the waste in government.“Elon’s giving up a lot to do this. As an individual, you see the personal attacks, death threats that are being made against him. That’s real, and it’s disgusting and disgraceful. But it also shows he must clearly be touching on something to the core. How much waste is out there that somebody would threaten his life because he’s trying to find out and root out that waste? We’re going to continue working with DOGE to root out the waste, lock as much of it into law as possible. If we can fit it in a budget reconciliation, we surely will. If it’s going to come later in a recisions package, then we’re going to do it as best as we can to achieve those real savings for the taxpayers of this country who are counting on us to deliver.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Radiology reports available on app

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Health Bureau announced today that users can now view radiology reports saved into their eHealth accounts by the Hospital Authority, the Department of Health and private healthcare providers (HCPs) through the eHealth app.

    In general, users can view the reports through the “Investigations” function on the app 14 days after the reports are released. The app’s information centre will also issue notifications.

    The bureau stressed that the new function allows citizens to access their own radiology reports anytime, eliminating the inconvenience of storing paper reports and saving costs on redundant tests. This also facilitates authorised HCPs in conducting analysis and comparison, thereby providing a seamless and personalised care journey for citizens.

    To enable the building of comprehensive electronic health records, the bureau advised patients that when selecting private HCPs for examinations they should first enquire as to whether the HCPs can store examination records into their personal eHealth accounts.

    Currently, all public HCPs, and over 115 private HCPs, involving more than 550 service locations in total, are technically ready. If patients have given “sharing consent” to private HCPs, their radiology reports can then be kept in their eHealth accounts for access by themselves and by authorised healthcare professionals.

    As of the end of February, 40 private HCPs have deposited radiology reports into the eHealth accounts of over 3.1 million citizens after obtaining their authorisation.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Tyton Partners and Ufi Ventures Release 2025 Annual VocTech Market Report: Policy Inflection, Skills Gaps, and AI Transformations Define the Future of Workforce Development

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, April 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tyton Partners, the leading strategy consultancy and investment advisor in global education, and Ufi Ventures, the UK’s specialist investor in vocational technology, have published their fifth annual report on the future of workforce development, The Jobs Frontier 2025.

    The report reflects on a year marked by political upheaval, economic uncertainty, and rapid technological change. It also explores how these trends are shaping investment priorities and public-private responses across the UK and globally, with a strategic review of the implications of 2024 alongside scenarios for the remainder of 2025.

    Key takeaways from the 2025 report include:

    • Macroeconomic uncertainty, demographic change, and technological acceleration are reshaping the UK workforce.
    • Labour shortages remain acute, particularly in the green economy, education, health and social care, and tech.
    • The new US administration’s policies have introduced considerable uncertainty and are shifting spending priorities – and perhaps jobs and skills requirements – across Europe.
    • Investment in VocTech has rebounded in the UK but remains cautious globally.
    • AI and automation are changing the dynamics of employment and workforce development.
    • Public-private partnerships are emerging as essential to addressing systemic workforce challenges.

    Nick Kind, Managing Director at Tyton Partners, said:
    “We are entering a decisive period for workforce transformation. The choices made by government, employers and investors over the next 12 months will determine whether we bridge critical skills gaps or entrench inequality further. This report is designed to inform those decisions.”

    Helen Gironi, Director of Ufi Ventures, added:
    “This year’s analysis reinforces the case for targeted investment where business needs and social value align. The VocTech ecosystem has a vital role to play in enabling access to skills and opportunity—particularly for those who have historically been underserved by mainstream education and training systems. As the UK confronts economic and environmental transition, those solutions will only become more essential.”

    The report also highlights growing momentum behind new public-private partnerships and a renewed policy focus on adult education, apprenticeships and regional skills development, as well as areas where further action is urgently needed.

    Read The Jobs Frontier 2025 here.

    About Tyton Partners
    Tyton Partners is the leading provider of strategy consulting and investment banking services to the global knowledge and information services sector. With offices in Boston and New York City, the firm has an experienced team of bankers and consultants who deliver a unique spectrum of services from mergers and acquisitions and capital markets access to strategy development that helps companies, organizations, and investors navigate the complexities of the education, media, and information markets. Tyton Partners leverages a deep foundation of transactional and advisory experience and an unparalleled level of global relationships to make its clients’ aspirations a reality and to catalyze innovation in the sector. Learn more at tytonpartners.com.

    About Ufi Ventures

    Ufi Ventures is the investment arm of Ufi VocTech Trust, investing in early-stage EdTech companies building digital technologies to deliver the skills needed for work, now and in the future. We focus on early-stage companies with an ambition to use technology to make a positive and scalable impact on skills development for adults. Learn more at ufi.co.uk/ventures.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Huizenga Slams Whitmer’s Harbor-Killing EGLE Mandate

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-02)

    Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) released the following statement regarding the Whitmer Administration’s ill-defined EGLE requirements for PFAS testing as a condition for harbor dredging. There has been a critical lack of communication with communities as well as on the specifics regarding PFAS standards. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) recently informed Congressman Huizenga’s Office that USACE Headquarters will not authorize PFAS testing until the State of Michigan defines the threshold for acceptable levels. Without this clarification from the State of Michigan, new dredging cannot occur. The inability to remove material from inner harbors – where freighters deliver aggregate material – threatens imminent shoaling, harbor closures, and further delivery of critical construction materials.

    “Governor Whitmer’s ‘act first, define later’ approach to dredging will hurt families, communities, small businesses, and job creation across Michigan,” said Congressman Bill Huizenga. “This is the equivalent of writing a speeding a ticket when there is no posted speed limit. For this reason, I have written to encourage EGLE to halt its implementation until the impacts can be further discussed and defined, and so that dredging activities can resume as needed.  As Co-Chair of the Great Lakes Task Force and a founding member of the PFAS Task Force, I understand the threat of PFAS in our communities. Our efforts to combat PFAS contamination, however, are undermined by vague regulatory requirements, like this one, which would impact harbors at 14 locations across Michigan. These inner harbors, including Holland, Grand Haven, St. Joseph and South Haven, may not be dredged. As a result, shoaling could block cargo ships and cripple our local economies up and down the lakeshore. Additionally, if aggregate is not able to be shipped in, it will dramatically raise the taxpayer cost of infrastructure improvements.”

    Last week, Congressman Huizenga sent a letter to Governor Whitmer sharing his concerns. You can read his letter to the governor here.

    Background:

    Here is the list of the 14 federal harbors identified by EGLE that are likely to be impacted:

     

    Alpena

    Black River, MI (Port Huron)

    Clinton River

    Detroit River

    Grand Haven (inner)

    Holland (Inner)

    Manistee (inner)

    Menominee

    Monroe

    Rouge

    Saginaw

    South Haven (inner)

    St. Clair

    St. Joe (inner)

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyer Remarks at Press Conference on Trump’s Executive Order Attacking Federal Workers’ Union Rights

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

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) delivered remarks at a press conference hosted by the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) to oppose Trump’s retaliatory attempt to outlaw federal unions. Below is a full transcript of his remarks:

    Click here for a full video of his remarks

    “I want to thank Jamie Raskin, I want to thank the leaders of federal [labor movement], I thank Liz Shuler, President Saunders, and others who represent a broader spectrum, because as President Kelley said, this is not simply about federal employees, this is not simply about public employees, this is about whether Americans are going to have the right to organize [and bargain collectively], which is an inherent right in almost every democracy of the world, as a matter of fact every democracy of the world. I can remember when Lech Wałęsa was arguing for freedom from Soviet domination, from communist oppression, and he talked about organizing, talked about solidarity. He talked about organizing and bargaining, because we know, as individuals, you cannot bargain with great enterprise. So, you need to be organized, collectively, so you represent the interest of many, not the few.

    “I was at the Supreme Court yesterday. It says we are a nation of laws; we are not a nation of Executive Orders. And what we have seen over the last two plus months, almost three months now, is a president who believes he can organize and govern by fiat. That is called dictatorship, not democracy. Donald Trump’s Executive Order terminating union rights for hundreds of thousands of federal workers is destructive, very disturbing, and perhaps and probably, not perhaps, probably illegal.

    “Now let me tell you what he’s doing now. Homan, who heads up the immigration authority, said he doesn’t care what the courts say. Ladies and gentlemen of America, my fellow citizens, if we don’t care what the courts say, our government of laws is defunct. It’s not surprising, however, it’s part of Trump and his administration’s unrelenting effort to fire, traumatize, and vilify the patriots who make our government function for the people.

    “OMB Director Russell Vought made their strategy clear when he said, ‘we want bureaucrats to be traumatically effected.’ Every day of this administration they have been traumatizing public employees. Now let me tell you they say they want to have an efficient government. What is the worst thing to do to have efficiency in any enterprise? It is to undermine the confidence, morale, and focus of the employees you’re asking to carry out the responsibilities of the government. He went on to say, ‘when they wake up in the morning,’ now this is a federal employee on whom America relies, on who we rely, ‘we want them to not want to go to work because they are increasingly viewed as villains.’ The nurse from the VA hospital, the villain? The inspector in a food processing plant that makes sure that food is safe to eat, villains? Villains? The air traffic controllers that you pointed out, who make sure that this airspace is safe for us to fly in, because when they fail, we know there is death and tragedy that follows. Vought, who is OMB Director, and one of the right-hand people of Donald Trump, said, ‘we want their funding to be shut down,’ not reduced, shut down. They sent two million letters to say, ‘you can resign.’ Think of every air traffic controller walking off the job. You are stuck wherever you are. If you have a loved one who dies in California, you can’t get there. 

    “Congress has passed multiple laws enshrining and expanding the right to organize and bargain collectively. That is the law. This president, however, thinks he can go on governing through Executive Orders as if he makes the law. I’m hopeful that our courts will deem this latest Executive Order illegal, yes, I think it is illegal, as they have from so many of Trump administration’s actions these past few months. Now, Trump said in the election, ‘I’m going to be your retribution.’ Now guess who’s filing some of these suits that the courts have said were right? [points to Labor leaders] Labor organizations this is the retaliation, this is the revenge, this is the shut them up effort. Trump administration’s actions are consistent, however, with the Republican Party’s longstanding hostility to the rights of working men and women to organize and bargain collectively. This action reflects this administration’s agenda to serve the interests of the richest individuals, and the most powerful and wealthy corporations in our country. They don’t need to organize. They have a lot of money, and one of them has $450 billion or thereabouts. This administration does not have concern for the law, for common sense, or for the welfare of our federal employees and the American people they serve, but by God all of us do in standing here, and I hope all of you standing in front of me do, because we want America to continue to be America, that recognizes the rights of individuals to come together and to express to the Congress, to the president, their grievances, and be able to bargain for their rights. That, my friends, is America. And I yield to my dear friend, one of the senior members of the Congress of the United States, who spoke so eloquently yesterday as we sat here arguing for the same objective: fairness and justice. Don Beyer.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyer Statement on Trump’s Latest Attack on Federal Workers’ Union Rights

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

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement on the Trump Administration’s executive order to strip federal employees’ right to collectively bargain across the federal government:

    “Today’s executive order terminating union rights for hundreds of thousands of federal workers is part of Donald Trump and his administration’s continued effort to fire, traumatize, and vilify the patriots who carry out the duties of the federal government in service of the American people. For the past 67 days since Trump took office, this attack has been as destructive as it has been unrelenting.

    “The architect of this assault, Trump’s Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought, made their strategy clear: ‘we want the bureaucrats to be traumatically affected. When they wake up in the morning, we want them to not want to go to work because they are increasingly viewed as the villains. We want their funding to be shut down… we want to put them in trauma.’

    “In the past century, the right to organize and bargain collectively has been enshrined and expanded through multiple laws passed by the Congress. This president, however, thinks he can govern through executive order as if he makes the law. I am hopeful that our courts will deem this latest executive order illegal, as they have for so many of the Trump Administration’s actions these past few months. I will continue to work with my friends who represent the working men and women who serve our country every day.

    “It is clear that neither the law nor common sense nor the welfare of our federal employees and the American people they serve are of any concern to the Trump Administration. Its conduct is consistent with the Republican Party’s longstanding hostility to the rights of working men and women to organize and bargain collectively. It also reflects this administration’s agenda to serve the interests of the richest individuals and the most powerful and wealthy corporations in America.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyer Statement on Trump’s Mass Dismissal of Federal Employees at HHS

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

    WASHINGTON, DC –  Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today regarding President Donald Trump’s mass dismissal of thousands of federal employees at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS):

    “Donald Trump’s mass purge of staff at the Department of Health and Human Services today is outrageous, inhumane, and obscene. It is not an improvement to government efficiency; it is the wholesale destruction of government. Neither Elon Musk nor his minions have any idea of the consequences of their actions because they do not give them any forethought. In this case, those consequences will be measured in American lives lost.

    “The patriots who work at HHS devote their careers to keeping the American people healthy. They are inspectors who ensure our food and medicine is safe to consume; scientists and researchers who track, treat, and cure dangerous diseases; health care professionals who help Americans access Medicare and Medicaid; mental health and addiction specialists; and so much more. This administration has deemed them all ‘villains’ – to quote Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought.

    “We ought to attract the best and brightest to protect the health of the American people. These mass layoffs are wiping out a generation of top talent, however. Many of these employees are on the brink of breakthroughs on various diseases and treatments. Firing them – and rescinding vital funds for these programs – puts an abrupt stop to this work. Every day that HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. advances his extreme anti-science agenda further undermines the current and future health and economic prosperity of our nation.

    “These actions are almost certainly illegal. I believe our courts will arrive at that same conclusion, as they have so many times with this administration’s actions over the past few months. The Congress owes it to the Constitution, to the Founders, and to the American people to exercise the power of the People’s House. We make the law, not the president. The Trump Administration’s disregard for the separation of powers and our system of checks and balances threatens to destroy our democracy.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoyer, Colleagues Statement on Maryland Immigrant Deported in ‘Error’ by Trump White House

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

    WASHINGTON, DC –  Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) and U.S. Representatives Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Sarah Elfreth (MD-03), April McClain Delaney (MD-06) and Johnny Olszewski (MD-02) released the following statement after the Trump White House conceded to deporting Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, a Maryland immigrant, in ‘error,’ sending him to a Salvadoran prison where he remains:

    “Yesterday, the Trump Administration admitted that it abducted and unlawfully deported Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, a Marylander, the husband of a U.S. citizen, and the father of a U.S. citizen child with disabilities. He had just picked up his son, who has autism, when Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detained him. The Trump Administration sent him to a notorious mega-prison in El Salvador without a hearing or any semblance of due process. The Administration has produced no viable evidence that he was a member of any gang and admitted his detention and removal were an ‘error.’

    “He was given no chance to see what he was accused of or to plead his case—just snatched, shackled, and shipped off to a Salvadoran prison with the very gang members whose persecution he had fled and had been given protection from.

    “As the Trump Administration stated in a filing in this case: ‘On March 15, although ICE was aware of his protection from removal to El Salvador, Abrego Garcia was removed to El Salvador because of an administrative error.’ This extraordinary statement is not a claim from a plaintiff’s attorney or an ‘activist judge,’ it is a frank admission by the Trump Administration itself.

    “This is not immigration enforcement. This is plainly a miscarriage of justice that must be remedied. The Trump Administration admitted in open court that it made an ‘error.’ It must remedy this error by bringing Mr. Abrego Garcia back to America immediately.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bergman Urges President Trump to Visit Michigan Following Devastating Ice Storm

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jack Bergman (MI-1)

    Bergman Urges President Trump to Visit Michigan Following Devastating Ice Storm

    Washington, April 2, 2025

     

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Jack Bergman (MI-01) issued a formal request to President Donald J. Trump, urging him to visit the communities across Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula that were severely impacted by last weekend and this week’s devastating ice storms.

    In a letter sent to President Trump, Rep. Bergman emphasized the widespread destruction caused by the storms, which left thousands of residents without power and caused significant damage to critical infrastructure throughout the region.

    Read Rep. Bergman’s full letter to President Trump here or below:

    April 2, 2025

    The Honorable Donald J. Trump

    President of the United States
    The White House
    Washington, D.C.

    Dear President Trump,

    I hope this letter finds you well. I write to respectfully request your consideration in visiting the communities impacted by the recent ice storm that struck Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula earlier this week.

    As the U.S. Representative for Michigan’s First Congressional District, I have been in close communication with emergency coordinators and responders across every county as they address the widespread impacts this storm has had on our communities. Thousands of residents have been left without power, infrastructure has been severely damaged, and the livelihoods of countless families and small businesses have been disrupted. The effects of the storm have been particularly devastating in our rural and remote communities, where recovery efforts face additional logistical challenges.

    Your presence would not only bring national attention to the hardships my constituents are enduring but would also provide much-needed encouragement to the first responders, utility workers, and volunteers who are working tirelessly to restore essential services. Northern Michiganders and Yoopers are among the strongest and most resilient in the country, but a visit from you would be a powerful reminder that we are not alone in this recovery.

    I would be honored to accompany you on a tour of the affected areas and facilitate meetings with local officials, emergency personnel, and families impacted by the storm. I am confident that your leadership and concern for Michigan’s First District will be deeply appreciated by those working to rebuild and recover.

    Thank you for your time and your continued commitment to the well-being of all Americans. I look forward to the opportunity to welcome you to Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula.

    Sincerely,

    Jack Bergman
    Member of Congress

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Counter Terrorism officers call on parents to be aware

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Counter Terrorism officers from the Met Police are urging parents across London to be aware of the signs that might indicate that their child could be vulnerable to radicalisation or being drawn into dangerous forms of violent extremism.

    The call comes after heightened public and media focus on how schoolchildren are increasingly being drawn into extreme and radical ideologies after a similar storyline was featured in current TV drama Adolescence where a young schoolboy was drawn into a violent form ‘incel’ ideology online.

    Detective Superintendent Jane Corrigan, who is the Met’s London Prevent Co-ordinator said: “The themes and storyline in Adolescence have sparked some incredibly important debate about dangerous rhetoric and ideologies that young schoolchildren can be exposed to through online and social media platforms.

    “While it’s a fictitious drama, the story is grounded in a reality that we are seeing more and more in our work within Counter Terrorism Policing. Young people are being referred into us, and in almost every instance, a big part of their vulnerability is coming from what they are doing, seeing and consuming online.

    “But it’s actually those who aren’t being referred to us who most concern us. That’s why it is so important that parents and carers are taking an active interest in what their child is doing online – to have those conversations and be aware of the potential warning signs. And if following that, they are still concerned or worried about their child, then it’s really important they reach out for more help as quickly as possible.

    “The Act Early website is an excellent starting place, with tips and guidance on how to have those conversations and some of the warning signs to look out for. And there is also a support line they can call to get advice direct from one of our specialist officers.”

    If you are worried about someone, then visit the ACT Early website – actearly.uk – or call the Act Early Support Line on 0800 011 3764, in confidence, to speak with specially trained officers.

    Although public attention has been particularly drawn to this issue as a result of the Adolescence drama, Counter Terrorism officers have been concerned for some time over the increasing numbers of young people being radicalised.

    These concerns have found to be proven by recently published figures for terrorism arrests and Prevent referrals.

    Both 2023 and 2024 were the highest two years on record in terms of the number of children aged 17 or under being arrested for terrorism related offences, with 43 and 39 such arrests respectively. In 2002, there were only three such arrests and even as recently as 2019, the equivalent figure was as low as 12.

    Prevent referral figures paint a similar picture, with almost six out of every ten Prevent referrals in 2023/24 now relating to those aged 17 and under, up from around five in every ten back in 2016/17.

    Detective Superintendent Corrigan added: “I appreciate that this might seem quite daunting or unsettling for some parents or carers. And while it is still only a very small proportion of young people who may actually be affected, parents must not be fooled into thinking that this is something that only happens to others. We’ve had referrals and provided support through Prevent to a whole range of children, relating to a whole mix of different ideologies.

    “So please, visit the ACT Early website, speak to your child and if you have any concerns at all then trust your instincts and get in touch with us so that we can help – before it might become too late.”

    Prevent is the government-led programme which aims to stop vulnerable people from being drawn into terrorism, with police working with other safeguarding agencies to provide the necessary support.

    The public can also take an active role in reporting any terrorist or extremist online content that they come across via gov.uk/ACT.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Trump’s trade war will hurt everyone – from Cambodian factories to US online shoppers

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lisa Toohey, Professor of Law, UNSW Sydney

    It had the hallmarks of a reality TV cliffhanger. Until recently, many people had never even heard of tariffs. Now, there’s been rolling live international coverage of so-called “Liberation Day”, as US President Donald Trump laid out tariffs to be imposed on countries around the world.

    Just hours ago, Trump announced imports to the United States from all countries will be subject to a new “baseline” 10% tariff. This is an additional tax charged by US Customs and Border Protection when products cross the border.

    The baseline tariff is expected to take effect from April 5, and the higher reciprocal tariffs on individual countries from April 9. That leaves no time for businesses to adjust their supply chains.

    What might the next “episode” hold for the rest of the world? We can expect many countries to retaliate, bringing in tariffs and trade penalties of their own. That comes with risks.

    Tariffs on the whole world

    No country has been spared from today’s baseline tariffs, including many of the US’s traditional allies.

    Vietnam will be among the hardest hit, with a 46% tariff. China, South Korea and Japan will also feel the brunt of the newest announcement – all subject to tariffs of between 24% and 34%. The European Union is subject to 20%.

    Many countries had already vowed to retaliate.

    In a recent speech, the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said “all instruments are on the table”. She also stressed that the single market is the “safe harbour” for EU members.

    Canada was apparently spared from the baseline 10% tariff. But it still has to contend with previously announced 25% tariffs on the automotive and other sectors.

    Canada’s new prime minister, Mark Carney, has said “nothing is off the table” in terms of retaliation.

    Major tariffs on Asia

    China’s 34% tariff is a further aggravation to already fractious relations between the world’s two largest economies.

    Vietnam is especially reliant on the US market, and has been trying to negotiate its way through tariff threats. This has included unprecedented agreements to accept deported Vietnamese citizens from the US.

    Until this point, Vietnam had benefited from tensions between the US and China. These new enormous tariffs will have large ripple effects through not only Vietnam, but also less economically developed Cambodia (49% tariff) and Myanmar (44% tariff).

    Is it worth fighting back?

    Vulnerable countries may not have the leverage to fight back. It is hard to imagine what leverage Cambodia or Myanmar could have against the US, given the disparity in resources.

    Other countries consider it is not worth the fight. For example, Australia is rightly questioning whether a tit-for-tat strategy is effective, or will just ramp up the problem further.

    One country that has flown under the radar is Russia. Two-way trade with Russia is small, and subject to sanctions. But US media have reported Trump would like to expand the trading relationship in the future.

    A nightmare for the US Postal Service

    One of the interesting side effects of Trump’s announcements relates to what trade experts call the “de minimis” rule: usually, if you make a small purchase online, you don’t pay import taxes when the item arrives in your country.

    Trump closed this loophole in February. Now, US tariffs apply to everything, even if below the “de minimis” amount of US$800.

    This won’t just be a nightmare for online shoppers. Some 100,000 small parcels arrive in the US every hour. Tariffs will now have to be calculated on each package and in coordination with US Customs and Border Protection.

    Boycotts and retaliation

    We can also expect consumer backlash to increase worldwide, too. Canada’s “elbows up” movement is one template.

    Consumers around the world are already choosing to redirect their spending away from US products, expressing their anger at the Trump administration’s stance on trade, diversity equity and inclusion (DEI) policies, environmental protection, gender rights and more.

    Consumers should be careful about jumping on the bandwagon without doing their homework, though. Boycotting a US fast food outlet might make you feel better (and frankly may be better for your health), but that’s also going to impact the local franchise owner.

    Hating Americans en masse is also not productive – many US citizens are themselves deeply upset at what is happening.

    Claiming victory while consumers pay more

    Watch out for the impending claim of victory – one of Trump’s mantras popularised in the recent movie, The Apprentice.

    The US trade deficit rocketed after Trump’s previous tariff announcements this year, as importers scrambled to stockpile supplies before price increases.

    This cannot happen this time, because the tariffs come into effect in just three days.

    In the short term, the monthly trade deficit will decline if imports return to normal, which will give Trump a chance to claim the policies are working – even if it’s just a rebound effect.

    But these tariffs will harm rather than help ordinary Americans. Everyday purchases like clothes (made in places like Vietnam, Cambodia and China) could soon cost a lot more than they used to – with a $20 t-shirt going up to nearly $30, not including US sales taxes.

    As this reality TV-style trade drama continues to unfold, the world should prepare for more episodes, more cliffhangers, and more uncertainty.

    Lisa Toohey receives public research funding from the Australian Government and is a past recipient of a Fulbright Fellowship.

    – ref. Trump’s trade war will hurt everyone – from Cambodian factories to US online shoppers – https://theconversation.com/trumps-trade-war-will-hurt-everyone-from-cambodian-factories-to-us-online-shoppers-253726

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: What Donald Trump’s dramatic US trade war means for global climate action

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rakesh Gupta, Associate Professor of Accounting & Finance, Charles Darwin University

    US President Donald Trump’s new trade war will not only send shockwaves through the global economy – it also upsets efforts to tackle the urgent issue of climate change.

    Trump has announced a minimum 10% tariff to be slapped on all exports to the United States. A 34% duty applies to imports from China and a 20% rate to products from the European Union. Australia has been hit with the minimum 10% tariff.

    The move has prompted fears of a global economic slowdown. This might seem like a positive for the climate, because greenhouse gas emissions are closely tied to economic growth.

    However, in the long term, the trade war is bad news for global efforts to cut emissions. It is likely to lead to more energy-intensive goods produced in the US, and dampen international investment in renewable energy projects.

    How does global trade affect emissions?

    Traditionally, growth in the global economy leads to greater emissions from sources such as energy use in both manufacturing and transport. Conversely, emissions tend to fall in periods of economic decline.

    Trade tensions damage the global economy. This was borne out in the tariff war between the US and China, the world’s two largest economies, in 2018 and 2019.

    Trump, in his first presidential term, imposed tariffs on billions of dollars worth of imports from China. In response, China introduced or increased tariffs on thousands of items from the US.

    As a result, the International Monetary Fund estimated global gross domestic product (GDP) would fall by 0.8% in 2020. The extent of its true impact on GDP is difficult to determine due to the onset of COVID in the same year.

    However, Trump’s tariff war is far broader this time around, and we can expect broadscale damage to global GDP.

    In the short-term, any decline is likely to have a positive impact on emissions reduction. We saw this effect during the COVID-19 pandemic, when global production and trade fell.

    But unfortunately, this effect won’t last forever.

    Domestic production isn’t always a good thing

    Every country consumes goods. And according to Trump’s trade plan, which aims to revive the US manufacturing base, the goods his nation requires will be produced domestically rather than being imported.

    Unfortunately, this US production is likely to be inefficient in many cases. A central tenet of global trade is that nations focus on making goods where they have a competitive advantage – in other words, where they can manufacture the item more cheaply than other nations can. That includes making them using less energy, or creating fewer carbon emissions.

    If the US insists on manufacturing everything it needs domestically, we can expect many of those goods to be more emissions-intensive than if they were imported.

    Renewable energy slowdown?

    Globally, investment in renewable energy has been growing. The US trade war jeopardises this growth.

    Renewable energy spending is, in many cases, a long-term investment which may not produce an immediate economic reward. The logic is obvious: if we don’t invest in reducing emissions now, the economic costs in the future will be far worse.

    However, the US tariffs create a new political imperative. Already, there are fears it may trigger a global economic recession and increase living costs around the world.

    National governments are likely to become focused on protecting their own populace from these financial pressures. Business and industry will also become nervous about global economic conditions.

    And the result? Both governments and the private sector may shy away from investments in renewable energy and other clean technologies, in favour of more immediate financial concerns.

    The COVID experience provides a cautionary tale. The unstable economic outlook and higher interest rates meant banks were more cautious about financing some renewable energy projects.

    And according to the International Energy Agency, small to medium-sized businesses became more reluctant to invest in renewable energy applications such as heat pumps and solar panels.

    What’s more, the slowing in global trade during the pandemic meant the supply of components and materials vital to the energy transition was disrupted.

    There are fears this disruption may be repeated following the US tariff move. For example, the duty on solar products from China to the US is expected to rise to 60%, just as demand for solar energy increases from US data centres and artificial intelligence use.

    Few nations can afford to impose retaliatory tariffs on the US imports.

    Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, for example, says this nation will not slap new duties on US imports, saying: “We will not join a race to the bottom that leads to higher prices and slower growth”.

    China, however, can be expected to return fire. Already it has halted imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the US for 40 days – a move attributed to trade tensions.

    This may seem like good news for emissions reduction. However, China, like all other nations, needs energy. With less gas from the US, it may resort to burning more coal – which generates more CO₂ when burnt than gas.

    Prime Minister Anthony Albanese responds to Trump’s tariff announcement.

    An uncertain time

    Free global trade has worldwide benefits. It helps reduce poverty and stimulates innovation and technology. It can improve democracy and individual freedoms.

    And, with the right safeguards in place, global trade can help drive the clean energy transition. Global trade improves efficiency and innovation and technology. This is likely to benefit innovation in clean energy and energy efficiency.

    Trump’s tariff war weakens global trade, and will slow the world’s progress towards decarbonisation. It is a most uncertain time – both for the world’s economy, and its climate.

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

    – ref. What Donald Trump’s dramatic US trade war means for global climate action – https://theconversation.com/what-donald-trumps-dramatic-us-trade-war-means-for-global-climate-action-253740

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Leonid Baltovsky: “Values are a person’s response to the challenges of history”

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Leonid Baltovsky

    Leonid Baltovsky, professor of the Department of History and Philosophy at SPbGASU, took part in the scientific discussion “Values as a Philosophical Problem”. The discussion took place on March 29 at the Saint Petersburg Humanitarian Trade Union University. Scientists from the Institute of Philosophy of the Russian Academy of Sciences presented reports at this event.

    We asked Leonid Vasilyevich what values are and who forms them.

    – Values are a person’s response to the moral and aesthetic challenges of history. Aesthetic values are associated with the identification, experience, and creation of harmony. They are associated with a person’s ability to have deep, strong, vivid emotional experiences, the ability to perceive many shades of moods and feelings.

    Even the ancient Greeks understood harmony as the main quality of the cosmos, which manifests itself as the unity of diversity, coherence, consonance, integrity. Harmonization of a person’s relationship with the world, with other people, with oneself causes a feeling of psychological comfort, enjoyment, pleasure. Harmony is experienced with inspiration, giving birth to beauty. These are the things, ideas, meanings for which a person, group, society are ready to create, create or sacrifice. Values do not arise by themselves, they are the result of the spiritual development of humanity. The creators of values are scientists, writers, actors, artists, that is, people of intellectual labor who affirm life through labor. Labor in itself is an important moral value.

    – Why are values important?

    – Values acquire significance in the orientation of a person’s life, help to form a dream and set a goal. They allow one to make the right decisions and find the best options for choosing the means to implement the plan, ensuring mutual understanding in interactions with other people in society, etc.

    – What should a person do whose values do not coincide with the values of other people?

    – To begin with, such a person can be recommended a method that in scientific literature has received the name “the theory of the “mirror “I””, in which society serves as a kind of mirror. In such a mirror, we can see the reactions of other people to our own behavior. Our concept of ourselves originates precisely in this idea. Observing the reaction of others, a person corrects his idea of what is due, forming in himself the universal human values that we discussed above.

    In relation to value orientations, the most important thing is that in the pursuit of the means of life, a person should not lose its purpose and meaning.

    – Why is the discussion about values relevant in our time?

    – The relevance is caused by the need to preserve and strengthen traditional Russian spiritual and moral values, as well as the need to counter socio-cultural threats to Russia’s national security in matters affecting the traditional values of Russian society.

    – How do traditional Russian spiritual and moral values differ from universal human ones?

    – Those that reflect the identity of the Russian people and their spiritual guidelines. According to the decree (Decree of the President of the Russian Federation No. 809 of November 9, 2022 “On Approval of the Fundamentals of State Policy for the Preservation and Strengthening of Traditional Russian Spiritual and Moral Values”), traditional values are moral guidelines that are passed down from generation to generation and form the basis of the all-Russian civic identity. These include: life, dignity, rights and freedoms of man; patriotism, citizenship, service to the Fatherland and responsibility for its fate; high moral ideals (however, they are not disclosed in the decree), a strong family, creative work; the priority of the spiritual over the material, humanism, mercy, justice; collectivism, mutual assistance and mutual respect; historical memory and continuity of generations, as well as the unity of the peoples of Russia. While universal human values unite people of all nations, regardless of where they live, and include such concepts as justice, love, and virtue.

    – What was said during the discussion that would be worth conveying to students and colleagues?

    – Students should respect the cultural and historical heritage of the country. Diligently, carefully listen, study history through familiarity with the biographies and activities of outstanding people of the Fatherland. Knowledge of the achievements of great people will contribute to the formation and development of a sense of patriotism, pride and respect for the talents of Russia.

    The teacher as a bearer of knowledge plays a key role in the process of forming value orientations of student youth. He is not only the creator of the educational process, but also the bearer of ethical standards, a clear example for students in matters of preserving and strengthening spiritual and moral values.

    In adhering to high standards of ethics and morality, a teacher must understand that he is able to embody spiritual values in life through his actions and relationships with others, thereby creating a basis for the formation of similar values in students.

    – What conclusions did the participants in the discussion come to?

    – Participants in the scientific discussion agreed that more attention should be paid to preserving cultural identity, including traditional values, since the socio-cultural changes occurring in the modern world can negatively affect the unity of multinational and multi-confessional Russia.

    The speakers said that traditional values are established, generally accepted beliefs that, in turn, determine the behavior and relationships of people, being the basis for the formation of cultural heritage and the transfer of values from generation to generation. It was said that it is necessary to pay due attention to the upbringing and education of younger generations in the spirit of respect for traditional spiritual and moral values, taking into account the activities of extremist and terrorist organizations, individual media outlets of states unfriendly to Russia.

    The speakers noted the spread of destructive ideologies, including the propaganda of egoism, immorality, permissiveness, denial of the ideals of service to the Fatherland and other values that are no less important for strengthening society.

    The participants in the discussion emphasized that in order to solve emerging problems in preserving and strengthening traditional values, systematic work must be carried out in the fields of education and upbringing, culture and science, mass media and communications.

    Leonid Baltovsky’s participation in the scientific discussion was highly appreciated by the head of the Department of History and Philosophy of SPbGASU Irina Lapina: “I believe that Professor Baltovsky worthily represented the department at such an important event. Our teachers are constantly expanding their scientific horizons and making every effort to cultivate civic consciousness in students and instill correct values in young people.”

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Moolenaar, Dingell Introduce Bill to Improve Services for Rural Veterans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Moolenaar (4th District of Michigan)

    Headline: Moolenaar, Dingell Introduce Bill to Improve Services for Rural Veterans

    Today, Congressman John Moolenaar and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI) reintroduced bipartisan legislation that would require the VA to ensure veterans in rural areas have reliable access to patient advocates to receive better care. Patient advocates assist veterans with paperwork, services, and appeals related to their care.

    “Our nation’s veterans deserve the best possible service from the VA. Unfortunately, veterans know receiving care from the VA often consists of time-consuming paperwork, fighting through layers of red tape, and lengthy appeals. This is especially true for Michigan veterans in rural communities, where the nearest VA clinic may be hundreds of miles away. Patient advocates are an asset for veterans to work through the bureaucracy, and improve accountability in the VA. Our bipartisan legislation will increase the number of patient advocates available to these veterans, so they receive better care and attention from the VA,” said Moolenaar. 

    “America’s veterans rely on the VA for access to vital programs, benefits, and supportive services. Patient advocates employed by the VA are an important source of support for veterans navigating the VA health system, and strengthening the VA workforce is more important than ever,” said Congresswoman Dingell. “I am glad to join Congressman Moolenaar in introducing the Veterans Patient Advocacy Act, which will increase the number of VA patient advocates to so veterans can get easier access to the support they deserve.” 

    The lawmakers previously introduced the Veterans Patient Advocacy Act in 2021 and 2023. The text of the legislation can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Moolenaar, Scholten Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Help Veterans Enter the Workforce

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Moolenaar (4th District of Michigan)

    Headline: Moolenaar, Scholten Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Help Veterans Enter the Workforce

    Congressman John Moolenaar and Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI) have introduced bipartisan legislation that would help veterans and service members finishing their time in the military enter the workforce. The Veterans Fellowship Act would allow states to use federal funding to create fellowship programs for veterans to find jobs with long-term opportunities following the completion of their fellowship. 

    “Veterans often face unique challenges after their service when entering the workforce as civilians. The Veterans Fellowship Act would provide them a pathway to gain useful skills for full-time employment in a new career. Veterans make significant sacrifices to keep our nation safe, and our bipartisan legislation will support them after their service,” said Moolenaar.

    “We are the home of the free because of the brave. Our Veterans Fellowship Act will expand opportunities for our veterans to ensure they have the tools and resources needed to build successful careers,” said Rep. Scholten. “Our veterans have served our country with honor, and we must do everything we can to support them as they transition to civilian life. I’m proud to work with Rep. Moolenaar to support efforts that invest in our veterans and their futures.”

    Moolenaar previously introduced the Veterans Fellowship Act in 2023. Legislative text can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Moolenaar Votes to Avoid Government Shutdown, Support Critical Programs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Moolenaar (4th District of Michigan)

    Headline: Moolenaar Votes to Avoid Government Shutdown, Support Critical Programs

    Today, Congressman John Moolenaar voted for a resolution to keep the federal government from shutting down. The bill funds the government through September 30, 2025 and maintains programs like Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. Additionally, the resolution fully funds veterans programs and the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. The legislation passed by the House in a vote of 217-213 today is a major step in implementing President Trump’s agenda.

    “Avoiding a government shutdown is a necessity. The resolution passed today gives Congress the opportunity to work on the issues important to Michigan residents, like securing the border, restoring American energy independence, and extending tax relief for the middle class. This legislation also provides certainty that vital programs Michigan families rely on will continue to serve them without disruption. It upholds our responsibility to veterans by fully funding the benefits they earned, and maintains critical funds to protect the Great Lakes, while ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent wisely,” said Moolenaar. 

    More information about the government funding package can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: MYANMAR: Children living in the open face additional risk of heat related illnesses after deadly earthquake

    Source: Save the Children

    Children living in the open in Myanmar after being forced from their homes by the deadly earthquake are at additional risk of heat related illnesses as temperatures in parts of the country climb to 40°C (104 F), Save the Children said.
    Many children and their families are living in open spaces after their homes were destroyed in the 7.7 magnitude earthquake on 28 March and due to a shortage of shelters, according to the UN. In Shan state, more than 13,000 people have been displaced, and in Central and Northwestern Myanmar, at least 10,000 buildings have collapsed or been severely damaged [1]. At least 2,700 people have died and thousands more injured.
    April is the hottest month of the year in Myanmar, with temperatures rising ahead of the start of rains in May. In 2024, a record-breaking temperature of 48.2° C in Myanmar was recorded in April in the central region of the country.
    The high temperatures are adding to an already dire situation for children in earthquake affected areas. Children are especially vulnerable to the impacts of heat which can cause severe dehydration, exhaustion and heatstroke. The more that children are exposed to extreme heat, the greater they are at risk of respiratory disease, kidney disease and other health hazards [2].Basic services have been crippled with electricity cut off in some areas and in short supply in others. In Yangon, Myanmar’s largest city, electricity has been restricted to four hours a day.
    Kyaing Thin-, 41, lives in the Mandalay region, close to the epicentre of the earthquake. She is the mother of two boys, aged 13 and 15. Her home was badly damaged, but she managed to escape with her family to a field.
    Kyaing Thin- told Save the Children:
    “We have to sleep outside of our house, using only a mosquito net. My sons were so traumatised by the earthquake that they couldn’t sleep the whole night. They are both sensitive to loud noises, and now, every time they hear one, they panic.
    “Many people lost their homes. They are forced to live on the streets, in open fields, or by the Mandalay Moat. In rural areas, people can move to open fields and build temporary shelters but in a city like Mandalay, most people live in apartments or flats, many of which are now unsafe. This will be the biggest long-term crisis: where will people live?”
    Her son, Zarni-, 13, said:
    “I had no idea what was happening (when the earthquake struck). My brother shouted at me to run. My bed was beside the window so I jumped out. I got hurt a little, but I ran toward the road and lay on the ground. Now, my chest hurts. I wish I had the power of time travel. Then I could go back and fix whatever caused the earthquake.”
    Children in Myanmar were already facing a severe humanitarian crisis before the devastating earthquake. Conflict and climate fueled disasters have left 6.3 million children among the 19.9 million people – or more than one third of the population – needing humanitarian support [3]. Save the Children and its partners are providing food, water and emergency medical care to affected children and their families and working to provide personal hygiene kits and child friendly recreational materials.
    Jeremy Stoner, Acting Asia Regional Director, Save the Children said:
    “Many children in the earthquake affected areas have little to no protection from the scorching heat. The heat is burning during the day, and temperatures barely drop at night. With no or little electricity for fans and limited access to clean water, extreme heat can be lethal for young children.
    “We’re now in a race against time to avoid the secondary impacts of earthquakes, such as disease outbreaks and rising hunger. The humanitarian response in Myanmar has been underfunded for years. Three months into 2025, the humanitarian appeal is only 5% funded and that situation will only be made worse due to funding cuts.
    “With global humanitarian funding under strain, flexible funding from donors is more critical than ever – not only to deliver immediate, life-saving assistance in the aftermath of the earthquake but also to support communities rebuild their lives and futures.”
    Save the Children has been working in Myanmar since 1995, providing life-saving healthcare, food and nutrition, education and child protection programmes.  
    To donate to Save the Children’s Myanmar earthquake appeal go to:  Myanmar-Thailand Earthquake Emergency – Save the Children NZ.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Govt guts Kāinga Ora, third of workforce under axe

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    The gutting of Kāinga Ora shows public housing is not a priority for this Government as it removes a third of the roles at the housing agency.

    “If today’s proposal comes to fruition, it will take the total number of jobs cut from Kāinga Ora to a staggering 1,213 in less than a year,” Labour housing spokesperson Kieran McAnulty said.

    “It’s now crystal clear that this Government doesn’t care about building homes, nor does it care about the tenants who live in public housing as it plans to remove frontline workers who assist with placement of tenants, call centre workers and other staff who help resolve tenant issues.

    “Chris Bishop and the Prime Minister need to be honest with New Zealanders for once and admit that they don’t think it’s their responsibility to house Kiwis in need and that’s why they are cutting funding and jobs.

    “When asked during the election campaign if there would be job cuts at Kāinga Ora, Chris Bishop said ‘I hope so’.

    “What’s also telling is they haven’t committed that any money saved will be put into more housing. If National built public homes at the rate Labour were, there would practically be no public housing waiting list.

    “This isn’t about housing people in need, this is just right-wing ideology in practise,” Kieran McAnulty said.

    Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Abortion care quietly shelved amid staff shortage

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    Abortion care at Whakatāne Hospital has been quietly shelved, with patients told they will likely have to travel more than an hour to Tauranga to get the treatment they need.

    “Imagine being in the position that you need this treatment but have to travel when you’re in a state of distress, with no support,” Labour health spokesperson Ayesha Verrall said.

    “Assistance is offered to other people needing to travel for pregnancy care on the Whakatāne Hospital website – but not for those accessing abortion care.

    “Back in January, Health Minister Simeon Brown said there would be no change to abortion services, but this service is quietly disappearing. Patients have been left without choices and will have to travel long distances without support.

    “The Minister won’t answer the straightforward question of whether abortion is healthcare. This is not putting patients and their needs first, it’s putting his ideology first. As Health Minister, I treated abortion as healthcare, and improved access by introducing a telehealth abortion service.

    “Obstetrics and gynaecology services at Whakatāne Hospital have collapsed due to staff shortages. At the same time, Gisborne Hospital has begged Ministers for help with staffing, and clinicians are leaving Nelson Hospital due to overwork and burnout.

    “The Minister needs to do more than just ask for advice, but to act now and get the staff shortages under control. Patients will suffer if he doesn’t take action,” Ayesha Verrall said.

    Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Is TikTok right? Do I need to eat more protein?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nick Fuller, Clinical Trials Director, Department of Endocrinology, RPA Hospital, University of Sydney

    mavo/Shutterstock

    In the ever-changing wellness industry, one diet obsession has captured and held TikTok’s attention: protein.

    Whether it’s sharing snaps of protein-packed meals or giving tutorials to boost your intake, the message is clear: maximum protein consumption is essential for weight management and wellness.

    Supermarkets have fed this obsession, stacking the shelves with protein-packed bars, shakes and supplements, and protein-boosted versions of just about every food we eat.

    But is all this extra protein as beneficial as it’s made out to be? How much protein do we really need?



    Read more:
    Protein is being added to yoghurt, bread and even coffee – but is it really good for our health?

    Different types of protein

    Protein is an essential macronutrient our bodies need to function correctly.
    It’s made up of building blocks called amino acids. Twenty amino acids link in different combinations to form proteins that are classified into:

    • essential amino acids – ones our bodies can’t make that we need to get through our diet

    • non-essential amino acids – ones our bodies can make.

    When we think about protein, animal-based foods such as meat, chicken, fish, eggs and dairy products are usually top of mind.

    However, the essential amino acids we need to get from our diet can also be found in many plant-based foods, including legumes, nuts, seeds, wholegrains and soy products like tofu.

    Why we need protein

    Proteins are often called the workhorses of life. They’re involved in virtually every process that keeps our bodies functioning and play a vital role in:

    • building and repairing tissue. From our muscles and bones to our skin and nails, proteins are responsible for their growth, renewal and repair

    • fighting infection. Our immune system relies on antibodies, a type of protein, to fight off bacteria and viruses

    • transporting substances such as nutrients and blood sugar through our bodies and taking oxygen from our lungs to our cells

    • regulating processes. Most of the hormones controlling crucial functions, like our metabolism, are proteins

    • managing activity. Protein catalysts, in the form of enzymes, manage vital chemical reactions driving important actions in our bodies, including our ability to digest food

    • providing energy. Protein isn’t a primary energy source but it can be used for energy when other sources are low.

    Protein is vital for almost every process that keeps our body functioning.
    sk/Unsplash

    Protein also plays an essential role in weight management by:

    So influencers have it half right: protein is a must-have. But that doesn’t mean it’s a more-is-better situation.

    How much protein do we actually need?

    Our daily protein requirements are based on our body weight, gender and age.

    Protein should account for around 15–25% of our total daily energy intake, with the national guidelines recommending

    • women consume 0.75 grams of protein per kilo of body weight (and 1.0 grams per kilo of body weight when pregnant or breastfeeding)

    • men consume 0.84 grams of protein per kilo of body weight.

    A woman weighing 72 kilos, for example, should consume 54 grams of protein daily, while a man weighing 87 kilos should consume 73 grams.

    Our recommended protein intake changes as we age, with adults aged over 70 requiring 25% more protein than younger people – or around 67 grams of protein daily for women and 91 grams for men.

    Lean meat is a good source of protein but it’s not the only one.
    Pexels/Taryn Elliott

    This is because, as we age, our bodies stop working as efficiently as before. Around the age of 40, we start experiencing a condition called sarcopenia, where our muscle mass naturally declines, and our body fat starts increasing.

    Because muscle mass helps determine our metabolic rate, when our muscle mass decreases, our bodies start to burn fewer calories at rest.

    Given the role protein plays in muscle growth and preservation, it’s even more vital as we age.



    Read more:
    What can you do to speed up your metabolism?

    What does this look like in real life?

    By including a protein source at every meal, you can easily meet your daily protein needs. With the example below, you end up with around 125g a day for men and around 100g for women.

    Women should consume 0.75 grams of protein per kilo of body weight, while men should consume 0.84 grams. Here’s how to get to 100 or 120 grams.
    Interval Weight Loss

    Broken down into meals, this might look like:

    • breakfast: chickpea scramble = 1.5 fist-sizes of protein

    • morning tea: Greek yoghurt and a handful of nuts

    • lunch: beef stir fry = 1 fist-size of protein

    • afternoon tea: hummus, veggie sticks and one boiled egg

    • dinner: lentil and beef bolognese, and salad = half a fist-size of protein.

    What happens when we consume too much protein?

    The wellness industry may make you think you’re not getting enough protein. But for most people, we are fixating on a problem that doesn’t exist. In fact, you can get too much, when at levels of greater than 2 grams per kilo of body weight per day.

    A diet excessively high in protein can lead to nutritional deficiencies that can result in poor immune function, fatigue and a decrease in bone density because you’re likely to lose out on other nutrients.

    High meat intake, particularly processed meats, may also increase our risk of cancer and heart disease, and can come with a surplus of energy that leads to weight gain.

    Balance is key

    Aim for a diet balanced across all of the macronutrients we need: wholegrain carbohydrates, healthy fats and protein.

    As a guide, aim to fill a quarter of your plate with lean protein (lean meat, poultry, fish, eggs, tofu, nuts, seeds, legumes or beans), a quarter with wholegrain carbohydrates and the rest with vegetables and fruits.

    And avoid those unnecessary, protein-boosted foods and supplements – your health, weight and hip pocket will thank you for it.

    At the Boden Group, Charles Perkins Centre, we are running clinical trials for metabolic health. You can register here to express your interest.

    A/Prof Nick Fuller works for the University of Sydney and RPA Hospital and has received external funding for projects relating to the treatment of overweight and obesity. He is the author and founder of the Interval Weight Loss program, and the author of Healthy Parents, Healthy Kids with Penguin Books.

    – ref. Is TikTok right? Do I need to eat more protein? – https://theconversation.com/is-tiktok-right-do-i-need-to-eat-more-protein-234375

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump’s trade war will hurt everyone – from Cambodian factories to US online shoppers

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Lisa Toohey, Professor of Law, UNSW Sydney

    It had the hallmarks of a reality TV cliffhanger. Until recently, many people had never even heard of tariffs. Now, there’s been rolling live international coverage of so-called “Liberation Day”, as US President Donald Trump laid out tariffs to be imposed on countries around the world.

    Just hours ago, Trump announced imports to the United States from all countries will be subject to a new “baseline” 10% tariff. This is an additional tax charged by US Customs and Border Protection when products cross the border.

    The baseline tariff is expected to take effect from April 5, and the higher reciprocal tariffs on individual countries from April 9. That leaves no time for businesses to adjust their supply chains.

    What might the next “episode” hold for the rest of the world? We can expect many countries to retaliate, bringing in tariffs and trade penalties of their own. That comes with risks.

    Tariffs on the whole world

    No country has been spared from today’s baseline tariffs, including many of the US’s traditional allies.

    Vietnam will be among the hardest hit, with a 46% tariff. China, South Korea and Japan will also feel the brunt of the newest announcement – all subject to tariffs of between 24% and 34%. The European Union is subject to 20%.

    Many countries had already vowed to retaliate.

    In a recent speech, the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said “all instruments are on the table”. She also stressed that the single market is the “safe harbour” for EU members.

    Canada was apparently spared from the baseline 10% tariff. But it still has to contend with previously announced 25% tariffs on the automotive and other sectors.

    Canada’s new prime minister, Mark Carney, has said “nothing is off the table” in terms of retaliation.

    Major tariffs on Asia

    China’s 34% tariff is a further aggravation to already fractious relations between the world’s two largest economies.

    Vietnam is especially reliant on the US market, and has been trying to negotiate its way through tariff threats. This has included unprecedented agreements to accept deported Vietnamese citizens from the US.

    Until this point, Vietnam had benefited from tensions between the US and China. These new enormous tariffs will have large ripple effects through not only Vietnam, but also less economically developed Cambodia (49% tariff) and Myanmar (44% tariff).

    Is it worth fighting back?

    Vulnerable countries may not have the leverage to fight back. It is hard to imagine what leverage Cambodia or Myanmar could have against the US, given the disparity in resources.

    Other countries consider it is not worth the fight. For example, Australia is rightly questioning whether a tit-for-tat strategy is effective, or will just ramp up the problem further.

    One country that has flown under the radar is Russia. Two-way trade with Russia is small, and subject to sanctions. But US media have reported Trump would like to expand the trading relationship in the future.

    A nightmare for the US Postal Service

    One of the interesting side effects of Trump’s announcements relates to what trade experts call the “de minimis” rule: usually, if you make a small purchase online, you don’t pay import taxes when the item arrives in your country.

    Trump closed this loophole in February. Now, US tariffs apply to everything, even if below the “de minimis” amount of US$800.

    This won’t just be a nightmare for online shoppers. Some 100,000 small parcels arrive in the US every hour. Tariffs will now have to be calculated on each package and in coordination with US Customs and Border Protection.

    Boycotts and retaliation

    We can also expect consumer backlash to increase worldwide, too. Canada’s “elbows up” movement is one template.

    Consumers around the world are already choosing to redirect their spending away from US products, expressing their anger at the Trump administration’s stance on trade, diversity equity and inclusion (DEI) policies, environmental protection, gender rights and more.

    Consumers should be careful about jumping on the bandwagon without doing their homework, though. Boycotting a US fast food outlet might make you feel better (and frankly may be better for your health), but that’s also going to impact the local franchise owner.

    Hating Americans en masse is also not productive – many US citizens are themselves deeply upset at what is happening.

    Claiming victory while consumers pay more

    Watch out for the impending claim of victory – one of Trump’s mantras popularised in the recent movie, The Apprentice.

    The US trade deficit rocketed after Trump’s previous tariff announcements this year, as importers scrambled to stockpile supplies before price increases.

    This cannot happen this time, because the tariffs come into effect in just three days.

    In the short term, the monthly trade deficit will decline if imports return to normal, which will give Trump a chance to claim the policies are working – even if it’s just a rebound effect.

    But these tariffs will harm rather than help ordinary Americans. Everyday purchases like clothes (made in places like Vietnam, Cambodia and China) could soon cost a lot more than they used to – with a $20 t-shirt going up to nearly $30, not including US sales taxes.

    As this reality TV-style trade drama continues to unfold, the world should prepare for more episodes, more cliffhangers, and more uncertainty.

    Lisa Toohey receives public research funding from the Australian Government and is a past recipient of a Fulbright Fellowship.

    – ref. Trump’s trade war will hurt everyone – from Cambodian factories to US online shoppers – https://theconversation.com/trumps-trade-war-will-hurt-everyone-from-cambodian-factories-to-us-online-shoppers-253726

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Schrier Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Invest in Rural Health Care

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08) introduced the Improving Care in Rural America Reauthorization Act, a bipartisan bill that would reauthorize critical federal grants focused on improving rural health care. Congresswoman Schrier is joined in introducing this legislation by Representatives Carter (GA-01), Figures (AL-02), and Rulli (OH-06). 

    “The Eighth District is nearly 10,000 square miles, with many of my constituents living in rural communities that depend on a scarce number of medical providers in their area. In Congress, I’m focused on supporting rural health care to ensure that Americans can get care close to home,” said Congresswoman Schrier. “As a doctor, I understand the importance of rural clinics and hospitals. Without them, patients, including those in my district, would have to drive even farther to seek medical care. That’s dangerous in an emergency. That’s why I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to extend key federal grants that strengthen rural health care.”

    Grants like the Rural Health Care Services Outreach, Rural Health Network Development, and Small Health Care Provider Quality Improvement grants enhance health care access and quality for rural Americans. These grants are distributed across the United States to improve the quality and delivery of health care services in rural areas, and establish integrated health care networks. Funding for these grants is set to expire at the end of FY25. Congresswoman Schrier’s bill would reauthorize funding through FY30.  

    Congresswoman Schrier has long worked with both parties to strengthen rural health care. Examples are the Rural Physician Workforce Production Act and the Rural Obstetrics Readiness Act.

    “Health care outcomes should not be dependent on a patient’s zip code. We must ensure that vitally important health services are able to reach people in all communities, which is exactly what the Rural Health Care Services Outreach Programs do,” said Congressman Carter. “Reauthorizing these programs will continue President Trump’s legacy of supporting rural communities’ chronic health care needs through flexible, community-driven solutions.”

    “Improving rural health care is one of my top priorities, and I am proud to support this bipartisan legislation,” said Congressman Figures. “This bill reauthorizes critical programs that will strengthen access to quality health care in my district and other communities across the country.” 

    “Week after week, we hear ridiculous stories of taxpayer money being sent to shadowy organizations overseas. Meanwhile, rural communities here at home are left behind, struggling to access the care they deserve,” said Congressman Rulli. “That’s why I’m proud to stand with Congressman Carter today in sponsoring the Improving Care in Rural America Reauthorization Act of 2025. This reauthorization ensures that grants supporting healthcare in our underserved communities will continue—and taxpayer dollars will go where they’re needed most: to the American people.” 

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Miller, Colleagues Introduce the Seniors’ Access to Critical Medications Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV)

    Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV) joined Diana Harshbarger (R-TN), Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), Congressman Dan Crenshaw (R-TX), and Congressman Darren Soto (D-FL) in reintroducing the bipartisan Seniors’ Access to Critical Medications Act. The legislation would extend a waiver issued by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for 5 years, which allowed Medicare patients to receive essential medications by mail or have caregivers and family members pick them up on their behalf.

    Click here for bill text. 

    “It is vital that people who are dealing with old age or life-threatening illnesses can easily access necessary prescriptions. CMS’ current restrictions make it more challenging for Medicare beneficiaries to obtain medication by limiting pick up only to the patients themselves. In my home state of West Virginia, it can take hours for a patient just to get to their nearest physician or pharmacist and they simply do not have that kind of time to waste when it comes to their health. That’s why I am glad to join Congresswoman Harshbarger in reintroducing the Seniors’ Access to Critical Medications Act which allows patients to receive their prescriptions either through mail or by having a family member or caregiver pick up the medication on their behalf. This bill removes any barriers that prevent Medicare patients from fully accessing life-sustaining treatment,” said Congresswoman Miller.

    “My district in East Tennessee is extremely rural, so for many folks, getting to their healthcare specialist or a pharmacy to pick up a prescription is difficult enough as it is. Now imagine having to undergo this task if you’re elderly with cancer. The ability to be able to mail these crucial medications to our most vulnerable was one of the few silver linings that came out of the COVID-19 pandemic, and it’s our responsibility as lawmakers to make the lives of our most vulnerable easier, not more difficult. This legislation accomplishes just that,” said Congresswoman Harshbarger. 

    Background:

    • During the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE), CMS permitted independent physicians to mail medications directly to Medicare patients or have them delivered by a caregiver or family member if the patient was unable to visit the office in person. This decision has since been reversed, resulting in those with serious conditions like cancer—now facing significant challenges in obtaining their prescribed medications promptly.

    • For patients in rural areas, traveling to a doctor’s office can mean an arduous journey, particularly for those without reliable transportation or who are too ill to travel safely. This legislation would ensure they can continue receiving medications by mail or through those responsible for their care.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Miller, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Declaring April as Second Chance Month

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV) joined Representatives Bruce Westerman (R-AR), Lucy McBath (D-GA), Don Bacon (R-NE), Danny K. Davis (D-IL), Barry Moore (R-AL), and LaMonica McIver (D-NJ), as well as Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) in reintroducing the bicameral Second Chance Month Resolution.

    “In West Virginia, we know how important it is to provide everyone with opportunities to succeed. Recognizing April as Second Chance Month gives hope to those who are reentering the workforce after serving their time incarcerated. When we invest in our communities and put in place resources and support for people released from prisons and jails, we build stronger and safer communities,” said Congresswoman Miller. “This resolution will bring more visibility to Second Chance programs that are instrumental in helping people across the nation get back on the right path as they reenter their communities.”

    “Recognizing April as Second Chance Month is an excellent opportunity to raise awareness on the importance of creating pathways for the millions of Americans previously and currently incarcerated, who have paid their debt to society, and experience the innumerable barriers to re-entering their communities,” said Congressman Westerman. “Each of these Americans have an intrinsic value and are worthy of the dignity that comes with establishing hard-earned jobs and gaining sought-after respect. Everyone deserves a second chance, and Congress must work to break down the stigmas attached to incarceration and reducing recidivism rates. I’m honored to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle on this resolution to restore the dignity of these reformed individuals.” 

    “Since Prison Fellowship launched Second Chance Month in 2017, we are honored to lead this growing national movement that includes more than 1,000 partners committed to unlocking second chances for the 1 in 3 Americans with a criminal record who face nearly 44,000 barriers to building a productive future,” said Heather Rice-Minus, CEO and president of Prison Fellowship.

    “We encourage Congress to pass this Second Chance Month resolution quickly because supporting second chances recognizes the God-given dignity and potential of every person and reinforces our nation’s commitment to creating pathways for new beginnings, healthy communities, and increased public safety,” said Kate Trammell, Prison Fellowship senior vice president of advocacy and legal.

    Background:

    • Millions of American adults with a criminal record face enormous obstacles to successfully re-enter society upon release. When legal and social barriers prohibit a formerly incarcerated person from finding well-paying jobs, this not only negatively impacts them, but also has lasting negative effects for their families. Beyond that, securing gainful employment and being accepted in society has been proven to reduce the likelihood of these individuals returning to prison in the future, ultimately decreasing crime and improving public safety.
    • This resolution was endorsed by Prison Fellowship.
    • This resolution is also supported by Brennan Center for Justice, Right on Crime, CPAC, Niskanen Center, FAMM, and National District Attorneys Association.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Miller, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Support Treatment-in-Place Measures

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV) joined Congressman Mike Carey (R-OH), Congressman Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), and Congressman Pat Ryan (D-NY), all members of the House Ways and Means Committee, in leading the reintroduction of their bipartisan Comprehensive Alternative Response for Emergencies (CARE) Act. The bill would allow seniors on Medicare to receive at-home emergency medical services to treat minor medical incidents by creating a model that reimburses Emergency Medical Service (EMS) providers delivering treatment in place and not just reimburse when Medicare patients are transported to the hospital. 

    Click here for bill text.
     
    “Emergency Medical Services (EMS) providers are at the frontline of delivering care and transportation in rural America. In West Virginia, many patients live hours from a hospital and must consistently rely on EMS for treatment. Our EMS personnel are equipped to provide care to patients that may not be in a dire medical situation, rather than spend precious time and resources on transporting non-emergency patients to a hospital emergency department. This commonsense legislation builds upon the Treatment-in-Place Model to provide timely care to our rural patients and empower EMS providers, and I will continue to work to improve access to quality health care for patients in West Virginia and across the U.S.,” said Congresswoman Miller.

    “For some patients, an emergency room visit may not be necessary and can place additional burdens on our first responders and health care providers in the hospital,” said Congressman Carey. “For many, including seniors on Medicare, treatment in place is more viable, saves time and money, and increases the availability of first responders. These options also save seniors a trip to the emergency room that can result in long wait times, increased costs, and potentially life-threatening complications. I urge my colleagues to join me and pass this bill.”
     
    “Treatment In Place (TIP) could save Medicare between $1.2 and $1.5 billion annually. In addition to the savings, TIP could be a solution to help EMS workforce and resiliency. The goal of all healthcare should be to provide patients with the right care, at the right time, and in the right place which should also be the most cost-effective manner. NAEMT applauds Congressman Carey and Congressman Doggett for their leadership in introducing the Comprehensive Alternative Response for Emergencies (CARE) Act to recognize EMS for the tireless work they do 24/7/365 and update the antiquated payment model for EMS. Right now, Medicare currently does NOT reimburse EMS practitioners for TIP. EMS is ONLY reimbursed for care when a patient is transported to a hospital ER. Passage of this measure will shorten task times for EMS agencies struggling with workforce shortages, help decompress overcrowded hospitals and emergency departments, meet patients’ needs without long waits at the hospital, and save the government money!” said Chief Christopher Way, President of National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT).

    “We greatly appreciate Congressmen Carey and Doggett introducing the Comprehensive Alternative Response for Emergencies Act which will start the process toward reimbursement of the vital 9-1-1 emergency ground ambulance services provided to Medicare patients regardless of whether the patient is transported to a medical facility. Paramedics and EMTs are highly-trained medical professionals providing care under medical protocols and often arrive on the scene with an ambulance and either told by the patient not to be transported or additional medical care at a facility is not required. This important legislation will help correct long-standing policy and properly view ambulances services as health care instead of just medical transportation,” said Jamie Pafford-Gresham, AAA President.
     
    Background:

    • Adults aged 65 and older account for nearly 20% of all ER visits. This population contributes to the backlog in waiting rooms, even when they might not have an issue requiring inpatient treatment. In a 2021 study, patients who received at-home care had a lower risk for readmission by 26% and a lower risk for long-term care admission as compared to patients who received in-hospital treatment.
    • In 2019, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced the Emergency Triage, Treat, and Transport (ET3) Model, which was originally set to run from 2020 to the end of 2023. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the model’s start was delayed until June 2021, and unfortunately, due to related challenges, CMMI ultimately ended the model 2 years early. This has not only harmed EMS providers, but also beneficiaries’ access to appropriate care.
    • The CARE Act would create a five-year pilot payment program to test a treatment-in-place model under Medicare. This legislation will ensure Medicare collects comprehensive data to inform future reimbursement decisions for EMS services and treatment-in-place. Medicare beneficiaries make up about 40% of all patients treated by EMS, and between 12.9-16.2% of Medicare-covered 911 transports involve medical conditions that do not require a hospital ER visit. Ensuring EMS providers receive appropriate payment for the most effective and efficient care can improve quality outcomes for beneficiaries and reduce Medicare spending on unnecessary, expensive hospital care.
    • The bill has received support from: American Ambulance Association, International Association of Fire Fighters, and the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians.

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