NewzIntel.com

Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI Security: Companies That Own and Operate Bulk Carrier Guilty, Sentenced For Environmental Crimes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that two companies that owned and operated the bulk carrier M/V ASL Singapore—ASL Singapore Shipping Limited and Jia Feng Shipping (Fuzhou) Limited — pled guilty on February 20, 2025 to knowingly violating the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships (APPS), and obstruction of justice related to the falsification of the vessel’s Oil Record Book, a required log.

    The guilty pleas occurred before U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey. The companies were sentenced during the same proceeding.  Pursuant to the court approved plea agreement, the companies were fined a total of $1.85 million and are banned from operating in the United States in the future.  Separate charges were filed against Fei Wang, a Chinese national who was the ship’s Chief Engineer.  Wang pled guilty and was sentenced on January 24, 2025.

    The criminal case stems from a routine U.S. Coast Guard inspection, which revealed that the crew had been using a portable pump and flexible hose—a so-called magic pipe—to dispose of oily bilge water.  This action constituted a violation of MARPOL, the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, coupled with the vessel’s failure to use the appropriate pollution prevention equipment and monitoring.  Crew members presented the vessel’s Oil Record Books to the Coast Guard knowing they contained fraudulent entries and omitted information about discharging oily bilge water directly overboard before arriving in the United States.  The falsified logs were intended to conceal that since at least June 2023, the crew had dumped oily bilge water overboard directly from the bilge holding tank and was non- compliant with international treaties regulating oil pollution from ships.

    ASL Singapore Shipping Limited is based in The Republic of the Marshall Islands, and Jia Feng is based in China.  The corporations were each charged with two felonies: an APPS violation and obstruction of justice.

    The Coast Guard Investigative Service and the EPA Criminal Investigations Division investigated the case with assistance from U.S. Coast Guard Sector New Orleans.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christine M. Calogero and G. Dall Kammer of the General Crimes Unit  are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Future use of storm-affected land

    Source: Auckland Council

    More than 1200 high-risk Auckland properties are expected to be purchased by Auckland Council before the end of 2025 – making it one of the largest land acquisition programmes undertaken in New Zealand.

    We are carefully deciding what to do with this storm-affected land, with decisions expected to take years.

    Uses being considered for storm-affected land

    We want to ensure Auckland’s land is used effectively to provide homes and maintain strong communities, while managing risk and reducing the financial impact to ratepayers.

    If we keep the land, options for use could include:

    • flood resilience and stream management

    • adding it to neighbouring parkland or bush

    • managing it as high-hazard land.

    If we don’t keep the land, options could include:

    • sale for safe redevelopment

    • sale with conditions to manage the risk (such as converting ground floor units to storage)

    • sale to neighbours for extra backyard space.

    Auckland Council is considering a range of options for storm-affected land that manages the risks, ensures the land is used effectively and efficiently.

    How decisions will be made

    Auckland Council’s Governing Body is responsible for deciding whether to keep or sell the land, costs associated with keeping the land (if applicable), and considering any views and preferences expressed by a local board.

    The local board is responsible for communicating their views and preferences about storm-affected land in their rohe (boundaries); and is responsible for any storm-affected land that the Governing Body makes available for a local park and/or local service activity – including budget required to maintain it.

    With 1200 properties to assess, carefully deciding the future use for every section will take several years.

    Diagram showing the management of council land after purchase.

    Have a suggestion for a site?

    Where people have suggestions for specific Category 3 sites, we can capture that information in our expressions of interest register.

    Draft policy and implementation plan

    You can read the Draft storm-affected land use – policy and implementation plan on the Auckland Council website (item 12, attachment 1). This policy was endorsed by the council’s Transport, Resilience and Infrastructure Committee on Thursday 13 February, ahead of the final approval step with the council’s Policy and Planning Committee expected in March.

    Frequently asked questions:

    What will happen to the land when properties are bought out?

    Auckland Council will explore all possible uses for the land and this may mean keeping it or selling it. We need to manage community expectations about what activities are possible, with safety being our no.1 priority.

    Redevelopment potential will be assessed by looking at the whole property rather than the existing dwelling – there may be scope to locate activity on other parts of the site, or options to re-engineer the land to mitigate risk.

    Who will decide how the land is used?

    We don’t know yet what the total land holdings will be from the buy-out process, so deciding the future use for every parcel of land will take several years.

    It’s anticipated that the council’s Governing Body will make most of the decisions regarding storm-affected land, with consideration of local interests.

    The Storm-affected Land Use Policy has been endorsed by Auckland Council’s Transport, Resilience and Infrastructure Committee and will go to the Policy and Planning Committee in March for final approval. This policy guides the use of this land. 

    Will the community have a say in what happens to land bought out by Auckland Council?

    We want to ensure communities are part of the process to determine the future use of the land, where possible, and we’re also exploring opportunities for partnerships with mana whenua.

    Where community members have suggestions for specific Category 3 sites, we can capture that information in our expressions of interest register, to consider as part of the Future Land Use process. Please send ideas to our expressions of interest register.

    Can the public access Category 3 land purchased by Auckland Council?

    Many of these properties are active worksites, where buildings are being demolished, deconstructed or removed. The council considers these properties pose significant health and safety risks for the public, and strongly discourages anyone from entering and accessing them.

    What will happen to vacant land while the long-term use is decided?

    Council-owned vacant land will be maintained to ensure a ‘kept look’ with a focus on maintaining areas visible from roads and footpaths (i.e. berms and front yards on properties that have road frontages). A budget of $39.4 million has been allocated over 10 years for ongoing maintenance including things like mowing and tree trimming. If you would like to report any maintenance issues please email recoveryoffice@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz or if you see any suspicious behaviour please report it to the police.

    Why does it take so long to decide on the future use of these vacant sites?

    More than 1200 high-risk properties are expected to be purchased by the end of the year – making it one of the largest land acquisition programmes undertaken in New Zealand.

    We want to make the best decisions for the land and the community. The safe use of the site is our no.1 priority.

    We have to undertake thorough analysis to explore all possible uses for the land. Making the right long-term decisions takes time and we ask that communities are patient while this work is undertaken.

    Will you be selling sites to recoup some of the costs of the buy-outs?

    Aucklanders have told us we need to minimise the impact on rates of the buy-out programme, which along with other recovery costs tallies to around $1 billion.

    Limited opportunities to sell land for redevelopment or to adjacent landowners, in situations where hazards can be mitigated, will be explored.

    Although the existing dwellings were unsafe to live in, there may be options to redevelop the site in a different way and build new housing that doesn’t have the same levels of risk. This may include amalgamating sites into clusters. More homes are an important outcome for local communities.

    Where we do sell land, we’ll ensure that it is sold with conditions appropriate to manage the level of risk e.g. converting ground floor units to storage.

    Read all recovery FAQs on OurAuckland.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Operation Eclipse raids in the south-east

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police have seized almost $800,000 worth of illegal tobacco and $66,000 in cash in raids on 10 premises in the South-East of the state.

    Serious and Organised Crime Branch, Limestone Coast police and members from Consumer and Business Affairs searched premises at Mount Gambier, Naracoorte and Millicent on 19 and 20 February as part of Operation Eclipse investigations.

    The locations searched included tobacconists, candy and gift shops, a commercial storage facility and residential premises.

    In one search at a Mount Gambier gift shop $245,000 of illicit tobacco was located. Further investigations resulted in the seizure of $540,000 worth of tobacco products at a commercial storage premises in Mount Gambier.

    The searches resulted in the arrest of a man, 23, of Salisbury North for failing to provide his name and address.

    Operation Eclipse commander Detective Chief Inspector Brett Featherby said the regional seizures had significantly disrupted the activities of the syndicates.

    “If organised crime syndicates think they can operate in regional areas and not come to the attention of police they are wrong,’’ he said.

    “The seizures in the South-East have enhanced our knowledge of the operating model of the syndicates and are the subject of further investigations.

    “SAPOL will continue to have a whole of organisation response that targets the syndicates to disrupt their financial operations and criminal activity.

    “We will pursue criminal charges when sufficient evidence exists and that includes those who are supporting and enabling that activity.’’

    Operation Eclipse detectives have also searched another four premises in the metropolitan area since 18 February. Illicit tobacco worth $140,000 was seized in those searches.

    Detective Chief Inspector Featherby also appealed for public information into an arson attack at a tobacconist on Glynburn Road at Hectorville on Friday 21 February.

    In the incident three suspects arrived in a late model white sedan and attempted to set fire to the front of the premises. A witness extinguished the fire.

    “We would like to hear from anyone who knows of any person who may have burn injuries or who may have presented at a medical facility with burns since last Friday,’’ Detective Chief Inspector Featherby said.

    “We are also appealing for dash cam footage from vehicles in the Hectorville area between 4.30am and 5.30am on 21 February or anyone who observed people in a white late model sedan filling a fuel container at a petrol station.”

    Operation Eclipse has so far resulted in 29 arrests for offences including blackmail, arson, money laundering and serious criminal trespass.

    There have been 122 premises searched – 36 residential and 86 businesses – almost $1.25 million in cash, three firearms and almost $10.1 million in tobacco seized. Nine vehicles have also been seized for confiscation.

    Significantly, there have been 230 calls to Crime Stoppers since October 2 that have resulted in information being provided to police.

    Anyone with any information on criminal activities surrounding the sale of illicit tobacco is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestopperssa.com.au – You can remain anonymous.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to observational study of antidepressant prescriptions and cognitive decline in people with dementia

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    An observational study published in BMC Medicine looks at antidepressant use and cognitive decline in people with dementia. 

    Prof Tara Spires-Jones, Director of the Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences at the University of Edinburgh, Group Leader in the UK Dementia Research Institute, and President of the British Neuroscience Association said:

    “Mo and colleagues’ study examined data from over 18,000 people with dementia enrolled in a Swedish national registry to look for associations between antidepressant use and dementia symptoms.  They observed faster cognitive decline in people with dementia who were taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) type antidepressants. This was a large study that looked at data over time, which is a strong design. However, this type of data cannot prove that it was antidepressant use that caused the faster decline.  People who needed antidepressants may have had more aggressive disease or the depression itself could have been affecting disease progression.  It is also worth noting that the effect was not the same for all types of dementia; people with frontotemporal dementia (FTD) did not have accelerated cognitive decline when taking antidepressants. In people with FTD, antidepressants were associated with slightly slower decline. Previous studies have also reported mixed results, highlighting the need for more research before we have a full understanding of the effects of antidepressant use on dementia progression.”

     

    Dr Richard Oakley, Associate Director for Research and Innovation at Alzheimer’s Society, said:  

    “This study suggested that antidepressants led to faster rates of memory and thinking decline in people with dementia. But it did not rule out the possibility that the changes were due to the presence of depression rather than antidepressant use, so further research is needed to understand the effects of antidepressants. 

    “Alzheimer’s Society wants to see the severity of an individual’s dementia recorded on their primary care records as either mild, moderate or severe. This is especially important as the study shows a decline in memory and thinking skills was stronger in people with more severe dementia who took antidepressants than those who didn’t. 

    “It’s vital that regular reviews are carried out when prescribing antidepressants, but recent research showed that less than half of people with a dementia diagnosis had their medication reviewed in the preceding 12 months.  

    “Alzheimer’s Society is funding research to better understand depression and anxiety in people living with dementia, how to manage it, and how genetics might be involved.” 

     

    Dr Emma L Anderson, Associate Professor of Epidemiology, University College London, said:

    “As the authors themselves acknowledge, there is substantial risk with this study design for confounding by indication, which could explain the results either in part, or entirely. Confounding by indication is where the outcomes we observe are actually due to the underlying reason people take these medications in the first place (e.g. mental health conditions), rather than the medication itself. More robust study designs, which overcome this very important limitation, are needed before such bold conclusions can be made. When based on limited evidence, these claims can be very damaging for public understanding of antidepressants, which we know help millions of people around the world.”

    Dr Prasad Nishtala, Reader, University of Bath, said:

    “This large population-level study from Sweden uses real-world data and is well-conducted. However, there are some important limitations that should be considered. One major issue is that the severity of depression in dementia patients wasn’t fully accounted for, which has the potential to bias the results. Additionally, there may be a “channelling bias,” meaning that certain antidepressants like citalopram and sertraline might have been more commonly prescribed to patients with severe dementia, which could also bias the results.

    “Another key limitation is that the study found only a small change in MMSE (Mini-Mental State Examination) scores, which may not be meaningful in everyday clinical practice. Previous research has shown that older adults taking tricyclic antidepressants can experience faster cognitive decline because these drugs interfere with the activity of acetylcholine—a chemical in our brain critical for maintaining cognition. Even among SSRIs (a common type of antidepressant), some, like paroxetine, are known to have stronger anticholinergic effects that could impact cognition negatively. There is also a problem of “residual confounding”,- meaning there could be other risk factors that can affect cognition, and it is unclear if they have accounted for other anticholinergic drugs like oxybutynin, which many dementia patients take to treat their urinary incontinence. The analyses were done on dispensed data (medication sold by pharmacists), and it is unclear if patients actually took them.

    “This study suggests that SSRIs like citalopram and sertraline might also speed up cognitive decline. However, it doesn’t explain how or why this happens at a biological level. Because of these limitations, the study’s findings should be interpreted with caution and ideally replicated using other real-world data sources.”

    ‘Antidepressant use and cognitive decline in patients with dementia: a national cohort study’ by Minjia Mo et al. was published in BMC Medicine at 01:00 UK time on Tuesday 25th February. 

    DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12916-025-03851-3

    Declared interests

    Prof Tara Spires-Jones: I have no conflicts with this study but have received payments for consulting, scientific talks, or collaborative research over the past 10 years from AbbVie, Sanofi, Merck, Scottish Brain Sciences, Jay Therapeutics, Cognition Therapeutics, Ono, and Eisai. I am also Charity trustee for the British Neuroscience Association and the Guarantors of Brain and serve as scientific advisor to several charities and non-profit institutions.

    Dr Emma L Anderson: I have no declarations or conflicts of interest. 

    Dr Prasad Nishtala: I sit on the editorial board for BMC Medicine.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s mega water diversion project hits new service milestone

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    An aerial drone photo taken on Nov. 5, 2024 shows the main canal of China’s South-to-North Water Diversion Project in Jiaozuo, central China’s Henan Province. [Photo/Xinhua]
    China’s South-to-North Water Diversion Project, the largest of its kind globally, has delivered more than 70 billion cubic meters of water through its middle route since it started full operation in December 2014.
    According to the China South-to-North Water Diversion Corporation, the massive water transfer project has become a crucial lifeline for 26 major cities and over 200 counties, benefiting approximately 114 million residents in Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei and Henan.
    The impact has been particularly pronounced in Beijing, where diverted water now accounts for nearly 80 percent of the capital’s urban water supply. A large proportion of Beijing’s drinking water now travels over 1,000 kilometers along the project’s middle route from Danjiangkou Reservoir in central China’s Hubei Province. The water flows north via canals and pipelines, crossing beneath the Yellow River before arriving at Beijing’s water treatment plants.
    In Tianjin, the project’s reach has expanded to 15 of the city’s 16 administrative districts, with infrastructure improvements extending water access to rural areas through various rural drinking water improvement initiatives.
    An official from the China South-to-North Water Diversion Corporation said that over the decade-long operation of the project’s middle route, both service areas and beneficiary populations had witnessed steady expansion.
    The project has also played a vital role in ecological restoration across north China. Continuous water replenishment has helped alleviate groundwater overexploitation and restored continuous flow to major northern water systems, including the Hutuo, Yongding and Daqing rivers.
    The mega water diversion project channels water over long distances from the country’s water-rich south to its northern regions, where hundreds of millions once endured “absolute water scarcity” as defined by United Nations standards.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China steps up protection of elderly, disabled

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    China’s procuratorial authorities have worked to strengthen the protection of the elderly, people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups in public interest litigation, the country’s top procuratorate said on Monday.
    The Supreme People’s Procuratorate (SPP) told a press conference that in the first 11 months of 2024, procuratorial agencies nationwide had handled 3,318 cases concerning the protection of the elderly, people with disabilities, and female, migrant and new types of workers.
    Prosecutors have targeted some prominent social problems and key areas that had infringed upon people’s interests, such as employment discrimination against women, unlicensed elderly care institutions, and problems regarding employment security funds for the disabled, the SPP stated.
    Protection of the rights and interests of vulnerable groups has been a major focus of public interest litigation in China. More than 140,000 public interest litigation cases were handled between January and November last year, according to the SPP.
    The SPP added that in the process of handling public interest cases, procuratorial authorities have prioritized problems related to the people’s pressing concerns — including ecological protection, drug and food safety, personal information protection and telecommunications fraud.
    In the first 11 months of last year, 55,000 cases of ecological and resource protection were settled, while 23,000 cases involving drug and food safety and 4,848 cases concerning personal information protection were handled, according to the SPP. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China establishes flagship hospital alliance to boost Chinese, Western medicine integration

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    An alliance of 62 China-based flagship hospitals that offer treatments integrating traditional Chinese and Western medicine has been established, with the aim of enhancing the country’s healthcare services.
    The alliance consists of some of China’s most prestigious hospitals, including Peking Union Medical College Hospital in Beijing and Ruijin Hospital in Shanghai, according to a conference on integrative medicine held in Beijing on Sunday.
    These hospitals are blazing a trail for the coordinated development of traditional Chinese and Western medicine, promoting the integration of traditional Chinese medicine research with technologies such as artificial intelligence and big data, according to the conference.
    “We must chart a distinctive path for integrating traditional Chinese and Western medicine in the new era,” said Chen Xiangmei, president of the Chinese Association of Integrative Medicine.
    Experts believe that the approaches of “Western medicine learning from Chinese medicine” and “Chinese medicine learning from Western medicine” represent distinct pathways toward the collaborative development of both fields, with the ultimate goal of deeply integrating traditional Chinese medicine with modern medical practices.
    Tong Xiaolin, an academician with the Chinese Academy of Sciences, noted that integrative medicine is not simply about combining techniques but aims to catalyze a revolutionary breakthrough in medical paradigms with the help of emerging disciplines such as systems biology and big data science.
    Currently, a number of general hospitals in China have established mechanisms for the collaborative development of Chinese and Western medicine, along with multidisciplinary treatment systems, significantly improving clinical outcomes. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Hong Kong int’l airport’s passenger traffic up 27.8 pct in January

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Hong Kong International Airport handled 5.28 million passengers in January, marking an annual growth of 27.8 percent, Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) said on Monday.

    According to air traffic figures for Hong Kong International Airport in January released by AAHK, flight movements increased 17 percent year-on-year to 33,660, hitting a post-pandemic high.

    On Jan. 25, the airport handled over 193,000 passengers, reaching another post-pandemic high and representing a full recovery to the pre-pandemic peak level.

    In January, all passenger segments, including Hong Kong residents, visitors and transfer/transit passengers, experienced double-digit year-on-year increases in comparison with the same month last year. Traffic to and from Southeast Asia, the Chinese mainland and Japan recorded the most significant increases during the month.

    On a 12-month rolling basis, passenger volume surged 30.5 percent to 54.2 million, while flight movements experienced a significant 27.6 percent increase to 368,195. Cargo throughput saw a growth of 12 percent to 4.95 million tons. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner, Moran Lead Introduction of Legislation to Prevent Taxation of Broadband Deployment Grants

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Commonwealth of Virginia Mark R Warner

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and Jerry Moran (R-KS) led 10 of their colleagues in introducing legislation to amend the Internal Revenue Code to make certain that federal broadband deployment funding will not be considered taxable income.

    Grants awarded to broadband providers for the purposes of broadband deployment are currently factored into a company’s income and taxed as income. This bipartisan legislation moves to exclude broadband deployment grants awarded through certain federal programs from an organization’s income, ensuring the entirety of federal dollars awarded to companies for the purpose of deploying broadband around the country can be used for that purpose, rather than making their way back to the government through taxes.

    The senators were joined by Sens. Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Angus King (I-ME), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Deb Fischer (R-NE) in introducing this legislation.    

    “In order to fully reap the benefits of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the American Rescue Plan, every dollar that was set aside to fund broadband expansion and deployment should be used for that purpose,” said Sen. Warner. “Taxing these broadband investments awards is counter-productive, and will ultimately diminish efforts to give more Americans access to high-speed internet.”

    “Reliable, high-speed internet is more crucial than ever for Kansans to run their businesses, access telehealth or pursue an education,” said Sen. Moran. “This commonsense legislation would make certain federal grants provided for broadband deployment are not counted as taxable income to maximize the impact and success of these resources.”

    “Broadband investments that I worked hard at securing in the bipartisan infrastructure bill will continue to unlock limitless possibilities in terms of telehealth, education and small business opportunities, and importantly, allow Alaskans to connect with one another,” said Sen. Sullivan. “However, taxing these investments weakens our efforts. This legislation ensures that funds directed by Congress are spent on deploying broadband, furthering my goal of connecting every single Alaskan.”

    “We made tremendous federal investments, including through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, to build broadband infrastructure and help ensure Virginians can access reliable, high-speed internet, which is critical for school, work, and other opportunities,” said Sen. Kaine. “This legislation would ensure every dollar is used for this purpose by preventing broadband deployment grants from being taxed.”

    “Rural communities are the backbone of our nation, and we want to ensure that Americans living in these communities have access to high-speed internet,” said Sen. Tuberville. “Taxing broadband grants would undermine federal efforts to prioritize rural broadband expansion. I am proud to support this legislation so that those living in rural America have internet needed to run their businesses, access health care, and pursue educational opportunities.”

    “Taxing federal broadband grants as gross income undermines the intent for broadband deployment programs,” said Sen. Capito. “The Broadband Grant Tax Treatment Act would help make sure this doesn’t happen so we can continue our efforts to close the digital divide in the areas that need broadband connectivity the most.”

    “In today’s digital age, access to high-speed, affordable broadband is critical for Maine people to live, work and stay connected with one another,” said Sen. King. “Every single dollar that is invested in broadband deployment is vital, and shouldn’t be clawed back by the government at the cost of connecting an extra community street or neighborhood that needs it. I want to thank my colleagues for coming together to help close the digital divide in rural and urban communities in Maine and across the nation.”

    “It certainly won’t surprise North Dakotans to know that reliable, high-speed broadband brings our country together in many respects,” said Sen. Cramer. “Much like our integrated highway system and anchored by our interstate highway system, it connects large, rural states like ours to essential services like telemedicine, educational opportunities, and it strengthens, probably more than anything, our small businesses with e-commerce opportunities. By making every dollar for broadband expansion count, this bill really does pave the way for a much more connected future.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sens. Moran, Warner Lead Introduction of Legislation to Prevent Taxation of Broadband Deployment Grants

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas – Jerry Moran

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Mark Warner (D-Va.) led 10 of their colleagues in introducing legislation to amend the Internal Revenue Code to make certain that federal broadband deployment funding will not be considered taxable income.

    Grants awarded to broadband providers for the purposes of broadband deployment are currently factored into a company’s income and taxed as income. This bipartisan legislation moves to exclude broadband deployment grants awarded through certain federal programs from an organization’s income, ensuring the entirety of federal dollars awarded to companies for the purpose of deploying broadband around the country can be used for that purpose, rather than making their way back to the government through taxes.

    The senators were joined by Sens. Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.V.), Angus King (I-Maine), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) and Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) in introducing this legislation.     

    “Reliable, high-speed internet is more crucial than ever for Kansans to run their businesses, access telehealth or pursue an education,” said Sen. Moran. “This commonsense legislation would make certain federal grants provided for broadband deployment are not counted as taxable income to maximize the impact and success of these resources.”

    “In order to fully reap the benefits of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the American Rescue Plan, every dollar that was set aside to fund broadband expansion and deployment should be used for that purpose,” said Sen. Warner. “Taxing these broadband investments awards is counter-productive, and will ultimately diminish efforts to give more Americans access to high-speed internet.”

    “Broadband investments that I worked hard at securing in the bipartisan infrastructure bill will continue to unlock limitless possibilities in terms of telehealth, education and small business opportunities, and importantly, allow Alaskans to connect with one another,” said Sen. Sullivan. “However, taxing these investments weakens our efforts. This legislation ensures that funds directed by Congress are spent on deploying broadband, furthering my goal of connecting every single Alaskan.”

    “We made tremendous federal investments, including through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, to build broadband infrastructure and help ensure Virginians can access reliable, high-speed internet, which is critical for school, work, and other opportunities,” said Sen. Kaine. “This legislation would ensure every dollar is used for this purpose by preventing broadband deployment grants from being taxed.”

    “Rural communities are the backbone of our nation, and we want to ensure that Americans living in these communities have access to high-speed internet,” said Sen. Tuberville. “Taxing broadband grants would undermine federal efforts to prioritize rural broadband expansion. I am proud to support this legislation so that those living in rural America have internet needed to run their businesses, access health care, and pursue educational opportunities.”

    “Taxing federal broadband grants as gross income undermines the intent for broadband deployment programs,” said Sen. Capito. “The Broadband Grant Tax Treatment Act would help make sure this doesn’t happen so we can continue our efforts to close the digital divide in the areas that need broadband connectivity the most.”

    “In today’s digital age, access to high-speed, affordable broadband is critical for Maine people to live, work and stay connected with one another,” said Sen. King. “Every single dollar that is invested in broadband deployment is vital, and shouldn’t be clawed back by the government at the cost of connecting an extra community street or neighborhood that needs it. I want to thank my colleagues for coming together to help close the digital divide in rural and urban communities in Maine and across the nation.”

    “It certainly won’t surprise North Dakotans to know that reliable, high-speed broadband brings our country together in many respects,” said Sen. Cramer. “Much like our integrated highway system and anchored by our interstate highway system, it connects large, rural states like ours to essential services like telemedicine, educational opportunities, and it strengthens, probably more than anything, our small businesses with e-commerce opportunities. By making every dollar for broadband expansion count, this bill really does pave the way for a much more connected future.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Transcript – Radio 2SM Sydney – Breakfast with Ron Wilson

    Source: Australia Government Ministerial Statements

    RON WILSON [HOST]: Truck drivers in western Sydney are set to benefit from the city’s first dedicated heavy vehicle rest stop. It’s considered a crucial infrastructure project aimed at improving safety and reducing fatigue for long haul truckies. It’s located at Eastern Creek and the site is strategically placed near key motorway junctions. It comes with a $40 million investment price tag from both the Albanese and Minns Labor governments. The project was part of an election promise by the New South Wales Labor government, and marks a significant step in enhancing road safety and ensuring truck drivers have the facilities they need to rest and recharge during their long journeys.

    Catherine King is the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development and Local Government in Australia as well. She’s on the line right now. Catherine, good morning.

    CATHERINE KING [MINISTER]: Hi, Ron. It’s great to be with you.

    RON WILSON: Tell us about this truck stop. How important is it in the overall scheme of transport?

    CATHERINE KING: Well, it’s incredibly important. We know just how much- how busy that freight route is between Melbourne right the way through to Brisbane. Truck drivers are required under our law to actually have rest and rest stops. We can’t have fatigued drivers on the road. But in that area, particularly where there is such a high volume of freight going through, there just really isn’t anywhere for truck drivers to safely rest. And this will be the first dedicated area specifically for trucks ever in western Sydney and at Eastern Creek. We often hear, you know, truck drivers are parking on suburban roads. They’re parking on the side of the road, trying to make sure that they comply with their rest hours. And that is not safe for anybody. It’s certainly not safe for them.

    The other thing we know is that we’re seeing increasing numbers of female drivers. They want, as should anyone in their workplace, access to decent toilet facilities, decent shower facilities, safe places to be able to rest and shaded places to be able to rest as well. So this is a really important project. 40 million from the Albanese government, 40 million from the Minns government. They took it to the last state election. We’re saying we’re going to back this in. This is budgeted funding. This is not an election commitment. This is something we want to fund, really as part of the infrastructure program.

    It’s been identified by truck drivers as the area- really a missing spot. So this is a really important announcement both for truck drivers but also for road safety. We want drivers who are on our roads that have had- you know, have got decent workplaces that are well rested and have places where they can rest and actually shower and recover from what is a really gruelling and difficult job.

    RON WILSON: Boy, a total of over $80 million. It must be some truck stop.

    CATHERINE KING: Well, it takes a lot to, you know, build roads to actually get the hard surfacing, but also to get the services out there. You obviously need electricity, you need water, you need sewerage out there as well. Unfortunately, it just does take that amount of money to be able to do that and to build those proper dedicated facilities. Unfortunately, infrastructure is expensive.

    RON WILSON: Well, that’s one truck stop. It’s an awful big country. Have you got more of these planned?

    CATHERINE KING: Yeah. Well, what we’ve done, I’ve had a $180 million fund. And Senator Glenn Sterle, who might be known to all of you, he’s still driving trucks himself. Every now and again, he gets behind the wheel. He’s from over in the west. I asked him to chair- basically to bring trucking companies together and truck drivers together to identify sites to fund that. And we’ve put the first tranche out of that. There’s smaller stops, often in the regional areas, because we wanted truck drivers to identify, well, where are you stopping? Where are the facilities that are needed? How can we actually fund these? So that’s been part of the government- we took that to the last election, and that’s been steadily rolling its way out, as well as as we build big scale infrastructure. So you’d be aware, you know, there’s big projects up in the Hunter. We look at opportunities there to partner with state and local government to also build those facilities in at the same time. But there’s no doubt that we could have more. And we need to continue to look at opportunities to do that, which is why we’ve got the funding program to try and roll them out. But this will be a single biggest one, and it’s a really big missing area. Like there just isn’t anywhere in that area really. And often you’ll see truck drivers just trying to plough- keep going. But they’ve got to, you know, make sure that they’ve stopped within the hours that [indistinct] drive a certain number of hours.

    RON WILSON: [Talks over] Yeah, that’s right.

    CATHERINE KING: So it’s really difficult for them to then, you know, get that push through to get to the next stop where they can. And there’s really just nothing in that area for them to stop at.

    RON WILSON: Yeah. Minister, this is such good news for all road users, not just the trucking industry. So very pleased that you’re able to come on and have a chat to us about it this morning, I appreciate it.

    CATHERINE KING: Really good to be with you.

    RON WILSON: The Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government in Australia, Catherine King, talking about this new truck stop. It’s located at Eastern Creek. It comes at a cost of over $80 million.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following Dangerous Cuts to Transportation Workforce, Rosen Joins Colleagues to Demand Trump Administration Prioritize Safety

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen, a member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, joined colleagues in a letter urging Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy to stop the mass layoffs and firing of essential transportation safety employees and instead focus on prioritizing safety. In the letter, the lawmakers demand information regarding Department of Transportation plans to protect passengers and prevent future airline crashes. 
    “At the Department of Transportation, safety must come first, but that commitment appears in doubt as the Trump administration promotes cost-cutting over protecting the public,” wrote the Senators. “By offering to buy out federal employees, ordering government agencies to prepare for mass layoffs, firing employees with critical safety functions, giving Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) free reign to cut the federal workforce, and turning Musk, DOGE, and their unqualified staff loose on the air traffic control system, the Trump administration risks undermining decades of safety improvements.”
    “We urge you to cease this dangerous approach to governing and request important information on how the Department of Transportation (DOT) plans to prioritize safety in this environment,” they continued.
    The lawmakers requested responses by March 3 to questions that include:  

    How many DOT employees were offered the buyout? How many accepted? 
    How many DOT employees have lost their jobs since January 20, 2025?  
    What is Musk’s and DOGE’s role in reviewing DOT personnel and program information? 
    What steps is the Department taking to ensure that Musk and the DOGE do not compromise public safety? 

    The full letter can be found HERE.
    As a member of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Senator Rosen has been an advocate for Nevada’s transportation and infrastructure interests. Earlier this year, she announced more than $700,000 to improve transportation for tribal communities in Nevada. She worked to write and pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to create good-paying jobs and upgrade Nevada’s infrastructure. Last year, she secured $275 million to improve and expand I-80 to reduce congestion in Northern Nevada.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Baldwin Hosts Roundtable in Milwaukee on Looming Cuts to Medicaid

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin

    MILWAUKEE – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) hosted a roundtable discussion to highlight the dire consequences of Congressional Republicans’ moves to cut Medicaid to pay for tax breaks for billionaires. Senator Baldwin was joined by Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley and members of the Milwaukee County Commission on Aging to discuss how these cuts jeopardize critical services for seniors. 5.6 million Americans count on Medicaid for their long-term care bills, with Medicaid paying for over half of long-term care in the United States for primarily seniors.

    “Republicans are threatening to rip away health care from over one million Wisconsinites on Medicaid to pay for tax cuts for billionaires. These aren’t just statistics, these are real people who will have their lives upended if they lose their health care. Today, I was able to hear how devastating this would be for our seniors in Milwaukee,” said Senator Baldwin. “Medicaid is the lifeline that provides health care for 8 million seniors, ensures over 30 million kids can see a doctor and get health care, and helps our rural hospitals keep their doors open.”

    “We know that Medicaid is vital for working families across Wisconsin. Any cuts to federal Medicaid funding would have a detrimental impact on the health, safety, and prosperity of folks in Milwaukee County,” said Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. “I’m grateful that Senator Tammy Baldwin is fighting for our residents, families, and children every single day. Let’s continue working together to protect the quality, affordable health care that Wisconsinites need.”

    Republicans are planning deep cuts to Medicaid that will jeopardize the coverage of 72 million Americans, or 1 in 5 people living in the United States who use Medicaid. This includes nearly half of all children, 31.5 million, over 8.3 million seniors, and around 15 million people with disabilities. Medicaid also pays for 6 out of 10 of residents in nursing homes, with 5.6 million Americans counting on Medicaid for their long-term care bills and Medicaid paying for over half of long-term care in the United States. Severe cuts to Medicaid will also jeopardize rural hospitals and clinics’ ability to keep their doors open. Over 12 million rural Americans rely on Medicaid for health care.

    In Wisconsin, over 1.2 million people are enrolled in Medicaid. About 1 in 3 children in Wisconsin’s rural and metro communities have Medicaid coverage. More than 300,000 kids under age 19 are members of BadgerCare Plus or another Wisconsin Medicaid program.

    Republicans released a budget blueprint that directed the committee with jurisdiction over Medicaid to find $880 billion in cuts for their upcoming budget to pay for tax breaks for the super-wealthy and large corporations. Last week, President Trump endorsed that blueprint. As Republicans move forward with their legislation, their plans to cut hundreds of billions of dollars from Medicaid will jeopardize care for individuals with autism, seniors seeking long-term care, low- and middle-class children, and Americans who rely on rural hospitals. Republicans also rejected Democrats’ repeated attempts last week to protect Medicaid from being cut to fund billionaire tax breaks.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: How pumped hydro can provide the stability Australia’s energy transition needs

    Source: Allens Insights

    A reliable, durable and large-scale storage solution 10 min read

    Australia’s favourable natural geographical landscape and abundance of retiring mine sites provide a unique opportunity for pumped hydro energy storage (PHES) to play a key role in driving the energy transition in this country. By delivering consistent, long-duration, dispatchable capacity during peak demand, PHES can help stabilise the system when other technologies may struggle.

    The past two years have seen a surge in the uptake of battery energy storage systems (BESS). However, firming assets such as BESS and intermittent generators such as wind and solar are constrained by weather conditions, redundancy and, in the case of BESS, capacity and duration limits. These constraints highlight the need for a more reliable, durable, large-scale storage solution to complement the other technologies.

    In the first part of our pumped hydro Insight series, we explore the drivers behind the growing uptake of PHES in Australia, and highlight key considerations for developers, investors, financiers, contractors and other stakeholders assessing such projects.

    Key takeaways

    • There is growing interest in PHES as a long-term, firm, long-duration dispatchable asset that is unconstrained by weather, technology, asset life or capacity limitations.
    • Approximately 20 PHES projects are actively being developed in Australia, with over 22,000 sites identified as suitable for a PHES.
    • PHES projects are capital intensive and inherently complex in their planning, procurement, delivery and commercialisation. These factors necessitate careful planning, robust risk mitigation strategies and proactive engagement with stakeholders to ensure the success of PHES over the long term.

    What’s driving the uptake of PHES in Australia?

    There is no doubt that interest in PHES as an energy generation and storage solution is growing. There are a number of key drivers behind this.

    While BESS are an important part of the storage solution, they have limitations. Most BESS projects range between 200MW and 500MW, with larger projects, such as Melbourne Renewable Energy Hub’s 1,200MW battery, still only half the size of Snowy Hydro 2.0’s 2,200MW project. BESS typically provide around four hours of dispatchable energy before needing to recharge, while PHES can deliver up to 175 hours.

    BESS also have a shorter asset life of around 20 years, with a steady degradation profile down to 60–70% of the nameplate capacity over time, whereas PHES projects are designed to last over 50 years. While BESS technology is still maturing on a utility scale, PHES has a long-established track record and doesn’t face the same fire risk, making it a more sustainable option for long-term energy storage.

    In 2017, the Australian Renewable Energy Agency and the Australian National University identified 22,000 potential ‘bluefield’ PHES sites across Australia, with an estimated energy storage capacity of 67,000GWh. Many of these sites are in areas with natural elevation differences that facilitate the construction of connected upper and lower reservoirs with minimal excavation. The proximity of these sites to natural water sources, such as rivers and dams, would allow these projects to leverage existing water systems to create the necessary reservoirs.

    PHES can also take a ‘closed-loop’ form, where water is transported to a site away from existing river systems and cycled between the two reservoirs. This type of system can be located where topographical features support it, allowing for new PHES facilities to be co-located with solar and wind generation projects in renewable energy zones, boosting grid reliability in those areas.

    The planned and accelerated closure of mine sites presents a unique opportunity for owners to repurpose aging mines into PHES projects. Sites such as Kidston, Mt Rawdon and Muswellbrook show how former mine sites can be transformed into PHES facilities, capitalising on rehabilitation obligations and the potential for long-term, revenue-generating assets.

    Australia has over 60,000 abandoned mine sites, posing challenges for owners who must manage costly rehabilitation efforts on non-revenue-generating assets. With around 75% of mine closures being unplanned or premature, there is an opportunity to repurpose these sites into valuable operational assets. Many of these sites have existing excavated pits that can be used as reservoirs for closed-loop PHES, reducing excavation risk costs and supporting mining companies’ rehabilitation goals through sustainable energy projects.

    The Federal Government and most state governments are supporting private sector-led PHES projects through grants, concessional debt, revenue underwrites and streamlined approvals processes.

    In NSW, EnergyCo’s Pumped Hydro Recoverable Grants Program, which is part of the Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap, helps developers with the cost of early-stage feasibility studies. Additionally, developers can tender for Long-Term Energy Service Agreements (LTESA) in NSW and the Capacity Investment Scheme (CIS) across Australia. The NSW Energy Security Corporation (which received $1 billion in funding and will act as the state equivalent of the Clean Energy Finance Corporation) has been mandated to investigate co-investment opportunities with the private sector on energy storage projects, including PHES.

    Although no LTESA or CIS have been awarded to a PHES project yet, the NSW Government has shown strong long-term support for long-duration storage with an updated position to the Electricity Infrastructure Investment Act 2020 (NSW). By retaining the minimum dispatch duration definition at eight hours and broadening the long-duration storage LTESA assessment criteria, PHES projects are positioned to benefit from future government support. Similarly, under the proposed South Australian Firm Energy Reliability Mechanism, PHES projects offering dispatchable energy for at least eight hours will be able to bid for contracts to underwrite a portion of their revenue, complementing other state and federal policies.

    After the infrastructure boom of the past decade, the pace of the transport infrastructure sector has slowed, while demand for energy infrastructure has risen. Civil contractors with experience in metro, rail and road projects are now focusing on energy projects to capitalise on the available work.

    The civil infrastructure required for PHES, such as deep excavation, tunnelling and the construction of underground caverns and access routes, is similar to that required for transport infrastructure. Contractors with heavy engineering, excavation and tunnelling experience, and an available workforce, are well positioned to apply their skills to PHES projects.

    What challenges are emerging?

    Despite strong drivers and the promising potential of PHES, the uptake and reaching contract close of PHES transactions has lagged behind short to medium duration BESS, wind and solar projects.

    PHES projects are inherently complex and capital intensive, with several key challenges emerging.

    PHES projects typically require large areas of land, which can lead to complex environmental impacts, particularly biodiversity, water resources and, potentially, cultural heritage, and significant challenges with site access and spoil management. As a result, they require more detailed environmental impact assessments and complex approvals processes compared with BESS projects. In addition to state planning approval and environmental licences, PHES projects often require approval under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth), as well as being subject to any remediation obligations under any relevant mining tenements and approvals if located on a mine site.

    Securing land tenure is another significant challenge, especially when land is required within national parks, is over land held by Aboriginal land councils or land where native title is still active.

    Water entitlements and licences, crucial for establishing reservoirs, are also a key consideration, particularly for closed-loop projects. While some states, such as NSW, have introduced a special category of water licences for initial fills, these licences may come with restrictions that limit pumping from nearby water sources to periods of high flow, presenting programming challenges. In addition to securing the necessary approvals and resources, early engagement with traditional owners, landowners and local communities is essential for obtaining a social licence to operate.

    We have seen a continuing shift in risk transfer across energy and infrastructure. For PHES, in particular, this has been driven by a limited pool of experienced civil contractors with PHES experience in Australia, a lack of competition among original equipment manufacturer suppliers, and supply chain impacts and increasing demand for energy projects. A consequence of this shift has been the growing use of disaggregated contract packages, including in PHES procurement.

    By splitting contracts, developers can distribute risk among multiple parties and limit exposure to contractor insolvency, with each contractor focusing on their specialist area. Ideally, this improves quality and efficiency, at a more competitive price. However, this approach can create challenges, particularly for developers and financiers, introducing interface gap risks between the contractors, and resulting in smaller sizing for caps and security packages.

    Transport infrastructure procurement has traditionally been driven by state governments, creating a concentrated and aligned purchasing power that drove well-understood risk profiles. The energy infrastructure market is comparatively more diffused, involving a mix of government and private developers, contractors of all tiers and international entrants. This has meant that ‘market standard’ positions are fluid and highly bespoke contracts are being developed.

    An added complexity is that PHES procurement to date has been led by government-developers who are able to use collaborative commercial models with unfixed, variable cost elements. This is more difficult for private developers with limited funding sources who are required to demonstrate bankability to financiers. A balance will need to be struck between developers’ and financiers’ desire for firm pricing and transferred risk, with the contracting market’s calls for flexible, uncapped, commercial models.

    The contractor-led market has brought with it a rise in collaborative contracting in the infrastructure sector and the market is evolving. As an example, NSW and Victoria have adopted incentivised target cost models in infrastructure procurement projects, and Snowy 2.0 shifted from a traditional engineering, procurement and construction model to an incentivised target cost model. While the rise in collaborative contracting has not involved a full-scale move from wrapped lump sum to alliance models, there is an increased focus on fair risk allocation, considering each party’s ability to manage risks.

    In the PHES space, risk associated with input material costs, labour costs and underground work have been the particular focus of collaborative risk-sharing arrangements.

    • Input material and labour costs: PHES projects rely on significant quantities of materials such as concrete and steel, but supply chain issues and material cost escalation could increase project prices and timeframes. Additionally, the scale and construction duration of PHES projects requires substantial labour compared with other assets, with the remoteness of some projects potentially necessitating relocation packages and project-specific camps to attract skilled workers. Enterprise bargaining agreements can mitigate these challenges. However, the long construction period on PHES projects means that enterprise bargaining agreements are more likely to be renegotiated during delivery, reopening labour costs and creating the risk of industrial disputes. Given market changes, sensible and targeted risk-sharing mechanisms should be considered upfront to optimise value for money.
    • Underground work: PHES projects are complex and involve extensive subterranean work. While owners and developers can undertake geotechnical investigations prior to construction commencing, those have limitations, so a geotechnical risk-sharing mechanism is often needed. Geotechnical Baseline Reports are commonly used to set the agreed baseline conditions for tunnels and reservoirs, which serve as the test for any time or cost adjustments.

    Site selection is crucial for PHES projects, as suitable locations are often farther from existing grid infrastructure, leading to higher and more variable grid connection costs compared with BESS projects. Developers must ensure clarity on connection fees payable by a developer to the relevant network service provider and carefully consider the terms of connection agreements.

    Additionally, developers should be aware of the generator performance standards and how they align with other regulatory approvals for the project.

    A key challenge for developers is monetising storage projects and accessing debt capital markets. In the second part of our pumped hydro Insight series, we will explore the challenges, considerations and opportunities that developers, financiers and stakeholders face in monetising and creating stable revenue streams for PHES projects. Stay tuned.

    Actions that you can take now

    If you are considering entering the PHES space, as either a developer, investor, contractor, or financier, it is important to consider the following:

    • Strategic site selection: Rehabilitating existing assets, such as former mines or cleared agricultural sites with low biodiversity and cultural heritage value, and easy access water supply, may reduce planning delays, simplify environmental approval, and, for mine sites, limit the need for extensive excavation.
    • Early engagement: Engage early with all relevant parties, including local government, the community, traditional owners, landholders, consent authorities, regulators, contractors, geotechnical experts, financiers and government programs. The work done early in the project, and through concept and procurement processes, is crucial to the success of your PHES project.
    • Monitor the market: As more PHES projects emerge, market trends in commercial models, risk profiles and offtake strategies will evolve.
    • Adapting to changing regulations and government policies: We expect the regulatory landscape and government policies will evolve to better support PHES projects. Staying updated on these changes will be key to your project’s success.

    Keep an eye out for future Insights in the pumped hydro series, where we will expand further on the offtake and financing strategies that will underpin the bankability and revenue generation of PHES projects.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Albanese Labor Government building Australia’s mobile future

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    The Albanese Labor Government has today announced a major world first reform to provide basic universal outdoor mobile coverage across Australia.

    Labor’s Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation (UOMO) will require mobile carriers to provide access to mobile voice and SMS almost everywhere across Australia.  

    UOMO will ensure up to 5 million square kilometres of new competitive outdoor mobile coverage across Australia, including over 37,000 kilometres on regional roads.

    Whether it’s in national parks, hiking trails or out on the farm, outdoor coverage will be accessible almost anywhere where Australians can see the sky.

    The Albanese Government’s policy objectives are to: 

    • expand Triple Zero access for Australians across the nation; 
    • expand outdoor voice and SMS coverage into existing mobile black spots; and
    • improve the availability of mobile signals during disasters and power outages.

    This reform is only possible due to the transformative global innovations in Low Earth Orbit Satellites (LEOSats), and the arrival of Direct to Device (D2D) technology, which enables signals from space direct to mobile devices.

    The Government will consult and introduce legislation in 2025 to expand the universal service framework to incorporate mobile coverage for the first time.

    Implementation of outdoor SMS and voice will be expected by late 2027, with many Australians likely to obtain access before then.

    Basic mobile data will be considered in the future as technology roadmaps and capacity considerations develop.

    The Government will work with stakeholders and industry to get the legislation right, including flexibility where warranted by supply, spectrum and other factors.

    The Albanese Government will also engage with industry and examine incentives and removal of barriers to support public interest objectives and competition outcomes.

    Only the Albanese Labor Government has a plan to build Australia’s future, including delivering $3 billion to complete the building of the fibre NBN.

    With global industry expected to launch D2D messaging this year, the Government is moving to ensure this technology becomes an addition to a modernised and expanded voice Universal Service Obligation, including maintaining free access to Triple Zero.

    To ensure consumers are informed about device compatibility and experience, the Government will work with industry and the University of Technology Sydney to expand handset testing.

    The policy has been informed by engagement with the LEOSat working group, advice by the Australian Communications and Media Authority on radiocommunications spectrum, the findings of the Regional Telecommunications Review, and extensive feedback from regional and remote stakeholders and consumers about the need for multiple connectivity paths.

    The Government remains committed and will continue to evolve its existing co-investment programs like the Mobile Black Spot Program and Mobile Network Hardening Program to expand terrestrial mobile coverage, resilience and capacity.

    Further reforms to the longstanding universal services framework will be announced as the Government considers recommendations from the 2024 Regional Telecommunications Review.

    Quotes attributable to the Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP: 

    “Labor governments have a proven record of expanding universal access to essential services, and the Albanese Government is forging another step forward.

    “The Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation will improve public safety, increase resilience during natural disasters, and provide an extra layer of coverage in areas previously thought too difficult or costly to reach.

    “The experience will be different to land mobile networks, but the benefits transformative, particularly for a large continent such as ours.

    “Building our mobile future with the latest technology is a vital element of Labor’s plan to make Australia the most connected continent by 2030.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Eureka Chiropractor Convicted of Defrauding Medicare, Insurance Companies Out of More Than $1.5 Million

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PEORIA, Ill. – A federal jury returned a guilty verdict late Friday evening against Carrie Musselman, 48, of Eureka, Illinois, for defrauding Medicare and other insurance companies out of more than $1.5 million dollars and for five counts of wire fraud in furtherance of her scheme to defraud. Sentencing for Musselman has been scheduled for June 24, 2025, at the U.S. Courthouse in Peoria, Illinois.

    Over 13 days of testimony, the government presented evidence establishing that Musselman, a chiropractor in Eureka, engaged in a scheme to defraud Medicare and other insurance companies. As part of the scheme, Musselman disguised the identity of the people providing services and misrepresented the nature of the services that had actually been provided.

    For instance, Musselman falsely claimed services were being provided by physicians when they were actually being provided by nurse practitioners and physician’s assistants. This resulted in an automatic pay increase for Musselman and her practice. In addition, one of Musselman’s highest reimbursement services, the placement of an electroacupuncture (which she was falsely billing as a surgically implanted neurostimulator), would not have qualified for any payment but for her deception. Musselman also billed for services that were not actually rendered. This included not only billing for neurostimulators that were never provided, but also for purportedly providing patients with allergy injections when, in reality, no such injections were given. Instead, patients were sent home with oral drops that had not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration, were considered “experimental,” and had not been proven to be effective.

    Musselman remains released on bond. At sentencing, Musselman faces statutory penalties of up to 10 years’ imprisonment for the healthcare fraud charge and up to 20 years’ imprisonment for each of the wire fraud charges, to be followed by up to three years of supervised release on each of the counts. Each of the six convictions could also incur up to a $250,000 fine.

    The case investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office, and the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Douglas F. McMeyer, Bryan D. Freres, and Grace J. Hitzeman represented the government at trial. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Eldon Sex Offender Sentenced to 20 Years for Child Pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – An Eldon, Mo., man who is a registered sex offender was sentenced in federal court today for possessing child pornography.

    David Arabie, 59, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Brian C. Wimes to 20 years in federal prison without parole, the statutory maximum sentence for this offense. The court also sentenced Arabie to 25 years of supervised release following incarceration.

    Arabie is a registered sex offender with prior felony convictions for statutory sodomy involving a 6-year-old victim and criminal sexual conduct involving the sexual abuse of three children ages 7 to 12.

    On Oct. 26, 2023, Arabie pleaded guilty to possessing child pornography. The court found him in breach of his plea agreement at today’s hearing, however, after Arabie filed a motion to withdraw his guilty plea and recanted his previous statements made under oath during the change of plea hearing, claiming to be innocent of the charged conduct. On Dec. 20, 2024, the court denied Arabie’s motion to withdraw his guilty plea.

    Arabie admitted that, while visiting his in-laws, he used a peer-to-peer file-sharing network on his computer to share images of child sexual abuse material with an undercover law enforcement officer. Arabie shared a video of the sexual abuse of a child victim approximately 3 to 6 years old.

    Arabie also admitted that he possessed more than 600 images of child sexual abuse material on his computer.

    This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley S. Turner. It was investigated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

    Project Safe Childhood

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fresno Man Sentenced to 3 Years in Prison for a Series of Vehicle Pipe-Bombings

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    FRESNO, Calif. — Paul New, 57, of Fresno, was sentenced today to three years in prison for conspiracy to destroy property and malicious destruction by means of an explosive device, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, between November 2022 and February 2023, New committed a series of pipe-bombings on unoccupied vehicles and property in Fresno. The bombings damaged vehicles belonging to two auto-related businesses on Clinton Avenue. On Feb. 19, 2023, a bomb heavily damaged a vehicle used by a home health care business on Fallbrook Avenue.

    On October 9, 2024, co-defendant Scott Eric Anderson was sentenced to three years in prison.

    This case was the product of an investigation by the Fresno Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael G. Tierney prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Helena man admits unlawful possession of firearm in school zone

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HELENA — A Helena man accused of carrying a firearm on the campus of the Jim Darcy Elementary School in Helena admitted to a firearm charge today, Acting U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Racicot said.

    The defendant, Bryant Nicholas Espinoza, 37, pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm in a school zone. Espinoza faces a maximum of five years in prison, consecutive to any other count of conviction, a $100,000 fine and three years of supervised release.

    Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for June 9. Espinoza was released pending further proceedings.

    The government alleged in court documents that on Feb. 7, 2024, the principal of Jim Darcy Elementary School contacted the Lewis and Clark Sheriff’s Office and advised the responding deputy that a staff member had notified her that the day prior, the parent of a student was on campus and was carrying a firearm. The staff member observed Espinoza standing in front of the school with a small dog. The staffer approached to assist Espinoza, and he informed the staffer he was there to pick up his daughter, who was a student. During the conversation, the staffer observed Espinoza was carrying a firearm. The staffer identified Espinoza in a photo, and   surveillance video showed Espinoza on school property with a small dog and what appeared to be a pistol in a holster on his hip. On April 9, 2024, agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the sheriff’s office executed a federal search warrant at Espinoza’s residence and seized a 9mm pistol, two rifles and ammunition. In an interview, Espinoza identified himself in still photos taken from the surveillance video and said that the item on his hip looked like a firearm. Espinoza told agents where the pistol was located at his residence. Agents asked if there was a reason he had the gun at the school, and Espinoza responded that Montana was an “open carry state.”

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

    XXX

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Peters Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Expand Access to Mental Health Care

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) introduced bipartisan legislation previously championed by former Michigan U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow to expand access to mental health care in areas experiencing shortages of mental health professionals. The More Behavioral Health Providers Act – which Peters introduced with U.S. Senator Steve Daines (R-MT) – would expand the eligibility for health care professionals to receive bonus incentives from the Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) Physician Bonus Program to include physician assistants, nurse practitioners, mental health counselors, and other specialists who provide mental health or substance use disorder services in a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA). A HPSA is an area experiencing a shortage of primary care or mental health providers needed to adequately meet the needs of a community, specifically when the population to mental health provider ratio is at least 30,000 to 1. With an increasing number of Americans diagnosed with mental health disorders, this bipartisan legislation aims to incentivize health professionals to work in HPSAs to ensure all communities have access to mental health care.

    “I’m proud to carry this torch for my good friend and mentor, Debbie Stabenow, who throughout her career was a champion for expanding access to mental health care for folks in Michigan and across our country,” said Senator Peters. “This bipartisan bill will help ensure that no matter where you live, mental health care is an option for those who need it, while providing extra support to our health care professionals who deliver this essential care. With the demand for mental health support higher than ever before, I’m going to work to see this commonsense legislation passed into law.”

    Across Michigan, more than 355,000 adults suffer from a serious mental illness. Despite 1 in 7 Michiganders living with a mental health disorder, over 4.2 million Michigan residents live in an area experiencing a shortage of mental health professionals. In 2023, there were 257 mental health HPSAs designated across the state. According to the independent health research organization, KFF, Michigan requires about 144 additional psychiatrists in each shortage area to meet local mental health needs. This bipartisan bill would grow Michigan’s behavioral health care workforce and promote access to mental health services across the state.

    The More Behavioral Health Providers Act is supported by numerous key stakeholders including the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, the American Association of Physician Associates, American Psychological Association Services, and the National Association of Social Workers.

    “The American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) is pleased to support the More Behavioral Health Providers Act, which will deliver critical financial support to nurse practitioners and other clinicians providing behavioral health and substance use disorder treatment in underserved communities,” said AANP President Dr. Stephen A. Ferrara, DNP. “We thank Senators Peters and Daines for their leadership on this bill to address clinician shortages and increase access to care for patients in need of these essential services.”

    “The American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) applauds Senator Daines (R-MT) and Senator Peters (D-MI) for taking action to address the heartbreaking shortage of mental health and substance use disorder providers in our communities by introducing the More Behavioral Health Providers Act.  PAs stand ready to work with Congress to help patients and their families receive the care, treatment, and ongoing support they need,” said AAPA CEO Lisa M. Gables, CPA.

    “We must do more to expand access to high-quality mental health care for Medicare’s growing patient population, particularly in rural and underserved areas where individuals are far less likely to receive care from mental health specialists compared to those in urban settings. Adequate reimbursement rates are essential to ensuring the participation of psychologists and other behavioral health providers in Medicare. APA Services strongly supports this bipartisan effort to invest in increasing access to mental health services for Medicare beneficiaries in rural America,” said Arthur C. Evans, Jr., PhD, Chief Executive Officer, American Psychological Association Services, Inc.

    “The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) applauds Sens. Gary Peters and Steve Daines for introducing the More Behavioral Providers Act, which will expand eligibility for the Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) Physician Bonus Program to clinical social workers and other providers of mental health and substance use disorder services. With our country’s continuing mental health and substance use epidemic, this legislation is meeting the moment by helping clinical social workers provide critical services to Medicare beneficiaries. Social workers stand ready, as always, to improve access to mental health and substance use services,” said Anthony Estreet, PhD, MBA, LCSW-C, Chief Executive Officer, NASW.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Agency Commissioner Nominees Announced

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the nomination of three New York State agency commissioners. The Governor nominates Denise Miranda as Commissioner of the State Division of Human Rights, Amanda Lefton as Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Conservation; and Willow Baer as Commissioner of the State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities.

    “As we work to make New York the best place to raise a family, it’s critical to have a team in place with the skills and experience to make that goal a reality,” Governor Hochul said. “These three nominees have proven themselves to be strong leaders with a record of achievement — and they will play a pivotal role leading these state agencies.”

    About Commissioner Denise Miranda

    Denise Miranda was appointed by Governor Kathy Hochul in March 2024 as the Acting Commissioner of the Division of Human Rights (DHR).

    During her first year at the Division, Ms. Miranda initiated a complete overhaul of the Division’s intake operations, increased staffing by 40 percent in the first six months, expanded education and outreach initiatives and engaged in wholesale organizational change to ensure and protect the Division’s legacy of being the first state agency in the country dedicated to protecting human and civil rights. In November of 2024, she launched the first statewide “Call Out Hate” campaign to support the work of the Division’s Hate and Bias Prevention Unit, which was created to combat prejudice and discrimination. At the close of the Acting Commissioner’s first year at DHR and with the Governor’s support, DHR saw a 30 percent increase in the agency’s budget and actively worked to increase the agency’s prevention efforts while hastening its processes for investigation and adjudication of claims.

    Prior to this, Acting Commissioner Miranda served as the Executive Director of the New York State Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs for seven years. She oversaw the agency’s operations, which included investigations into abuse and neglect, criminal prosecutions, and administrative disciplinary proceedings. Under her leadership, the Justice Center managed the care of over one million individuals, with a workforce of more than 425 employees and a $41 million operating budget.

    About Commissioner Amanda Lefton

    Amanda Lefton’s diverse career spans the public and private sectors, including previously serving as the Director of the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) within the Department of the Interior. Under her leadership, BOEM developed and implemented an ambitious federal offshore wind program creating a new industry of family supporting jobs and generational opportunity. Her collaborative approach brought together various stakeholders to responsibly manage the nation’s critical offshore energy and mineral resources.

    Prior to her role as BOEM Director, Lefton served as the First Assistant Secretary for Energy and Environment for New York, where she led the State’s environmental and climate initiatives overseeing a portfolio of executive agencies including the DEC. She has also worked for The Nature Conservancy in New York as the Deputy Policy Director and climate mitigation lead, the Rochester Regional Joint Board of Workers United and the New York State Assembly and New York State Senate. Most recently, Lefton was the Vice President of Offshore Development, U.S. East at RWE — one of the world’s leading players in the offshore wind sector.

    Originally from Queens, she grew up on Long Island and holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University at Albany. She now resides in the capital region with her wife and stepchildren.

    About Commissioner Willow Baer

    Willow Baer is honored to be nominated as Commissioner of OPWDD. Prior to stepping up as Acting Commissioner, Willow served as OPWDD’s Executive Deputy Commissioner and oversaw the agency’s operational management, including planning, fiscal planning and oversight, and policy development. She was also responsible for oversight of agency staff in a broad range of capacities, including direct care support, clinical and medical staff in residential and non-residential settings, maintenance and operations.

    Willow has served twice as Assistant Counsel to Governor Kathy Hochul, overseeing legal priorities and legislation across the fields of Human Services and Mental Hygiene. Additionally, Willow previously served as General Counsel to OPWDD, General Counsel and Deputy Commissioner for the Office of Children & Family Services, and as Counsel to the NYS Justice Center. Willow was named a ‘2024 Power Players in Health Care by Politics NY and amNY Metro.

    Willow has spent her entire career working to protect and advocate for underrepresented populations. She will continue the agency’s work to ensure that New York is a state that is inclusive, supportive, and one that those with developmental disabilities live with meaningful choice and are proud to call home.

    Acting Commissioner of the Division of Human Rights Denise Miranda said, “It is the honor of my career to be nominated by Governor Hochul to lead the Division of Human Rights. For nearly 30 years, I’ve dedicated my professional life to advancing civil rights and protecting vulnerable communities throughout New York State, and I am grateful to the Governor for entrusting me with this responsibility. I am elated to accept this nomination and to partner with the Governor to pave the agency’s next chapter as we celebrate 80 years of our NYS Human Rights Law. I look forward to vigorously protecting the civil rights of all New Yorkers.”

    Incoming Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Conservation Amanda Lefton said, “I am honored Governor Hochul has entrusted me to carry out the Department of Environmental Conservation’s critical mission. I am committed to delivering meaningful results to enhance the health and safety of communities all across the State and to protecting our environment and natural resources for future generations.”

    Acting Commissioner of the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities Willow Baer said, “I am grateful that, under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State has restored its status as a national leader in providing services to people with developmental disabilities with policies that prioritize greater independence, innovative housing options, and community integration. I am honored and excited to be nominated by the Governor to lead the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities and I am humbled every day to be doing this work alongside the many self-advocates and families throughout New York State who are fighting for equity and inclusion.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Minister Rishworth interview on ABC Far North Breakfast with Charlie McKillop

    Source: Ministers for Social Services

    E&OE TRANSCRIPT

    Topics: Creating a more ‘Accessible Australia’ for people with disability; National Disability Insurance Scheme.

    CHARLIE MCKILLOP, HOST: When the temperatures escalate to the point where they have recently, the joys of living in Far North Queensland, being able to head down to one of our many tropical beaches, dip our toes in the water and cool off, well, that is not the reality for many people living in our community with a disability. But the Government is trying to do something about that. It has a new initiative that’s all about trying to increase accessibility of many places that are meant for our enjoyment and relaxation. But for a large section of the community, they remain off limits. The Minister for Social Services and the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Amanda Rishworth, is with us in Cairns today. Minister, good morning.

    AMANDA RISHWORTH, MINISTER FOR SOCIAL SERVICES: Great to be with you.

    CHARLIE MCKILLOP: How important is the initiative that you’re announcing today for people in our community?

    AMANDA RISHWORTH: The initiative we’re announcing is so important. What we’re announcing is funding to go through state governments, to local councils or other organisations to make the natural environment more accessible. People with disability, whether that be in wheelchairs or have other disability, often can’t access, for example, national parks. They can’t get down to the beach. They may not be able to go to a festival or community event because there isn’t an accessible place to go to the toilet, for example. So, the funding that we’re providing is really looking at how we get more of these spaces more accessible. Just as an example, close to 90 per cent of Australians live within 50 kilometres of a beach. But according to the registered charity Accessible Beaches Australia, only 2 per cent of our 12,000 beaches are actually accessible. So, we really want to open up our natural spaces and ensure that people with disability actually get the opportunity. So, this initiative also will look at, for example, funding all terrain wheelchairs, so people that may need a wheelchair could explore our national parks as well as beach wheelchairs, which means they can actually get in the water.

    CHARLIE MCKILLOP: So, up until now, the burden of responsibility for improving this situation on 2 per cent of our public areas accessible to disability, that has fallen on local government, is that right? How much good will $17 million do to reverse that, to open up such a large area that remains off limits?

    AMANDA RISHWORTH: It’s often actually fallen to philanthropic organisations and local councils that have done this work. But we’re hoping with the Federal Government money, that we will be able to open really about 350 new accessible spaces to allow more accessibility. But of course, we want to partner also with state and territory governments to maximise the ability of this program. So, for some of these spaces, what we will be asking for is potentially matched funding from state and territory governments so that we can get more spaces accessible. But we’re hoping this will contribute to about 350 extra spaces in our natural environment open for people with disability.

    CHARLIE MCKILLOP: You are hearing from Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth in Cairns today to announce some really important funding that will increase accessibility to some of the most, well, some of the most sought-after experiences. We know that people come from around the world to be able to experience our beaches and our national parks across Far North Queensland. Amanda Rishworth, the bigger issue in your portfolio is of course, the National Disability Insurance Scheme. Leading up to a Federal election, when we have had a review of the scheme and so much controversy about whether or not the money, and there has been a lot of money invested in the scheme is getting through to the people who need it most. What are you hearing as you move around communities, regional communities like Far North Queensland?

    AMANDA RISHWORTH: It is a really, really important question and what I’m hearing is a couple of things. Firstly, we want to make sure we stamp out fraud and that’s why the previous Minister set up a taskforce to specifically make sure that service providers, and there’s a lot of good service providers, but others were taking advantage of participants. But we also need to see equal coverage across Australia. We know that rural and regional places, often there are thin markets, people can’t always access services and also participants don’t always have equality when it comes to their plans. So, making the plans more equitable, more fair, and making sure there’s transparency, along with making sure that there’s services in rural and regional areas, is a real focus of mine.

    CHARLIE MCKILLOP: That’s the aspiration. But Minister, is life with a disability getting any easier, any better?

    AMANDA RISHWORTH: The National Disability Insurance Scheme has changed the lives of people. You speak with people and they get perhaps the equipment or the personal care that they just didn’t get before the National Disability Insurance Scheme. So, yes, I would say that when I speak with people, the National Disability Insurance Scheme has absolutely transformed people’s lives. But we can always do better, we can always make it better. And that’s where we’re going through the process in the next 6 months to introduce a new planning framework to clearly identify the needs of people with disability and how do they get that extra support. And that’s particularly important in rural and regional areas where often there may not be as much choice. But certainly, the National Disability Insurance Scheme has changed people’s lives, but we want to make it the best it can be.

    CHARLIE MCKILLOP: Amanda Rishworth, thanks for your time on Breakfast today.

    AMANDA RISHWORTH: Thank you.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Search and Rescue – Beacon activation – Jabiru

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force Search and Rescue Section successfully located and rescued a hiking group in Jabiru on Sunday morning.

    Around 7:45am, an emergency position-indicating radio-beacon (EPIRB) was activated in the vicinity of Motor Car Falls, approximately 97 kilometres south of Jabiru.

    In response, Jabiru members deployed to the area and Search and Rescue (SRS) deployed a helicopter with two members on board.

    Jabiru members located a vehicle parked in Motor Car Falls that was registered to the same individual registered to the EPIRB that was activated.

    A short time later, members located three males and two females in the vicinity of where the EPIRB was activated.

    One of males who was suffering heatstroke, and a support person were conveyed to Jabiru via helicopter where they were met by St John Ambulance. 

    Two SRS members remained on-site with the three hikers until they were also collected by the helicopter and transported to Jabiru.

    Acting Senior Sergeant Zac Winkworth said, “The hikers activating their registered EPIRB was instrumental in the timely rescue of the hiking group.

    “This is a timely reminder for people looking to go hiking or fishing in the Top End to ensure you have a registered EPIRB.

    “Always plan your route, check current conditions, and make sure someone is aware of your itinerary before you head out.” 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 02/24/2025 Blackburn Requests FBI Director Patel Release Complete, Unredacted Epstein Records

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) sent a letter to Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel and U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi requesting that they promptly release the complete flight logs from Jeffrey Epstein’s private jet and helicopter, any records that were in Ghislaine Maxwell’s possession, including her “little black book,” and all video surveillance footage from Jeffrey Epstein’s residence in Palm Beach, Florida. During his confirmation hearing, Director Patel committed to working with Senator Blackburn to release the files and provide transparency. 
    Senator Blackburn also sent a letter to Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Acting Commissioner Douglas O’Donnell requesting the release of any and all information in his agency’s possession that will reveal Jeffrey Epstein’s associates and business dealings. 
    Blackburn: Americans Deserve to Know Exactly Who Was Affiliated with Epstein’s Network
    “Congratulations on your recent confirmation as the 9th Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. I have no doubt that you will bring much-needed transparency to the FBI as you return the Bureau to its core mission of investigating crimes and keeping our nation safe. To that end, at your January 30, 2025, Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing, you committed to working with me in illuminating the full extent and scope of Jeffrey Epstein’s international sex trafficking ring. The American people deserve to know exactly who was affiliated with this network.”
    Blackburn Pushes for Release of Complete, Unredacted Epstein Records
    “As you know, over the course of many years, Jeffrey Epstein built a heinous global sex trafficking network that caused irreparable harm to countless women. Since Mr. Epstein’s death in 2019, there is still much about this tragic case that is not known—including the names of his associates that are listed in the flight logs of his private jet and in Ghislaine Maxwell’s ‘little black book.’ While some redacted portions of Epstein’s flight logs and Maxwell’s ‘little black book’ have been released in various lawsuits, it is paramount that the FBI provide full transparency to the American people and immediately release the complete, unredacted records in this case.”
    Blackburn’s Previous Efforts to Provide Transparency for the American People Were Stonewalled
    “Your predecessor, Director Wray, was unwilling to provide this crucially important transparency.  In fact, despite informing me during his December 2023 appearance before the Judiciary Committee that he would ‘get with [his] team and figure out if there’s more information we can provide’ on the Epstein matter, Director Wray never provided any such follow-up information. Over a year has elapsed since then, and we still do not have all of the necessary information regarding Jeffrey Epstein’s crimes. As noted above, you have committed to bringing transparency back to the FBI and rooting out the two-tiered system of justice that has operated there for far too long.  Therefore, I respectfully request that you transmit to me and release to the American public the… records that are in the Bureau’s possession.”
    View Senator Blackburn’s letter to the FBI here.
    View Senator Blackburn’s letter to the IRS here.
    RELATED

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £120 million to roll-out more electric vans, taxis and motorbikes

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    £120 million to roll-out more electric vans, taxis and motorbikes

    We are making it easier, faster and cheaper for people across the UK to switch to electric vehicles.

    • government extends support to help drivers, businesses, fleets and cabbies make the switch to cleaner vehicles
    • red tape blocking businesses from switching to zero emission vans to be cut
    • part of £2.3 billion to help make a supported transition to zero emissions vehicles, creating jobs and delivering the Plan for Change

    Drivers, cabbies and businesses are set to benefit from £120 million in government funding to make the switch to cleaner vans, wheelchair accessible vehicles and taxis easier, faster and cheaper.

    Today (25 February 2025) Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood confirmed that the department is extending the Plug-in van grant for another year, to help van drivers and businesses transition to zero emission vehicles.

    The extension will mean businesses and van drivers can receive grants up to £2,500 when buying small vans up to 2.5 tonnes and up to £5,000 for larger vans up to 4.25 tonnes.

    The Plug-in van grant has helped sell over 80,000 electric and zero emission vans since its launch, as the government continues to back businesses all over the country.

    The department is also making it easier to switch to zero emission vans – which can be heavier than their petrol and diesel counterparts despite being of the same size – by removing the requirement for additional training that is currently in place only for zero emission vans but not their petrol and diesel equivalents.

    This will help businesses by taking away training costs, cutting red tape and making it easier to hire drivers when operating electric vans.

    Today’s funding is part of over £2.3 billion to help industry and consumers make a supported switch to electric vehicles (EVs). This is creating high paid jobs, supporting businesses up and down the country and tapping into a multi-billion pound industry to make the UK a clean energy superpower and deliver the government’s Plan for Change.

    Future of Roads Minister, Lilian Greenwood, said:

    From van drivers and businesses, to drivers with accessibility needs, bikers and cabbies, today we are making it easier, faster and cheaper for people to switch to electric vehicles.

    By making the transition to zero emissions a success, we’re helping to drive growth all over the UK, putting more money in people’s pockets and rebuilding Britain to deliver our Plan for Change.

    The department is also supporting taxi drivers make the switch to electric for another year, by making £4,000 available to buy an iconic zero emission black cab amongst other models, making journeys cleaner and more comfortable for passengers.

    The Plug-in wheelchair accessible vehicle grant cap is also being increased from £35,000 to £50,000, giving consumers a wider choice of vehicle models and removing barriers for disabled passengers, so that they can get around more easily and with greater peace of mind.

    Today is a positive day for bikers as well, who will continue to enjoy a £500 grant from government to buy an electric motorbike for another year.

    Alongside this financial support, the government strengthened incentives to purchase zero emission vehicles in the Autumn Budget 2024 by maintaining generous ZEV incentives in the Company Car Tax regime.

    The transition to electric continues at pace. With over 382,000 electric cars sold in 2024 – up a fifth on the previous year – there’s never been a better time to switch to EVs, with one in 3 used electric cars under £20,000 and 21 brand new electric cars RRP under £30,000.

    Owning an electric car is also becoming increasingly cheaper, with drivers able to save up to £750 a year if they mostly charge at home compared to petrol.

    There are now over 74,000 public chargers in the UK, with a record of nearly 20,000 added last year alone. With 24/7 helplines, contactless payments, and up-to-date chargepoint locations, charging has become easier than ever.

    With £200 million announced in the budget to continue powering the chargepoint rollout and £6 billion of private investment in the pipeline, the UK’s charging network will continue to see tens of thousands of chargers added in the coming years so that EV owners can drive with the confidence that they’re never too far from a socket.

    Last year saw record numbers of people making a supported switch to electric vehicles, with the UK leading Europe in sales, and growth of more than a fifth on the previous year. The government has been engaging closely with car manufacturers on how to support them to deliver the transition to electric vehicles with a consultation recently closing, which sought views from industry on how to deliver the manifesto commitment to restore the 2030 phase out date for new purely petrol and diesel cars.

    The average range of a new electric car is now 236 miles – that’s about 2 weeks of driving for most people – all the while emitting just one-third of the greenhouse emissions of a petrol car during its lifetime.

    Roads media enquiries

    Media enquiries 0300 7777 878

    Switchboard 0300 330 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Emergency homelessness fund boosted to £60 million

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Emergency homelessness fund boosted to £60 million

    An extra £30 million has been confirmed for the Winter Pressures Funding this year.

    • Urgent homelessness funding, previously tripled, has now been increased sixfold for this year to reach more people
    • Extra cash boost will see thousands of struggling people avoid homelessness, with councils stepping in early to help prevent evictions and secure accommodation
    • Builds on the government’s Plan for Change to deliver the biggest increase in tenant protections and affordable housing in decades, ensuring safe and secure housing for all

    Thousands on the brink of homelessness will receive lifechanging support to remain in their homes, thanks to new emergency funding of £30 million for homelessness services announced today. 

    Today’s funding is targeted at 295 areas that are facing the highest risks of homelessness through housing costs and rent arrears. The cash will be specifically given to councils to step in early and keep people in their homes before eviction notices are served, or support people off the streets into accommodation – a lifeline for thousands to regain financial stability, stay in their communities and maintain access to local GPs and support networks. 

    For councils, this emergency funding means fewer people reaching crisis point and ending up on the streets which will free up resources and ease demand on social services, healthcare, and emergency housing teams. 

    Last year alone, 146,360 households turned to their council for help, with many on the brink of eviction through no fault of their own, whether from a sudden job loss, a health emergency, an unexpected bill, or a relationship breakdown.  

    It brings the total Winter Pressures Funding for homelessness and rough sleeping to £60 million this year, with this extra £30 million to bolster resources at councils to act fast when negotiating with landlords, covering emergency rent shortfalls, and making sure people can get on with living their lives in safe and secure housing. This builds on the largest-ever investment in homelessness prevention services of almost £1 billion.

    Minister for Homelessness, Rushanara Ali said:

    “No one should be forced live in constant fear of losing their home and too many people are being pushed to the brink of homelessness as a direct consequence of the system we’ve inherited. 

    “That’s why I’m providing an extra £30 million in emergency support for councils– taking real, immediate action to stop people falling through the cracks, stay in their homes, and help them rebuild their lives. 

    “Our Plan for Change is tackling the worst housing crisis in a generation by delivering the biggest boost in social and affordable housing in a generation, fixing the broken rental market and getting us back on track to end homelessness once and for all.”

    The Deputy Prime Minister has personally directed the Ministry of Housing to prioritise remaining departmental funds towards homelessness support. This comes as her dedicated Inter-Ministerial Group is developing a long-term strategy – with ministers across government – to tackle the root causes of rough sleeping and get the country back on track to ending homelessness for good.

    This comes as the government’s landmark Renters’ Rights Bill remains on track to become law this year that will abolish one of the leading causes of homelessness, Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions. This is alongside stopping rental bidding wars for tenancies and empowering tenants to challenge unreasonable rent increases, providing much-needed stability for millions of working people and families.

    Today’s emergency cash injection is just one branch of the government’s Plan for Change to raise living standards for working people and families, strengthen rights and protections for tenants, and drive forward the biggest overhaul of the private rented sector in over 30 years.

    The government recently announced a further £20 million to ensure rough sleepers have a safe, warm place to stay with hot meals and specialist care. This is on top of the £10 million announced before Christmas, providing additional resources for emergency accommodation and targeted interventions aimed at getting people off the streets and into stable housing.

    As part of long-overdue reforms to the Right to Buy scheme, councils can now keep all receipts from sales to invest in building and buying more homes. On top of this, councils received an additional £450 million last year to secure and create housing for families at risk of homelessness. 

    Government investment in housing has now increased to £5 billion for this year, including a top-up of £800 million for the existing Affordable Homes Programme, which is supporting efforts to build tens of thousands of affordable and social homes across the country.

    Further information

    Last year, the government launched an emergency £10 million package for rough sleepers, with a further £20 million in January.

    A full breakdown of funding allocations for each council is available here.

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Ongoing Liquidity Crisis Hindering United Nations Ability to Retain Geographically Diverse, Skilled Workforce, Delegates Stress as Fifth Committee Resumes Session

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    Stressing that the Organization’s key asset is its staff, many delegates of the Fifth Committee (Administrative and Budgetary) today emphasized the pressure that the ongoing liquidity crisis is having on efforts to rejuvenate the Organization and attract and retain talent from all parts of the world.

    “The human resources policies and the liquidity situation of the United Nations are inextricably linked,” said Singapore’s representative, speaking for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) during the opening day of the Committee first resumed session.  “We note with concern from the Secretary-General’s report that temporary hiring restrictions imposed as a result of the dismal liquidity situation of the UN have constrained efforts to fill geographical posts that could have gone to un- and under-represented countries.”

    She emphasized that staff training and development are key to building a United Nations that can respond to contemporary challenges.  “While we are cognizant of the UN’s ongoing liquidity challenges, we hope that their training is not compromised to achieve short-term savings,” she said, adding that training locations should not be limited to UN Headquarters.

    Echoing this sentiment, the representative of the European Union, in its capacity as observer, said the Organization’s financial situation must be carefully considered when discussing the Organization’s most essential resources: its staff.  “We strongly believe in the fundamental importance of a comprehensive and strategic workforce planning system,” she said, adding that planning and selection should be closely aligned with a recruitment process that ensures the Organization attracts and hires the most suitable candidates with the right skill sets.  In addition, the 120-day target for staff selection should be met.  “We repeat our call to rejuvenate the Organization and acquire and retain young talent,” she said, adding that talent outreach and well-structured internship programmes are key priorities that “we take very seriously”.

    Speaking on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, Iraq’s delegate said geographical representation and gender parity remain a core concern for the Group, which expects the Secretariat to intensify its efforts to achieve equal representation at all staff levels, with a focus on senior level staff at D-1 and above posts, as well as significant contributions from troop-contributing countries and police-contributing countries.  He noted that the Secretary-General’s staff composition report showed that staff declined by 34 to 36,757 during the reporting period ending on December 2023, due in part to temporary hiring restrictions placed against the regular budget in July 2023. 

    Keen to review the Secretariat’s efforts to improve the Organizaton’s rejuvenation, including through the Young Professionals Programme, the Group notes that during the 2022-2023 biennium, 175,781 applications applied for 2,765 jobs in the internship programme.  “With an average of 63 applicants competing for one vacancy, the Group looks forward to having more information on how the refined internship programme, including the financial support from the UN, will help more applicants from all developing countries be successfully selected as interns,” he added.

    Kuwait’s delegate, speaking on behalf of the Gulf Cooperation Council, agreed that the Organizaton’s staff are its greatest asset and noted that data from Secretariat reports indicate that personnel from the Gulf Cooperation Council countries remain underrepresented.  “Recruiting must be completed to ensure a balance,” he said. Recognizing the unprecedented loss of staff working with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), he called for the protection of staff and all relief workers.

    The President of the UN Field Staff Union said the Organizaton’s severe liquidity and funding shortfall has created a crisis that threatens the foundation of the staff’s work.  “UN staff — who are the backbone of this institution — are being forced to bear the brunt of these financial constraints.  Workloads are increasing beyond sustainable levels,” he said, urging Member States to meet their financial commitments fully and on time.  “The cost of inaction is measured in human lives.  If we allow this crisis to continue, we are not just failing UN staff; we are failing the world.

    “Fewer staff means fewer peacekeepers in conflict zones, fewer aid workers delivering food and medicine, fewer experts tackling global challenges.  Every member of staff lost weakens our ability to respond to the world’s most pressing crises.  Let me be clear — this is not just about jobs.  It is about the UN’s ability to fulfill its mission,” he said.

    The representative of Switzerland, speaking also for Liechtenstein, welcomed Secretariat efforts to improve mechanisms for recruiting young professionals, including modernizing job descriptions, removing artificial barriers to entry and enhancing digital and language skills.  She also backed the Secretary-General’s proposal to structure and professionalize the UN internship programme.  “We note with interest the recommendations to introduce financial support for interns to strengthen geographical diversity and to offer more structured learning,” she added.

    The representative of the United States said Washington, D.C., will consider proposals using three criteria:  whether the proposal promotes a transparent and accountable system; reflects actual or proposed cost-savings and efficiencies; and how it aligns with his Government’s national interests and priorities, including “making the US safer, stronger and more prosperous”.  To this end, the delegation will defend against efforts to undermine the system of desirable ranges by advancing a vague, discriminatory and deeply flawed concept of equitable geographic representation. 

    Human Resources Management

    Martha Helena Lopez, Assistant Secretary-General for Human Resources, presented the Secretary-General’s five reports on human resources management reform:  Overview of human resources management reform for the period 2023–2024 (document A/79/566); Review of the United Nations Secretariat Internship Programme (document A/79/566/Add.1); Composition of the Secretariat: staff demographics (document A/79/584); Composition of the Secretariat: gratis personnel, retired staff, consultants, individual contractors and United Nations Volunteers (document A/79/581); and Practice of the Secretary-General in disciplinary matters and cases of possible criminal behaviour, from 1 January to 31 December 2023 (document A/79/615).

    Regarding the redesigned internship programme, she said “it aligns with UN values of fairness and accessibility, upholds commitments to youth in the Pact for the Future, and ensures meaningful engagement of young people.”  The proposal addresses the need for more structured learning and financial support for interns, including the cost of travel, health insurance, a monthly stipend and a technology allowance for remote interns.  “This would remove a significant barrier to broader participation for individuals from all economic backgrounds,” she added.  The Secretariat invites the Assembly to approve the removal of current restrictions and the principle of a centrally funded support scheme.

    The Secretary-General report covering staff demographics offers a comprehensive view of Secretariat staff from 1 January to 31 December 2023 and during the 2019 to 2023 period, she noted.  It gives a comprehensive analysis of the gratis personnel, retired staff, consultants, individual contractors, and United Nations Volunteers engaged across the Secretariat from 1 January 2022 to 31 December 2023 and highlights trends observed from 2014 to 2023, offering insights into the evolution of the Secretariat’s affiliated personnel.  The final report provides comprehensive measures for the Secretary-General’s approach to misconduct cases and analysis of the data and trends in the Secretariat’s disciplinary practices.

    Juliana Gaspar Ruas, Chair of the Advisory Committee on Administrative and Budgetary Questions (ACABQ), presented that body’s related reports (documents A/79/745, A/79/746, A/79/747, A/79/748 and A/79/749).

    After those presentations, Fifth Committee Vice-Chair Johanna Bischof (Austria) drew delegates’ attention to the relevant reports of the Joint Inspection Unit and related notes by the Secretary-General transmitting his comments and comments of the United Nations Chief Executives Board for Coordination on the respective reports: Review of the use of non-staff personnel and related contractual modalities in the United Nations system organizations – Note by the Secretary-General (documents A/79/694 and A/79/694/Add.1); Review of the quality, effectiveness, efficiency and sustainability of health insurance schemes in the United Nations system organizations (documents A/79/695 and A/79/695/Add.1); and Flexible working arrangements in United Nations system organizations (documents A/79/693 and A/79/693/Add.1).

    Joint Inspection Unit

    Carolina Fernández Opazo, Inspector and Chairperson of the Joint Inspection Unit, introduced the Report of the Joint Inspection Unit for 2024 and programme of work for 2025 (document A/79/34), and Federica Pietracci, Senior Programme Management Officer of the United Nations System Chief Executives Board for Coordination, introduced the Note by the Secretary-General on the Report of the Joint Inspection Unit for 2024 (document A/79/742).

    Standards of Accommodation for Air Travel

    Ms. Lopez also introduced the Secretary-General’s report on standards of accommodation for air travel (document A/79/628), and Ms. Gaspar Ruas presented the Advisory Committee’s related report (document A/79/7/Add.44).

    Proposed Programme of Work 

    The Committee also approved its proposed programme of work for this session (document A/C.5/79/L.29).

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Sudan: MSF forced to halt its activities as violence engulfed Zamzam camp in North Darfur

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF)

    Port Sudan, 25 February 2025 – The current escalation of attacks and fighting in and around Zamzam camp for displaced people near El Fasher in North Darfur, is making it impossible for Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF) to continue providing medical assistance in such dangerous conditions. Despite widespread starvation and immense humanitarian needs, we have no choice but to take the decision to suspend all our activities in the camp, including the MSF field hospital.

    The area has seen heavy fighting between the Rapid Support Forces and the Joint Forces, a coalition of armed groups allied with Sudanese armed forces, with dreadful consequences on civilians. Besieging and shelling the town of El Fasher for the last 10 months, the Rapid Support Forces have stepped up their offensive in recent weeks and launched attacks against Zamzam camp, in particular on February 11 and 12.

    People who were already struggling to survive now find their access to water and food even more compromised, as the central market has been looted and burnt down.

    “Halting our project in the midst of a worsening disaster in Zamzam is a heartbreaking decision,” says Yahya Kalilah, MSF head of mission in Sudan. “For more than two years, our teams have done their utmost to provide care against all the odds:  despite the siege, supply shortages, and multiple other challenges. We have been calling for and waiting for a scaled up humanitarian response which has never materialised. As the battle for El Fasher rages on and now reaches Zamzam camp, even the most minimal security conditions are not met for us to stay. The sheer proximity of the violence, great difficulties in sending supplies, the impossibility to send experienced staff for adequate support, and uncertainty regarding routes out of the camp for our colleagues and civilians, leave us with little choice but to suspend our activities”

    In the first three weeks of February, our teams in Zamzam received 139 wounded patients in the MSF field hospital, mostly suffering with gunshots and shrapnel injuries. The MSF facility was designed to help tackle the massive malnutrition crisis unfolding in the camp, which was declared as undergoing famine conditions by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification last year, and cannot provide trauma surgery for people in critical conditions.

    “11 patients died while in the MSF hospital, 5 of them children, because we could neither treat them properly nor refer them to Saudi hospital, the only facility with surgical capacity in nearby El Fasher. In January and December, two of our ambulances carrying patients from the camp to El Fasher were shot at. Now it’s even more dangerous and as a result, many people, including patients requiring trauma surgery or emergency caesarian section, are trapped in Zamzam” says Yahya Kalilah, MSF head of mission in Sudan.

    Hosting about 500,000 people, Zamzam camp saw new arrivals fleeing from Abu Zerega, Shagra and Saluma who are now staying in schools, community buildings, or under the trees in the open. They have told our teams of dwellings set on fire, looting, sexual violence, killings, beatings and other abuses in villages and roads in the El Fasher locality. Some hundred families also reached Tawila, sometimes barefoot, after leaving everything behind and escaping horrific violence on the way.

    MSF is deeply concerned about the safety of its staff and the hundreds of thousands of people in Zamzam camp and urges the Rapid Support Forces, the Joint Forces and all armed actors in the area, to protect civilians and let those willing to flee, be able to do so unharmed.

    In North Darfur, we continue to run emergency activities in Tawila while looking for every possible way to help people in Zamzam and El Fasher without exposing our staff to unacceptable levels of risk. In West, Central and South Darfur and in other parts of the country, our teams keep responding to the catastrophic malnutrition and health crisis driven by a relentless conflict, continued obstructions of the warring parties, and exacerbated by a failing humanitarian response.

    MSF reiterates its call to drastically scale up the provision of assistance in the many places where it remains possible. Warring parties must grant unhindered access for aid delivery and their allies and influential States. must use their leverage to ease the obstacles that are causing death and starvation.

    MSF is an international, medical, humanitarian organisation that delivers medical care to people in need, regardless of their origin, religion, or political affiliation. MSF has been working in Haiti for over 30 years, offering general healthcare, trauma care, burn wound care, maternity care, and care for survivors of sexual violence. MSF Australia was established in 1995 and is one of 24 international MSF sections committed to delivering medical humanitarian assistance to people in crisis. In 2022, more than 120 project staff from Australia and New Zealand worked with MSF on assignment overseas. MSF delivers medical care based on need alone and operates independently of government, religion or economic influence and irrespective of race, religion or gender. For more information visit msf.org.au  

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Joins Colleagues in Demanding VA Secretary Collins Put Veterans First, Reverse Mass Terminations of VA Employees

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) joined 35 of her Senate colleagues, led by U.S. Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee Ranking Member Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), in sending a letter calling on Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Doug Collins to immediately reinstate the more than 1,000 fired VA employees who serve veterans and their families nationwide, including critical employees combatting veteran suicide working at the Veterans Crisis Line. The Trump Administration’s mass terminations of VA employees, which included a substantive number of veterans and military spouses, comes at a time when VA faces critical staffing shortages and increased demand for its services.
    The Senators wrote, in part: “Last week, we were outraged by the Administration’s abrupt and indiscriminate termination of tens of thousands of workers across almost every government agency, including more than 1,000 Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) employees. We were further disturbed by the manner in which you publicly celebrated this reprehensible announcement – a clear departure from the assurances provided throughout your confirmation process to never ‘balance budgets on the back of veterans’ benefits’ and to always ‘put the veteran first.’ Not only will this latest action put veterans’ care and benefits at risk, but it further confuses, demoralizes, and threatens a VA workforce we need to fulfill our nation’s sacred promise to our veterans and their families who have already sacrificed so much.”
    They concluded: “With the best interests of veterans in mind, and to ensure VA is capable of carrying out its sacred obligation of behalf of veterans, we urge you to immediately reinstate all of the employees dismissed in the latest indiscriminate terminations and commit to VA employees and veterans that no additional widespread terminations will occur without advanced notification to Congress, a detailed justification, coordination with service-level leadership, and an appropriate assessment of potential impacts on veterans’ health care and benefits. Congress remains ready to collaborate with you, if you are willing to come to the table and put the needs of our veterans above all else.”
    The full letter can be found here.
    Senator Shaheen has spearheaded efforts in the Senate to support veterans and military families. In the committee-passed (FY) 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Shaheen secured Granite State priorities including expanding access to child care for military families, expanded efforts to research the health impacts of harmful forever chemicals and a 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted (E1-E4) and a 4.5% pay raise for all other service members and civilians to ensure military families receive the pay and benefits they deserve. Each year, Shaheen leads the bipartisan Senate resolution with Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) to recognize an annual National Warrior Call Day, which encourages Americans to reach out and build meaningful relationships with both those currently serving and veterans and will take place on November 17, 2024. In 2022, Shaheen worked to include provisions and helped pass the historic PACT Act, which expanded health care for veterans who were exposed to burn pits and other toxic substances.   

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen, Hassan Host Roundtable Discussion Highlighting Harmful Impact of Potential Republican Cuts to Medicaid

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Manchester, NH) – Today, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) hosted a roundtable discussion highlighting the harmful impact of potential Republican cuts to Medicaid. This event comes after Democrats held the floor last week to push back against the Republican-led budget resolution that would pave the way for tax breaks for the wealthiest while slashing programs like Medicaid to pay for it. At the event, Senator Hassan, Ranking Member of the Joint Economic Committee, shared a new Joint Economic Committee analysis showing the impact that Medicaid cuts would have on Granite Staters including the fight to combat the opioid epidemic. Photos from the discussion can be found here. 
    “One in seven Granite Staters rely on Medicaid for their health insurance, and gutting the program would have devastating consequences for families, children, seniors, people that live with disabilities and more,” said Senator Shaheen. “We know that despite what President Trump may say about not touching this program, Republicans in Congress have made it clear that Medicaid is on the chopping block. That would cause real harm in our state and across the country. I’ll continue pursuing every avenue available to protect Medicaid and prevent health care costs from rising.” 
    “Medicaid helps strengthen our economy, our workforce, and the health of our families and our children,” said Senator Hassan. “The plan put forward by President Trump and Congressional Republicans will drastically cut Medicaid in order to pay for tax cuts for billionaires and special interests. It will have serious and severe consequences for people across New Hampshire and will prevent children and families from getting the health care that they need to thrive.”
    The discussion brought together Granite State health care professionals, Medicaid recipients, activists and elected officials. In addition to Shaheen and Hassan, roundtable participants included Jonathan Routhier, The Mental Health Center of Greater Manchester, Steve Ahnen, New Hampshire Hospital Association, Tess Kuenning, Bi-State, Ken Gordon, CEO, Coos Family Health, Jake Berry, New Futures, Maureen Beauregard, Easterseals, Katie Phillips, Able NH, Shawn Cannizzarro, Hope2Freedom Recovery, Carrie and Katie Duran, Medicaid recipients, Maggie Pritchard, CEO, Lakes Region Mental Health Center, Jay Couture, CEO, Seacoast Mental Health Center and Rep. Laura Telerski, NH Deputy House Democratic Leader.  
    Last week, the majority of Senate Republicans worked to block several amendments Shaheen offered that would have helped make health care more affordable and accessible, including an amendment that mirrors her Health Care Affordability Act—bicameral legislation she introduced last month that would make permanent the Affordable Care Act’s premium tax credits for Marketplace coverage. According to the Congressional Budget Office, if the tax credits are allowed to expire at the end of this year, health care premiums would skyrocket and 4 million Americans would lose their health insurance altogether.   

    MIL OSI USA News –